The U.S. saw stunningly strong growth in jobs last month / Danish modular office furniture maker expands in UK with London base / N9NE Furniture Group Opens New Warehouse in Dallas / HNI Corporation Appoints New Chief Financial Officer / Woman-owned office furniture company opens downtown New Orleans showroom / SVP’s Khosla Warns There’s a ‘Tsunami’ Coming for US Offices / Manhattan Office Leasing Returns to Pre-Pandemic Levels / Available Manhattan Office Space Hits 3-Year Low, Driven By Big Finance Leases / Adam Neumann Dives Back Into Coworking With WeWork Competitor / McKinsey Weighs Asking North America Staffers to Come to Office More Often / Nearly two thirds of people say they couldn't make it through a work day without looking at their phone / As hybrid offices look to offload unused furniture, HR has a hand in eco-friendly solutions / Managers Want You Back in the Office—Because They’re Not Ready for Hybrid / Remote Work Might Be Disappearing Faster Than You Think / and much more…


The Working Space

Monday, October 7, 2024

Industry News

N9NE Furniture Group Opens New Warehouse in Dallas
N9NE Furniture Group is opening a new warehouse in Dallas, Texas, this Fall to enhance its national distribution network and improve service in the South-Central region. The facility will stock various laminate finishes and aims to provide timely access to high-quality office furniture. This expansion reflects N9NE's commitment to customer satisfaction and maintaining high service standards.

HNI Corporation Appoints New Chief Financial Officer
HNI Corporation announced the retirement of CFO Marshall H. Bridges, effective December 28, 2024, and appointed Vincent Paul Berger II as the new CFO starting December 29, 2024. Berger, a long-time HNI member with over 30 years of experience, will ensure a seamless transition. Bridges will assist the Corporation part-time on strategic AI projects post-retirement. The announcement highlights the company's commitment to leadership continuity and appreciation for Bridges' contributions over 23 years.

