Steelcase shares fall on revenue miss / AIA/Deltek ABI Reports Moderation in the Slowdown in Business Conditions at Architecture Firms in February / Indiana Furniture Announces Move to New Corporate Headquarters / Allsteel Launches Podcast and Magazine Spotlighting Workplace Innovation and Design / Tech Tenant Trends Push Down on Office Leasing / Office Sector Questions Are Beginning to Find Answers / All Hub, No Spokes: The Death of the Suburban Office / The Office Of The Future: How Workspaces Must Adapt For The Hybrid Era / Most US firms are yet to match their culture to the demands of flexible working / The hidden damage desk jobs are doing to our ears / The Rise Of ‘Office Peacocking’ In The Workplace In 2024 / What Does a Quality Office Workplace Smell Like? / Reviving flexible workspaces – a guide to saving failing operations / Stressed at Work? Your Office Phone Booth Could Tell Your Boss / and much more…


The Working Space
Monday, March 25, 2024

The Week in Review

Hey there! Let’s dive into the latest buzz from the world of office spaces and furniture – trust me, it’s been quite the ride lately!

Starting with Steelcase – those big dark blue shots in office furnishings – they had a bit of a mixed bag recently. They kinda wowed the Wall Street folks with their earnings, but their revenue didn’t quite hit the sweet spot, leading to a bit of a tumble in their stock prices. Even though the numbers game was a bit of a rollercoaster, they’re seeing some pretty cool growth thanks to big companies looking to spruce up their workspaces. Looking ahead, they’re being a bit cautious with their numbers game, which feels like everyone’s still figuring out this whole post-pandemic office vibe.

Then there's this hopeful note from the AIA/Deltek Architecture Billings Index. It’s like a little sunshine peeking through the clouds, hinting that things might be getting a bit better for architecture firms. It’s like we’re slowly but surely stepping towards brighter days in building and designing.

Indiana Furniture has decided it’s time for a fresh start, moving their headquarters to a shiny new spot in Jasper, Indiana. This isn’t just any move; it’s a statement. They’re all about innovation, collaboration, and a big ol’ dose of creativity in their new digs.

Over in Tokyo, Muuto’s bringing a bit of Scandinavian cool to Japan with their first flagship store there. It’s a big leap into new territory, bringing that fresh Nordic design to the bustling streets of Tokyo thanks to MillerKnoll.

Allsteel’s mixing things up with a new podcast and magazine aimed at stirring the pot on workplace innovation. They’re moving beyond just furniture to spark conversations and share insights on making our workspaces even better.

And there’s some insider trading action with MillerKnoll insiders scooping up shares, showing a mix of confidence and curiosity amidst the financial dance of buys and sells.

DIRTT Environmental Solutions is playing it smart with a new shareholder rights plan, aiming to prevent too much concentration of ownership. It’s a strategic chess move, signaling they’re gearing up for growth.

The office real estate world is buzzing, from some markets seeing positive vibes to the real talk about converting offices to residential spaces. There’s a cautious optimism in the air, peppered with a dose of reality, especially with whispers of a potential downturn that might echo the Global Financial Crisis days.

In the realm of cool design projects, Alejandro Valdés is brewing up something special with Donati - a hybrid chair that’s looking to redefine comfort and style in workspaces. It’s this exciting blend of ergonomics and aesthetics that’s set to be everyone’s new office BFF.

As we navigate the waters of the hybrid work era, there’s a clear call for spaces that embrace flexibility, foster collaboration, and offer those much-needed quiet spots for endless video calls. It’s an exciting time watching workspaces evolve to meet the needs of a workforce that’s breaking free from the old-school office chains.

So, whether it’s getting on board with Peach Fuzz as the color of the year in office design, exploring how office peacocking is drawing employees back, or diving into the world of office scents (yes, really), the storyline is clear: the workplace is evolving in some pretty amazing ways. And as we ride this wave of change, the journey towards more creative, efficient, and well-being-focused work environments is only getting more exciting.

Industry News

Steelcase shares fall on revenue miss

Steelcase Inc. reported fourth-quarter earnings that slightly exceeded Wall Street expectations, but a revenue shortfall sent shares tumbling nearly 6% in aftermarket trading. The office furniture maker announced adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of $0.23 for the quarter, $0.02 higher than the analyst consensus of $0.21. However, revenue for the quarter was reported at $775.2 million, falling short of the consensus estimate of $780.25 million.

The company's revenue saw a 3% decline compared to the same quarter last year, with a notable 2% decrease in the Americas and a 6% decline internationally. Despite the revenue dip, Steelcase's earnings per share increased by 38% compared to the previous year, indicating significant earnings improvement. Sara Armbruster, president and CEO of Steelcase, expressed pride in the company's earnings growth, attributing it to strong order growth in the Americas, driven by large corporate customers investing in inspiring workplaces.

Looking ahead, Steelcase provided guidance for the first quarter of fiscal 2025, projecting EPS in the range of $0.08 to $0.12, which brackets the analyst consensus of $0.10. The company anticipates first-quarter revenue to be between $715 and $740 million, which is below the consensus estimate of $741.23 million. For the full fiscal year 2025, Steelcase expects EPS to be in the range of $0.85 to $1.00, compared to the consensus estimate of $0.92.

