‘Workpoints,’ pods, connectors, oh my! A look at the office of the future

Office workers of yesteryear would no doubt be astounded by the modern office, with its collaborative workspaces, advanced communications, and ever-changing technology. But the up-to-date workers of today may be even more astonished—and possibly overwhelmed—by the changes that are on the way.

What’s in and out

Global architecture, design, and planning firm Gensler keeps track of developments in office design and has released a list of trends for 2025. Among those trends, dedicated desks or workstations are out, and what Gensler calls “workpoints” are in.

“Instead of assigning each employee a desk for their singular use every day, workpoints are versatile work settings that can be used by anyone as needed throughout the day,” the Gensler report says. Employees can pick a point that suits their task or even their mood.

“By optimizing space and promoting mobility, workpoints make the office a more engaging and effective place to work for everyone whether in the office or out,” the report adds.

Another trend Gensler notes: Connectors are in, and insulators are out. At one time, employers created campuses that provided employees with all types of amenities, but the new thinking is to design spaces that enrich a community instead of creating a campus that builds an insular corporate environment that shuns its neighbors.