OpenAire Projects Align With The Gensler Design Forecast 2024

The biggest and most influential design firm in the world is undeniably Gensler. With 6000 professionals in over 100 countries, the value of the insights from this team of designers are undeniable.

OpenAire works across multiple industry sectors and as such we are pleased to share that so many of our projects align with these key trends. It seems we are ahead of the trend here… and have been for a while!

The 8 trends that Gensler predicts shaping the 2024 building industry are:

1. Experience multipliers pay premium dividends:In 2024, real estate leaders will find success reclaiming human connection with “experience multipliers”: immersive designs that drive loyalty, boost sales, and improve vibrancy with a shared sense of inspiration and belonging.
2. Conversions resurrect stranded assets:In 2024, expect more government municipalities to incentivize adaptive reuse strategies and conversions whose renovations breathe new life into cities and offer vital infrastructure enhancements — and do it in an environmentally responsible way.
3. Sustainable design becomes a non-negotiableBy 2024, the building and real estate industries around the world will recognize the value of environmentally conscious design and its ability to mitigate risk. Higher standards for products and materials, the adaptive reuse of existing buildings, net zero energy strategies, and regenerative design principles will define our sustainable future.
4. IN – The future of the workplace as a compelling destination OUT – Return to office metricsIn 2024, organizations will continue to plan for in-person experiences in spaces that are agile and flexible enough to evolve with the changing demands of the workforce and useful enough to earn people’s commutes.
5. Mixed-use lifestyle districts bring cities back to lifeBy prioritizing safety and mobility in these new multimodal districts, cities can attract residents and tourists and bring COVID-impacted neighborhoods back to life.
6. Designers harness AI to accelerate ideas and innovationBuildings and spaces designed with the help of AI will be more sustainable, better performing, and more responsive to individual needs and preferences.
7. Focus shifts to ageless communities and design for a lifetimeWith the global trend toward increased longevity, 2024 will mark a shift toward designing age-inclusive communities. Demand for flexible and multigenerational communities that foster accessibility and affordability will have universal appeal.
8. 20-minute cities become archetypes of equity and accessibilityThese vibrant, walkable neighborhoods, where all essentials lie within a 20-minute reach — including restaurants, retail spaces, medical facilities, educational places, and much-needed residential alternatives — are redefining city living. This trend underscores the importance of creating accessible, inclusive urban spaces that promote equity, connectivity, and community.

*All excerpts credited to Gensler Research Institute

Download your copy of the Gensler Design Forecast 2024 here: https://www.gensler.com/publications/design-forecast/2024