Office attendance and desk use are on the rise as firms make most of real estate / Allstate's $250 Million Bet on Coworking Signals New Office Era / Configura Launches CET 15.5 Major Update with Next Phase of UI Facelift / Class B Office Outperforms Commodity Class A in Some Markets / Q3 Office Leasing Activity Accelerated Across All Regions / Office Sector Turns in Strongest Leasing Quarter in Five Years / 'Offices Aren't Dead': How Brokerages Are Turning An Overseas Boom Into A Payday / Share Of Immigrant Workers In Construction Hits New Record High / ‘Strap In’: Developers, Contractors Brace For Tariff, Deportation Impacts / Banks and CMBS See Higher Office Delinquencies / The challenge for the workplace in 2025: transformation when everybody is already tired of change / A Destination, Not a Living Room: Travel and Hospitality Reshape the Modern Workplac / The Future of Workspaces: Remote, Hybrid, and In-Office Trends / and much more…


The Working Space

Monday, November 25, 2024

Industry News

Configura Launches CET 15.5 Major Update with Next Phase of UI Facelift
Configura has launched the CET 15.5 Major update, enhancing its design software with a new user interface that simplifies navigation. Key improvements include a streamlined component tab bar, optimized right-click options, and a reintroduced backup location feature. The Material Explorer is now more responsive, with materials organized for easy access. Configura emphasizes user feedback in its continuous updates, which also include increased attachment limits and improved navigation features. For more details, users can explore the CET 15.5 Digital Tour and the Release Notes in the Help Center.
A recent report indicates that office attendance and desk usage in the UK are increasing, despite a reduction in the number of workstations available. Currently, UK offices average 56 desks per 100 employees, down from 79 in July 2022. Workers are now attending the office 1.65 days per week, with desk usage rising from 33% to 49%. Only 13% of organizations are considering further downsizing, reflecting a stabilization in real estate reduction post-pandemic. Additionally, the percentage of firms mandating in-office days has decreased significantly, suggesting a shift towards more flexible working strategies.
Office leasing activity increased in Q3 2024 across all regions, with significant gains in Eastern and gateway markets. Higher-quality Class A buildings captured a larger share of leasing, while large-block offices saw growth but remained below pre-pandemic levels. The finance, insurance, and real estate sectors increased their leasing share, though overall activity slowed compared to 2022. Sublease activity fell but remains high, particularly in Western and Eastern markets. The office market experienced negative net absorption for the 18th consecutive quarter, yet some markets showed improvements, especially in the South. Office construction continues to decline, impacting vacancy growth.
The third quarter of 2024 saw the strongest office leasing activity in five years, driven by improved return-to-office metrics and economic growth. Suburban markets experienced increased leasing, while overall availability remains high, particularly in central business districts. Asking rents stabilized, with a preference for high-quality spaces leading to a bifurcated market. Sublease space decreased for the fourth consecutive quarter, and while some markets are seeing a reduction in office inventory, investment sales activity has slowed significantly, with office cap rates rising and property valuations declining.
The share of immigrant workers in the U.S. construction industry has reached a record high of 25.5%, with 3 million immigrants making up part of the 11.9 million construction workforce. Despite a decrease in homebuilding activity, the number of immigrant workers has increased significantly, particularly in states like California and Texas where they represent 40% of the workforce. Concerns arise over potential mass deportations under President-elect Trump, which could severely impact the construction industry and lead to significant economic losses, potentially reducing GDP by 4.2% to 6.8%.
Developers and contractors are preparing for increased construction costs due to potential higher tariffs and mass deportations under a second Trump administration. Experts predict that these changes could lead to labor shortages and rising material prices, echoing challenges faced during Trump's first term. Industry leaders emphasize the need for proactive measures, such as purchasing materials in advance and leveraging technology to offset labor losses. There is also a call to attract younger talent to the construction field to address an aging workforce. Despite uncertainties, some panelists express optimism for new development activities as the political landscape stabilizes.
Class B office space is outperforming commodity Class A properties in some markets, particularly as availability rates for Class A have increased while Class B has shown resilience. Despite high availability for Class A, rents have remained flat, while Class B rents have risen significantly, especially in central business districts. New construction has improved occupancy rates for Class B properties, while Class A continues to lag. Trophy assets still command a premium, but their overall rent per available foot has declined since mid-2020. Owners of Class A properties may need to lower rents to attract tenants and improve cash flows.
London's commercial office market is shifting as traditional landlords convert long-term leases into flexible managed service agreements, responding to high vacancy rates and hybrid work models. Key trends include a rise in premium enterprise office rates, stable pricing for small offices, and a significant increase in available flexible inventory, particularly from converted traditional spaces. The market is evolving with new flexible workspace categories that offer modern amenities and simplified billing, indicating a structural transformation in how businesses occupy office space.
Following the recent election, Boston's office market is experiencing increased leasing activity, with executives feeling optimistic about the sector's future. Despite high vacancy rates, there has been a notable uptick in demand, particularly from startups and companies seeking larger spaces. Coworking spaces are also seeing more interest, and several significant lease renewals have occurred. Subleasing activity is on the rise, as companies look to reduce costs while maintaining flexibility in their office arrangements.
American commercial real estate brokerages are shifting focus from the struggling U.S. office market to rapidly growing overseas markets, particularly in Asia and Europe. Companies like CBRE and JLL are experiencing significant growth in regions like India, where office leasing and construction are booming due to strong economic performance and demand for workspaces. The overall sentiment is optimistic, with expectations of continued growth driven by sustainability and transit-oriented developments, despite challenges in other markets like China.
A report from JLL highlights that up to £1 trillion is needed to upgrade aging office buildings globally, as a significant portion of office space risks obsolescence. Approximately half of the 776 million square meters of office space across 66 markets requires substantial investment, particularly in Europe. London faces potential regulatory non-compliance with significant retrofitting costs. The report emphasizes the importance of sustainable growth and adapting to changing tenant demands, suggesting that proactive assessments and collaboration among stakeholders are essential for unlocking value and achieving net-zero targets.
The Federal Reserve's latest report highlights a surge in loan delinquencies in the office and multifamily sectors, with office delinquency rates reaching 11%. Contributing factors include high interest rates, slower economic growth, and declining demand for office space. While larger banks are primarily affected, smaller banks are also experiencing increased delinquency rates. Despite these challenges, the Fed reassures that the banking system remains sound, with most institutions having strong reserves. The report emphasizes the need for improved credit risk management practices, particularly in commercial real estate lending, as the economy faces ongoing difficulties.

