Top Office Design Trends in Perth for 2026

“Imagine walking into a workspace that instantly energises your team, reflects your culture, and prepares your business for the future, that’s what 2026 office design in Perth is all about.”

As Perth businesses adapt to hybrid work, evolving employee expectations and tighter A-grade office supply, workplace design is no longer about aesthetics alone. The office has become a strategic business asset that supports productivity, collaboration, wellbeing, sustainability and long-term organisational performance.

Organisations are prioritising human-centric environments, flexible and hybrid-ready layouts, sustainable and circular materials, seamless workplace technology and design strategies that express brand, culture and local identity. Together, these trends are reshaping how Perth workplaces function, feel and perform.

Rather than reacting to short-term change, Perth organisations are moving toward data-led, future-focused workplace planning. Commercial Office fitout decisions around refurbishment versus relocation, space efficiency, adaptability and long-term sustainability are now central to workplace strategy, not afterthoughts.

In this article, we explore the design trends shaping Perth workplaces in 2026, including:

• Human-centric workplace design

• Refurbishment over relocation

• Hybrid-ready, agile office layouts

• Sustainability, circular design and future de-fit considerations

• Seamless workplace technology integration

• Warm minimalism and nature-inspired aesthetics

• Cultural awareness, local identity and brand storytelling

• Future-ready, flexible office fitouts

Together, these trends highlight how Perth businesses are designing workplaces that attract talent, strengthen culture and perform well into the future.

Human-Centric Workplace Design Becomes the New Standard

In 2026, employee experience is firmly at the centre of workplace design. Businesses are recognising that people perform at their best when they feel supported, comfortable and able to work in environments that align with their cognitive and physical needs.

Human-centric design goes far beyond ergonomic furniture or decorative greenery. It is about creating a holistic ecosystem that supports wellbeing, focus, collaboration and choice.

Key characteristics of human-centric workplaces include:

• Ergonomic, adjustable workstations tailored to individual needs
• Optimised lighting, including circadian-friendly solutions that improve focus and reduce fatigue
• Biophilic design that introduces nature through greenery, organic textures and natural finishes
• Dedicated focus zones separate from collaborative or social spaces
• Quiet nooks and recharge areas that support mental wellbeing
• Thoughtful acoustic design to minimise distraction and improve comfort

Why this matters in Perth
With Western Australia’s competitive talent market, particularly across mining, engineering, finance, technology and professional services, workplace quality has become a key differentiator for attraction and retention.

Axiom insight
Through employee experience interviews, behavioural observation and workplace strategy workshops, we design environments that enhance productivity, reduce stress and improve overall satisfaction.

Refurbishment Over Relocation Becomes a Strategic Priority

Across Perth, organisations are rethinking how office space is used to support hybrid work, collaboration, wellbeing and innovation. At the same time, tightening availability of A-grade office space is reshaping decision-making, prompting businesses to carefully assess whether relocation delivers real value.

While some tenants and developers are regenerating former retail, hospitality and public-use buildings into workplaces often benefitting from larger single floor plates, higher ceilings and architectural character many organisations are finding that refurbishing their existing workplace is the more strategic and cost-effective option.

A Shift in Workplace Decision-Making

Reimagining a current space with a refurbishment allows organisations to reassess workplace layouts, upgrade technology infrastructure, enhance wellness initiatives and create stronger opportunities for teams to collaborate and connect—without the disruption of relocation.

By reallocating budgets typically spent on moving costs, incentives and downtime, businesses can instead invest directly into revitalising their workplace environment.

Key refurbishment trends emerging in 2026:

• Re-planning existing floorplates to support hybrid and activity-based working

• Technology upgrades that improve collaboration and flexibility

• Furniture audits and selective re-use to reduce waste and cost

• Phased refurbishments that minimise disruption to business operations

• Scalable refresh strategies, from minor upgrades to full workplace re-plans

Why refurbishment matters in Perth

With space efficiency, flexibility and sustainability now central to workplace strategy, refurbishment enables organisations to maximise the value of their existing footprint while adapting to changing work patterns. It also reduces operational disruption, shortens project timelines and supports better long-term financial and environmental outcomes.

