M&A activity continues in the contract industry as the number of manufacturers shrinks. In the latest consolidation, OFS announced its acquisition of recent startup ROOM, a well-known name in adaptive architecture and modular workspace products (i.e., soundproof office pods and office phone booths for the workplace). A purchase price was not announced.

The partnership represents a significant milestone for OFS, combining ROOM's space-efficient solutions with OFS's extensive range of contract furniture offerings. The collaboration aims to redefine the future of workplace design, meeting the evolving needs of modern workspaces. OFS and ROOM customers can anticipate a more comprehensive range of products prioritizing design excellence and functional versatility. The company said the joint expertise will expedite the development of new solutions that cater to privacy, collaboration, and wellness in the workplace.

"We are thrilled to welcome ROOM into the OFS family. This partnership is a testament to our commitment to innovation and excellence in office design. ROOM's cutting-edge adaptive architecture complements our mission to create workspaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functionally dynamic. Together, we will continue to push the boundaries of what a workspace can be, ensuring our customers have the best environment to thrive in today's fast-paced world," said Wesley Edmonds, Director of Adaptive Architecture at OFS.

ROOM was founded in 2017 by Morten Meisner-Jensen and Brian Chen. Prior to the acquisition by OFS, ROOM raised a total of $14.5 million across three funding rounds. A significant portion of this funding came from a $12.5 million Series A round led by Slow Ventures. Other participants in this round included SJF Ventures, Lerer Hippeau, FJ Labs, and the renowned architect Bjarke Ingels.

 

Today, Wurkwel Ventures, a leader in providing sustainable office furniture solutions and services, has announced its principal ownership and lead investment in FurnitureFinders. Known as the Premier Office Furniture Marketplace, FurnitureFinders plays a crucial role in the circular economy. It empowers customers to make environmentally-friendly choices when furnishing their office spaces while providing a platform for furniture dealers to showcase and sell their sustainable pre-owned and refurbished inventories.

This latest acquisition by Wurkwel Ventures signifies its dedication to promoting environmental consciousness and ensuring positive impacts on climate change. This is achieved by enhancing the circular economy and sustainable practices within the office furniture industry, a focus shared by its growing portfolio of companies.

As part of this acquisition, Wurkwel Ventures has set forth a plan to introduce "planet first" best practices that stress the importance of sustainability measurement metrics, clear implementation strategies, and practical applications. The plan also includes mapping out interactions to mitigate the potential unintended consequences of industry waste and formulating company policies that promote effective sustainable practices in the real world.

Wurkwel Ventures aims to extend the product life cycle of used furniture. This will be accomplished by positioning FurnitureFinders as the go-to marketplace for used office furniture, expanding its range of product offerings, and innovating and advancing the technology assets, software, and services to offer a seamless and efficient customer experience. A key part of this strategy involves leveraging Wurkwel Ventures' digital capabilities to expand reach, connectivity, and transactions.

Mason Awtry, CEO and Founder of Wurkwel Ventures, shared his views on the acquisition, stating, “Sustainability and innovation go hand in hand. The key is to embrace the natural progression of disruption and change early.” He further emphasized the responsibility of the used office furniture industry to embrace new practices that extend product life cycles, expand landfill diversion practices, and innovate e-commerce platforms to meet the needs of today's consumers, adding, “Wurkwel is proud to be leading the way.”

This announcement is particularly significant given that, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, more than 12 million tons of furniture are discarded and end up in landfills every year.

Founded in 2004, Wurkwel Ventures, LLC includes a portfolio of business service organizations that focus on the needs of corporate tenants in transition. Wurkwel consists of a variety of businesses that focus on new and used office furniture, relocation and facility services, decommissioning, liquidation, and industry technology.

Wurkwel Ventures’ portfolio of businesses and brands are made up of Rightsize Facility, Office Furniture Center, MAC Relocations, Chicago Film Furnishings, and Chicago Commercial Storage, to name a few.

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Furniture company Haworth has teamed up with Architype, a manufacturers’ representation and project advisory firm, in a strategic partnership. The alliance aims to bring Haworth's high-quality furniture and interior architectural products to new markets, as well as respond to the increased demand for architectural and ancillary products. Architype will now represent Haworth's architectural products, including the Pergola, HushOffice, Trivati, and Enclose ranges, as well as premium ancillary brands like BuzziSpace, Cappellini, Cassina, Emeco, GAN, Janus et Cie, and Poltrona Frau.