Exxon Mobil plans to lay off nearly 400 workers at Pioneer Natural Resources' headquarters in Irving, Texas, resulting in over 1.1 million square feet of office space becoming available. This decision follows Exxon Mobil's acquisition of Pioneer for approximately $60 billion. The layoffs will occur gradually, with 376 cuts from the Irving office expected by 2026. The potential sale of the office building could further increase the already high office vacancy rate in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, which stands at 26%.
Marriott International plans to lay off 833 employees at its Bethesda headquarters effective January 3, 2025, as part of a broader cost-cutting initiative. The company is also expected to create several hundred new international roles, which may offset some of the job losses. This decision follows a strategic review aimed at enhancing operational effectiveness, with anticipated annual cuts of $80M to $90M. Marriott has been headquartered in Bethesda since 1979 and reported a net income of $584M in Q3 2024, down from $752M the previous year..

Feature Stories

Allstate Corp. is shifting its office strategy by reducing its corporate office space and adopting coworking arrangements through LiquidSpace, allowing employees to gather as needed while maintaining flexibility. This change reflects the company's recognition of the lasting impact of the pandemic on work habits, as it moves away from traditional office setups to accommodate hybrid work models. Allstate's approach aims to foster collaboration and connection among employees, acknowledging the need for in-person interactions despite a remote-first policy. The company has significantly cut its office footprint and is exploring new workspace configurations to enhance employee engagement and productivity.
The modern workplace is evolving to become a destination rather than just a workspace, drawing inspiration from the travel and hospitality industries. Key design elements include inviting lounges, art curation, upscale amenities, and a focus on sensory experiences. This shift aims to create environments that foster creativity, collaboration, and community, making the office a compelling place for employees to return to, enhancing their workdays with unique experiences and local cultural identity.
In 2025, HR leaders will focus on navigating workplace transformation amidst change fatigue. Key areas include leader development, organizational culture, strategic workforce planning, change management, and HR technology. Despite efforts, many leadership programs are deemed ineffective, and cultural values often remain unclear to employees. Workforce planning is reactive, and organizations are encouraged to adopt a proactive, capability-focused approach. Change fatigue impacts engagement, necessitating the use of change influencers to enhance resilience. Lastly, while HR technology has potential, many organizations struggle to realize its value, highlighting the need for strategic partnerships with vendors.