Danish modular office furniture maker expands in UK with London base
A Danish design company, MuteBox, is expanding in the UK by opening a London base to capitalize on the hybrid working trend. The firm, which specializes in modular meeting rooms and phone booths, has secured space at The Ministry in Southwark and aims to reach £2 million in sales in its first year in the UK. The expansion follows increased demand for flexible workspace solutions post-pandemic, with companies preferring modular furniture for efficient use of office space.
Victor Khosla, founder of Strategic Value Partners, warns of significant issues in the US office real estate market, describing a looming "tsunami" due to $1.5 trillion in debt maturing by next year. Many landlords will face refinancing at higher rates amidst declining demand for office spaces, exacerbated by the shift to remote work. Khosla notes a preference for distressed investing opportunities in Europe and highlights rising high-yield defaults, indicating underlying economic challenges despite a seemingly calm surface.
The availability of Class-A office space in Chicago has decreased for the first time since Q4 2019, indicating a potential recovery in the office market. Leasing volume reached 2.2 million square feet in Q3, with significant transactions suggesting stabilization. However, challenges remain in encouraging employees to return to the office, which could further boost leasing activity. Experts predict that rising unemployment may give employers more leverage to require in-person attendance, potentially accelerating a shift in the real estate market.
Manhattan office leasing has rebounded to pre-pandemic levels, with a leasing volume of 9.5 million square feet in Q3 2024, the highest since late 2019. Despite this, overall rents have slightly decreased, and availability remains steady. Financial services dominate leasing activity, while sublet space has dropped to its lowest since 2021. The outlook suggests tenants may seek legal guarantees in leases, and large owners are likely to collaborate with developers to modernize properties. Comparatively, other markets like South Florida are seeing higher employee return rates to offices.
The commercial real estate (CRE) sector, particularly the office asset class, is facing significant challenges due to weak fundamentals and a shift to remote work, leading to a lack of innovation. Era Ventures reports a decline in interest for office-related startups, while noting increased innovation in other sectors like industrial and hospitality. The firm has launched an $88 million fund focusing on diverse investments, including AI and SaaS. Despite some optimism, uncertainties such as the presidential election and fluctuating interest rates may lead to a bumpy short-term outlook for CRE, particularly in office spaces where remote work persists.
Office-using employment in the US rose 6.1% in Q2 2024 compared to pre-pandemic levels, marking a post-2000 high. While growth has slowed, it outpaces recovery after the Great Financial Crisis. The average lease term for renewing tenants reached 94.1 months, driven by law firms and government tenants. Effective rents for prime Class A buildings hit a post-COVID high, with a notable increase in triple-digit deals. Despite rising rents, overall office vacancy has increased for 18 quarters, with suburban vacancies lower than CBD vacancies. Hybrid work persists, with 28.6% of full days worked from home as of June 2024. Over 20% of office leases will expire in the next two years, with a significant portion executed in 2019.
By 2027, flexible office spaces are projected to comprise 39% of corporate real estate portfolios in Asia Pacific, up from just over 10% currently. Nearly half of corporate real estate executives plan to expand their use of flex spaces, driven by hybrid work trends and the need for short-term solutions. Additionally, more companies are adopting unassigned seating arrangements to enhance space efficiency, with a significant shift expected in staff-to-desk ratios. Cost factors, such as lower rents, are influencing lease renewals and relocations in the region.
Boston's office leasing activity reached a two-year high of 3.4 million square feet in Q3 2024, showing signs of cautious optimism despite the market not fully recovering. Key leases included Vertex Pharmaceuticals' 1.1 million square feet renewal and Bain Capital's 378,000 square feet expansion. Average asking rents for Class-A buildings peaked at $56.79 per square foot, reflecting a growing preference for high-quality office spaces. Additionally, a slowdown in negative employment data and a recent cut in interest rates contribute to a more favorable outlook for the market.
Adam Neumann, founder of WeWork, is launching a new coworking venture called Workflow, which aims to create a more upscale coworking environment. Unlike WeWork, Workflow will focus on a calm atmosphere with high-end furnishings and will operate under a modified leasing model, utilizing spaces in residential buildings owned by Neumann's startup, Flow. This move comes as the coworking market in the U.S. continues to grow, driven by changes in workplace culture post-pandemic.
Houston's office leasing has reached an 8-year low, with a significant drop in transaction volume and negative net absorption of 773K SF in Q3 2024. The market saw a major building removed from inventory, while Fluor's relocation reduced its footprint by 70%. Class-A properties are preferred, and despite economic uncertainties, Houston is projected to add 184,000 jobs by 2029, which may provide future opportunities for the office market.