Architype, which boasts over 30 years of experience in the industry and a reputation for fostering brand awareness and relationships, will leverage its expertise to provide meaningful project support to customers. The firm's professionals work closely with the architectural and interior design community, providing sales, installation, and service of products to clients. The partnership marks an exciting step for both companies in expanding their premium interior offerings and advancing the industry's model.

Architecture firm billings remained soft in December 2023, with a decline for eight months of the year. However, there was an increase in inquiries for potential new projects. The value of new design contracts increased for only six months, indicating a reluctance to commit. Backlogs remained strong, indicating a significant amount of work in the pipeline. Firm billings declined in all regions except the Midwest. Architecture employment saw modest gains, and inflation remained below the previous year's rate. The majority of firm leaders reported delayed, stalled, or canceled projects, with insufficient construction budgets and high interest rates being contributing factors.

Studio TK, the contract furniture company that recently marked its 10th anniversary, has ushered in a new era by appointing Koorosh Sharghi as its president. Renowned for providing contemporary designs that seamlessly blend into various environments, the company is set for an expansion phase under Sharghi's leadership.

Sharghi, who has a rich background in commercial furniture manufacturing, plans to extend the brand's reach and emphasize the importance of customer service, product relevance, and quality. "As we stand on the threshold of a significant office design transformation, the relevance of collaboration and social spaces has never been more important. I am eager to promote Studio TK as a trusted resource for both dealers and designers," Sharghi stated.

Prior to joining Studio TK, Sharghi represented household brands such as Huggies and Sharpie in the consumer products sector. He also served as division president at a modern office furniture manufacturer. His academic credentials include a Bachelor of Business Administration in accounting and business/management from Tennessee Wesleyan University.

Gensler's new San Francisco office is a prototype for the future of work, designed to accommodate diverse needs and support new ways of working. The office is retrofitted to run on all-electric utilities and emphasizes sustainability, with a focus on reducing carbon footprint and promoting wellness. The space offers a variety of work points and materials, fostering a sense of community and emotion that cannot be replicated remotely. Additionally, the office is designed with zero-landfill waste in mind, encouraging recycling and composting.

The pandemic has reshaped the workplace, with remote work becoming more prevalent. However, companies are now looking to balance employee demand for flexibility with the need for a shared physical space. Designing workspaces that align with organizational culture and prioritize collaboration can create a pull for employees to come back to the office. Incorporating elements like outdoor spaces, biophilic design, and sustainable materials can enhance well-being and productivity. Additionally, focusing on lighting that promotes better sleep and using upcycled furniture contribute to sustainability efforts. Bringing back gardening and creating opportunities for employees to interact with the physical products can also strengthen their connection to the brand. Broadening the concept of the workplace can be a competitive advantage in attracting and retaining top talent.

A study from the Katz Graduate School of Business suggests that return-to-office mandates do not contribute to a company's financial performance but can negatively impact employee job satisfaction and work-life balance. The research analyzed a sample of Standard & Poor's 500 firms and found that companies with office mandates did not experience financial boosts compared to those without. The study recommends that companies focus on structuring their policies on a team basis rather than implementing mandates to boost productivity.

Emerging cities like Charlotte, North Carolina, are redefining Class A office spaces by offering elevated amenities that attract and retain top-tier tenants. The demand for aspirational yet attainable hospitality-infused spaces is increasing in second-tier cities, and reinvigorated buildings in Charlotte are keeping older assets competitive. Gensler is capitalizing on this demand by transforming formerly Class A buildings into destination workspaces through successful collaborative partnerships with long-term clients. The One South THREE project exemplifies this trend, providing flexible and high-tech hybrid workspaces that prioritize employee satisfaction, health, and well-being. The project includes a variety of spaces for different work styles, a full-service café, recreational areas, and versatile wellness facilities. Another case study involves repurposing the ground floor of a high-rise building to create a private outdoor space with fitness, dining, and meeting areas. These projects demonstrate how thoughtful repositioning of Class A buildings can contribute to vibrant and thriving urban centers.