Workplace News

Bark Social, a startup operating pet-friendly social clubs, has abruptly closed its locations in several Northeast cities due to unexpected financial issues, entering bankruptcy without offering severance to employees. Customers with prepaid annual memberships, which can exceed $365, will not receive refunds and are advised to contact their banks for chargebacks. Founded in 2019, Bark Social had recently expanded and raised significant funding but faced a sudden collapse during a growth round.
The shift to dynamic hotel pricing is increasing costs for corporate travel, forcing companies to reconsider overnight trips. While this pricing model can offer lower rates during low demand, the overall trend shows a significant rise in hotel prices, with a 19% increase in average weekday rates since 2019. Corporate travel managers are now encouraging lower-cost accommodations, and some non-essential trips may be cut due to higher expenses. The trend towards dynamic pricing is expected to continue as it benefits hotel revenue management.
Implementing a successful hybrid work model is crucial for companies to thrive, as failure can lead to higher costs, workforce disconnection, and poor retention. Key strategies include reducing on-site space, enhancing employee engagement through well-planned off-site events, and ensuring seamless technology integration for a cohesive work experience. Companies like Peloton and Zillow exemplify effective engagement practices, which can significantly reduce resignations and improve employee satisfaction.
The rise of workplace experience managers is driven by the need to enhance employee engagement and productivity as attendance in offices increases. Currently, one-third of companies employ these managers, who blend facilities management with hospitality to create positive workplace experiences. Their roles include organizing events and fostering connections, which are essential for building company culture and optimizing space utilization. Technology, such as the HqO platform, supports these efforts by facilitating communication and engagement, ultimately helping organizations attract and retain talent while reducing turnover.
The increasing adoption of hybrid working is leading to a culture where workers feel 'always on', with 56% of UK consumers accepting work communications outside of hours. Younger generations, particularly Gen Z and Millennials, are less likely to engage in out-of-hours communication compared to Baby Boomers. Email remains the preferred communication method at work, especially among older generations, while Gen Z favors instant messaging. Additionally, Gen Z reports feeling less comfortable communicating for work, with many admitting to being less careful in their professional communications.

Trends

Workplaces, like digital tools, can benefit from thoughtful design that prioritizes user experience. By applying principles of UI/UX design, offices can transform into intuitive, engaging spaces that promote creativity, collaboration, and well-being. Just as great apps guide users effortlessly, workplaces can be designed with intentional flow, visual cues, and elements that reflect a company’s identity, fostering connection and pride. Whether through flexible layouts, personalized spaces, or storytelling through design, a well-crafted office becomes more than a functional environment—it’s an inspiring space where people genuinely want to be, much like their favorite digital experiences.

The future of workspaces is evolving towards remote, hybrid, and in-office models, driven by the pandemic's impact on work arrangements. Companies must adapt to employee preferences for flexibility, balancing productivity and collaboration. The hybrid model is gaining traction, allowing employees to work from home while benefiting from in-person interactions. In-office work remains essential for certain industries, emphasizing the need for spontaneous interactions. Office designs are shifting to accommodate flexible work styles, with a focus on modular furniture and ergonomics. Technology plays a crucial role in facilitating collaboration, and businesses must remain adaptable to meet changing workforce expectations and optimize their office spaces.

