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Trends in third spaces 2025: flexible, human and sustanaible

Trends in third spaces 2025: flexible, human and sustanaible

JULY 2025 | 3 minutes

Third spaces are redefining our cities and lifestyles. Neither home nor office, these intermediate places—cafés, libraries, lobbies, co-working spaces, and cultural centres—combine the best of both worlds: flexibility, connection, community, and well-being. By 2025, they will be established as the new epicentre of work, socialising, and creative inspiration.

Here are some of this year's trends in third spaces!

What are third spaces?

The term ‘third spaces’ refers to places that are neither the first space (home) nor the second (the office), but which fulfil an increasingly important social, work and emotional function. These shared spaces allow people to work, socialise, rest or even learn in a welcoming and stimulating atmosphere.

Ray Oldenburg's theory of third spaces

The concept was developed by sociologist Ray Oldenburg, who proposed that third spaces are essential to community life, as they encourage informal interaction, belonging and the creation of social bonds. According to Oldenburg, places such as cafés, bookshops and public squares allow people to meet easily and accessibly, away from the pressures of home and work.

Today, this theory is particularly relevant for architects, interior designers and planners, who design environments that promote human connection and emotional well-being through design.

Main trends in third spaces in 2025

Total flexibility: multipurpose spaces

In an increasingly dynamic world, where speed and shared environments prevail, the search for comfort, tranquillity and privacy becomes essential. In this context, having innovative solutions to equip these types of spaces can be a great added value and differentiator for companies.

Experiential and emotional design

Design is no longer perceived only with the eyes. Neuroarchitecture, chromotherapy, textures, aromas and careful acoustics create environments that provoke emotions. The trend points to spaces that calm, stimulate or comfort, designed for long stays and lasting well-being.

Designing with empathy and attention means putting the user at the centre: comfortable furniture, pleasant lighting, smooth circulation and services that enhance the experience.

Third spaces as decentralised work networks

In the context of hybrid working, third spaces operate as decentralised micro hubs, ideal for mobile professionals. Spaces such as workcafés or nomadic coworking spaces allow people to work close to home, promoting work-life balance and reducing commuting.

Cosy, homely aesthetics

The line between home, work and leasure is blurring. The trend is towards spaces with natural materials, comfortable upholstery, warm lighting and a welcoming atmosphere. Spaces that invite you to stay, create and share.

Connecting the physical and digital worlds

Third spaces are becoming phygital: wireless chargers, occupancy sensors, smart lighting and connected environmental control. Integrated technology improves functionality, energy efficiency and real-time interaction.

Sustainability as an inherent value

Sustainability is not an option, it is a basic criterion. In 2025, third spaces will be designed with recycled and local materials, energy consumption will be optimised and circular economy principles will be applied. Beauty also lies in positive impact.

Examples of third spaces

  • Cafés with Wi-Fi and individual desks for freelancers and students.
  • Hotel lobbies with lounge and work areas.
  • Modern libraries with co-working areas.
  • Retail with active areas, such as bookshops with cafés or shops with lounge areas.
  • Hospitals and clinics with humanised waiting areas.
  • Airports with lounge areas where you can work or relax.
  • Stations or cultural centres that combine art, relaxation and services.

The importance of organisation in third spaces

A good third space is not just a matter of design, but also of functional organisation. Zoning, traffic flow, intuitive signage and the integration of services are key to making these environments truly usable and enjoyable for a diverse range of people.

Designing with a strategic vision allows for optimised use of space, encourages interaction and ensures a balanced experience between privacy and community.

Life Friendly Spaces: Designing with purpose

These values are fully aligned with our LifeFriendly Spaces design philosophy: spaces created to care for people, foster community and improve quality of life through the environment. As a philosophy, LifeFriendly Spaces not only defines how we design, but why we do it. It guides us to create environments where people feel welcome, motivated and inspired to share, collaborate and grow, regardless of the type of space they inhabit.