(Photo courtesy of LRS Architects)
As we enter the final quarter of the year and move towards 2026, Amalia Mohr and Jenny Baines weigh in on the latest office design trends. Mohr is a principal and senior interior designer at LRS Architects. Baines is a senior interior designer at LRS Architects.
1. As we move into Q4 of 2025, why has designing with neurodiversity in mind shifted from a trend to a fundamental principle of workplace design?
The “standard office” just doesn’t cut it anymore — people work in totally different ways, and we can’t ignore that. Hybrid work has proved that employees need different setups to focus, recharge, and collaborate. The office environment has to keep up as employees needs shift. Designing for different brains is just smart design; at this point, it’s not a “special feature.”
Neurodiversity is no longer invisible, and increased awareness and self-identification mean more employees are openly advocating for environments that support how they work best. Innovation for businesses depends on diverse thinkers, and supporting neurodiverse minds fuels creative problem-solving — a key differentiator in today’s hyper-competitive markets. Inclusion also drives corporate culture, and culture drives growth. Workplaces that foster psychological safety and cognitive inclusion build stronger, more resilient teams — and support a business’s bottom line.
2. How has the conversation around inclusive and neurodiverse design evolved in recent years, and what forces (research, client demand, workplace culture) are driving this shift?
The research proves real results — and we can now point to how sound, light, and flexibility with design affect performance and stress levels. Clients are asking tougher questions. They don’t just want a cool space; they want proof that it helps people thrive. Corporate cultures have shifted too — inclusivity isn’t just a buzzword anymore; it’s how companies demonstrate who they are.
As retention and talent attraction become more competitive and imperative, organizations are increasingly embracing neurodiverse-friendly environments to foster a corporate culture of inclusion and belonging. Neurodiversity has become a mainstream topic, driven by advocacy groups, employee self-advocacy, and increased awareness in both the public and private sectors.
3. From a business perspective, what benefits have companies seen when investing in neuroinclusive design — from retention to productivity to culture?
Employees stay with companies longer when the office works for them — its retention built into the walls. Productivity also increases when distractions are reduced and people have choices in how they work. The corporate culture feels more authentic when inclusivity is implemented into the design, not just talked about in meetings.
Neuroinclusive environments foster diverse perspectives, stimulate creative solutions, and help companies innovate and stay ahead of the competition. Inclusive design promotes a sense of belonging, boosting employee morale, engagement, and commitment to organizational goals. Companies that prioritize inclusive design create appealing work environments, attracting top-tier candidates from a wider talent pool.
4. What are some design trends you are seeing in office spaces as we head into 2026?
Top design trends include:
- Spaces you can “fine-tune” — with lighting, sound, and even furniture that shifts with the vibe of the day.
- Biophilia beyond plants — think textures, patterns, and natural rhythms that help people reset.
- Offices-within-offices — specific zones for quiet focus, energy boosts, or casual hangouts, all under one roof.
- Activity-based layouts — offices are increasingly designed for specific activities, with distinct zones for collaboration, focus, and relaxation to cater to various work styles.
- Wellness-focused environments — design is placing a stronger emphasis on mental health and physical wellness, with features like meditation rooms, ergonomic furniture, and accessible fitness facilities.