Design

A recent gathering organized by Madame Architect showcased a diverse group of design professionals exploring the National Black Theater and Ray Harlem project. The platform, founded by Julia Gamolina, aims to celebrate women in design and foster interdisciplinary connections. Unlike traditional professional groups, Madame Architect emphasizes collaboration and resource-sharing among various design disciplines, highlighting the importance of community in shaping the built environment.
The design of life science interiors is essential for fostering scientific breakthroughs, requiring a balance of precision, functionality, and collaboration. Specialized lab spaces, including clinical labs and collaboration zones, must be carefully planned through thorough user consultations and data-driven approaches. Leveraging AI for spatial planning enhances interdepartmental connectivity, while modern write-up areas promote comfort and collaboration. The trend towards flexible non-clinical spaces reflects the need for diverse environments that support interdisciplinary interactions and creative problem-solving.
The evolution of the cubicle emphasizes the importance of workstations in fostering creativity, wellness, and productivity in the workplace. While hybrid work has shifted focus towards collaboration, a balance of collaborative and individual spaces is essential. Workstations provide acoustic privacy and flexibility, supporting individual work needs. Designing for comfort and control, incorporating ergonomic furniture, and utilizing technology for scheduling and connectivity are crucial for optimizing work environments. As companies anticipate a return to the office, the role of workstations remains vital in creating spaces that accommodate both social interaction and focused work.

Green / Sustainability

Humanscale: Building a Circular Economy with Sustainable Manufacturing in the Real World
Humanscale's 2023 Corporate Social Responsibility report highlights the company's commitment to sustainability and circular economy practices, achieving 70% of its products certified climate-positive. Key initiatives include removing antimicrobials, piloting second-life chair programs, and significant reductions in energy and water use. The company emphasizes community involvement and aims to integrate ocean plastic into product designs, showcasing its dedication to measurable environmental impact and social responsibility.

Allsteel Unveils Life Cycle Assessment Results for Beyond Architectural Products
Allsteel's Life Cycle Assessment reveals that its Beyond architectural walls offer significant environmental benefits over traditional materials, including 56% less global warming potential and 29% less solid waste after initial installation. Designed for reusability, Beyond supports sustainable office solutions with minimal impact during installation and reconfiguration. The product meets various environmental certifications, highlighting Allsteel's commitment to sustainability and adaptability in modern workplaces.

Hightower Signs The Climate Pledge
Hightower, a commercial furniture manufacturer, has signed The Climate Pledge, committing to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2040. This aligns with their dedication to sustainability and material health. The pledge requires companies to measure and report emissions, implement decarbonization strategies, and neutralize remaining emissions. Hightower has previously achieved B Corp Certification, reflecting its commitment to social and environmental performance. CEO Natalie Hartkopf emphasized the importance of this pledge in fostering a sustainable future.

RESEAT Partners with Cradle-to-Cradle Products Institute to Drive Circular Economy Standards in Commercial Furniture
RESEAT has partnered with the Cradle to Cradle Products Institute to establish new sustainability standards in the commercial furniture industry, focusing on durability, recyclability, and reducing environmental impact. This collaboration aims to enhance the circular economy by promoting practices that prioritize the entire lifecycle of furniture, from design to disposal, ultimately reducing waste and carbon emissions associated with office furniture.
A 2023 report reveals that 90% of office workers value sustainable workplaces, with a focus on reducing environmental impact through improved energy efficiency and sustainable office furniture. The circular economy is gaining traction, with initiatives like the Re-X Before Recycling Prize promoting innovation in reintegrating end-of-use products. Companies like Davies Office are leading the way in remanufactured furniture, supporting sustainability while addressing changing workplace trends, such as hybrid work models and the demand for personal space. The emphasis on metrics and transparency in sustainability efforts is expected to grow in the furniture industry.
The RICS sustainability report reveals slow progress in adopting sustainable building practices despite steady demand, particularly in Europe. Key challenges include skill shortages, financial constraints, and insufficient data on carbon measurement. While green buildings are attracting higher rents, particularly in the Middle East and Africa, the Americas show lower investor interest. The report calls for enhanced education, mandatory carbon assessments, and policy interventions to drive meaningful change and accelerate the transition to more sustainable practices in the built environment.

Coworking

Allstate Corp. is transitioning to hybrid work by utilizing coworking memberships for a quarter of its employees, significantly reducing its office space and lease costs. The company has partnered with LiquidSpace to provide flexible work options, resulting in savings from $382M in office leases in 2020 to $138M in 2024. Despite this shift, a KPMG survey indicates that a majority of CEOs expect a return to in-person office attendance within three years, particularly among older executives.