The company's backlog of customer orders at the end of the fourth quarter stood at approximately $625 million, 8% lower than the prior year. However, orders in the first three weeks of the first quarter of fiscal 2025 grew by 10% compared to the previous year, indicating potential for revenue stabilization.

“I'm proud of the earnings improvement our teams delivered again this quarter, capping off a strong fiscal 2024 in which our net income more than doubled from the prior year,” said Sara Armbruster, president and CEO. “Our 8 percent order growth in the Americas in the fourth quarter was driven by our large corporate customers, and we believe this is reflective of customers investing to create inspiring workplaces as they call for a stronger in-office presence.”

Despite the positive earnings per share results, the market reacted negatively to the revenue miss, with Steelcase shares declining 5.90% in aftermarket trading on Wednesday. This response underscores the challenges faced by the company in a competitive and evolving market, as it continues to navigate macroeconomic factors and strives to meet its financial targets for the coming year.

The AIA/Deltek Architecture Billings Index (ABI) reports a moderation in the slowdown of business conditions at architecture firms in February. While billings continued to decline, there are positive signs for future growth, including an increase in project inquiries and the value of newly signed design contracts. The Midwest region is still experiencing billings growth, despite weak business conditions nationwide. The ABI score is a leading economic indicator of construction activity. 

Indiana Furniture Announces Move to New Corporate Headquarters

Indiana Furniture announced it has relocated its Corporate Headquarters to 1919 Hospitality Drive in Jasper, Indiana. This new space is meant to put employees’ needs, and the company’s broad portfolio of office furniture, front and center.

This move comes about a year after transforming their manufacturing facilities, consolidating four plants onto one campus, and allows for the company’s entire business operations to be within a half-mile radius on the south side of the city.

“As we celebrate 119 years in business, this is a significant milestone for Indiana Furniture,” stated Max Verkamp, President and CEO of Indiana Furniture. “It’s the beginning of a new era.”

The headquarters features a modern design and amenities to promote teamwork, innovation, and employee well-being. It includes a mix of private and open work areas, meeting rooms, break and café-inspired areas, and a variety of huddle spaces for team members to collaborate and share ideas. Also within the space is an interactive furniture studio, showcasing their expansive offering, and a furniture lab for product development and prototyping.

“We are thrilled about our new location, as this will foster a stronger sense of community and collaboration, more efficiency, and further build pride, all of which helps us and our culture, but also strengthens how we approach and service our customers,” added Verkamp.

To learn more about this new Corporate Headquarters and other ways Indiana Furniture is bringing style, function, and ease to office furniture, go to www.IndianaFurniture.com.

Muuto Opens Tokyo Flagship Store
Muuto, the Danish furniture brand owned by MillerKnoll known for its Scandinavian designs, has opened its Tokyo Flagship Store, marking its first venture in Japan and fifth globally. The store offers a diverse range of furniture, lighting, rugs, and accessories by renowned designers, providing an immersive experience for visitors. Muuto's CEO expressed excitement for this new venture, highlighting the mutual respect and admiration for Scandinavian design and craftsmanship in the Japanese market.

Allsteel Launches Podcast and Magazine Spotlighting Workplace Innovation and Design
Allsteel has launched two content platforms, Tell Me More (a podcast) and More (a magazine), dedicated to workplace innovation and design. The podcast features engaging discussions with industry leaders, while the magazine offers expert analysis, articles, and interviews on current workplace trends. Allsteel aims to inspire professionals to create environments that foster creativity, collaboration, and well-being. > Allsteeloffice.com
Multiple insiders at MillerKnoll, Inc. (NASDAQ: MLKN) have increased their positions in the company's stock over the past year. In the last twelve months, insiders purchased 91.34k shares worth US$1.5m, while selling 9.77k shares worth US$276k. Chief Financial Officer Jeffrey Stutz sold US$276k worth of shares in the last quarter, raising questions about the stock's value. Insiders own just 1.1% of MillerKnoll shares, indicating some alignment between management and smaller shareholders.

