Gensler unveils its 2025 design forecast

SAN FRANCISCO – Global architecture and design firm Gensler has unveiled its 2025 Design Forecast, outlining five key drivers for the future of cities going forward.

The trends are slated to impact the real estate and built environment throughout 2025 and emphasize human-centered, adaptable spaces as well as a shift toward resilient urban environments.

The fives identified trends are as follows:

• Experience-driven lifestyle districts: Mixed-use lifestyle and entertainment districts will take centre stage in 2025, states Gensler. Hospitality, retail, sports and residential spaces make up the mix of these experience-driven areas.
• Demand for sustainable design supercharges innovation and values: Adaptive reuse of old buildings, energy-efficient designs, weather-scenario planning and other green techniques are anticipating local climate challenges while lowering waste and carbon. Solutions such as mass timber, low- or no-carbon interior finishes and furnishings and zero-carbon cement are leading a materials revolution, the release reads.
• Deeply discounted buildings drive a conversion boom: As the cost of capital comes down, 2025 will usher in a new financial environment that will inspire developers to seek out creative conversions of all types, including retail to health care, retail to sports, office to senior living, office to science labs and more.
• Action on attainable housing: Attainable market-rate housing becomes the number one priority for cities around the world in 2025, Gensler forecasts. New financial incentives and lowering interest rates converge with changes to zoning laws and building codes to create an attractive market for housing developments of all types.
• The workplace of the future has arrived: The future workplace is here now, and it’s all about employee experience, inspiration and the value proposition realized by building owners and developers. Landlords looking to compete must be laser focused on transforming their spaces into fully amenitized, Class A buildings close to transit and within the 20-minute lifestyle mix, the release adds.

“This year’s design forecast shows how bold, imaginative design can respond to global challenges and drive real world impact,” said Jordan Goldstein and Elizabeth Brink, Gensler co-CEOs, in a statement.

“We are in a truly transformative moment for our industry, one that calls for breakthrough ideas and innovative solutions that transform the human experience. Looking ahead, we’re optimistic about design’s ability to create a more sustainable future that inspires and supports people in meaningful ways.”

Download the full report HERE.