Top 5 Venue Design Trends for 2025
The world of venue design is in a constant state of flux, driven by evolving preferences, technological advancements, and societal shifts. As we peer into 2025, several key trends are poised to reshape the landscape of event spaces and event design. In years past, virtual events and making in-person events more virtual friendly with hybrid options, but the demands have shifted quickly to make bespoke and memorable experiences exclusive to those who show up. The new venue needs to be ready and provide a pivotal role in support of the emerging trends, especially with venue market becoming more saturated. The primary goal of many new projects is to connect emotionally with guests and adapt to latest event trends without more construction - and these 5 trends really get to the core of that.
You may be expecting this list to tell you to build an industrial venue or a barn, or something like that. But that's not this list because venue design goes beyond the over-arching category into the form and function of the space. While the latest trends come and go in these overall venue building designs, we think these key features go beyond that. I can design you a kick-ass space in any category that will have raving fans for you, but keep these trends center stage too.
In this comprehensive exploration, we'll delve into the top five trends that we believe will dominate the event space scene.
1. Sustainable Design: A Green Future for Venues
Sustainable design is no longer a niche concept; it's a necessity. Venues that prioritize eco-friendly practices are not only appealing to environmentally conscious clients but also contribute to a healthier planet. Key aspects of sustainable venue design include:
Energy Efficiency:
Example: Implementing smart lighting systems that automatically adjust to natural light and occupancy levels.
Utilizing energy-efficient HVAC systems with advanced controls - we have personally incorporated mini-splits
Energy-efficient construction design - we personally went with a white TPO roof and placed utilities with sun light and efficiency in mind.
Water Conservation:
Installing low-flow fixtures and water-saving technologies.
Incorporating rainwater harvesting systems to irrigate landscaping.
Educating guests about water conservation through signage and messaging.
Material Selection:
Prioritizing the use of sustainable materials like reclaimed wood, bamboo, and recycled metal.
Minimizing the use of harmful chemicals and toxins in construction and maintenance.
Waste Reduction:
Implementing comprehensive waste reduction and recycling programs.
Composting food waste and donating unused food to local charities.
Encouraging the use of reusable tableware and linens.
Sustainable design in the event venue is also a good way to encourage more sustainable events. We have seen past statistics and our own personal experience that weddings produce a shocking amount of waste. Couples are becoming more aware of the carbon footprint of their nuptials and are finding that they can do it better while still hosting unforgettable events.
This has been in even higher demand from corporate events that often include seasoned event planners on their staff that go out of their way to seek event venues with sustainable practices.
Drawing out designs & ideas with sustainability in mind
2. Biophilic Design: Bringing Nature Indoors
Biophilic design, the practice of incorporating natural elements into built environments, has gained significant traction in recent years. By connecting people with nature, biophilic design can enhance well-being, creativity, and productivity. Key elements of biophilic design include:
Natural Light:
Maximizing natural light through large windows, skylights, and light wells.
Using light shelves and light tubes to distribute natural light evenly throughout the space.
Natural Materials:
Incorporating natural materials like wood, stone, and bamboo into the design.
Using natural color palettes inspired by nature, such as earthy tones and calming blues and greens.
Plants and Greenery:
Incorporating indoor plants and vertical gardens to improve air quality and create a calming atmosphere.
Creating outdoor spaces with lush landscaping, water features, and fire pits.
"At its core, biophilic design taps into the concept of biophilia - our inherent attraction to nature. This design philosophy endeavours to rekindle this connection by seamlessly integrating natural elements into our built environments through sustainable architecture. With environmental architecture elements such as verdant greenery, natural light, water features and nature-inspired textures, biophilic design strives to craft spaces that resonate with the serenity and vitality of the outdoors." - Quote from Lodha Group.
Some of the more common key words that you may find inspiration from are: Japandi, Prairie-Style Architecture, Scandinavian, Mid-Century Modern, Bauhaus, French County, and Coastal... to name a few.