DIRTT Announces Intention to Adopt Shareholder Rights Plan
DIRTT Environmental Solutions has announced its intention to adopt a shareholder rights plan. The proposed plan aims to limit further concentration of ownership in the company and will be subject to approval by the Toronto Stock Exchange and shareholder ratification. The plan is not a response to any specific takeover bid, and the company believes it is in the best interest of all shareholders. DIRTT raised CAD$30 million through a recent rights offering, positioning the company for future growth and success.
The office sector faced challenges in 2023, but there are signs of hope. Colliers' Office Market Outlook report shows positive absorption in nearly a third of markets and rising asking rates. Higher quality assets outperform older ones, and sublease space is starting to decrease. Office investment volume is down, but recent Fed moves have led to an increase in sales volume. The development pipeline is shrinking due to interest rates and construction costs. While there is talk of office-to-residential conversions, few have been executed. New investment activity is expected to pick up in the second half of the year, and higher-quality assets will continue to outperform.
According to a report from Savills Research and Data Services, tech companies are reconsidering their office space needs due to factors such as funding pullbacks and layoffs. The report highlights that tech firms had been keeping strategic vacancy space in anticipation of headcount expansion, but the expansions did not happen. As a result, emerging technology companies are finding opportunities in the current tenant-friendly market conditions. The report also mentions the potential resurgence of venture capital funding, which could fuel innovation and expansion for startups.
A report indicates that nearly 50% of downtown Pittsburgh's office spaces could be vacant by 2028, with factors such as remote work, evolving corporate space requirements, and an oversupply of office spaces contributing to the downturn. Urgent intervention from local authorities and stakeholders is needed to attract businesses and revitalize the downtown area, potentially through new strategies and legislation. Failure to adapt to changing trends could lead to economic stagnation and urban decay.
Commercial real estate properties in the US are facing a potential crash worse than the 2008 era, with office values expected to decline by another 10% this year. Fitch Ratings predicts that the decline in office values could match or exceed the depreciation seen in 2008, and any future recovery is expected to be more protracted. Factors such as remote work trends, challenging refinancing conditions, and higher interest rates are contributing to the bleak outlook. The delinquency rate of mortgage-backed securities backed by office loans is also expected to more than double this year, with the CMBS delinquency rate projected to reach 9.9% in 2025.

Features

A new hybrid chair in the making - Designer Alejandro Valdés discusses his collaboration with Donati

Trained in industrial design and marketing, Alejandro Valdés (Spain, 1975) opened his design studio in Barcelona in 2019, from where he works on projects with a number of leading European manufacturers. His previous experience includes Fiat Auto Advanced Design in Milan and a decade at Studio Lievore Altherr Molina in Barcelona. We spoke to Alejandro about his projects for Italian industry supplier Donati and his new Study-O chair.

How did you get to know Donati?

I have known the Donati team for many years. Back when I was working with Lievore Altherr Molina, we designed several chair components for them. After I started my own studio, Trevi, a family of four- and five-star bases for Donati's standard range, was one of the first projects under my own name.

Donati is not a manufacturing brand, but a supplier to the industry. How does working with Donati differ from working with other customers?

At Donati, design development is real teamwork, very constructive. You can feel the enthusiasm of everyone involved and the power of production being under the same roof as research and development. Compared to some of my other clients, their Studio Tecnico has outstanding technical expertise. Their engineers respect my role as a designer when it comes to aesthetics, yet give clear instructions for technical solutions and ergonomics. They are closely involved in every phase of the project and project updates are more intensive and frequent than with other clients.

How did the Study-O project come about?

I recently launched my Ategra chair with the Swiss manufacturer Girsberger. Donati had co-developed this chair over several years, and in 2021 Armando Donati asked me to think about a studio chair, as he called it, for his new Design Ready unit. He envisioned a light, agile chair with a soft expression, well suited for studying and working from home, offering good comfort and a certain ergonomic function without being a machine. At the same time, it needed to be more than the typical plastic chair on a swivel base. So, I started sketching some possible directions and made some foam models, which I think we discussed in 2022.

And where does the project stand now?

An early prototype of the chair was shown at Interzum 2023. We have continuously improved the design and are currently concentrating on a shell with armrests, an integrated tilting mechanism and soft upholstery for the seat and back. The armchair shell is the most important model; in parallel, we are also working on a side shell and a basic version without upholstery. For the bases, we will use existing components from the Donati catalog.

The plastic shells look very comfortable, how did you achieve this?

I wanted to create an organic shell that offers physical, aesthetic and cultural comfort in a certain sense. The physical comfort comes from the ingenious seat profile, the flexibility and the soft upholstery of the shell, to which the tilting mechanism, the height adjustment and the swivel function are added. The aesthetic comfort is created by harmonious curves and lines. The chair is pleasant to look at, it appears less aggressive than most office chairs and the mechanism is integrated and practically invisible.

What exactly do you mean by cultural comfort?

As designers, we are stewards of a collective cultural memory. We often look back to understand something and then look forward to create new solutions. With Study-O, I'm referencing some of the greatest mid-century designs; I wanted an organic form with a small dose of deliberate nostalgia, but the curves should be updated with more contemporary, controlled lines. The shape and ergonomic performance needed to be of today, yet I wanted to offer users the comfort of something familiar.

How did Donati's know-how contribute to the realization of the chair?

Donati has incredible expertise in aluminium die-casting and in developing performance mechanisms. Their competency in injection-moulding is also very strong, and in recent years they have expanded into plastic shell production in Europe and the US. The shell of Study-O looks relatively simple to make but it is rather complex due its openings and the integrated mechanism. The engineering team spent quite some time on figuring out all the parameters.

Where can you imagine the chair being used?

For me, Study-O is a hybrid chair that fits seamlessly into all kinds of work situations: in a classic office, in a hotel or co-working space, in a creative studio and in the home office. It's like a friend that you can find in all these places, hopefully helping you to be productive, inspiring you and making you happy.

When and where will Study-O be available?

