What’s Changing in Commercial Drywall?
Have you ever noticed how much better commercial drywall is today than it was years ago? No? Exactly. Because when drywall is done right, you’re not supposed to notice it. You don’t think about the soundproofing keeping an office quiet, the fire resistance protecting a building, or the smart tech seamlessly built into the walls. But it’s there—working behind the scenes to make modern spaces perform better than ever.
In 2025, drywall isn’t just about dividing spaces. It’s solving problems. It’s blocking noise, improving energy efficiency, hiding high-tech systems, and making buildings safer—all without a second thought.
Here are the five biggest trends pushing forward commercial drywall contractors and the projects they’re hired to do—whether you realize it or not.
1. Acoustic Drywall: Built for Quiet
Ever walk into an office, hospital, or hotel and just… notice the noise? Phones ringing, conversations carrying, footsteps echoing down the hall—it’s a distraction nightmare. That’s why soundproofing isn’t just an afterthought anymore—it’s built right into the walls.
What’s New
High-performance acoustic drywall is hitting STC (Sound Transmission Class) ratings over 60, keeping outside noise out and private conversations in (Source: National Gypsum).
New core technologies, like viscoelastic polymers, absorb sound waves instead of letting them bounce around, creating quieter, more focused environments.
Where You’ll See It
- Office buildings—Open layouts need controlled noise levels.
- Hotels—Guests don’t want to hear their neighbors.
- Hospitals—Patients need peace and privacy.
- Schools—Fewer distractions, better learning environments.
A Harvard study on workplace productivity found noise is one of the top complaints from workers—making soundproofing a must-have, not a nice-to-have.
Pro Tip
We solve acoustic issues early, so GCs aren’t dealing with noise complaints later. Getting the right drywall in place from the start means no costly rework—just a space that performs.
2. Smart Drywall: The Future is in the Walls
Walls do more than divide a space—now, they’re wired for function. Walk into a modern office, and you don’t see bulky outlets, exposed cables, or patch jobs from last-minute wiring changes. That’s because drywall is evolving. It’s hiding smart tech, streamlining installs, and keeping high-end spaces looking clean and seamless.
What’s Trending
- Technology is going behind the walls. CertainTeed’s Habito Drywall combines strength and versatility, allowing seamless integration for hidden wiring, mounted smart panels, and built-in tech systems.
- Demand is surging. A CBRE survey found that 71% of corporate clients are investing in smart building technology. If your drywall can’t support it, your project is already outdated. (Source: Commercial Construction & Renovation Magazine).
Why It Matters
- No messy patch jobs.
- No exposed wiring ruining the design.
- No extra backing needed for heavy wall-mounted tech.
Pro Tip
Tech-ready drywall needs tech-ready planning. We work directly with electricians and tech teams early in the project, so GCs don’t end up with last-minute changes, costly rework, or walls that need to be cut open later.
3. Eco-Friendly Drywall: Built for the Long Haul
Construction is changing. Stronger codes, stricter requirements, and bigger sustainability goals mean that materials need to work harder—not just for today, but for decades. That’s why eco-friendly drywall isn’t just a trend—it’s becoming the industry standard. If your projects aren’t hitting green building benchmarks, you’re already behind.
What’s Leading the Charge
- Better materials, less waste. Sheetrock EcoSmart Panels use 25% less water and energy in production while maintaining the same strength and durability (Source: USG Corporation).
- Green expectations are rising. Nearly 50% of commercial projects now aim for LEED certification (Source: U.S. Green Building Council). If you’re bidding on corporate or government contracts, sustainable materials aren’t optional anymore.
Who’s Asking for It?
- Developers chasing LEED certification
- Corporate builds with strict sustainability goals
- Any project focused on long-term energy efficiency and material performance
Pro Tip
Sustainability starts in preconstruction. We help GCs choose the right materials early, so projects meet green standards without budget overruns or last-minute compliance fixes.
4. Design-Forward Drywall: Where Form Meets Function
For years, commercial drywall was just the backdrop. Now? It’s part of the design. High-end commercial spaces aren’t settling for plain white walls anymore. They want bold features, clean curves, and custom finishes that make an impact.
What’s Trending
- Feature walls that stand out. Geometric patterns, recessed lighting details, and layered textures are showing up in high-end offices, hotels, and retail spaces (Source: Architectural Digest).
- Curved drywall is on the rise. Advancements in flexible materials have made radius walls, soffits, and wave designs more practical to install, making them a go-to for hospitality and commercial projects.
Why It’s Big
In competitive markets, businesses aren’t just looking for functionality—they want aesthetic impact. A strong first impression isn’t optional anymore—it’s part of branding, client experience, and overall design.
Pro Tip
Great ideas on paper need smart execution on-site. We work with GCs and architects early to ensure design-forward drywall is buildable, cost-effective, and installed with precision.
5. Fire-Resistant Drywall: Built for Protection
Fire safety isn’t optional—it’s the law. But more than that, it’s the difference between containment and catastrophe. Building codes keep getting stricter, and fire-resistant commercial drywall is non-negotiable for commercial projects. If it’s not installed right, it’s not doing its job.
What’s Changing
- Stronger, easier-to-work-with fire-rated drywall. Type X and Type C boards are now more durable, impact-resistant, and practical for large-scale installs (Source: Gypsum Association).
- Non-combustible cores are improving fire resistance. New technology is helping drywall contractors meet strict codes while maintaining design flexibility.
Why It Matters
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that fire-resistant materials reduce structural damage and save lives. In a commercial build, walls are a first line of defense. Cutting corners on fire-rated drywall isn’t an option.
Pro Tip
Fire-rated drywall must be installed right the first time. We ensure correct materials, proper methods, and full code compliance—without slowing the build.
Why These Trends Matter
Commercial drywall isn’t just drywall anymore. It’s part of how buildings perform. Smarter materials, stronger safety standards, and better-built spaces aren’t just trends—they’re the new standard. Clients expect it. Codes require it. And the best-built projects demand it.
Keeping up isn’t enough. Staying ahead is what wins bids and keeps projects running smoothly. That’s why working with the right drywall partner matters.
Robey Drywall: The Area’s Top Commercial Drywall Contractors
At Robey Drywall, we don’t just follow industry trends—we build for them. From smart walls to soundproofing to fire-rated protection, we bring precision, performance, and problem-solving to every commercial drywall job.
Let’s talk. Whether it’s an office tower, retail space, or large-scale commercial build, we’ve got the expertise to make sure your drywall solutions are done right, built to spec, and ahead of the curve.
Contact the area’s best drywall contractor today and let’s get to work!
