Profits up, sales down at MillerKnoll / Kimball International is the First Manufacturing Company to Achieve WELL Equity Rating / BuzziSpace Appoints New CEO  / Office Conversions Double as Space Goes Underused / Creative Office Resources Announces Move to 16 Madison Square West, New York City / Office Usage Maintains Post-Labor Day Bump: Kastle / Office Vacancy Ticks Up Again in San Francisco / Weber-Knapp To Remain Locally Owned; IDA Approves Loan For New Ownership Group / More workers returning to NYC offices than previously reported / HB Workplaces: Sprague Studios Celebrates Grand Opening / Workplace absenteeism soars to its highest level in over a decade / Office Design Trends Through the Decades / Workers are starting to sue over RTO mandates / Poor workplace design means a quarter of people may consider quitting job / and much more…


The Monday Morning Quarterback
Monday, October 2. 2023

Industry News

MillerKnoll, Inc. Reports First Quarter Fiscal 2024 Results

MillerKnoll, Inc. reported mixed results for the first quarter of fiscal year 2024 as sales for the company in every category.

Meanwhile, the company is currently facing challenges from specific macroeconomic factors affecting certain sectors of the business. While the economic recession in North America seems to be fading, the housing market remains under pressure. Additionally, the company is dealing with difficult macroeconomic conditions in China and Europe. Nevertheless, the first-quarter financial results demonstrate the strength of the company's diversified business model, which helps offset regional challenges.

In the first quarter of fiscal year 2024, consolidated net sales were $917.7 million, a decrease of 14.9% compared to the same period last year. Orders in the quarter were $913.7 million, 9.8% lower year-over-year. Gross margin for the quarter was 39.0%, a 450 basis points increase from the same time last year. Consolidated operating expenses were $317.8 million, with adjusted operating expenses at $302.7 million. Operating margin for the quarter was 4.4%, or 6.0% on an adjusted basis. Reported earnings per share were $0.22, while adjusted earnings per share were $0.37.

As of September 2, 2023, the company's liquidity position was $561.3 million. During the first quarter, the company generated $130.9 million of cash flow from operations and repaid $66.0 million of debt. The company also repurchased approximately 1.7 million shares for $31.7 million. The net debt-to-EBITDA ratio at the end of the first quarter was 2.5x. Scheduled debt maturities for the remainder of fiscal year 2024, and for fiscal years 2025, 2026, and 2027 are $26.8 million, $41.3 million, $46.2 million, and $276.3 million, respectively.

By the end of the first quarter, the company achieved $142 million in run-rate cost synergies from the acquisition of Knoll, Inc. The company expects total run-rate cost synergies to reach $160 million per year by the end of the third year following the acquisition.

Results by segment in the first quarter of fiscal year 2024:

Americas Contract: Net sales were $490.4 million, down 8.7% year-over-year. New orders in the quarter totaled $487.3 million, down 4.7% year-over-year.
International Contract and Specialty: Net sales were $228.3 million, down 16.2% year-over-year. New orders totaled $227.9 million, a decrease of 9.7% year-over-year.
Global Retail: Net sales were $199.0 million, a decline of 26.0% year-over-year. New orders in the quarter were $198.5 million, down 20.4% year-over-year.

Nevertheless, the company maintains an optimistic outlook, expecting adjusted diluted earnings per share in the range of $1.85 to $2.15 for full year fiscal 2024. For the second quarter of fiscal year 2024, the company anticipates net sales between $950 million and $990 million, with adjusted diluted earnings per share between $0.52 and $0.58.

BuzziSpace Appoints New CEO & Announces New Role for Former CEO and Founder
BuzziSpace has appointed Tommaso Baldini as the new CEO and Managing Director, effective October 1st. Former CEO Steve Symons will become the President of the Supervisory Board. Tommaso brings extensive experience in global sales and has already made significant contributions to BuzziSpace since joining in 2021. In his new role, Tommaso will oversee the strategic direction of the company while working closely with Steve on product design. Genevieve Lemire will assume the role of Chief Commercial Officer, overseeing global sales. Steve will continue to play a vital role in the company's growth and innovation.