In 2026, refurbishment is no longer seen as a compromise, it is a strategic response to market conditions, evolving workforce expectations and the need for future-ready workplaces.

Axiom insight

Our workplace strategists have helped Perth organisations evaluate refurbishment versus relocation, designing workplace upgrades that enhance performance, improve employee experience and deliver long-term value without unnecessary disruption.

Hybrid-Ready Layouts That Support True Agility

In 2026, Perth businesses are moving beyond flexible work policies to designing workplaces that genuinely perform under hybrid conditions.

Australian furniture designers are responding with flexible, modular systems that can replace fixed joinery. These solutions allow organisations to adapt layouts over time, relocate furniture if needed, and reduce costs associated with future change.

What hybrid-ready workplaces look like in 2026:

• Activity-based zones that allow employees to choose spaces suited to their tasks

• Unassigned seating and adaptable workpoints that respond to fluctuating occupancy

• Tech-enabled meeting spaces that support seamless remote and in-person collaboration

• Modular furniture systems with lose furniture over joinery that can easily be reconfigured without construction

• Mobile collaboration tools, including writable surfaces, digital whiteboards and acoustic screens

Why these matter in Perth
Hybrid-ready workplaces optimize space utilisation, reducing underused areas, bridging communication gaps and improving team cohesion even when people aren't always in the office.

Axiom insight
By using workplace utilisation data, we design layouts based on real employee behaviour rather than assumptions.

Sustainability, Wellness & Circular Design Take Priority

Sustainability is no longer a branding exercise. In 2026, it is a core organisational responsibility driven by ESG commitments, stakeholder expectations and evolving regulatory requirements.

Sustainability mandates

With the introduction of the Australian Sustainability Reporting Standards from 2026, many organisations will be required to report on workplace-related emissions, from material selection through to operational performance. This extends accountability beyond construction and into the full lifecycle of a workplace fitout.

As a result, sustainable workplace design now focuses on longevity, adaptability and responsible end-of-life outcomes, ensuring spaces can evolve over time without unnecessary waste or premature refurbishment.

Key sustainability trends emerging in 2026 include:

• Circular furniture and materials designed for reuse, recyclability and long-term reconfiguration

• Local sourcing to reduce carbon impact and support Western Australian suppliers

• Low-VOC finishes and air-quality conscious materials

• Energy-efficient lighting and climate systems that reduce operational costs

• Design strategies that prioritise longevity and adaptability

Why sustainability matters in Perth

Preparing a workplace for the future now extends well beyond initial occupation, employees, clients and investors expect demonstrably responsible workplaces. Perth organisations are increasingly evaluating how spaces, furniture and materials can be reused, reconfigured or responsibly de-fitted as business needs evolve.

Sustainable fitouts reduce operating costs, protect asset value and help future-proof organisations against regulatory change.

Axiom insight
We embed sustainability principles into every stage of design from materials research to construction methodology delivering workplaces that are as responsible as they are beautiful.

Technology Integration That Feels Invisible

Technology is evolving rapidly, but the most advanced workplaces don’t feel “high-tech”, they feel effortless. The goal for 2026 is for technology to be fully integrated into the environment rather than visible or intrusive.

Key tech directions to watch:

• Smart sensors that manage lighting, temperature and occupancy for enhanced sustainability and comfort
• Advanced AV ecosystems to support hybrid collaboration without friction
• Wireless-first environments that minimise clutter and improve mobility
• Interactive digital tools that encourage collaboration and innovation
• Acoustic engineering is designed specifically for video conferencing clarity

Why technology matters now more than ever

In high-performance workplaces, technology is a silent enabler, helping teams communicate clearly, collaborate effectively and move seamlessly between digital and physical modes.

Axiom insight

We integrate workspace technology at the strategy stage, ensuring your office is built on a robust, flexible and future-ready infrastructure.