Donati is currently in talks with furniture brands to integrate Study-O into their product range. I think the chair would work well on a global scale, perhaps for an office chair manufacturer that wants to add a softer, more personalized language. Once we have found this partner brand, we will finalize product development and hopefully Study-O will be on the market soon after.

To adapt to the hybrid era, workspaces must break free from traditional office layouts and prioritize private spaces for video calls, balance collaboration and focus with quiet zones, and customize office size based on individual team needs. Listening to employees' preferences and addressing noise and distractions are also crucial. The future of work requires reimagining offices as environments optimized for hybrid teams.
The article discusses the decline of suburban offices and the rise of experiential offices in urban areas. Suburban offices are lagging behind in terms of occupancy and vacancy rates, with some even facing foreclosures and demolitions. Despite predictions that suburban office workers would avoid returning downtown, evidence suggests that downtowns are more attractive workplaces. Younger generations prioritize amenities and a hospitality vibe in their office preferences. Suburban offices can invest in amenities, but they may still struggle compared to vibrant city centers. The main takeaway is that offices lacking proximity to enjoyable amenities will likely struggle or be replaced by other developments.

Workspace News

A survey of US-based firms reveals that most employers have not adapted their working culture and practices to support flexible working. The report highlights that while the majority of employers have embraced remote work options, they have not implemented the necessary practices to effectively manage distributed teams. The lack of training for flexible working arrangements is also a concern, with three-quarters of workers yet to receive any training. The report emphasizes the importance of redesigning meeting protocols, technology stacks, and collaboration approaches to meet the needs of a flexible workforce and warns that reverting back to in-office work instead of investing in flexibility will negatively impact productivity, recruitment, and employee engagement.
Experts warn that desk jobs can also pose a risk to hearing health, especially for those who wear headphones for extended periods. While office environments may not be as loud as construction sites, prolonged headphone use can lead to long-term hearing damage. Employers often overlook hearing health, despite its impact on productivity. Younger generations are particularly at risk due to the unregulated volume output of headphones. Taking breaks, limiting volume, and using noise-canceling headphones are recommended measures to prevent hearing loss.
Despite progress towards flexible working, some companies are reverting to rigid pre-pandemic structures, causing difficulties for working parents. Misconceptions include the belief that parents are unwilling to work with employers to stay in their jobs and that they don't want to return to the office. The reality is that most parents desire a mix of remote and office work, and the return to office mandates should not be seen as a binary choice. Companies need to consider the costs and changes that working parents have to incur and make when asked to switch their working arrangements.

Elevate Your Workspace: Discover the Perfect Office Furniture to Complement the 2024 Pantone Color of the Year, Peach Fuzz

In the fast-paced world of office design, staying ahead means embracing the latest trends. For 2024, Peach Fuzz emerges as the frontrunner, captivating designers and professionals alike with its warmth and creativity. Here are some insights from COE Distributing on how to integrate this dynamic hue into your workspace seamlessly.

Why Peach Fuzz?

Peach Fuzz isn't just a color; it's a statement. Symbolizing warmth, creativity, and tranquility, it sets the perfect tone for a productive and inviting workplace environment.

Creating Harmony

Try pairing Peach Fuzz with complementary tones from the Libation Pantone Color Palette, offering a rich and sophisticated blend that adds depth and intrigue to any office space.

Choosing the Right Furniture

When it comes to office furniture, functionality meets style. Pieces from the OS Laminate collection, such as the American Elm finish, effortlessly complement Peach Fuzz without overshadowing its vibrancy.

Comfort and Productivity

Investing in ergonomic chairs like the Veneto chair in Caramel from OfficeSource, not only enhances comfort but also adds a touch of modern elegance to your office setup.

New Arrivals

Explore the latest addition to the OfficeSource lineup: the Remington Lounge Chair. With its Toffee upholstery, it's the perfect blend of style and comfort, providing a stylish retreat for both clients and employees.

Experience the Transformation

Incorporate Peach Fuzz into your workspace and witness the transformative power it holds. With carefully curated furniture and complementary colors, you can create a visually stunning and highly functional environment that boosts productivity and creativity. Visit coedistributing.com today to explore our complete selection of office furniture and accessories.