Related Markets - Edspaces

EDspaces showcased significant advancements in educational design, highlighting a shift from traditional classroom setups to more flexible and inviting environments. The event featured innovative furniture solutions aimed at enhancing learning experiences, including products that support neurodiversity and e-sports. Major furniture manufacturers participated, emphasizing the importance of ergonomics and adaptability in classroom design. The expo also included educational panels and presentations, demonstrating the evolving needs of modern education spaces.

The Nook Sensory Shelter Takes Home All-A’s At EDspaces
Nook's Sensory Shelter won the Best in Show Award at EDspaces 2024 for its innovative design that enhances learning outcomes by providing a calming space for students, particularly those with sensory processing issues. The installation, known as Sanctuary Space, showcased the importance of sensory support in schools and received praise from judges for its ability to transform student experiences. The Shelter incorporates research-based elements and is certified as a resource for autism, featuring acoustic insulation, soft lighting, and interactive sensory modules.

Latest Product News

Backed by over 75 years of crafting the world’s finest writing surfaces, Calyx by Claridge continues to deliver premiere visual communication tools sustainably made for a healthy environment.

Glass whiteboards significantly improve communication, collaboration, and efficiency in healthcare environments. Calyx By Claridge specializes in making valuable addition to collaborative spaces within hospitals, clinics, or other facilities.

Calyx Healthcare: Safe, Healthy Environment for Patient Care SCS Indoor Advantage certified on all products Bacteria resistant glass writing surfaces No harmful PFAS chemical additives, including antimicrobials Easy to clean surfaces

Patient-care involves more than the medical treatment they receive. Communication, privacy, and safety in the healthcare environment are just as important and Calyx healthcare offers products to maintain safety, reduce the risk of infection, positively impact HCAHPS scores and support a system of care by enhancing communication with doctors, nurses, and medical staff.

Protecting medical privacy can be addressed with sound absorbing acoustic panels on space dividers or wall panels in common areas. For additional healing properties, biophilic panels create a soothing and appealing environment in medical lobbies or waiting areas.

Adding custom printing to a porcelain surface provides the ideal communication solution with doctors, nurses, and medical staff.

There are several reasons why LCS Porcelain makes a great choice for patient boards. • Incredibly smooth porcelain surface for crisp, visibly clear writing • Easy to clean, won't ghost or stain • Will stand the test of time with lifetime warranty • SCS Indoor Advantage Gold Certified, eco-friendly, and emits no VOCs.

Read more >

HON has introduced Confer, a mid-century modern wood guest chair, marking its first wood seating in over a decade. Designed by David Mehaffey, Confer features a sustainable hard maple frame and offers options for upholstered or wood backs. With 18 wood stain choices, it is suitable for various office environments, emphasizing durability and comfort with features like wall-saver legs and easy mobility. For more details, visit HON's website.
Kirei has launched the Terrazzo Collection, featuring four new Kirei Ink prints inspired by ice cream flavors: Vanilla Bean, Dark Chocolate, Creamsicle, and Blueberry. These sustainable acoustic design materials are made from recycled plastics and printed with water-soluble ink, offering unique aesthetic and acoustic benefits. The collection emphasizes environmental responsibility while providing designers with versatile options for various spaces, supported by Kirei's in-house design services.

Transforming Workspaces: Introducing Arcadia White, the Perfect Blend of Style and Functionality from OfficeSource
OfficeSource introduces the Arcadia White wood-look laminate finish, combining modern aesthetics with practicality, ideal for various workspace styles. It pairs well with Sherwin Williams' 2025 Color Capsule, offering design versatility. The CET Program enhances the design process with 3D visualization and layout optimization, enabling designers to create functional and visually appealing office spaces. Explore the potential of Arcadia White to transform office environments.
The "D1 Office PRO" chair by Stefan Diez, designed for Wagner Living, enhances support for long hours of screen work with its updated backrest angle and the innovative Dondola 4D seat joint, promoting dynamic sitting and movement. It is particularly suited for co-working and conference environments, offering a more upright position and silent operation. Wagner Living emphasizes the integration of design and movement in their products, aiming to redefine workspace ergonomics.
AMQ has introduced enhancements to its Tektis Panel System, including laminate boundary screens and hanging markerboards, aimed at improving office design and functionality. These upgrades allow for customization and versatility in workspace setups, catering to both individual and collaborative needs. The Tektis system is designed to adapt to various office configurations, providing a modern solution for businesses looking to enhance their environments affordably.
J+J Flooring's Gallery Edit collection transforms art techniques into modular carpet, featuring styles inspired by Impressionism and Modernism. Designed for various commercial applications, the collection includes patterns like Artistry and Technique in plank formats, and Curate and Composition as carpet tiles. Each style emphasizes texture and color, ensuring seamless coordination for diverse design stories. The carpets are made with durable Encore solution-dyed nylon, offering lifetime performance warranties and compatibility with other J+J Flooring products.
Highsnobiety and Bauhaus-Archiv have launched a collaborative collection featuring homeware, clothing, and an embossed D4 chair designed by Marcel Breuer. This collection celebrates their shared German heritage and the Bauhaus legacy, including items like a coffee kettle, a stool, and various apparel. The D4 chair, made with vegetable-tanned leather and a steel frame, is embossed with "Neue Baukunst," reflecting 1920s modern architecture. The collection emphasizes authentic aesthetics and the impact of the Bauhaus movement on design.