Tangram Interiors Hosted Grand Opening Event for Sleek New Dallas Showroom
Tangram Interiors celebrated the grand opening of its first Dallas Showroom, welcoming clients, partners, and community members. The event marked the culmination of years of planning and construction, and Tangram Interiors is excited to showcase its creative commercial interior environments in the new East Quarter location.

Creative Office Resources Announces Move to 16 Madison Square West, New York City
Effective today, Creative Office Resources (COR) is consolidating its New York City locations and moving to 16 Madison Square West. This move allows COR to provide a central hub for clients' and team's creative office needs. The new space spans over 15,000 square feet and features 70 workstations, meeting rooms, private offices, and collaborative areas. It embodies COR's commitment to cutting-edge office design and technology. The move to 16 Madison Square West strengthens relationships, fosters innovation, and offers convenient proximity to important clients and influencers. Overall, this move allows COR to optimize operations and continue delivering top-notch creative workplace solutions.
HNI Corp, a leading provider of office furniture and hearth products, has experienced a significant stock rally of 26% over the past three months. The company's strong profitability, moderate growth prospects, and robust business model have contributed to this surge. With a modest undervaluation, HNI Corp presents potential investment opportunities. However, investors should also consider the competitive landscape and the holdings of top investors when making investment decisions.

Weber-Knapp To Remain Locally Owned; IDA Approves Loan For New Ownership Group
The Jamestown, NY county Industrial Development Agency has approved a $1 million loan to support the purchase of Weber-Knapp Co. Inc. by Rhonda Johnson and Wayne Rishell. Weber-Knapp, a local manufacturer of motion control and hardware products, has been operating in Jamestown for 114 years. The current owners, Rex McCray and Donald Pangborn, are ready to sell the company and retire, and Johnson and Rishell will continue the local ownership. The purchase will allow Weber-Knapp to maintain its identity, culture, and presence in the community.

HB Workplaces: Sprague Studios Celebrates Grand Opening
HB Workplaces: Sprague Studios recently celebrated the grand opening of their new showroom in downtown Boise. The merger of Henriksen Butler and Sprague Solutions has allowed them to offer a complete range of MillerKnoll's portfolio. The space serves as a design hub and showcases furniture collections from esteemed brands. The goal is to support local clients, foster innovation, and strengthen community relationships through design.