Workplace News

As hybrid offices face excess furniture due to reduced occupancy, HR can facilitate eco-friendly solutions by donating unused items to community organizations. A study highlights the importance of collaboration and planning in these efforts, which not only aid the environment but also enhance employee engagement and organizational culture. Installnet's Ecoserv program has successfully diverted over 52 million pounds of waste since 2012, demonstrating the positive impact of such initiatives on local nonprofits and the environment. Examples from Oregon and Maryland illustrate successful decommission projects that keep furniture out of landfills while supporting community needs.
McKinsey & Co. is considering increasing the number of days North American staff are expected to work in the office, following trends among other firms to limit remote work. Senior partners have communicated this potential change during town halls, causing concern among consultants who typically work remotely. McKinsey emphasizes the importance of in-person collaboration for better apprenticeship and client impact, while also acknowledging the value of flexible work arrangements, especially for working women. The move aligns with similar policies from competitors like PricewaterhouseCoopers and Amazon, sparking discussions on flexible working's merits post-pandemic.
AI is transforming business operations by enhancing customer engagement, market adaptation, and internal processes. Companies must adapt to informed consumers and rapid market changes, utilizing AI tools for competitiveness. Notable examples include Moderna's use of AI for efficiency and JLL's development of a tailored AI model for real estate. Embracing AI will be crucial for companies to thrive in the evolving business landscape.
A recent survey reveals that 73% of Amazon employees are considering quitting due to the company's new mandate requiring them to return to the office five days a week. Many employees express dissatisfaction and fear that other tech companies may adopt similar policies. Research indicates that while some companies like Amazon and Dell are enforcing strict in-office requirements, most businesses are becoming more flexible, with a significant number of firms now offering hybrid work options. Amazon may face challenges in recruitment and retention as a result of this mandate.
Many managers are pushing for a return to the office due to a lack of training for leading hybrid teams, as highlighted by a KPMG report indicating over a third of CEOs expect full-time office work by 2027. A Gallup survey reveals that only 10% of managers have received mandatory training for hybrid work, leading to challenges in productivity and team cohesion. The absence of clear collaboration plans exacerbates these issues, negatively impacting employee engagement and well-being. To address this, organizations must invest in comprehensive training and develop formal collaboration strategies to empower managers and enhance hybrid work effectiveness.
A recent KPMG survey reveals that nearly 80% of CEOs anticipate their employees will return to the office full-time within three years, a significant increase from earlier predictions. Only 17% expect a hybrid model, down from 46%. Many CEOs are willing to incentivize in-office attendance with raises and promotions. Despite this trend, remote and hybrid work remains popular, as evidenced by a slump in office furniture orders, indicating a gradual shift rather than an immediate return to the office.
By 2027, flexible office spaces are expected to represent 39% of corporate real estate portfolios in the Asia Pacific region, up from just over 10% currently. A survey indicates that nearly half of corporate real estate executives plan to expand their use of flexible spaces, driven by hybrid work patterns and the need for short-term accommodations. Companies are also shifting towards unassigned seating arrangements to enhance space efficiency, with many expecting to adopt a staff-to-desk sharing ratio of 1.01 to 2.0 by 2026. Cost factors, including lower rents, are influencing lease renewal and relocation decisions.
A survey reveals that 87% of Gen Z workers in the U.S. feel underpaid, even among those earning six-figure salaries, highlighting economic pressures and cost of living concerns. Only 13% believe they are compensated fairly, with many earning under $60,000 annually. Financial struggles have led some to seek alternatives abroad, and companies may need to offer competitive salaries and flexible work options to attract and retain Gen Z talent, who prioritize financial security and work-life balance.
A recent poll reveals that nearly two-thirds of workers feel they cannot get through a workday without checking their phones, with only 39% believing they could avoid distractions entirely. Many respondents check their phones frequently, with 41% feeling pressured to stay connected. While 26% believe social media negatively impacts productivity, a majority disagree. Common distractions include phones and social media, with strategies like listening to music and working from home helping to maintain focus. Productivity levels vary, with 43% reporting higher productivity in the morning.
A study reveals that UK remote workers sacrificed pay growth post-Covid-19, earning 2% to 7% less than in-person employees, who received higher salaries to compensate for the lack of work-from-home benefits. While remote work offers significant non-salary advantages, it does not increase overall inequality, as total compensation remains stable across both groups. The research highlights that flexible working is a key political issue in the UK, with many willing to sacrifice income for the option to work from home, particularly among women and younger workers.

Trends

Technological advancements in virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and video games are merging physical and digital experiences, raising ethical concerns about consent, autonomy, and privacy in the future of work. As VR transforms various sectors, it blurs the lines between real and virtual workspaces, leading to a potential society where individuals work in reality to sustain a virtual existence. This evolution necessitates careful consideration of the implications for human rights and the nature of reality itself as we navigate this digital landscape.
Movable walls are becoming essential in modern office spaces, allowing for quick reconfiguration to meet the changing needs of hybrid work environments. These flexible systems can create various layouts, such as private offices or collaborative areas, and are increasingly integrated with technology. Companies like Google are investing in innovative solutions, including robotic balloon walls for privacy. Additionally, sustainable options like green walls are gaining popularity, reflecting a shift towards more adaptable and eco-friendly office designs as organizations embrace flex space strategies post-pandemic.
The article discusses the increasing use of wearable technology and neurotechnology in workplaces to monitor employee wellbeing, with predictions that adoption will rise significantly by 2027. Biometric data provides unbiased insights into how environments affect individuals, allowing for better design decisions. The integration of sensors in furniture and the use of wearables can enhance workplace ergonomics and comfort. The pandemic has heightened interest in such technologies, with more employees willing to share data for productivity tracking. Transparency in data usage is essential for engagement, and designers must be prepared to adapt based on findings to improve workplace wellbeing.