Wayfair’s First Large-Format Store Leverages Striking Architectural Metal Solutions
Móz Designs has completed a full-scale renovation of the historic Carson Pirie Scott building in Wilmette, Illinois, transforming it into Wayfair's first large-format store. The project features custom laser-cut metal cladding that enhances the building's exterior and reflects Wayfair's modern retail identity. The design includes 108 aluminum panels with a geometric pattern and a striking backlit feature wall, reinforcing Wayfair's upscale brand image and creating a vibrant retail destination.

Industrial Design

The Bateman brothers have innovated a new category of furniture with their modular armchair-based workstations and gaming stations, designed to enhance the functionality of the popular Ikea POÄNG chair. Their product line includes various accessories such as desks, headrests, cupholders, and mounts, creating a versatile ecosystem for users who prefer a more relaxed working or gaming environment. Their company, Bateman Labs, manufactures these products, marking a significant advancement in industrial design.
Mara's vision for the office emphasizes a hybrid and versatile environment that integrates physical and digital elements, adapting to various needs such as privacy and collaboration. The company focuses on creating functional yet elegant furniture that enhances well-being and sensory experiences, responding to the growing demand for adaptable office spaces. Recent collections showcased at major design fairs highlight collaborations with renowned designers, resulting in innovative and modular products that cater to both office and home settings, reflecting the future of workspaces.

Trends in Commercial Projects from Around the Globe

SOM has completed the Schwarzman College of Computing at MIT, an eight-storey glass-wrapped building designed to foster collaboration in computer science and AI. The 185,000 square foot structure features classrooms, labs, and a 250-seat lecture hall, with sustainable elements like a green roof and energy-efficient glass shingles. It is designed for adaptability and is on track for LEED Platinum certification, enhancing the campus's community presence.
The new headquarters of Somesuch films in Spitalfields, designed by Bureau de Change, draws inspiration from 17th-century weaving workshops, creating a textured and imaginative workspace. The design features a central core made of natural oak and rattan, promoting connectivity across three levels while offering diverse work environments. The interior combines bold colors and residential-like proportions, aiming to foster collaboration and creativity in a post-Covid world, with eclectic art pieces adding character to the space.
The Gulshan Experience Center in Noida, India, designed by Confluence, is a luxurious marketing office that integrates nature into its design, creating a tranquil and immersive environment. Spanning 12,000 sq ft, the center features fluid architecture, water bodies, and indoor greenery, promoting sustainability and well-being. Key areas include a grand lobby, a café with hydroponic farming, and versatile meeting spaces, all designed to evoke emotions and foster connections with nature. The project successfully combines luxury and natural elements, providing a memorable experience for visitors and potential clients.
Zanotta, a renowned Italian furniture brand celebrating 70 years, showcases its innovative designs in a new Milan showroom created by Calvi Brambilla. The vibrant space features a mix of classic and contemporary pieces, emphasizing bold styles and cultural significance. Zanotta's history includes collaborations with iconic designers, leading to revolutionary products like the Sacco chair. Recently acquired by Cassina, Zanotta aims to enhance sustainability while continuing to influence modern interior aesthetics through creative partnerships and innovative materials.