Kimball International is the First Manufacturing Company to Achieve WELL Equity Rating
Kimball International is the first manufacturing company to achieve the WELL Equity Rating in multiple locations, demonstrating their commitment to inclusivity and creating welcoming environments. The rating provides a roadmap for organizations to follow through on their diversity, equity, and inclusion commitments. The seal will be added to their showrooms and headquarters, signaling equal opportunities for all. The WELL Equity Rating focuses on transforming workplaces to support equitable and people-first places, driving improvements in company culture and employee health.
The home office category experienced a boom during the pandemic but has since seen a decline in sales. While some companies expect the market to weaken as people transition back to the office, others believe the category is stronger than pre-pandemic levels and continues to grow. Factors such as the shift towards remote work, the need for flexible office furniture, and the emphasis on fashion-forward designs are influencing the trajectory of the home office category.
The office vacancy rate in San Francisco increased to nearly 34% in the third quarter, with negative net absorption of 2M SF. However, there has been a spike in tenant tours and demand for space driven by AI companies. Companies like Anthropic and OpenAI are expanding their presence in San Francisco, particularly in the downtown area and the "Area AI" near Mission, Potrero Hill, Showplace Square, and West SoMa.
According to Kastle's Back to Work Barometer, office occupancy in the 10 biggest U.S. cities has reached over 50% of pre-pandemic levels, the highest since January. In-person office numbers have been stagnant throughout the year, but there was an expected increase after Labor Day. Strict in-office mandates have contributed to this shift, with 65% of companies enforcing some form of in-office policy. The implementation of these policies has led to an 11.6% increase in office leasing in Q2, the largest quarterly jump since Q2 2021. Return-to-office mandates have also prompted 10% of Americans to consider selling their homes and relocating.
Workplace absenteeism in the UK has reached its highest level in over a decade, with employees being absent an average of 7.8 days in the past year. The increase in absenteeism is attributed to factors such as stress, recruitment and retention challenges, and the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The report emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive culture where employees can discuss health issues and access flexible working options and health services.
According to a survey by the Partnership for New York City, more Manhattan office workers are returning to their desks, with 58% present on average weekdays, up from 52% in January 2023. This data contradicts the lower attendance reported by the Kastle Systems Back-to-Work Barometer. The survey also found that the rate of return to offices is at 72% of pre-pandemic levels. However, the actual drop in office attendance since 2019 is smaller than previously assumed. The survey suggests that the notion of widespread remote work is a myth, with only 6% of workers currently working entirely from home. The future of office work and the impact on the city's economy remain uncertain.
Office conversions in the U.S. are on the rise, with 100 projects set to be completed this year, more than double the annual average between 2016 and 2022. A new report by CBRE reveals that 60 million square feet of office space is currently planned or underway for conversion. However, CBRE cautions that conversions alone cannot solve the challenges facing the office market. The highest share of conversions is for multifamily, life sciences, and mixed-use purposes. Cleveland leads in office conversions by square footage, followed by Cincinnati, Boston, Houston, and San Francisco. Incentive programs at the state and local levels, as well as federal incentives, are being implemented to support office conversion projects.
The Boston office market has undergone significant changes in recent years, with developers and brokers having to adapt their strategies. While new office towers have attracted tenants, landlords with older buildings are struggling to lease up space. Construction costs are rising, making it challenging for developers to meet the demand for new office space. Leasing strategies have also shifted, with tenants seeking smaller spaces and newer amenities. The market has become more competitive, and landlords must offer excellent products to secure leases. The types of tenants entering the market have changed, with a focus on smaller leases. Uncertainty remains about the market's future performance, as rising material prices and decreasing office rents make it difficult for larger office buildings to be profitable. This could lead to a supply constraint in the market.

Features

Over the past 50 years, the meaning and design of offices have changed. Office spaces have become where we spend most of our waking hours, eating meals, forming friendships, and being creative. As white collar jobs increased, more people entered traditional office settings, commuting to big cities during suburbanization. American office culture has become iconic in film, television, and comics.

During the '80s, camaraderie was emphasized. In the 2000s, many people abandoned traditional offices in favor of shared coworking spaces, attracting freelance and remote workers. The pandemic further shifted the office landscape, turning every corner of the home into a potential workspace.

In the early 1900s, innovations such as stronger buildings, electric lighting, typewriters, and telephones became essential to office setups. The efficiency method, inspired by Henry Ford's assembly line, organized employees based on their jobs. Minimal desk spaces and swivel chairs were introduced.

After World War II, many employees returned to the workplace, including women who played crucial roles during the war. Companies added morale-boosting features like kitchens and break rooms. Midcentury office styles featured oversized desks, wood-paneled walls, and Danish design influences.

Overall, offices have evolved significantly over the years, adapting to changing work trends and technological advancements.

A new report from Colliers argues that retrofitting commercial properties for net-zero carbon has the potential to boost long-term rent and capital-value accumulation. The report explores the regulatory and societal pressures driving accelerated asset renovation and provides recommendations for investors, owners, and occupiers. It highlights the potential for a 10% value uplift through energy-saving modifications and emphasizes the need for clarity on funding and financing. The report also stresses the importance of aligning assets with EU regulations and ESG standards to avoid being left behind in the race to decarbonize the built environment.