Design

Luxury hospitality and spa experiences are evolving to address the loneliness epidemic by fostering connection and community through design. Spas are redefining wellness by incorporating collective experiences and calming technology, promoting emotional well-being and personal transformation. The integration of multisensory environments and calm technology in various settings encourages reconnection with oneself and others, highlighting the importance of human care in design.
Gensler's research emphasizes the importance of customized workspaces for enhancing employee engagement and performance. It highlights a shift from standardized designs to tailored solutions that meet the specific needs of different industries. The study reveals that only a third of workplaces have been redesigned in the past three years, indicating significant opportunities for innovation. Key findings suggest that effective workplaces should support collaboration, individual work, and well-being, while addressing issues like loneliness among remote workers. Future-proofing workplaces is essential as organizations evolve, focusing on employee experience rather than just occupancy rates.

Dealers

KV Workspace, a woman-owned office furniture company, has opened a new showroom in downtown New Orleans, complementing its existing location in Mandeville. The firm, certified as a Women's Business Enterprise, has served various clients across multiple sectors, including corporate and education. Owner Kris Van Dierendonck expressed pride in the new space, emphasizing its collaborative creation and the company's commitment to transforming work environments. KV Workspace is also an authorized dealer for Haworth and offers office redesign services.

Green / Sustainability

Framery will make the world’s first fossil-free steel workplace products
Framery is set to produce the world's first fossil-free steel workplace products, partnering with SSAB to utilize HYBRIT® technology, which uses hydrogen instead of coal in steel production. This initiative aims to significantly reduce CO2 emissions in the office furniture sector, which is a major contributor to global emissions and waste. Starting in 2026, Framery plans to integrate fossil-free steel into its Smart Pods, with a goal to cut CO2 emissions by 50% by 2028 while increasing deliveries.

Landscape Forms Introduces EPD Program, a Major Milestone in Enhancing Industry Transparency and Sustainability
Landscape Forms has launched an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) program to provide standardized, third-party verified assessments of its products' environmental impacts throughout their life cycles. This initiative aims to enhance sustainability efforts, inform customer decisions, and promote transparency in environmental data across the industry. The EPDs, developed with SCS Global Services, cover various impact categories and are available for download on the company's website.

Technology / Software

Embracing synthesized workspaces through VR and AR technologies can enhance remote work by improving communication, reducing feelings of isolation, and fostering a more inclusive workforce. However, challenges such as cognitive dissonance, miscommunication, and unequal access to technology must be addressed to prevent a divided workforce. A balanced approach is essential to integrate these tools while maintaining genuine human interactions and ensuring the well-being of remote workers.

Latest Product News

Simi Design Presents Affordable Luxury with New Italian Man-Made Marble Tables and Flat Disc Bases

Simii Design, expands their Trellex hospitality table line to feature premium Italian man-made marble tops and flat disc bases in rounds and squares. Ideal for furnishing a sleek office, a trendy restaurant, or a sophisticated hotel, these tables provide the perfect combination of style and function. Each piece is meticulously crafted, and hand-finished to ensure superior quality and design. With competitive pricing, customers get the best value for investment.

The expanded Trellex table line offers top choices from two colors of Italian man-made marble, white and black, or eight different HPL tops. Customers can curate their look selecting from the existing x-base or the new round and square flat disc bases. Table heights range from 16” to 42” tall and top diameters are available from 24” to 42”.

Visit www.simiidesign.com to learn more.

