As law firms adapt to a new era of work, marked by hybrid schedules, evolving client expectations, and shifting generational priorities, many are rethinking how their offices function. We’ve helped law offices redesign their work environments to meet these goals, while keeping lawyers productive and clients happy.
If your firm is planning an office renovation or move, it’s important to understand the latest trends. In this article, we explore what’s changing in law firm office design and how smart project management can make the process smoother and more successful.
Why Law Firms Are Renovating Now
Many law firms are realizing that their current offices no longer support how people work today. Big private offices, unused desks, and dated layouts often lead to wasted space and unhappy teams. Firms are now investing in better, more flexible workspaces that reflect their values and make everyday work easier.
Common motivations for office renovation include:
- Adapting to hybrid work schedules
- Reducing unused space to save money
- Attracting and keeping top legal talent
- Updating old office layouts or systems
- Creating a better client and team experience
Seven Law Office Design Trends Driving Productivity
1. Smaller, More Efficient Private Offices
Law firms are moving away from oversized corner offices in favor of one-size offices or standardized private rooms that support equity, reduce square footage, and simplify space planning. Some firms are even introducing shared offices for part-time staff or junior associates.
This shift allows firms to optimize real estate costs while improving layout efficiency—and, with the right project planning, can also reduce renovation timelines.
2. Flexible Workspaces and Hoteling
With hybrid work now the norm, law firms are embracing hoteling stations and desk booking software to accommodate rotating staff. Recent research shows that 33% of firms have adopted desk‑sharing, with 40% considering it, supported by smart booking systems. These models enable right‑sizing, reduce unused real estate, and support neighborhood seating for enhanced collaboration.
Modular furniture and multi-purpose zones allow teams to reconfigure their environment based on case load or team collaboration needs.
3. Enhanced Collaboration Zones
While confidentiality remains critical in legal work, firms are increasingly prioritizing collaboration zones that foster team interaction and cross-practice innovation.
These zones often include:
Enclosed team rooms
War rooms with whiteboards and digital displays
Informal seating areas for quick huddles
Coffee bars and shared lounges that promote impromptu dialogue
With proper change management and stakeholder engagement, these new areas can be embraced by attorneys and staff alike.
KGO has guided numerous law firms through office transformations that support long-term success. See our work on the Case Studies page.
4. Technology-Driven Conference and Arbitration Rooms
Today’s legal clients expect tech-enabled, seamless meetings, whether in person or remote. That’s why law firms are investing in state-of-the-art AV systems, virtual arbitration rooms, and acoustically treated conference spaces.
Key productivity benefits:
Reduced travel time for depositions or negotiations
Faster client decision-making
Support for hybrid or international legal teams
Project managers play a critical role in coordinating technology vendors, scheduling installation, and ensuring minimal disruption during upgrades.
5. Wellness and Focus Spaces
Burnout and retention are major concerns in the legal industry. Law firm renovations are increasingly incorporating wellness-focused design elements that support attorney mental health and concentration.
Popular features include:
Meditation or quiet rooms
Library-style focus zones
Daylight access and indoor plants (biophilic design)
Mother’s rooms and gender-inclusive restrooms
Fitness centers or onsite wellness programming
These amenities boost morale and increase time spent in the office—especially when paired with thoughtful space planning and ongoing feedback from employees.
6. Sustainability and ESG Alignment
Many law firms are aligning office renovations with broader environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals. That includes selecting sustainable building materials, pursuing LEED or WELL certification, and implementing energy-efficient systems.
In addition to reducing carbon footprint, sustainable office designs appeal to both clients and employees—especially those in ESG-related practice areas.
7. High-End Client Experience Spaces
Client impressions matter. That’s why firms are elevating reception areas and conference suites with hospitality-inspired design. These spaces often feature:
Lounge seating with custom artwork
Beverage bars and branded refreshment stations
Privacy-first design for sensitive client conversations
Creating a premium client experience doesn’t just reinforce your brand—it’s a powerful differentiator in a competitive legal market.
How Strategic Project Management Supports Law Firm Renovations
Legal office renovations are high-stakes projects with strict confidentiality, budget oversight, and minimal room for disruption. That’s where a seasoned project management firm like KGO becomes essential.
Here’s how we support law firms through office redesigns and workplace transformations:
Budget and Schedule Control
We manage the full project lifecycle—from feasibility to move-in—ensuring your firm stays on time and on budget.
Stakeholder Communication
Our team facilitates alignment between attorneys, firm leadership, IT, HR, and landlords to prevent scope creep or miscommunication.
Change Management Support
Through training sessions, communications planning, and staff engagement, we help attorneys embrace new ways of working.
Vendor Coordination
From furniture and tech to construction and design, we ensure all vendors are aligned and accountable throughout the process.
Office Relocation Expertise
If your renovation includes a temporary or permanent move, we can manage logistics to minimize disruption to your caseload and client service.
Let’s Build a Workplace That Works for the Future
At KGO, we’ve supported law firms of all sizes in designing, planning, and executing workplace transformations that prioritize productivity, culture, and client service.
Whether you’re planning a renovation, relocation, or full workplace strategy refresh, we’re here to help you align your office with the way your firm works today, and where you’re headed tomorrow.
Book a discovery session to learn how KGO can help your law firm succeed through thoughtful project management and strategic workplace design.