Consumer culture, personalized medicine, and technology are shifting the focus to patient-centered health and wellness. Design decisions in healthcare settings, workplaces, and city plans should prioritize wellness. Gensler created a health and wellness practice, collaborating with real estate developers and reinventing life sciences design. Their flexible laboratory concept, NEXT, promotes health, well-being, and decarbonization. 
In 2024, "office peacocking" is on the rise as companies try to entice employees back to the office with fancy decor and amenities. However, data shows that many employees value flexibility and would make sacrifices to work in a hybrid environment. Under-the-radar trends like "coffee badging" and "shadow policies" reflect employee resistance to return-to-office mandates. Additionally, job sharing, side hustles, and the concept of "polyworking" are becoming more prevalent. The report emphasizes that return-to-office mandates are not effective and highlights the importance of factors like commuting costs, privacy, and dress code flexibility in attracting employees back to the office.
Hines, a global real estate firm, has introduced a signature scent in its office and residential properties to create a memorable experience for its tenants. The scent combines floral notes like Asian Sambac Jasmine, Indian Sandalwood, and Marine Salt, aiming to evoke positive memories and emotions. While the effectiveness of the scent is yet to be measured, Hines believes that practical benefits like saving employees time and money have been more successful in bringing workers back to the office. The adoption of a signature scent may be replicated by other corporate tenants as part of the trend towards health, wellness, and sensory experiences in the workplace.
This article discusses the challenges faced by landlords and operators of flexible workspaces and provides a guide to reviving failing operations. It emphasizes the importance of understanding customer demands, engaging with operators, and repositioning office spaces. The article also highlights the need for collaboration between landlords and operators, a seamless transition process, and a focus on service quality and customer satisfaction. By recognizing early warning signs and implementing quality enhancements, landlords can rescue their workspace operations and ensure long-term economic viability.
Architects and designers face challenges in meeting sustainability goals due to a lack of common ground and alignment between public policy and industry goals. Reusing existing buildings and materials is emphasized as a more sustainable approach. The post-pandemic work landscape has led to a rethinking of office design, considering factors such as daylight, acoustics, and creating spaces where people want to be. The potential of artificial intelligence in the design industry is recognized, but caution is advised to ensure it enhances rather than replaces human creativity and the unique character of cities.
The increase in remote work and return to office mandates has led to a surge in lawsuits. Four notable cases highlight the importance of ADA compliance, reasonable accommodations, and reimbursement for work-related expenses. The lawsuits involving ISS Facility Services, Electric Boat Corporation, AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals, and various companies like Wells Fargo and Amazon will shape the future of remote work and work-from-home rights.

Trends

The workplace reset involves transitioning from traditional work models to new ideas and concepts that impact productivity, efficiency, and organizational culture. Benefits of shared spaces include stronger business relationships, real-time problem-solving, and improved communication. Establishing boundaries and core hours for in-office work promotes work-life balance and strengthens teams. Building a better organizational culture involves creating ancillary spaces for collaboration, optimizing workspaces, providing essential resources, promoting visibility, and incorporating humanizing touches. Prioritizing these elements at the design stage can enhance engagement and company culture.
Framery, a leading maker of workplace pods, is testing sensors in their privacy booths to track employees' stress levels. The sensors monitor vital signs like heart and breathing rates to help companies detect employee angst. While the technology has potential benefits, it also raises concerns about privacy and consent. Framery assures that the data is anonymized, but experts warn that there is no guarantee it won't be linked to individuals. Privacy laws and the potential for unintended consequences further complicate the implementation of such monitoring systems.
This blog discusses the trends shaping the future of wellness in the built environment. It highlights the importance of integrating wellness into physical environments and corporate cultures to remain competitive. The blog explores topics such as community-interfacing amenities, personalized wellness, the impact of wellness on real estate, and the connection between wellness and workplace design. It emphasizes the need for inclusive design, wellness strategies at various scales, and the role of design in fostering psychological safety and supporting multiple generations in the workplace.

Design

Gensler has been recognized as one of Fast Company's Most Innovative Companies for 2024, ranking 6th overall and 1st in the Urban Development and Real Estate category. The company was acknowledged for its building conversion tool that helps transform empty offices into housing, reducing assessment time from weeks to minutes. Gensler's innovative approach has also earned them a grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to support research on increasing the production of affordable housing. With a focus on design and innovation, Gensler aims to address the housing crisis and create positive change in cities.

Coworking

Indie coworking spaces are rising in popularity as they offer a personalized experience emphasizing community and collaboration, aligning with the values of remote workers, freelancers, and startups. These spaces provide a unique charm and tailored amenities that challenge the dominance of larger operators like WeWork and Regus. The evolving preferences of professionals towards intimacy and niche services suggest that indie spaces could reshape the coworking industry landscape.
WeWork has renegotiated leases for eight locations in the US and Canada as part of its efforts to emerge from Chapter 11 bankruptcy. The company has agreed to cure rent arrears at five locations and secured reduced rent at all eight. WeWork has also extended the deadline for filing its annual financial report due to its search for a new independent registered public accounting firm.

Green / Sustainability

MillerKnoll has achieved a gold medal rating from EcoVadis, placing them in the top five percent of companies rated in the past year. The assessment evaluates sustainability criteria across four core themes, and MillerKnoll's CSR highlights include embracing circularity, working with suppliers, harvesting sustainable materials, and designing out waste.

Richwood Industries, Inc. Continues Sustainability Journey and Achieves Formaldehyde Free Certification
Richwood Industries, a wood distributor and manufacturer, has achieved the UL Formaldehyde Free Emissions Validation for their product, PolyBak. PolyBak is a polymer-impregnated kraft linerboard used in wood-based panel manufacturing and furniture applications. This validation confirms its compliance with indoor air quality regulations and standards, setting it apart from competitors and providing peace of mind to customers.
Sustainability is becoming a top consideration for companies searching for new office spaces. Buildings that are low carbon and high quality are increasingly sought after, with tenants willing to pay a premium for sustainable space. Certifications, low energy use intensity, support for sustainable commutes, compliance with local regulations, collaboration with landlords, access to green space, and amenities that support wellbeing are key criteria for sustainability-conscious tenants.