Workspace News

Workers are starting to sue employers over remote work mandates, alleging breach of contract or workplace discrimination. A former Astrazeneca senior director sued the company for not paying her performance bonus and stock options due to working from home. Companies like TikTok are tracking badge swipes for attendance and tying compliance to performance reviews. While senior employees negotiate agreements, rank and file workers have filed class-action lawsuits. Employers face challenges in determining exemptions from returning to the office, particularly for reasons covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act. Clear communication of RTO policies and penalties is recommended.
A survey commissioned by design studio MoreySmith reveals that poor workplace design could lead to a quarter of workers considering quitting their jobs. Over half of respondents believe that the amenities and environment of a workplace impact their decision to work for a company. The survey also highlights the direct impact of the office on workers' mental and physical health, as well as career development opportunities. To attract employees back to the office, companies should focus on providing appealing amenities and a positive overall experience.
This article discusses the challenges of focus work in the modern workplace and explores potential solutions. It emphasizes the importance of understanding that focus work is task-specific and person-specific, and highlights the role of attention, familiarity, distractions, interference, and interruptions in focus work. The article also suggests creating boundaries and implementing workplace design strategies that support focus, such as acoustics solutions and visual boundaries.
Companies are shifting their workplace strategies to support workers who want to work closer to home, leading to the rise of coworking spaces in residential neighborhoods. This trend is contributing to the concept of 15-minute cities, where everything needed for work and daily life is within a 15-minute walk or bike ride. Local coworking enhances well-being, attracts workers living in commuter towns, and supports community transformation. Benefits include reduced commute times, community building, work-life balance, support for the local economy, less crowded environments, flexibility, and sustainability.
Employers need to focus on the needs of older workers as they continue to stay in the workforce longer. By 2030, a significant number of jobs will shift to workers over the age of 55, making up more than a quarter of the workforce. It is crucial for leaders to consider health benefits that cater to older workers, provide flexible work schedules, break stereotypes, and recognize the benefits of retaining the older generation, such as stability, mentorship, and diverse perspectives.
Companies are increasingly using badge systems and other methods to track employee attendance and enforce return-to-work policies. This includes monitoring badge-swipe data, analyzing mobile phone usage, and tracking multiple swipes as signs of a full day in the office. Some companies are also exploring more granular sources of data such as IP address information and heat sensors. While employers have legal latitude to monitor workers, concerns about surveillance and employee autonomy have been raised. The push for tracking attendance is driven by a lack of information on office utilization and a desire to maximize space efficiency.

Other News

Flex space operators are focusing on virtual offices as a "pure profit" solution. Unlike physical office space, virtual offices can be sold multiple times over, take up zero space, and have negligible cost of sale. Virtual offices have the highest profit margin in the flex space industry, and additional services like meeting rooms and mail forwarding can generate even more revenue.
Private equity in the home industry (and contract industry as well) is a controversial topic. While private equity firms aim to buy and improve companies for profit, there is a simmering distrust among furniture people who see outside money as meddling or malicious. The recent bankruptcies of Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams and Klaussner, both with private equity owners, have intensified the ill will. Private equity ownership can lead to mismanagement, financial issues, and abrupt shutdowns, causing concerns among designers about their vendors' financial health. However, private equity firms are attracted to the home industry due to the potential for high margins and the opportunity to introduce technology. Despite criticisms, many private equity arrangements work as intended, but the failures tend to dominate news coverage, making private equity a convenient scapegoat.

Trends

Generation Z, the first generation of digital natives, is shifting towards semi-urban communities that offer a blend of urban conveniences and suburban affordability. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated this trend as remote work became normalized, allowing Gen Z to work from anywhere with a solid broadband connection. Architects and developers are responding to the preferences of Gen Z by incorporating design trends such as flexible layouts, amenities supporting remote work, shared spaces for socializing, tech-enabled features, and spaces that are Instagrammable. The rise of semi-urban communities presents both challenges and opportunities for California cities, as they strive to address the housing crisis and cater to Gen Z's demand for quality housing and a desirable lifestyle.

