Office Building, Shopping Center, Industrial Hall – Major Trends in Poland’s Commercial Architecture for 2025
Office Building, Shopping Center, Industrial Hall – Major Trends in Poland’s Commercial Architecture for 2025
Commercial construction in Poland is entering a new stage of development. A decade ago, the market was dominated by large office and retail projects in major cities. Today, quality, sustainability, and building flexibility are taking center stage. Developers and investors no longer ask only: how many square meters can be built? The key question now is: how to design an office or service building that will maintain its value over time, attract tenants, and minimize operating costs.
The year 2025 marks a turning point as the Polish market has matured, clearly showing that competitiveness depends on addressing both global and local trends. On one side, there is increasing regulatory pressure (for example, EU carbon footprint requirements), and on the other, shifting user expectations — flexible offices, innovative warehouses, and appealing retail spaces. All these factors make commercial architecture more demanding than ever.
Why 2025 Matters for Investors
Poland’s commercial real estate sector is stabilizing after a period of rapid growth. Warsaw, Kraków, and Wrocław remain leading office hubs, but regional cities such as Katowice, Łódź, and Poznań are gaining significance. Tenants now prioritize not just area size but the overall quality and functionality of buildings.
According to reports from AXI IMMO and Savills, the key priorities for 2025 include:
- Energy efficiency,
- Buildings adapted to hybrid work,
- Modernization of existing facilities,
- Technological innovation.
Trend 1 — Sustainable Architecture and Certification
Ecology as the New Standard
Not long ago, BREEAM or LEED certification was considered mainly a branding advantage. Today, it has become an industry norm in Poland. Investors now recognize that a low-carbon office building not only leases faster but also delivers measurable savings in energy and maintenance.
Benefits for Investors and Tenants
- Lower operating costs through intelligent energy management systems
- Higher market value when selling or refinancing the property
- Stronger brand image, especially among international companies.
Polish Examples
- Varso Place in Warsaw — a landmark certified under WELL and BREEAM
- Nowy Rynek in Poznań — a complex employing extensive green solutions
Find more analyses on the ‘Architecture & Business’ website. (https://www.architekturaibiznes.pl).
Trend 2 —
Retrofitting and Adapting Shopping Centers
Why Modernization Over New Construction?
Traditional large shopping malls are losing appeal. The growth of e-commerce and consumer demand for leisure and dining options make redevelopment of existing structures a safer and more cost-effective approach than building new ones.
Adaptation Models
- Transforming properties into mixed-use spaces (retail + offices + housing)
- Creating neighborhood centers focused on daily services
- Introducing coworking areas into shopping complexes
Polish Examples
- Hala Koszyki in Warsaw — a successful blend of history and modern design
- Galeria Młociny — a model where retail is just one part of a diversified complex
The analysis of changes in the shopping mall market is presented by PropertyNews (https://www.propertynews.pl).
Trend 3 —
Flexible Offices and the Hybrid Work Model
Evolving Corporate Needs
The pandemic accelerated transformations already underway. Companies are no longer willing to pay for empty desks. They prefer smaller, high-quality, and easily adaptable offices. Commercial architecture must respond by offering spaces that foster collaboration, integration, and productivity.
Key Solutions
- Collaboration and social zones
- App-based systems for desk and meeting room reservations
- Acoustic design improving workspace comfort
- Modular layouts easily reconfigured for changing needs
Case studies in Poland
- Brain Embassy (Warsaw) — next-generation coworking concept
- High5ive (Kraków) — an office complex designed for flexible leasing models
Find more inspiration on ArchDaily (https://www.archdaily.com/country/poland/).
Trend 4 —
Smart Buildings, BMS, and Renewable Energy
How Smart Offices Work?
Modern Building Management Systems (BMS) enable:
- Automated control of lighting, heating, and ventilation
- Real-time monitoring of energy use
- Integration with user applications
Popular Solutions in Poland
- Photovoltaic panels on office rooftops
- Heat pumps in modern logistics halls
- IoT sensors in service facilities
The use of renewable energy and BMS technologies is now a fundamental requirement in commercial design, as emphasized by “Architektura-Murator.” (https://www.architektura.muratorplus.pl).
Trend 5 —
The New Role of Logistics and Warehouses
Market Evolution
Poland has become one of Europe’s key logistics hubs. However, the nature of logistics buildings is evolving — the focus is shifting toward last-mile logistics, requiring facilities closer to city centers.
Design Directions
- Increased ceiling height and advanced storage systems
- Energy-efficient solutions (photovoltaics, LED lighting, heat recovery)
- Integration with rail and road transport infrastructure
Examples from the Market
Companies such as Panattoni and 7R are implementing ESG standards in new logistics projects across Poland (https://www.propertyjournal.pl).
Practical Conclusions for Investors
In summary, developers and investors planning new commercial buildings in 2025 should focus on:
- Comprehensive and high-quality design documentation
- Flexibility for future adaptation
- Implementation of advanced technologies and renewable energy solutions
- Strategic locations aligned with evolving tenant needs
FAQ
Which trends dominate Poland’s commercial architecture in 2025?
Sustainable design, flexible offices, building adaptation, and smart technologies.
Is office building certification really worth it?
Yes — it reduces operating costs, accelerates leasing, and increases property value.
How will shopping malls evolve?
They will transition into multifunctional spaces featuring dining, offices, and services.
Summary
The year 2025 signals a period of major transformation in Poland’s commercial architecture. Investors increasingly seek office buildings, service centers, and logistics halls that go beyond meeting formal requirements to address future challenges — from energy efficiency to functional flexibility and smart building integration.
ARCH-STUDIO has specialized for years in designing commercial properties, including office buildings, service facilities, industrial structures, and multifamily developments. Our expertise combines aesthetics, functionality, and economic efficiency. We execute projects throughout Poland, with a focus on the Opole, Silesian, and Lower Silesian regions.
If you are planning a commercial investment — an office building, service center, or industrial facility — contact us to discuss how we can design a property aligned with current market trends and the future of the industry.
ARCH-STUDIO – shaping the future of Polish commercial architecture.