Warm Minimalism and Nature-Inspired Aesthetics

Perth workplaces are adopting a design aesthetic that feels sophisticated yet grounded. 2026 is seeing a shift toward warm minimalism, a design language that blends simplicity with rich natural textures.

Trending design motifs in 2026:

• Warm timbers and natural stone
• Soft, matte finishes in place of industrial gloss
• Earthy palettes inspired by WA’s coastline, bushland and desert landscape
• Layered textiles that feel tactile and welcoming
• Hospitality-inspired breakout spaces
• Organic shapes and curved architectural details

Why this matters in Perth

Design is increasingly recognised as a tool for emotional well-being. Warm, grounded interiors help employees feel calm, connected and engaged, improving performance and satisfaction.

Axiom insight

Our designers specialise in creating environments that balance minimalism with humanity, ensuring every touchpoint contributes to both brand identity and employee experience.

Designing with Cultural Awareness, Local Identity and Impact

Authenticity has become a powerful brand asset. In 2026, Perth workplaces are increasingly designed with a deeper awareness of place, culture and responsibility.

Cultural awareness in workplace design offers opportunities to thoughtfully and respectfully acknowledge First Nations people and their incredibly diverse cultures, while creating environments that feel inclusive and connected to Country.

Ways this is showing up in 2026 workplaces:

• RAP or reconciliation action plans
• Indigenous artwork and culturally aligned design elements
• WA-sourced materials such as jarrah, local stone or artisan finishes
• Bespoke signage, motifs and storytelling walls
• Spaces crafted to mirror brand behaviours, not generic office templates
• Unique, memorable client touchpoints in reception and meeting areas

Why this matters in Perth

Your workplace is often the first, and most lasting, physical impression clients and employees have. A strong sense of identity enhances brand trust and deepens engagement, whilst the implementation of RAP honours Australia's first people, strategically taking meaningful action to advance reconciliation.

Axiom insight

We work closely with leadership teams to translate brand, culture and values into a physical environment that feels authentic, distinctive and future-focused.

Future-Ready Workplaces Designed for Long-Term Adaptability

One of the most important trends for 2026 is the shift toward future-ready workplace infrastructure. Perth organisations are prioritising fitouts that evolve with them rather than constrain them.

The office is now a destination for connection, collaboration and culture, supported by efficient layouts and robust technology.

Make Every Square Meter Work Harder

Palatial reception areas and multiple large meeting rooms are being replaced with discreet, hotel-style concierge stations and two-person enclosed, freestanding meeting booths. Post-COVID, the office has become a place to reconnect with colleagues and clients. New workplace design should promote collaboration, wellness and productivity, underpinned by highly efficient and functional technology. We are seeing a clear reduction in space requirements, with areas reserved solely for clients increasingly becoming a thing of the past.

Key elements of future-ready design:

• Modular walls and partitions
• Moveable meeting pods and collaboration zones
• Flexible workstation configurations
• Upgradable technology pathways
• Multipurpose rooms that serve several functions
• Planning for expansion, contraction or reconfiguration with minimal disruption

Why this matters in Perth 

Flexibility protects your investment. A well-designed workplace can transition with your business as teams, technologies and strategies evolve.

Axiom insight

Our strategy-led approach assisted by Axiom's wrkx INDEX ensures your workplace has the adaptability to support future growth, change and innovation, without ongoing costly refurbishments.

Final Thoughts: Perth’s Workplace Landscape Is Evolving, Are You Ready?

The office of 2026 is strategic, people-focused and deeply aligned with organisational identity. Perth businesses that invest in thoughtful, data-led workplace design will benefit from a stronger culture, improved collaboration, better employee wellbeing and a workplace built to perform well into the future.

Axiom Workplaces brings together workplace strategy, interior design and construction into one integrated, end-to-end solution, ensuring you achieve a workplace that supports your people and drives your business forward.

Ready to Transform Your Perth Workplace?

Whether you’re planning a relocation, refurbishment or complete commercial fitout, our team can help you design a workplace that delivers lasting value.