Design

Office design plays a crucial role in rebuilding workplace relationships. Building rapport and fostering connections among employees is essential for productivity, retention, and satisfaction. Factors like collaboration tools, dedicated team workspaces, and strategically placed amenities can promote rapport. Familiarity and personal touches in the workspace also contribute to building connections and a positive work environment.
When Michigan Farm Bureau decided to renovate their office, they prioritized the needs of their 800 employees. Through surveys and pilot testing, they focused on acoustics, access to daylight, various workstyles, and rightsizing work areas. The resulting space promotes collaboration, community, and a quality office experience, with private workspaces, glass walls for visibility, and flexible meeting spaces. The renovation was led by Studio AXIS and DBI, Haworth's dealer partner.
Law office design is evolving as companies across industries change their office layouts to encourage employees to return to the workplace. Law firms, traditionally viewed as formal and closed-off, are also adapting to the changing office culture. For example, Venable's new Manhattan office aims to create a residential and comfortable feel with amenities like plantlife and bronze borders. The legal industry has seen a faster return to in-person work compared to other sectors, prompting law firms to prioritize wellness and collaboration in their office designs. The COVID-19 pandemic has also highlighted the importance of in-person interactions for apprenticeship models in the legal profession. While not all law firms may adopt the same changes, the evolving trends in office design reflect a focus on employee experience and company culture.

Software

New Workplace Management System, Elevated™, Unveils Human-Centric Spatial Analytics
The new workplace management system, Elevated™, focuses on human-centric spatial analytics to reinvent buildings. It offers tools to understand human interactions and needs, optimize air quality and environment, and transform workplaces into hubs for connection and collaboration. Key features include desk and room booking, energy management, intelligent lighting controls, and real-time utilization measurement. “Elevated is not just about buildings; it's about understanding the heartbeats within – the people. From fostering our workplace community to catalyzing groundbreaking projects, our app connects stakeholders and decision-makers with the human essence that enlivens our real estate," remarked Elevated CEO, Erin McDannald.

AI

AI is transforming the workplace by enabling real-time monitoring, enhancing occupant experience, and optimizing space performance. Through the use of AI-enabled sensors and cloud-based tools, organizations can improve energy efficiency, predict equipment maintenance needs, and generate compliance reports. AI also supports diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives by providing on-demand information and accommodating accessibility needs. The goal is for AI to seamlessly integrate into the built environment, providing optimal conditions without the need for constant human intervention.
Generative AI, particularly ChatGPT, is disrupting the future of work by challenging the job security of white-collar professionals. While AI promises to save time and work, it also poses risks such as slower productivity and replacement anxiety. The porous line between human and machine raises concerns about authenticity and identity in the workplace. The rise of generative AI calls for regulation and prioritization of privacy and human management. Despite the challenges, humans have historically learned to work with machines, suggesting a potential for collaboration and adaptation in the future of work.