Latest In Real Life WFH

Luca Mezzalira, a Principal Solutions Architect at AWS, utilizes his London workspace for both professional and creative purposes, including video production for his YouTube channel. His workspace features a variety of high-quality items like an Apple Studio Display, Mac Mini, and Oakywood products, which he selected for their functionality and aesthetic appeal. He finds inspiration for creativity in the quiet of the night, often listening to Lo-Fi music while working on scripts or presentations, and recommends books like "The Creative Act" and "The Artist's Way" for enhancing creativity.

Project Leads

Ibotta is relocating its headquarters to 85,000 square feet at 1400 16th St. in Denver in September 2025 to address growth challenges and attract talent. The new office will support about 500 employees and maintain a hybrid work culture. Despite downtown Denver's high office vacancy rate of 34%, Ibotta's move reflects optimism for the area's future, aided by new commuter rail plans and ongoing developments nearby.

Upcoming Industry Events

NeoCon 2025 / DesignDays 2025
June 9-11, 2025 | 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.  Joining at the same time, in Fulton Market is DesignDays, a compatible show that now hosts more than half of the largest office furniture manufacturers. Hint: See both.

Industry Briefing

HOK Names New Design Leaders to Elevate Interiors Studios in Chicago and Houston
Neil Schneider and Linnea Wingo have been appointed as directors of design for Interiors at HOK's Chicago and Houston studios, respectively. Schneider brings over 20 years of experience in workplace innovation, while Wingo has a strong background in integrating architecture and interiors. Their leadership is expected to enhance HOK's approach to interior design and support growth in their respective studios.

Arcadis Welcomes Jeffrey Till, AIA LEED AP, as Principal in San Francisco Placemaking Practice
Arcadis has appointed Jeffrey Till, AIA LEED AP, as Principal in their San Francisco Placemaking practice. With over 30 years of experience, Till will focus on sustainable urbanism and design excellence, leading interdisciplinary teams to create zero-carbon, healthy urban spaces. His tailored approach to placemaking will reflect the unique qualities of each site and community, emphasizing the importance of local values. Till's leadership aims to enhance Arcadis' ability to develop innovative solutions for urban redevelopment and infrastructure challenges in California and beyond.

Stylex Appoints Tina Brennan as Vice President of Marketing and Sustainability
Stylex has appointed Tina Brennan as Vice President of Marketing and Sustainability, marking a significant step in its growth strategy focused on innovation and sustainability in workplace design. Brennan brings extensive experience in the design industry, having previously worked at Architectural Digest and Metropolis, where she led initiatives promoting sustainability and design technology. Her appointment aligns with Stylex’s mission to enhance modern workspaces and follows its acquisition by Flokk, which emphasizes sustainability and quality in furniture design.

AMQ Welcomes Reynel Hettich as Territory Manager for Southwest
AMQ has appointed Reynel Hettich as the new Territory Manager for the Southwest region. With 22 years of experience, including roles at Corporate Interior Systems, Reynel will focus on generating sales revenue and expanding growth within AMQ’s dealer network. Her expertise in managing complex contracts and fostering client relationships is expected to enhance AMQ's market share and support the company's mission.

Nevers Industries Unveils Rio & Leeza Collections on CET
Nevers Industries, a trusted name in American-made commercial furniture, proudly announces the arrival of its Rio and Leeza Collections on CET, offering a seamless blend of innovative design and premium craftsmanship.
 
The Rio Collection brings the beauty of nature indoors with tables that celebrate organic wood shapes and modern aesthetics. Each piece is truly one-of-a-kind, with the Rio Madera featuring a striking walnut river design framed by quartersawn walnut, creating a harmonious yet bold visual statement.
 
The Leeza Collection redefines workplace elegance, showcasing an angled metal base that complements its premium finishes. With a variety of standard laminate options and wood veneers from Nevers’ exclusive LustreTech™ collection, Leeza tables elevate any workspace with style and functionality. “Nevers Industries is dedicated to delivering designs that inspire and elevate,” said Christopher Evenstad, CEO of Nevers Industries.
 
“The launch of the Rio and Leeza Collections on CET is a testament to our ongoing commitment to bringing premium, American-made products to our customers that are easy to specify and integrate into any project.”
 
The Rio and Leeza Collections are now available for viewing and specification on CET, making it easier than ever for designers and customers to integrate these stunning pieces into their projects.