Humanscale has launched two new products in the Float family: Float Gather and Float Mini. Float Gather promotes collaboration with its height-adjustable design, suitable for various environments, while Float Mini encourages movement during the workday, offering a compact sit-to-stand solution that enhances legroom and stability. Both products aim to improve workspace flexibility and productivity.
Hightower has launched the HEB collection of tables in the North American market, designed by Krøyer-Sætter-Lassen. The tables feature aluminum HEB beams and come with various finish options, promoting creativity and vibrant designs suitable for work and social gatherings. The collection aims to transform industrial materials into sculptural designs, fostering connection and conversation. Hightower, a family-founded furniture company, emphasizes thoughtful design and has been recognized as a Women Owned Business Enterprise and a certified B Corp.
AIS has expanded its finishes program with over 100 new options, including PET colorways, upholstery textiles, and polyurethane colors, enhancing design variety for modern workplaces. Key trends for 2025 emphasize layered colors, comfort, and joyful interiors. The initiative aims to support dealer designers in creating impactful results while maintaining a focus on innovative and classic offerings.
Landscape Forms introduces Moment, a new lighting line designed in collaboration with Yonoh Creative Studios. This minimalist lighting solution features a modern aesthetic with various configurations and performance options, emphasizing simplicity and elegance. The design aims to enhance public spaces without overwhelming them, integrating functionality with artistic expression to create vibrant environments.
Carnegie has launched three new window fabrics—Shadow V, Cloud, and Shelter—in collaboration with Création Baumann, featuring heat and glare protection technology. These semi-transparent, aluminum-metalized textiles are designed to enhance environmental sustainability and mental well-being while being 100% PVC-free and PFAS-free. The fabrics are suitable for various applications, including healthcare and hospitality, and contribute to LEED certification. This partnership reflects a commitment to sustainable design and product longevity.
Designtex has introduced four new coated textile patterns—Facet, Idle, Swift, and Wayside—offering a total of 44 colorways. These fabrics are designed for durability and easy cleaning, making them suitable for healthcare, education, hospitality, and workplace settings. The patterns combine organic textures with high-performance construction, enhancing spaces with added dimension.

Móz Designs Introduces 9 New Laser Cut Designs Inspired by Nature’s Blueprint
Móz Designs has launched nine new laser-cut patterns inspired by nature, celebrating organic shapes and fluid movements. The collection, which includes designs like Breeze and Nebula, aims to reconnect spaces with the beauty of growth and change, making it suitable for high-traffic areas such as lobbies and airports while requiring minimal maintenance.
The Landskab collection by designer Cecilie Manz features four rug designs that blend colors and textures, emphasizing linen yarn. Inspired by nature and simplicity, the collection showcases muted tones and distinct textures, reflecting Kasthall's commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Each rug encourages appreciation of details and reconnects interiors with the natural world, highlighting the collaboration's shared values of authenticity and sustainability.
Armadillo's Agra rug has received certification from the Carpet Institute of Australia for heavy-duty residential and light commercial use, ensuring it meets high standards for indoor air quality and durability. Available in 54 colors, Agra is crafted from hand-spun wool and features intricate shading, making it suitable for various environments including hotels and offices. The brand emphasizes quality, performance, and safety, helping consumers make informed choices.

Trends in Commercial Projects from Around the Globe

HON: Driving A New Workplace Design at Enterprise Mobility
Enterprise Mobility renovated its Central Pennsylvania Administrative Office to create a modern, adaptable workspace that reflects its brand and values. The redesign, influenced by employee feedback, features flexible areas for training and collaboration, sit-to-stand desks, and a welcoming break room. The partnership with Tanner Furniture and HON has resulted in a vibrant office that promotes health, productivity, and a cohesive team environment, successfully attracting and retaining employees.
Hyatt Regency Irvine aims to transform the hotel experience by integrating community and hospitality, focusing on local culture and multifunctional spaces. Key strategies include reconnecting with the local neighborhood, celebrating local craftsmanship, designing adaptable spaces for diverse users, and creating accessible luxury experiences. This approach not only enhances guest experiences but also fosters community engagement, positioning the hotel as a vital part of the local fabric and driving brand loyalty.
NELSON Worldwide revamped the historic Colonial Warehouse in Minneapolis for Asana Partners, transforming its ground-floor lounge and upper-level corridors. The project focused on blending modern amenities with the building's historic charm, featuring a speakeasy-inspired lounge, versatile seating, and updated corridors. The renovation received positive feedback, achieving over 90% occupancy before completion, showcasing the successful integration of heritage and contemporary design.
Melanie Raines' design for Dynamic's Lab emphasizes the importance of beautiful, inviting spaces to foster innovation and creativity. The 355,000-square-foot facility integrates high-quality finishes and a warm atmosphere, contrasting typical corporate environments. Raines draws inspiration from hospitality projects and local materials, creating a unique workplace that encourages collaboration and discovery while maintaining functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Latest In Real Life WFH

Tadashi Butsuzaki is a freelance web designer and developer based in Japan, who also runs a blog called MONOPEDIA showcasing "white" designs. His workspace includes a variety of high-end equipment such as an M1 MacBook Pro, multiple monitors, and ergonomic furniture. He uses software like Figma, Photoshop, and Notion for his work. He emphasizes the importance of an organized workspace for creativity and starts his day early, managing family responsibilities before work.