Environmental

A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences USA found that working from home can have a positive impact on the environment. The study revealed that employees who worked from home full-time reduced their emissions by more than half compared to office workers. Even just a few days of remote work in hybrid arrangements could also make a significant environmental difference. The main reasons for this are the reduction in transportation emissions from commutes and energy use in office spaces that at-home employees avoid. However, the study also highlighted that remote work comes with its own costs, such as increased non-commute travel and hidden expenses for employees. To further reduce carbon footprints, individuals can consider using energy-efficient appliances, renewable energy sources, and exploring ride-sharing or electric vehicles for travel.
Architects are increasingly using technology to design sustainable buildings and reduce carbon emissions. Computational design allows architects to explore design iterations and test sustainable strategies, while biomimicry draws inspiration from nature to create self-sustaining features. Technology-driven architecture helps designers make informed decisions, virtually test ideas, and adapt to future changes, ultimately minimizing the environmental impact of new buildings.
Zero Waste buildings are gaining popularity in the real estate industry, driven by stricter legislation, environmental commitments, and tenant demand for green features. Companies like Etsy and JPMorgan Chase have implemented comprehensive Zero Waste strategies in their headquarters, diverting waste from landfills through recycling, reusing, and upcycling materials. The concept of Zero Waste aims to create a circular economy, with more than 90% of post-consumer waste avoiding landfills. While Zero Waste initiatives are expanding globally, they are also gaining traction in the US, with cities like San Francisco and Washington, D.C. setting waste diversion goals. Tracking technology is helping companies monitor their waste and make informed decisions. However, implementing Zero Waste policies can be complex and require coordination among multiple partners. Despite the challenges, the Zero Waste concept is expected to continue receiving attention and support from building owners and tenants, with technology playing a crucial role in streamlining waste management practices.
OFGO STUDIO has introduced ECO+ laminate, a sustainably manufactured solution that incorporates recycled post-consumer and post-industrial wood materials. This addition to their laminate collection allows customers to select sustainable options for their furniture at no additional cost. The ECO+ laminate panels are made from 30% post-consumer wood materials and 70% post-industrial wood residues, reducing the need for virgin wood fiber and contributing to the recycling of over 244,000 tons of post-consumer wood fiber annually. OFGO STUDIO is committed to optimizing cuts, reducing waste, and recycling off cuts within their facility. The use of ECO+ laminates helps extend the life cycle of trees, contributes to carbon storage, and promotes healthier interiors with FSC certified wood and Indoor Air Quality certification.
Commercial and residential buildings in the US contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. The White House aims to define "zero-emission" buildings with three pillars: energy efficiency, no on-site emissions, and 100% renewable energy use. While some states and cities have their own sustainable building standards, a federal standard would provide uniformity and consistency. However, the Biden administration faces legal and political constraints in imposing binding requirements on privately owned buildings. The administration is focusing on reducing the federal government's carbon footprint and investing in clean-energy technologies for federal buildings. Additionally, a new national resilience strategy is being unveiled to address the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events caused by climate change.

