Top Workspace Interior Styles (And How Artwork Can Improve The Employee Experience)

March 1st, 2024

When it comes to productivity and job satisfaction, the physical space you work from has a profound influence on your success. The days of uninspiring, sterile offices with soulless designs and devoid of windows are over. Modern employees demand more from their workspaces, and it’s undeniable that investing in your interiors is not just an aesthetic choice; it’s a savvy business decision.

If you find yourself contemplating various interior styles for your workspace, then continue reading as we explore the most sought-after and effective options for office design, including how artwork can enhance the employee experience.

6 Workspace Interior Styles To Consider

1. Minimalist aesthetics

Characterised by its commitment to simplicity and functionality, minimalist workspace interiors have become a popular choice for those seeking clarity and focus in their professional environments. This design philosophy centres around the principle of clutter-free spaces and clean lines, creating an atmosphere that promotes efficiency and a sense of calm.

In a minimalist workspace, every element serves a purpose, and unnecessary embellishments are avoided. The deliberate absence of excess decor and distractions allows individuals to concentrate on their tasks without unnecessary visual stimuli. This extends to the colour palette, typically favouring neutral tones that contribute to a serene and unobtrusive ambiance.

Within these restrained settings, artwork plays a crucial role as a focal point, strategically chosen to enhance the visual interest of the space without overwhelming its minimalist essence. Abstract paintings and monochrome photography are key choices, bringing a touch of sophistication to the workspace while maintaining the overall sense of tranquillity.

2. Industrial energy

Industrial-themed workspaces have gained immense popularity, characterised by their raw aesthetics, exposed brick walls, metal accents, and open ceilings. This design trend draws inspiration from the utilitarian charm of warehouses and factories, creating an atmosphere that exudes authenticity and urban grit.

The challenge with opting for this interior style is balancing the rugged ambiance with a sense of warmth and comfort. This is where strategic artwork comes into play, acting as a tool to soften the hard edges and infuse the environment with a welcoming and creative feel.

The use of large-scale, bold artworks becomes crucial here. These pieces can serve as focal points, breaking the monotony of exposed surfaces and injecting a burst of colour and personality into the space. From an oversized canvas with vibrant abstract strokes to a carefully curated collection of industrial-themed prints.

Graffiti-style murals are also another popular choice in industrial styled workspaces. These murals not only pay homage to the origins of the industrial aesthetic but also add an element of urban artistry.

3. Modern heritage

Blending the rich history of period properties with contemporary style, functionality, and convenience, this workspace design provides an ideal setting for professionals.

Workpad’s Bloomsbury Place serviced offices in Holborn, is an ideal example of this style. The building retains many of its original period features, from the majestic grand staircase to a timeless marble fireplace, whilst fused with modern elements such as unique pieces of on-trend furniture and feature lighting, creating the perfect modern heritage blend.

The result is an environment that radiates sophistication, offering professionals an inspiring backdrop that effortlessly fuses the elegance of the past with the demands of the present.

4. Nature-inspired spaces

Biophilic design, incorporating elements of nature into the office setting, is gaining popularity in contemporary workspaces, having captured the attention of professionals and designers in recent years.

This style goes beyond simple aesthetics, aiming to enhance wellbeing and creativity among employees. Studies have shown that exposure to natural elements, even in the form of artwork, can reduce stress, enhance focus, and increase overall employee happiness.

Large plants, art pieces featuring natural landscapes, botanical prints, or abstract representations of the outdoors are carefully selected to infuse a sense of tranquillity and connection with nature. These elements serve as windows to the outside world, offering a visual break from the often fast-paced and urban nature of work environments.

Whether it’s a serene forest scene, a collection of vibrant floral prints, or an abstract artwork inspired by natural patterns, this mood-boosting interior style continues to grow in popularity.

5. Tech-forward environments

In tech-driven workspaces, sleek and modern designs are often most popular. Digital art installations or interactive artworks seamlessly blend with the tech-forward theme, contributing to an atmosphere that is both captivating and stimulating.

Elements such as LED displays, with their vibrant colours, not only serve as eye-catching focal points but also offer opportunities for showcasing digital art in a constantly evolving way. Kinetic sculptures, with their moving parts and fluid forms, also resonate with the innovative spirit of the space.

6. Cultural fusion

Workspaces embracing diversity and cultural fusion often feature eclectic interior designs. Artwork from different cultures, showcasing diverse artistic expressions, can celebrate inclusivity and inspire collaboration.

From paintings and sculptures, to textiles and crafts, incorporating pieces that reflect the global nature of the workplace creates a sense of unity and understanding, whilst providing a creative environment to work from.

This cultural fusion aesthetic becomes a living statement of the values within the company. By incorporating pieces that represent different cultures, the workplace becomes an expression of the organisation’s commitment to inclusivity and the recognition of the unique contributions that individuals from diverse backgrounds bring to the collective experience of the team.