While pulling inspiration from "Coastal Grandma" or "Nancy Meyers" may seem very different than the inspiration you may find from "Japandi" or "Bauhaus" - they are connected in their biophilic design base.
3. Flexible Spaces: Adapting to Evolving Needs
The demand for versatile and adaptable venues is on the rise. Flexible spaces can accommodate a wide range of events, from intimate gatherings to large-scale conferences. Key strategies for creating flexible spaces include:
Modular Furniture:
Using modular furniture that can be easily rearranged to suit different layouts.
Incorporating movable partitions to create smaller, more intimate spaces.
Multi-Functional Rooms:
Designing spaces that can be transformed for various purposes, such as meetings, dining, and entertainment.
Using technology to create dynamic and interactive spaces.
Outdoor Spaces:
Creating outdoor spaces that can be used for events, receptions, and relaxation.
Providing shade structures, heating, and cooling systems to ensure comfort in all weather conditions.
4. Technology Integration: Enhancing the Event Experience
Technology is revolutionizing the event industry, and venues are embracing digital innovation to enhance the guest experience. Key technological trends in venue design include:
Smart Building Technology:
Implementing smart building systems to control lighting, temperature, and security.
Using mobile apps to provide guests with personalized information and services.
Virtual and Augmented Reality:
Creating immersive experiences through virtual and augmented reality technology.
Offering virtual tours of venues to attract remote clients.
Interactive Displays:
Incorporating interactive displays and touchscreens to provide information and entertainment - these can create some great interactive experiences too. They don't even have to be high-tech, we have seen guests and couples alike love Instax polaroid cameras. We've seen them used as guest books, or just as an interactive station.
Artificial Intelligence:
The future of events is also bringing a lot of buzz words like artificial intelligence. While I haven't personally seen ways that AI is impacting the event venue physically, it does hold power in Data Analytics. We recommend using AI to better hear and understand guest needs and better understand your social media/website metrics. Your online presence places a crucial role in the success of your event venue and managing attendee expectations. I can't wait to see AI works with more predictive analytics or helping couples and event planners with the less fun parts of event planning - collecting the RSVPs.
Beyond the electronic technology and the advancement of the amazing tools and capabilities there. You can't skip the basics, like using proper signage. The less questions guests have as they enter a space, the more comfortable the guests and wider audience will be.
5. Experiential Design: Creating Memorable Moments
In an increasingly competitive market, venues must go beyond providing functional spaces and focus on creating memorable experiences. Key strategies for experiential design include:
Theming and Branding:
Developing unique themes and branding for different events.
Creating immersive environments that transport guests to another world.
Sensory Experiences:
Incorporating elements that stimulate the senses, such as aromatic scents, soothing soundscapes, and visually appealing decor.
Using lighting and sound design to create a specific mood or atmosphere.
Interactive Elements:
Adding interactive elements, such as photo booths, games, and virtual reality experiences.
Providing opportunities for guests to participate in the event and create their own memories.
Personalized Touches:
Offering personalized services, such as custom menus, welcome gifts, and concierge assistance.
Hideaways:
I like to think of this as "introvert" spaces, but in reality - you need small, curated spaces for all of the small moments of the day. Things like first-looks, or reading private vows don't need to happen in a corner hoping the cousins don't get too close, places can and should be curated for this. We have made a small greenhouse, carved out spaces in the woods, and even just set benches along trails to create unforgettable experiences.
As you can see, the main key here is making it memorable. Venue selection is more than picking a venue that technically works, but becomes an emotional connection that makes people comfortable and connected to the space at a deeper level.
Romantic Hideaways for reading vows and private moments
Venue Developers: Moving Forward
By embracing these five key trends, venue owners and designers can create spaces that are not only functional but also inspiring, sustainable, and unforgettable. We are seeing couples steer away from more rustic locations like barns, or completely blank spaces that require the couple to do a lot of decorating and personalization. But it doesn't have to be that way, your new investment can stand the test of time.
As the event industry continues to evolve, staying ahead of the curve will be essential to the success of any venue.
Learn from an experience wedding venue owner & operator