According to Cisco, the future of work may involve working from your car, as cars become increasingly digitally connected and equipped with work technology. Cisco has been at the forefront of building secure networking technology into cars and has partnered with carmakers like Ford, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz to integrate conferencing software into their vehicles. While safety concerns have been raised, the ability to seamlessly transition calls from office devices to mobile phones to connected cars can enhance productivity and flexibility in remote and hybrid work environments.

This article discusses how the millennial aesthetic, characterized by Instagrammable spaces and experiences, has become pervasive in various industries. It explores the homogeneity and exclusivity of these spaces, the influence of digital platforms, and the impact on local communities. The article also touches on the concept of globalisation and the flattening of individual experiences. Overall, it examines the relationship between physical spaces, social media, and the algorithmic demands of the digital age.

Enzo Mari's Formosa and Timor perpetual calendars, designed in the 1960s, are still in production today by Italian design label Danese Milano. These enduring classics feature simple aluminum or ABS bases and lithographed PVC cards. Despite not indicating the year, they continue to be used as functional date-keeping objects.

Mithun's renovation of its Seattle waterfront headquarters is on track to become one of the first buildings certified under the new Living Building Challenge (LBC) 4.0 standards. The project focuses on reusing existing materials, implementing energy-efficient systems, and ensuring indoor air quality. The renovation aligns with Mithun's values and provides a competitive edge in pursuing clients seeking LBC certification. The process involved extensive product review and collaboration with consultants and experts in sustainable building practices.

Landscape Forms introduces the Every Day Chair, a minimalist and versatile seating solution for outdoor spaces. Designed with simplicity and style, the chair is made of bent wire and steel strapping, offering durability and the ability to stack and reconfigure. With its inviting curves and sled base, the Every Day Chair is suitable for various surfaces and adaptable to different layouts and purposes. The chair meets the demand for high design, configurability, and adaptability in outdoor seating experiences.

Humanscale's Smart Conference chair offers comfort, luxury, and sustainability for hybrid workplaces. Its weight-sensitive recline and Form-Sensing Technology provide personalized ergonomic support, catering to remote and in-office work. The chair's design minimizes pressure points and is environmentally conscious, with a carbon-negative composition. Features like the return-to-height cylinder and universal design make it suitable for diverse office settings. The Smart Conference chair represents adaptability, comfort, and eco-friendly design in the evolving workplace.

The Gala Pure Eco chair by Andreu World is made from sustainable materials and features an advanced gas-assisted injection technology. It is made of 100% recycled and recyclable Pure ECO thermopolymers, allowing for ergonomic adjustments in the backrest, seat, and armrests. The chair is available in various finishes and fabric colors, with the option of an upholstered seat cushion. Dimensions are provided as backrest 31.89 in. H, seat 18.31 in. H, armrest 26.57 in. H, 26.18 in. W x 22.64 in. D.

Current and Tide are versatile acoustic felt panels designed by Mia Cullin. These visually striking panels, inspired by the ocean, can be suspended from above or hung to divide space. Made from biodegradable and recyclable materials, they offer a combination of softness and acoustic performance. Current ripples across the ceiling, while Tide is a hanging space divider with subtle curves. Both panels are available in a wide range of colors. Learn more about Current at filzfelt.com/current and Tide at filzfelt.com/tide.

3form is launching their 2024 Color Collection, featuring thirteen new colors inspired by architectural materials like concrete, stone, ceramic, and more. The colors range from warm neutrals to vibrant greens, and are suitable for use in healthcare, hospitality, retail, or commercial spaces. The collection is applicable on 3form's Varia, Chroma, and Glass platforms.

Indiana Furniture introduces Dab seating, a versatile and environmentally friendly seating series that supports the battle against breast cancer. The stackable metal guest collection offers various design options and is certified for indoor air quality and sustainability. With each sale, a percentage of the proceeds is donated to The Common Thread for the Cure foundation, which provides financial assistance to individuals in the furnishings and design industries fighting breast cancer.

