Written by Courtney Jones

As the world evolves, so do the spaces we design. With one month into 2025, it’s clear that architecture trends in sustainability, human-centric design and adaptability are at the forefront of the built environment. These trends aren’t just concepts but the driving forces behind designing spaces prioritizing our planet’s health and our communities’ well-being. The evolution of architecture is rooted in our shared responsibility to create spaces that foster collaboration, creativity and meaningful connections.

Here’s a look at the most exciting architecture trends that are already making an impact this year.

Sustainable architecture trends: Zero-carbon design

In 2025, sustainable architecture trends are more than ideals—they’ve become essential to respond to the changing climate. Buildings that are zero-carbon and climate-resilient are the new standard. These designs aim to reduce energy consumption and carbon footprints by integrating renewable resources, energy-efficient materials and innovative technologies. From large institutions to affordable housing, zero-carbon building design embraces eco-friendly principles to create healthier, more sustainable cities.

The Palliser Lane housing project has over 144 affordable units split across two buildings to support community needs. Palliser Lane emphasizes sustainable design with energy-efficient systems that focus on vital green building initiatives.

The evolution of workspaces: Offices as social hubs

Another major shift in architectural trends is the transformation of office spaces. Gone are the days of cubicles and static workstations. Today’s workspaces are evolving into social hubs that foster collaboration and inspire creativity and well-being. These spaces are designed with flexibility and employee wellness in mind—supporting dynamic teams and diverse work styles—through a balance of formal meeting rooms, informal touch-down points and quiet work areas as well as increased daylighting and incorporating biophilic materials.

The Ampersand redefines the modern office with collaborative spaces, flexible layouts and a focus on employee well-being through amenities like a gym, food hall, library, basketball court and social lounge, among others.

Mixed-use developments: The future of urban living

Mixed-use developments are one of the most significant architectural trends of 2025. These dynamic urban hubs combine residential, commercial and recreational spaces to create thriving communities. By integrating retail, dining and social areas with housing, mixed-use developments promote engagement and accessibility—shaping the evolution of urban design in our cities. As urban living becomes more vibrant and connected, these developments foster a more profound sense of community.

University District’s Block 23 in Calgary exemplifies mixed-use design with Central Park at its heart and offers spaces for performances, play and community gatherings. Surrounded by retail and dining, it fosters year-round social connection and vibrant urban living.

Flexible and adaptable learning environments

Shifting pedagogical trends in education call for flexible, inclusive and inspiring environments. Contemporary classrooms must cater to diverse learning styles through sensory-friendly, wellness-focused designs to ensure accessibility for all students. From early childhood education to post-secondary institutions, classrooms are designed to support collaborative learning, hands-on activities and wellness. Aspects like STEAM labs, maker spaces and adaptable classrooms are transforming how students engage with their education.

The FFCA North High School learning commons redefines traditional spaces with tiered seating and a multi-level assembly area, supporting FFCA’s blended approach and adapting to the needs of 21st-century students.

Adaptive reuse: A sustainable housing solution

The adaptive reuse of underutilized buildings, including office-to-residential conversions, is one of the year’s most exciting architecture trends. It plays a crucial role in revitalizing urban landscapes. By repurposing existing structures, architects breathe new life into old buildings and address urban challenges like housing shortages. Office-to-residential conversions and adaptive reuse projects contribute to more sustainable urban environments and reduce the environmental impact of new construction. This sustainable solution offers a win-win for both the environment and the future of urban living while contributing to more resilient and dynamic cities.

Neoma is a prime example of adaptive reuse, transforming a vacant office building into a community space with 82 affordable housing units, critical support services and trauma-informed communal spaces. This conversion revitalizes the building and surrounding area by providing transitional housing and integrated programming in a transit-accessible, pedestrian-friendly location.

Looking ahead: The future of architecture trends

As we move forward, the evolution of architecture will continue to shape how we live, work and connect. This year’s architecture trends are focused on sustainability, inclusivity and adaptability—ensuring that spaces meet today’s needs and contribute to a better, more resilient future.

At GGA, we’re excited to be part of this movement by pushing the boundaries of design to create spaces that have a lasting, positive impact.