NeoCon 2024

NeoCon 2024 Takes Shape
The 55th edition of NeoCon, taking place in Chicago from June 10-12, 2024, will feature over 400 leading and emergent brands. The event will showcase new permanent spaces, product launches, and immersive displays, providing growth opportunities for brands and fostering quality business connections. Notable highlights include the debut of seven new showrooms, including Silen, Bulo, and Mizetto, as well as expanded and renovated showrooms from Turf, Ghent, Kettal, Arcadia | Encore, and Innovant. The event will also include a Climate Positive Solutions Gallery and world-class programming with keynote presentations and workshops.

Latest Product News

Framery has launched a new generation of Smart Pods that provide private yet fully connected workspaces. These smart pods incorporate advanced technologies, such as intelligent lighting and ventilation, adaptive airflow, and fine-tuned soundproofing. They can be pre-booked, offer automatic upgrades, and provide real-time occupancy data. The new smart pods are more sustainable, customizable, and cost-effective compared to previous models. They are available in different sizes and can be synchronized with existing workspaces. The goal is to create a workspace that adjusts to the needs of employees and eliminates the struggle to find suitable meeting spaces.
Allseating has expanded its Tuck and Exchange collections with new back options. The Tuck collection now offers a mesh back for increased breathability and comfort, while the Exchange collection has a new highback addition for increased support and comfort. These enhancements cater to the evolving needs of modern workspaces and aim to provide adaptable furniture for impactful and collaborative environments.
Form Furniture, a modern workplace furniture brand founded by Jonathan Johnson, has launched its debut line called the Stash Series. The series offers storage solutions in the form of the Stash Cart, Stash Tower, and Stash Drawer, made from powder-coated steel and available in various colors. Form Furniture aims to provide simplicity, functionality, and quality in their designs, catering to the needs of today's dynamic work environments.
Carnegie has unveiled the Go-To Collection, a sustainable offering designed to simplify material selection for architects and designers. The collection includes the refreshed Biobased Xorel Strie, a 100% Xorel wallcovering with 85% Biobased Xorel derived from sugarcane plants. The collection also features a curated selection of performance textiles for upholstery and panels, offering over 100 SKUs with a variety of textures and hues. The Go-To Collection is durable, bleach-cleanable, and suitable for high-traffic environments, making it a practical choice for diverse design projects.
Artek is reissuing the Aalto Tables, originally designed by Alvar Aalto in the 1930s and 1940s. The collection will include new sizes and typologies to accommodate compact living and office spaces. Larger formats like the 84 and 96 are versatile for individual use or combination with other Aalto Tables, while smaller formats like the 80B, 80C, and DL81C are ideal for limited space. The tables will be available on Artek.fi starting from March 21.
The 005 Lounge Chair, designed by Max Lamb and produced by Vaarnii, is a unique piece of furniture made of Finnish Pine. Its design, described as "mathematical in its approach and transparent in its construction," features off-the-shelf sections of wood pieced together to create a visually striking and comfortable chair.
Altispace offers a range of acoustic products, including Acoustic Baffles, Illuminated Acoustic Baffles, Acoustic Fins, and Acoustic Shapes, crafted from eco-friendly PET felt materials. These products effectively reduce reverberation and echoes in various settings and are customizable to suit different occasions. With exceptional support and fire-rated safety, Altispace acoustic products provide innovation, functionality, and style for acoustic solutions in commercial and other spaces.
To celebrate the 50th anniversary of Togo, Marie C Dorner has redesigned the original Floraly fabric for Ligne Roset, creating Togo in Floraly. This fabric, originally used in the classic Togo sofa from 1973, represents the spirit of the 70s and is now available as part of Togo's permanent collection. The 100% cotton velvet fabric features a floral motif in various colors and is available in different sizes.
A study comparing mesh and foam office chairs suggests that foam chairs may have an edge in terms of support and comfort for extended periods of sitting. While mesh chairs are often recommended for breathability, the study found no significant differences in comfort, pains, and general fatigue between the two types of chairs. The research highlights the importance of choosing an office chair that best fits one's workspace and workflow, indicating that foam chairs should not be underestimated as a suitable option for long bouts of sitting.

Keilhauer Introduces the Toile Partner Card
Keilhauer introduces the Toile textile partner card, manufactured by LDI Interiors. Toile is a durable and versatile fabric with a premium look and feel, ideal for high-traffic spaces. It is available in nine colorways and offers outstanding abrasion resistance, chemical resistance, and comfort. 

The Legend of Excalibur Continues
To celebrate the 30th anniversary of Excalibur, Heller and Starck have launched a reedition of the iconic toilet brush in four new colors. The sword-shaped design, named after King Arthur's sword, adds a touch of fantasy and adventure to the mundane task of cleaning. Designed by Philippe Starck in 1994, Excalibur offers a unique and playful twist with its hand-protecting feature and medieval knight-inspired holder. The toilet brush has earned a place in the permanent collections of MoMA, Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the Centre Pompidou Museum in Paris.