Ethnicraft introduces the Jack Outdoor collection in a new aluminum finish, designed by Jacques Deneef. The collection includes a sofa, armchair, and footstool, offering durability and lightweight design for outdoor use. The visually stunning collection features clean lines, geometric shapes, and curves, adding elegance to commercial settings. The aluminum material requires less maintenance and each piece is powder-coated for UV protection. The cushions are made with polypropylene fabric and quick-drying foam, available in three colors.

Carl Hansen & Son is expanding their Embrace Series to include the Embrace Outdoor Series, which features tables, chairs, lounge furniture, and sofas. The Embrace Outdoor Chair is a highly finished wooden frame with an informal, soft cushion, giving it the appearance of indoor furniture. The dining table has a light, floating look with a wire construction and a round tabletop made of solid teak. The Embrace Outdoor Series will be available in stores from March 2024.

Industrial design consultancy Futurewave partnered with Belgian beer brand Duvel to repurpose their spent trucking tarps as upholstery for the steel-framed In-Layer chair, creating a unique and expressive element for each chair.

In Mississauga, Ontario, Altispace's Acoustic Shapes were used to transform Hexagon's office environment, addressing echo and reverberation issues in the conference room and open work areas. The Hexagon Laminate & Acoustic Shapes provided a high-end and sleek-looking office space while effectively dampening noise. The innovative use of these acoustic products created a more productive and comfortable workspace, showcasing the transformative power of Altispace ceiling products.

HLW designed an attractive office space for Venable in New York City. The new office is modern, warm, and welcoming, with a focus on employee circulation and connectivity. The design includes a stunning Carrara marble staircase, a central cafeteria with a terrace garden, and custom lighting installations. Sustainability efforts were also made, achieving LEED Gold certification and prioritizing employee wellbeing.

 

Gensler has designed a new office space for Korn Ferry in Paris, focusing on integrating public and private spaces. The project involved a meticulous exploration of design elements, utilizing a natural and vibrant color palette. The office features unassigned seating for the first time, with a variety of enclosed rooms for meetings and focused work. The design preserved existing ceilings and furniture, while incorporating eco-friendly materials. The construction work was conducted while the site was occupied, minimizing disruption to Korn Ferry's business. The project successfully created a dynamic environment in harmony with nature and employee needs.

"The Engine Room" is a new co-working space in Battersea Power Station, London, with a focus on hospitality and amenities. The facility is located in a restored former coal-fired power station and offers 4,000 square meters of space.

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.

Clayco, a Chicago-based construction firm, is expanding its operations in St. Louis after numerous project wins in various sectors. Elizabeth Zuckerhas been hired as the president of the St. Louis region.

Zucker, a native of St. Louis, previously served as managing director at Interior Investments, a Lincolnshire, Illinois-based office furniture and fixtures manufacturing company, where she oversaw talent development, operations and growth in the market.

Prior to that, she held various leadership roles at Herman Miller, helping to close some of the largest office furniture transactions across the country.

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BRC is looking for an effective independent manufacturers representative group to drive sales in Florida’s strong commercial market.

The Design Liaison Associate will be responsible for working closely with key design community and specification stakeholders within a given market area supporting design and specification of The Senator Groups brands, both Allermuir and Senator.

BRC is looking for an enthusiastic Regional Sales Director to join our dynamic team.

Territory – Covering Ohio (Davis Group), Michigan (DII), KY (TMG-KY), IN (TMG-IN), Central/ Southern IL (Direct rep), Chicago and Northern IL (Direct Sales team), WI (Direct rep), MN, ND and SD (True North), IA, NE, KS and MO (M2 Inc and M2 Inc - MO), 

Successful, fast growing Canadian lock manufacturer is looking for a We are looking for an experienced Sales Executive to develop new long-term customer relationships.

Spacefile USA is looking for a Strategic Account Manager that will be responsible for calling on commercial furniture dealers in the Northeast.

MOD, a leader in power and lighting components for furniture in the workplace, hospitality, education furniture industry is seeking an energetic and motivated individual to join our team as a Territory Sales Representative.

BRC is looking for an enthusiastic Regional Sales Director to join our dynamic team.

MODSILVER, a premier provider of cutting-edge commercial table bases, table legs, and accessories that manufactures its products in the USA, is expanding its sales team and seeking independent sales representatives to cover select US territories.