Hirsh Industries GSA Contract
Hirsh Industries, a producer of durable storage and organization products, has been awarded a GSA Contract (No. 47QSMS24D007H) under the MAS Multiple Award Schedule for Furniture & Furnishings. The company offers a strong value proposition and provides various commercial-grade products including file cabinets and desks. For more information, contact them at their West Des Moines, IA location or visit their website.

The Mitchell Group Unveils Redesigned Website for Enhanced User Experience
The Mitchell Group has launched a redesigned website aimed at enhancing user experience with improved functionality, speed, and security. Key features include a dedicated sustainability section, streamlined navigation, an upgraded product search function, high-resolution images, a revamped sample request process, and optimization for various devices. This redesign reflects the company's commitment to better service and positions it as a leader in the coated performance fabrics market.

Tuohy Turns 70
Tuohy Furniture Company, founded by Joseph Tuohy in 1952, celebrates its 70th anniversary, evolving from a garage hobby into a successful business known for high-quality, custom wood furniture. The company has maintained a commitment to craftsmanship and community, adapting to changes in the industry while emphasizing sustainable practices. Current leaders, Dan and Michael Tuohy, continue to honor the legacy of their father and grandfather, ensuring the company's growth and innovation in furniture design and manufacturing.

Mantra Inspired Furniture Accepted as Member of 'Be Original Americas'
Mantra Inspired Furniture, a commercial furniture manufacturing and design company headquartered in Norfolk, Virginia, has become a member of Be Original Americas, a non-profit creative advocacy committed to informing, educating, and influencing manufacturers, artisans, design professionals, and consumers about the economic, ethical, and environmental value of authentic design.

Steelcase Recognized as Gold-Level Veteran-Friendly Employer by Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency
Steelcase has been recognized as a Gold-Level Veteran-Friendly Employer by the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency for 2024, marking the third consecutive year of recognition. The award highlights Steelcase's commitment to creating inclusive workplaces for veterans through initiatives led by the employee group Steelcase Salutes. The company has implemented various support measures for veterans, including improved HR processes and dedicated spaces for veterans and their families. Steelcase's president, Sara Armbruster, emphasized the importance of veterans in the workforce and the company's mission to support them.

Pennsylvania Interior Designers Pass Historic Legislation
Pennsylvania has passed Senate Bill 1319, now Act 144 of 2024, which certifies qualified interior designers and recognizes their critical role in health, safety, and well-being within the built environment. This legislation allows certified interior designers to obtain a protected title and receive compensation for space planning, marking a significant advancement for the interior design profession in the state.

Remember The Common Thread for the Cure Foundation With A Donation on Giving Tuesday, December 3rd
The Common Thread for the Cure Foundation urges donations on Giving Tuesday, December 3rd, to support individuals in the design and furnishings industry affected by breast cancer. Founded in 2000, the nonprofit provides financial assistance through grants for needs not covered by insurance, enhancing the quality of life for recipients. With over $1.5 million awarded to nearly 400 individuals, the Foundation seeks to raise awareness and funds to continue its mission, encouraging community support through various donation methods and involvement in fundraising events.

BDNY 2024 Sets the Stage for the Future of Boutique Hospitality
Boutique Design New York (BDNY) 2024, held at the Javits Center, attracted over 15,700 attendees, marking its largest event in 15 years. Key trends included a blend of functionality and rich colors, with a focus on sustainability. Highlights featured the debut of Dine & Design, various Designed Spaces, and awards recognizing excellence in hospitality design. The event emphasized creativity and collaboration, with the next BDNY scheduled for November 9-10, 2025.
Find the best Contract Furniture Industry jobs and hire the best talent.
Dear Stephen, I'm the regional sales manager out of New York City for a mid-sized manufacturer-not large, not small, just right. I'm thrilled because our company has given me the budget to host our A&D clients at Design Miami and Art Basel Miami Beach this year.
Goldsit Office Furniture is a leading manufacturer based in Turkey, known for its high-quality, ergonomic, and innovative office furniture solutions. With a strong reputation across Europe, we are now expanding into the U.S. market, and we are seeking Independent Sales Rep Groups to help us build our presence and grow our customer base in this exciting new territory.
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