Trends in Commercial Projects from Around the Globe

Partners by Design puts a hospitality spin on Husch Blackwell's flagship office in St. Louis, Missouri. The design integrates soft curves, inviting textures, and meticulously designed workspaces to create a blend of professional and relaxed environments. Thoughtfully positioned coffee bars serve as communal third spaces, while the penthouse amenity level features unique architectural elements and greenery. The end result is a space that reflects Husch Blackwell's brand and provides a positive experience for employees and visitors.
Foster + Partners designed a workplace at Electric Boulevard in Battersea Power Station that prioritizes wellbeing and sustainability. The building achieves WELL Platinum and BREEAM Outstanding certifications, with a flexible and healthy working environment flooded with natural light. The design includes a glass-fronted lobby, informal working areas, a coffee bar, outdoor terraces, and a communal roof garden. The building also provides ample cycle spaces and e-car parking, as well as access to river travel. The use of natural light and greenery highlights the importance of wellbeing in the workplace.
Barstool Sports collaborated with BKV Group and Two Fourths Studio to create a unique office space in Chicago. The 40,000-square-foot loft space features podcast studios, broadcast studios, a commercial kitchen, a basketball court, and open-office seating. The design focused on creating a visually appealing environment that serves as a backdrop for Barstool Sports' programming. The office aims to be a fun and engaging space for employees and guests, reflecting the brand's identity and creating a new model for modern corporate offices.

Upcoming Industry Events

HD Expo in Las Vegas for 2024
April 30 - May 2, 2024, | Las Vegas
 
HD Expo + Conference returns to Las Vegas from April 30th - May 2nd, 2024, offering over 30 sessions covering the latest in hospitality design. The event includes the Women in Design Awards Breakfast, the HD Awards ceremony, and a range of conference sessions on topics such as hotel brand leadership, sustainability in design, and the evolving restaurant and nightlife landscape. The conference aims to inspire and educate attendees with insights from industry experts and leaders. For more information and registration details, visit www.hdexpo.com. Registration is now open.

Clerkenwell Design Week 2024
May 21-23, 2024 | London

Clerkenwell is home to more creative businesses and architects per square mile than anywhere else on the planet, making it truly one of the most important design hubs in the world. To celebrate this rich and diverse community, Clerkenwell Design Week has created a showcase of leading UK and international brands and companies presented in a series of showroom events, exhibitions and special installations that take place across the area.

NeoCon 2024
June 10-12, 2024 | Chicago, IL
 
NeoCon has served as the world’s leading platform and most important event of the year for the commercial design industry since 1969. A launch pad for innovation—NeoCon offers ideas and introductions that shape the built environment today and into the future.  

Orgatec 2024
October 22-26, 2024 | Cologne, Germany

Orgatec is the International trade fair for office and property equipment. Held in Cologne, Germany.

WSA Details 2024 Workplace Solutions Summit
The Workplace Solutions Association (WSA) is hosting the 2024 Workplace Solutions Summit on April 10-11 in Washington D.C. The event provides an opportunity for thought leaders to meet with elected officials and discuss how policies impact the industry. The summit aims to advocate for small businesses and shape the future of the industry. The event is sponsored by Office Partners Inc., Essendant, Independent Suppliers Group (ISG), and S.P. Richards Co. WSA, formerly known as the Independent Office Products and Furniture Dealers Association (IOPFDA), has been advocating for small businesses for over 20 years. ISSA, the world's leading trade association for the cleaning industry, is also involved in the event.

Industry Briefing

Cadigan Accepts New Role as Artcobell Chief Development Officer
Artcobell has appointed Patricia Cadigan, M.Ed., as their new chief development officer. With 28 years of experience in education and 5 years at Artcobell, Cadigan will lead the development of strategies and initiatives to drive growth and enhance Artcobell's position in the market. Her focus will be on understanding the needs of educators and students, empowering team members, and fostering a culture of continuous learning and growth. Artcobell offers innovative educational furniture solutions designed to enhance the learning environment.

Joanna Verdi: Catalyst for Growth in COFCO, a Henricksen company's Washington DC Expansion
COFCO, a Henricksen Company, has appointed Joanna Verdi as the new Vice President of Sales for its Washington, DC office. With her background in real estate, construction, and engineering, Joanna aims to lead the company's expansion efforts in the Washington DC metropolitan area. COFCO plans to distinguish itself as the leading contract furniture dealership in the region by providing boutique-like client service experiences and delivering leading-edge product solutions. Joanna brings valuable insights and a proven track record for delivering quality-driven, large-scale projects to the organization.

Jennie Tatum joins Henricksen as Vice President, Business Development
Jennie Tatum has joined Henricksen as Vice President, Business Development for their Tennessee market. With 20 years of experience in the commercial furniture industry, Jennie will focus on growing Henricksen Tennessee's business and brand recognition. She brings expertise in furniture and sales leadership, as well as a deep understanding of the local market.

