Commercial painting trends have undergone significant changes in recent years. Modern workplaces need more than a coat of paint – they need spaces that inspire, motivate, and reflect a company’s values. At Halls Decorators, we’ve seen how businesses across the UK are rethinking their approach to painting projects, focusing on results that go beyond appearance.
These design trends aim to create environments that improve productivity, support wellbeing, and show professionalism. We look at the key changes shaping commercial painting in 2025 and how they can guide your next project.
What Are the Key Commercial Painting Trends for 2025?
This year’s commercial painting trends centre around three main themes: sustainability, wellness, and authentic brand expression. Companies are moving away from stark corporate colours towards more human-centred design approaches.
The shift reflects changing workplace dynamics. Remote work has made office environments more intentional. When employees choose to work in person, the commercial space must offer something special. This has led businesses to invest more thoughtfully in their interior aesthetics.
Nature-Inspired Colour Palettes
Nature-inspired hues dominate current commercial paint selections. These palettes draw from natural environments, featuring forest greens, ocean blues, and sunset oranges. The psychological benefits are clear: Natural colours reduce stress and create calming work environments.
Our commercial painting services frequently incorporate these earthy tones:
- Sage green for meeting rooms and quiet work areas
- Terracotta for accent walls and creative spaces
- Deep navy for executive areas and conference rooms
- Warm stone grey for general office areas
These colours work particularly well in healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and corporate offices where employee wellbeing is prioritised.
Biophilic Design Elements
Biophilic design brings nature into the workplace through visual elements. Painters are using botanical motifs, organic shapes, and natural textures to create this effect. The trend also shapes paint techniques. Subtle gradients that mimic shifting daylight are in demand, and feature walls often blend several nature-inspired shades for a seamless, calming look.
How Are Sustainable Practices Shaping Commercial Paint Choices?
More businesses are choosing eco-friendly paints to support their environmental goals. This shift influences every part of a commercial painting project, from product selection to application. Companies want solutions that perform well while reducing environmental impact.
Low-VOC and Eco-Friendly Coatings
Low Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) paints have transitioned from a niche to a mainstream product. They cut harmful emissions while delivering strong coverage and durability. Benefits include:
- Better indoor air quality for employees
- Reduced odour during and after painting
- Faster occupancy after work is completed
- Compliance with stricter environmental regulations
Water-based formulations now match or exceed traditional solvent-based paints, making the switch to eco-friendly options easier for facility managers. Long-lasting coatings mean fewer repaints and a smaller environmental footprint. Today’s high-performance eco-friendly paints offer excellent washability, scuff resistance, and colour retention, making them ideal for high-traffic commercial spaces.
Which Colour Schemes Are Transforming Modern Workplaces?
Colour psychology is shaping commercial spaces. Different hues can influence mood, productivity, and collaboration, making thoughtful choices more important than ever. Successful commercial painting projects now focus on how colours affect the people using the space, relying on evidence-based decisions rather than personal preference.
Earthy Tones and Warm Neutrals
Warm, earthy colours create welcoming environments that feel more like home than a traditional office. They suit hybrid workplaces where comfort and professionalism must coexist. Popular combinations include:
- Warm white walls with terracotta accents
- Soft grey bases with natural wood trim
- Cream backgrounds with sage green feature walls
- Stone-inspired neutrals with copper or brass highlights
These palettes also photograph well, making them popular with businesses that showcase their spaces online.
Bold Accent Walls for Brand Identity
Bold colours can reinforce brand identity without overwhelming a space. Many businesses now use accent walls or architectural features for subtle brand integration, rather than painting entire rooms in corporate colours. For example, a financial services company might feature its signature blue on a single wall in the reception area, keeping the design sophisticated while maintaining brand presence.
What Textures and Finishes Are Gaining Popularity?
Surface textures add depth and interest to commercial spaces without dramatic colour changes. They can turn plain walls into striking architectural features.
Textured Coatings for Visual Interest
Subtle textures are replacing busy wallpapers and decorative elements. Specialised coating systems add depth and character using paint alone. Popular techniques include:
- Fine sand textures for accent walls
- Subtle metallic finishes in feature areas
- Colour washing for organic variation
- Geometric patterns via masking and layering
The key is restraint. Texture should enhance the space, not overwhelm it.
Matte Finishes in Commercial Spaces
Matte finishes are increasingly popular. They hide surface imperfections better than gloss and create a modern, sophisticated look. Today’s matte paints also offer improved cleanability, making them suitable for commercial spaces that need regular maintenance.
How Do Modern Painting Techniques Improve Productivity?
Strategic colour use can shape how people feel and work in commercial spaces. Different areas often need different colour strategies based on their purpose, from energising tones in collaboration zones to calming shades in quiet workspaces. Thoughtful colour choices help create functional environments while maintaining a cohesive look throughout the property.
Open-plan offices in particular present challenges. Painting must unify the space while supporting a variety of activities. Successful approaches use neutral base colours with carefully placed accents to add interest without creating distractions. This technique allows workplaces to feel connected and flexible.
Planning Your Commercial Painting Project
Successful commercial painting projects require careful planning and professional expertise. The trends we’ve discussed need skilled application to achieve the desired results.
Consider these factors when planning your commercial painting project:
- How your colour choices will photograph for marketing materials
- Maintenance requirements for different paint finishes
- Timeline considerations for occupied commercial spaces
- Integration with existing furniture and fixtures
At Halls Decorators, we help clients navigate these decisions to create commercial spaces that are pleasing and practical. Our experience with commercial painting ensures your project meets aesthetic goals and performance requirements.
Partnering with Halls Decorators
Contact us if you’re considering updating your commercial space with modern colour trends and techniques. We’ll help you select the right approach for your needs and budget.