Latest Products

The Mom collection from emuamericas is inspired by traditional Japanese trays with its striking cutout seat back. The collection, designed by Florent Coirier, consists of a selection of seating options that create an inviting dining space. The stackable dining chair, armchair, and barstool are designed to withstand heavy use. Made entirely from tubular steel and features the durable EMU Coat finish. Offered in a variety of bold, vibrant colors, a number of which are available via quick ship.
Knoll reintroduces the Florence Knoll Model 31 Lounge Chair and Model 33 Sofa, iconic designs that showcase Florence Knoll's simple and adaptable style. These pieces, originally launched in 1954, offer customizable options and are suitable for residential and commercial spaces. With a starting price of $1,673 and $3,420 respectively, they are available for purchase at Knoll Design Shops and online.
Kimball International has launched a new pods category by incorporating the PoppinPod Kolo and Om series into the National brand. This addition allows the company to meet the growing demand for pod and office phone booth solutions in the post-pandemic office environment. The Kolo Pods and Om Pods offer a turnkey solution with built-in power, ventilation, mobility, and personalized lighting. They provide a comfortable and confidential space for focused work, meetings, and phone calls, with various size options available.
Stylex has launched Oko, a curvy upholstered lounge chair designed by LucidiPevere. The chair features a sculptural back panel, removable cushions, and a versatile base. Oko offers comfort and style for corporate and hospitality environments. It is available in various material combinations and is backed by a 10-year warranty.
Stefan Diez's latest collection for HAY introduces the Boa Table, inspired by Japanese bamboo artistry. The table features a flat-packable tubular frame made of low carbon aluminium, allowing for easy transportation and reduced carbon footprint. The base is customizable, with options for linoleum, laminate, or wooden surfaces, and a variety of powder-coated frame colors. The table is designed to revolutionize the conference-table typology and can be used in both office and home settings, offering versatility and aesthetic appeal.
G2 Esports and Herman Miller Gaming have partnered to release a limited-edition model of the Embody Gaming Chair. Only 250 chairs will be manufactured, featuring a unique design with G2 branding. The chair prioritizes health and wellbeing, challenging the standards of typical gaming chairs.
Studio TK introduces the Artifort Compass Table, a versatile personal task table designed by Mike & Maaike. With its elegant and adaptable design, the table enhances seating spaces and suits flexible lifestyles. It pairs well with Studio TK's chairs and sofas, offering a stable surface for drinks or laptops. The table's simple yet sophisticated style makes it a valuable addition to workplace, residential, and hospitality spaces.
Ligne Roset's Togo sofa, designed by Michel Ducaroy, is celebrating its 50th anniversary with two special-edition launches: Atom, a vibrant fabric with bursts of color, and Toile du Peintre, a contemporary tapestry with a graphic pattern. These limited edition pieces are available for a limited time at Ligne Roset showrooms.
Studio TK has expanded the base finishes for the Cover lounge chair, offering color options in addition to the polished aluminum finish. Designed by Claesson Koivisto Rune, Cover is a versatile and comfortable seating option suitable for various settings. The expanded finishes allow for customization and modernize the chair's appearance, aligning with Studio TK's residential and hospitality-inspired collections.
Amsterdam-based Studio Lentala has designed the Rom & Lupa chairs to promote active sitting for children, addressing the negative impact of passive sitting on their physical and mental health. The chairs encourage children to alternate between eight different sitting positions, providing a wider range of movement and muscular activity. Made from FSC-certified birch and topped with natural woollen felt, the design aims to promote healthy lifestyles and the use of renewable materials.
LightArt introduces a sleek and versatile light fixture called Casper, which offers limitless configurations. The fixture features a minimal profile, even illumination on all sides, and modular joints for continuous light runs and intricate shapes. It offers various lighting options, including tunable white and color-changing RGB. The redesigned Casper is lighter, more efficient, and has a longer lifespan. It is suitable for a wide range of applications, such as healthcare facilities, educational institutions, commercial offices, and hospitality spaces.

Trends in Commercial Projects from Around the Globe

Accenture's new Chicago Innovation Hub, designed by Gensler, redefines the workplace with a multi-floor vertical city. The immersive experience includes workspaces, labs, meeting rooms, and showcases, all navigated through a mobile app. The top floors are client-facing, fostering ideation and collaboration. Customizable spaces with movable walls and flexible furniture allow employees to adapt to changing needs. The design draws inspiration from Chicago's vibrant neighborhoods, creating a unique human-centric experience.
The Domino Sugar Refinery in Brooklyn has undergone a $2.5 billion renovation, transforming it into a Class A office space. Led by Two Trees Management, the project preserved the landmarked 1884 brick facade while completely renovating the interior. The building now features a triple height atrium lobby, large floor plates, bike parking, an indoor pool, and a glass vault on top. The renovation involved slicing and removing machinery from the landmarked facade, costing $825 million. The building now offers 460,000 square feet of office space, surrounded by a vertical garden and crowned with a glass barrel vault event space.
Perkins&Will has designed 799 Broadway, a 12-storey office building in New York's Greenwich Village, with a focus on wellbeing, community, and sustainability. The building incorporates elements of the surrounding neighborhood, such as a limestone church, and features column-free spaces, functional terraces, and touchless fixtures. The design strategies and comprehensive sustainability approach have led to a Fitwel rating and emphasize the importance of considering the environment and the well-being of occupants in sustainable design.
HTA Design has transformed a Victorian warehouse in Hackney Wick into its new London headquarters. The building incorporates sustainable measures such as a photovoltaic array and air-source heat pumps, while preserving original features like timber and iron trusses. The space fosters a sense of community with an open-plan kitchen and dining area, creating a vibrant and bustling office environment.

