Shaping Urban Transformation

Global architecture, design and planning firm Gensler has revealed its latest design forecast report, which focuses on crafting adaptable, sustainable spaces that elevate the human experience while meeting the demands of modern life.

Tim Martin and Tariq Shaikh, Co-Regional Managing Directors and Principals at Gensler Middle East, said: “This year’s Design Forecast demonstrates how bold, visionary design can address global challenges and make a tangible impact. We are at a transformative moment in our industry, one that demands groundbreaking ideas and innovative solutions to enhance the human experience. Looking ahead, we are optimistic about design’s potential to shape a sustainable future that inspires and positively impacts people in meaningful ways.” 

Here are five key takeaways from the report:

1. Experience-Driven Lifestyle Districts Reignite Global Cities 

Mixed-use lifestyle and entertainment districts will take centre stage in 2025 as the new anchors for cities looking to drive community engagement and bring people together around shared experiences. Hospitality, retail, sports and residential spaces make up the mix of these experience-driven areas, the rise of which is also driving demand for safe streets and reliable transit options. The Diplomatic Quarter project in Riyadh showcases a recent Gensler example. Spanning a 38,000-square metre site, this development integrates retail, food and beverage, as well as entertainment spaces tailored to young professionals and families, creating a vibrant hub for urban living. 

 2. Demand for Sustainable Design Supercharges Innovation and Value 

With organisations everywhere increasingly aware of climate risk, buildings designed with resilient and sustainable strategies are trading at premium values. This sustainable surge is also driving demand for game-changing innovations in construction processes and the materials industry. The adaptive reuse of old buildings, energy-efficient designs, weather-scenario planning and other green techniques are anticipating local climate challenges while reducing waste and carbon emissions. Solutions such as low- or no-carbon interior finishes and furnishings and zero-carbon cement are leading the materials revolution. 

3. Deeply Discounted Buildings Drive a Conversion Boom 

On a global scale, with ageing office buildings and other devalued assets trading at deeply discounted rates, the adaptive reuse boom is poised to create valuable new real estate beyond just office-to-residential conversion. As the cost of capital comes down, Gensler predicts that 2025 will usher in a new financial environment that will inspire developers to seek out creative conversions of all types. Specific to the Middle East region, they expect to see conversion from hospitality to healthcare, sports to retail, office to residential and more. The Al Faisaliah redevelopment project in Riyadh, for example, reimagines traditional retail and office spaces into a dynamic mixed-use environment. 

4. The Workplace of the Future has Arrived 

The future workplace is reportedly all about employee experience, inspiration and the value proposition being realised by building owners and developers. In 2025, tenants will continue to search for workplace experiences that motivate employees and meet their professional aspirations. Landlords looking to compete must be laser focused on transforming their spaces into fully amenitised, Class A buildings close to transit and within the 20-minute lifestyle mix. In Abu Dhabi, Gensler’s design for a leading cybersecurity firm applies urban design principles to create a multifunctional workspace. Key zones such as The Harbour, The Neighborhood and The Oasis offer tailored spaces for interaction, focused work and relaxation, creating a balanced and productive environment. 

5. Luxury Housing Meets Growing Demand 

Attainable market-rate housing becomes the number one priority for cities around the world in 2025 as new financial incentives and lowering interest rates converge with changes to zoning laws and building codes to create an attractive market for housing developments of all types. 

In the Middle East, the UAE and KSA are responding to different shifts in ways that reflect their unique market priorities. In the UAE, the focus is on meeting the growing demand for luxury residential properties, fuelled by an influx of high-net-worth individuals, financial incentives and a thriving expatriate community. Developers are increasingly integrating advanced technologies and sustainable designs to cater to residents seeking bespoke living experiences. Dubai’s luxury developments demonstrate a trend toward world-class amenities, privacy and convenience, reinforcing the city’s reputation as a luxury destination. 

Meanwhile, in KSA, the housing market reflects the broader Vision 2030 goals, emphasising the creation of vibrant, sustainable and inclusive communities. Mixed-income developments are gaining traction, with affordable housing projects balancing rapid urban expansion in cities like Riyadh and Jeddah. These initiatives aim to address the needs of a growing middle class while supporting government ambitions to improve home ownership rates. The integration of smart city concepts, cultural heritage preservation and green infrastructure is redefining housing in the Kingdom, aligning with its aspirations for a more liveable and sustainable urban future. 

As cities worldwide face evolving challenges, Gensler’s Design Forecast 2025 offers a blueprint for building adaptable, sustainable environments that put people at the centre. 

Read more features here.