Gensler: Five design trends shaping CRE in 2025

Gensler’s Design Forecast 2025 is a must-read for anyone in our industry. The report is a feast for the eyes, showcasing views of everything from the Nvidia headquarters to the transformation of inner cities. Gensler’s insights about the national affordable crisis and global challenges are fascinating, especially for Walker & Dunlop, as it is a major focus area for our company. Here are takeaways that I hope will inspire you to add this report to your reading list.

 1. Experience-driven lifestyle districts reignite global cities

Urban centers are bouncing back, thanks to mixed-use lifestyle districts that blend retail, residential, hospitality, and cultural spaces. These districts drive economic activity while fostering a strong sense of community. Elizabeth Brink, Co-CEO at Gensler, shares, "At Gensler, we believe lifestyle districts are the cornerstone of urban revitalization, bringing people together and creating vibrant, resilient cities."

Urban centers are transforming empty central business districts into dynamic neighborhoods that offer continuous engagement, safety, and accessibility. This resurgence of urban life attracts residents and businesses, reigniting the economic engines of global cities.

2. Demand for sustainable design supercharges innovation and value

Sustainability is a driving force behind innovation in CRE. Buildings designed with resilient, eco-friendly strategies are reducing carbon footprints and commanding premium values. Gensler’s Product Sustainability Standards™ and the rise of materials like mass timber and zero-carbon cement are setting new benchmarks.

Jordan Goldstein, Co-CEO at Gensler, states, "Sustainability is integral to Gensler’s mission. By pushing the boundaries of design, we’re creating spaces that meet today’s needs and shape a better future for commercial real estate."

3. Deeply discounted buildings drive a conversion boom

With the market offering many outdated office spaces, there’s a surge in adaptive reuse projects. These deeply discounted buildings are being transformed into residential units, healthcare facilities, and more, unlocking new value in urban areas. Gensler’s Conversions+™ tool has become an industry leader in identifying and executing these opportunities.

This trend reflects a broader reimagining of the potential within our built environment. As interest rates decrease and financial incentives increase, developers are finding innovative ways to revitalize old structures, contributing to the renewal of entire neighborhoods.

4. Talk turns to action on attainable housing

The affordable housing crisis is pushing cities to prioritize attainable housing. Changes in zoning laws, building codes, and financial incentives make developing affordable, market-rate housing more feasible. This shift is critical for fostering inclusive communities and supporting economic growth.

Walker & Dunlop is committed to addressing the affordable housing crisis, providing comprehensive financing solutions that help create, preserve, and revitalize communities. Our "Community Starts Here" philosophy aligns with Gensler’s vision of leveraging design to tackle housing shortages and enhance urban living.

5. The workplace of the future has arrived

The future workplace emphasizes flexibility, employee experience, and high-quality amenities. Tenants seek Class A buildings that offer inspiring environments and easy access to lifestyle conveniences. This shift redefines the work environment, with spaces designed to attract and retain top talent.

For more on how these trends influence Walker & Dunlop office design, check out my previous article: Are You in an Office That Gensler Built?

Final thoughts

These five trends from Gensler’s Design Forecast 2025 are shaping the future of design and driving significant changes in the CRE landscape. By embracing these innovations, industry professionals can create sustainable, inclusive, and resilient spaces.

Check out Gensler’s full report here to explore more insights on the future of design and commercial real estate.

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Image credit: Garret Rowland courtesy of Gensler