TPG Architecture promotes Brian Critzman to Retail Studio Director
TPG Architecture has promoted Brian Critzman to Retail Studio Director. With over two decades of experience in retail design and previously serving as Retail Director at the firm, Critzman will lead a team of designers and architects, overseeing technical aspects and providing valuable insights for project direction. His expertise and commitment have contributed to the firm's success and lasting partnerships with clients.

Scandinavian Spaces Hires Local Representative to Cover the Territory of Florida
Scandinavian Spaces has hired Chime Contract as their local representative in Florida. The company, rooted in Nordic design, offers furniture and interior solutions for the modern work environment. They aim to make great design accessible to like-minded creatives in the contract market.

Fellowes Walls and Workspace Product Now Available Through Equalis Group Contract
Fellowes has been awarded a contract for Furniture Solutions with Related Products & Services by The Cooperative Council of Governments (CCOG), through the Equalis Group. The contract allows Fellowes to offer a range of wall systems and workspace products to public sector entities across the United States. This partnership aims to provide flexible and productive workspaces that meet the evolving needs of today's workforce.

Studio Other Serves as Key Creative Force in Hines’ 2023 Award-Winning West Edge Project
Studio Other played a key role in the success of Hines' West Edge project, providing a custom live-edge conference table and ancillary furniture. The project earned the prestigious 2023 REmmy Award for Innovative Workplaces Less Than 50,000 Square Feet. West Edge is a premier live, work, and play destination in West Los Angeles, featuring office amenities, residences, retail, and a vibrant open-air plaza. The design embraced eclecticism and aimed to create a warm, inviting environment with unique pieces. Studio Other curated vintage furniture, sourced accessories and rugs, and collaborated with local manufacturers. Their exceptional contribution helped solidify their position as a leader in delivering creative design solutions.

2024 Burch Color Trend Forecast
The Burch Design Studio presents its 2024 Color Trend Forecast, exploring five unique palettes through the lenses of minimalism and maximalism. The palettes include Quiet Luxury, Montauk, Tutti Fruitti, Shangri-La, and Dark Academia, each offering a distinct aesthetic and use of color in interior design.
Find the best Contract Furniture Industry jobs and hire the best talent.
Dear Stephen, I'm in the contract office furniture business-to put it more precisely, I work for a manufacturer. I am a regional sales manager, and my 2024 sales goal is insane. I've been going back and forth with my boss, the VP of Sales, on the goal since the last quarter of 2023.
As a Business Development Representative at our growing company, you will work with a team of professionals dedicated to manufacturing quality commercial office furniture to dealers, architects and more. This position will cover the Ohio / Indiana / Pittsburgh / Kentucky regions.
We are seeking a motivated and experienced commercial furniture and interiors Sales Manager to lead our sales team and drive business growth.
A Project Designer's role includes, but is not limited to, design programming, concept development, space planning, furniture and material selections, creating supporting documents, pricing, and drawings via commercial furniture software, such as AutoCAD, Project Matrix and CET Designer.
Dynamic and fun Arlington, VA-based office furniture dealership, Washington Workplace, seeks a qualified sales superstar to add to its growing staff. Make some money!!!!
We are seeking a dynamic and results-driven Sales Representative to join our team on a remote basis. The Sales Representative will be responsible for managing representative relations, developing new sales leads, and exploring contract office furniture projects.
This position identifies prospective customers, generates leads, and lands new business opportunities; oversees all aspects of an account’s business; responsible for all project and daily work order activities and full customer satisfaction for all accounts.
The Account Manager is responsible for all project and daily work order activities, much of sales and marketing, and full customer satisfaction for large and/or multiple healthcare accounts. This person oversees all aspects of an account’s business and will leverage the team (design, project management, account coordination, installation) that supports that account. 
The Account Manager is responsible for all project and daily work order activities, much of sales and marketing, and full customer satisfaction for large and/or multiple accounts. This role oversees all aspects of an account’s business and will leverage the team (design, project management, account coordination, installation) that supports that account. 
The primary responsibility of a Designer is to provide technical design support for furniture budgets, space plans, product solutions, specification, and pricing for projects generated by Sales/AS.
The Designer provides design services and workspace solutions to dealership customers, including site/inventory verifications, programming, space planning, typical development, presentation materials, working/installation drawings, specifications and site-to-plan review.
The Project Manager (PM) is the point of contact for all aspects of assigned contract furniture projects, from inception of project to final close-out and invoicing.
The Territory Sales Rep will be responsible for the specification and sales of The Senator Groups products, including both its Allermuir and Senator brands, in the New York/Northern New Jersey MSA. 
The position will streamline the sales and design process on commercial furniture projects to provide thebestresults for A&D and other new business development partners.
The Senator Group has an immediate career opportunity for a Territory Sales Rep in the Baltimore/Washington DC area.
Indoff is expanding and in need of experienced outside sales professionals in your area. If you’re tired of missing out on money due to low commission rates or you’re sick of quotas, then Indoff is the perfect solution for you.
This Merchandise Mart based Dual Role position provides collaborative support for the Chicago market and is responsible for all showroom management duties for our brand new AIS showroom.
created in Publicate