Explore top law firm design trends impacting workplace strategy through tech, mentorship, hospitality, and smarter space planning.
At a recent CoreNet panel titled “Top Workplace Trends Impacting Law Firms’ Bottom Lines,” industry leaders from Gensler, Cresa, and Kirkland & Ellis pulled back the curtain on what’s really driving change in the legal workplace. Moderated by an insightful trio—Colleen Wallace of Gensler, Matt Harvey of Cresa, and Julia Desmond of Kirkland & Ellis—the session was packed with real-world data, candid observations, and practical takeaways. Our own Allison Hemeon, Director of Market Development, was in the room and shares her perspective on what it all means for the future of law firm design and strategy.
First off, what made this panel stand out from others you’ve attended?
Allison: This one really brought together multiple perspectives—design, real estate, and end-user—all in one conversation. We had design trends backed by deep research, dialogue about how firms are making strategic real estate decisions, and a refreshingly honest take from the client side at one of the largest law firms in the world. It was a rare peek behind the curtain at how all of those pieces come together in practice. The whole conversation felt grounded in what firms are actually doing, not just what’s trending on paper.
What surprised you most about the current state of workplace strategy in law firms?
Allison: The scale of investment in technology. It came up repeatedly that tech is now the second or even top expense category for many firms. That’s ahead of real estate in some cases. It really shows how the role of technology has evolved. It’s not just about having the right tools anymore; it’s about creating a seamless experience for both employees and clients. Whether it’s video conferencing systems that actually work well, or platforms that support hybrid collaboration, firms are realizing that a thoughtful tech strategy directly impacts performance and the bottom line.
Let’s talk about the experience side of things. How are law firms rethinking their spaces to feel more dynamic and engaging?
Allison: Hospitality is playing a major role. Firms are looking beyond just “nice furniture” or a sleek reception area; they’re designing spaces that feel like high-end environments. Amenities like curated food and beverage programs, fitness centers, and concierge services are being built in to support lawyers throughout their day. And client-facing moments are getting a makeover too. Big meetings, closings, signings—these are all high-stakes experiences that firms want to elevate. The office becomes a stage for those key interactions.
What about internal culture—how is space influencing mentorship, especially in a hybrid world?
Allison: That was one of the most thoughtful parts of the conversation. There’s still a strong pull toward private offices, especially for partners. But adjacency, being near the right people, is just as important. Proximity to associates helps support that classic apprenticeship model, which is still essential in legal careers. Firms are trying to strike a balance between maintaining privacy and status while also making it easier for junior staff to absorb knowledge through osmosis. Some are even flattening their org structures to encourage more collaboration and accessibility, which is a big cultural shift in this field.
Did the panel touch on current challenges around space planning?
Allison: Definitely, rightsizing continues to be a hot topic. Firms are analyzing how much space they truly need, and what kind. AI is also beginning to influence headcount projections and operational workflows, which directly impacts real estate planning. There’s also a growing awareness of how acoustics and layout contribute to overall productivity and employee well-being. Firms are being more intentional about how they allocate space and support different work styles, while still preserving the privacy and functionality that legal professionals expect.
Any final thoughts or takeaways from the event?
Allison: It reinforced how complex and nuanced workplace strategy really is, especially in a field like law, where tradition still runs deep. But what I loved is that all three panelists recognized the opportunity for evolution. Whether it’s shifting expectations around space, or new tools enabling flexibility, firms are clearly thinking bigger. It’s about reimagining how space can support business goals, employee well-being, and client impact all at once.
As legal workplace expectations continue to evolve, it’s clear that successful law firms are embracing change with intention: reimagining how space, technology, and culture intersect to drive real impact. Want to see how these law firm design trends translate into actionable ideas for your own space? Download our Elevated Office Spaces Guide for practical insights and inspiration.