Upcoming Industry Events

EDspaces 2023
November  7-9, 2023 | Charlotte, NC
 
There has never been a better time to move forward; to reset the places where teaching and learning happens, and to create inspiring spaces for better experiences and learning outcomes.If you play a part in the learning process, from educator/administrator, architect or interior designer, to distributor, integrator, or supplier, EDspaces is the can’t miss event driving the expectations for what the learning experience will be in the future.

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.

Industry Briefing

Dealer Color Art names new CEO
Color Art, one of the largest office furniture dealers in the St. Louis region, has named Ed Wills as the new CEO for Color Art and its sister company, Scott Rice. Wills, who previously served as COO, will replace Joe Steiner, who will remain as chairman of the board. The transition highlights the company's diligent succession planning, and Wills will split his time between St. Louis and Kansas City offices. Color Art had a successful year in 2022 with $135 million in revenue and offers a range of services in various markets.

Heller Appoints Vice President of Wholesale
Heller has appointed Paolo Cravedi as Vice President of Wholesale to oversee product sales and distribution to independent specialty stores. Cravedi, an experienced executive in the home and lifestyle industry, will work with the company's leadership team to expand Heller's reach across North America. He brings a wealth of experience from his previous roles at Calligaris Group Americas, Moleskine America, and Alessi U.S. This appointment marks a new milestone for Heller as they aim to introduce their iconic collections to a new generation of customers.

EMU Group S.p.A. appoints Enrico Cavallari as CEO
Enrico Cavallari has been appointed as the new CEO of EMU Group S.p.A. His extensive international experience in leading FMCG companies, combined with EMU Group's values of innovation and sustainability, will contribute to the company's future growth plans. Cavallari aims to strengthen EMU's brand presence in the hospitality and residential segments, emphasizing the unique quality of their Italian-made outdoor furniture.

Flos Appoints Barbara Corti as Chief Creative Officer of the Brand
Barbara Corti has been appointed as the Chief Creative Officer of Flos. In her new role, she will set the creative strategy for product development and content creation across all online and offline channels. Corti, who has been with Flos since 2017, will lead the Creative & Design Team, focusing on Product Design and Content Design. This appointment coincides with the end of Flos' collaboration with Fabio Calvi and Paolo Brambilla as Flos Design Curators. Flos, founded in 1962, is a renowned manufacturer of designer lights and lighting systems.

Independent Suppliers Group Announces Promotion of Charles Forman to Chief Operating Officer
Independent Suppliers Group (ISG) has announced the promotion of Charles Forman to Chief Operating Officer (COO), effective October 1, 2023. In his new role, Forman will oversee the EPIC Business Essentials program and its cooperative contracts, contributing to the smooth transition of leadership. This promotion reflects Forman's hard work and dedication to ISG, and aligns with the organization's strategic growth plan.

Interface Named to the 2023 TIME100 Most Influential Companies List
Interface, Inc. has been named to the 2023 TIME100 Most Influential Companies list for its impact, innovation, ambition, and success in the flooring industry. Recognized in the 'Pioneer' category, Interface is praised for its climate-friendly flooring, innovative product design, and commitment to sustainability. The company's premium design brand, FLOR®, is specifically highlighted for its carbon negative area rugs. Interface has achieved significant milestones in addressing carbon impacts and has set science-based targets to reduce emissions by 2030.

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TREMAIN is rapidly growing in the US market and in need of experienced sales reps for several different markets across the country.
We are currently looking for a Business Development Executive to join our sales team. This position will have new business development responsibilities for San Antonio, TX.
The Senator Group has an immediate career opportunity for a Territory Sales Rep in the Baltimore/Washington DC area.
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