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ACTIU Berbegal y Formas, S.A.
Blog / Hospitality / Trends in third spaces 2025: flexible, humane and sustainable
Trends in third spaces 2025: flexible, humane and sustainable

Trends in third spaces 2025: flexible, humane and sustainable

JULY 2025
·
3 minutes

Third spaces are redefining our cities and lifestyles. Neither home nor office, these in-between places - cafés, libraries, lobbies, coworking or cultural centres - combine the best of both worlds: flexibility, connection, community and well-being. In 2025, they are set to become the new epicentre for work, socialising and creative inspiration.

Here are some of the trends in third spaces this year!

What are third spaces?

The term"third spaces" refers to those places that are neither the first space (the home) nor the second (the office), but which play an increasingly important social, work and emotional role. These living spaces allow people to work, socialise, rest or even train, 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 fundamental to community life, as they foster informal interaction, belonging and the creation of social bonds. According to Oldenburg, places such as coffee shops, bookstores or public squares allow people to meet easily and accessibly, outside the pressures of home and work.

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

Key trends in third spaces in 2025

Total flexibility: multi-purpose spaces

In an increasingly dynamic world, where speed and shared environments predominate, the search for comfort, tranquillity and privacy is becoming essential. In this context, having innovative solutions to equip this type of spaces can be a great added value and differential 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 is towards spaces that soothe, stimulate or comfort, designed for prolonged stays and lasting wellbeing.

Designing for empathy and care means putting the user at the centre: comfortable furniture, friendly lighting, smooth circulation and services that enhance the experience.

Third spaces as a decentralised work network

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

Cosy and domestic aesthetics

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

Connecting the physical and the digital

Third spaces are going phygital: wireless chargers, occupancy sensors, smart lighting or 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 are designed with recycled and local materials, energy consumption is optimised and circular economy principles are applied. The beauty is also in the positive impact.

Examples of third spaces

  • Cafés with wifi and individual tables for freelancers and students.
  • Hotel lobbies with lounge and work areas.
  • Modern libraries with coworking areas.
  • Retail with active zones, such as bookshops with a café or shops with a lounge area.
  • 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 only a question of design, but also of functional organisation. Zoning, circulation flow, intuitive signage and the integration of services are key to making these environments truly usable and pleasant for different profiles.

Designing with a strategic vision optimises the 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 enhance quality of life through the environment. As a philosophy, LifeFriendly Spaces not only defines how we design, but why we design. 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.