Upcoming Industry Events

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

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

THE LATEST: ORGATEC 2024:
All eyes are on the upcoming Orgatec which will take place from October 22- 25, 2024 at the Koelnmesse fairgrounds in Cologne Germany

The show will join forces with Haute Innovation to present the #CircularBiomaterials Focus Area in Hall 4.2 of the Koelnmesse exhibition grounds. Designed to accelerate the industry’s transition to a circular economy, this special event area will provide extensive insights into the future of circular material technologies from the biological cycle.

Anyone who sets out to rethink the future of work must also rethink sustainability. As the leading international trade fair devoted to new visions of work, ORGATEC has a responsibility to address this topic. It will live up to this role by underscoring the sustainable stewardship of resources with the #CircularBiomaterials Focus Area, among other highlights on the programme.“Sustainability and the circular economy are crucial to ORGATEC,” says the event’s director, Thomas Postert. “We are working closely with our exhibitors to present material innovations that are not only circular but also provide extensive commercial and technical benefits.”The #CircularBiomaterials Focus Area will showcase materials that are produced from regrowing sources and can be returned to the biological cycle at the end of their useful life. This makes biocircular materials environmentally friendly alternatives to synthetic products with considerably higher carbon footprints. Examples of this new class of biomaterials include biocircular textiles made from banana fibres, seagrass-based furniture foams and upholstery fillings made from bulrush fibres. Naturally biodegradable, they boast technical and commercial properties that can rival conventional alternatives.These new materials offer considerable benefits: They increase material efficiency and enhance the well-being of their users in interior spaces. Most importantly, they increase the proportion of whole items of office and contract furniture that can be returned to nature, thereby helping to establish closed-loop cycles. The net result is a significant reduction in carbon dioxide emissions, potentially paving the way for 100% climate-neutral production processes – which will be an essential consideration for businesses.ORGATEC visitors will be able to experience these materials up-close and first-hand in the #CircularBiomaterials Focus Area. A total of 30 exhibits by developers, research institutes, manufacturers and designers from 14 different countries have been confirmed so far. They will appear in a showcase clearly organised into four key topics: Organic Waste Streams, Regrowing Materials, Biocircular Materials and Smart Nature & Biofabrication.#CircularBiomaterials is just one of the ORGATEC 2024 Focus Areas, which are set to be among the highlights at the trade fair. The other Focus Areas are #TheCircularHouse, #InspiredAugmentedOffice, #OfficeXperience:NextGenWorkplaces, #Indoor&OutdoorHospitality and #ImpulseContract.

The Work Culture Festival will celebrate its inaugural edition as part of ORGATEC in Halls 6 and 9 of the Koelnmesse exhibition grounds. Organised by the German Interior Business Association (IBA), the festival will present high-calibre program featuring over 100 international speakers across six stages. Focus will be on current transformations that modern work environments are undergoing. With a line-up of exciting keynotes, panel discussions, interactive workshops and exhibitions, the Work Culture Festival is set to be one of the highlights at ORGATEC 2024. The event is organised by the IBA, ORGATEC’s conceptual sponsor. The festival’s title, “Wherever Whenever” encapsulates the idea that individuals can work productively anywhere at any time and targets architecture, design and culture, New Work, HR and trend research.An impressive festival program on six stages during 4 days will showcase 100 speakers from a wide range of specialist fields with 75 program points. Accompanying the impressive line-up, exhibition spaces hosted by IBA members, workshop areas and special art and design spaces will provide diverse inspiration. To complete the festival experience, food trucks will provide refreshments, and live music will mark the end of the third day of the trade fair.The event will illustrate how workspaces will best function in the future.

Across these three tracks, speakers and panel members from diverse fields and disciplines will provide exclusive insights into the future of work. The high-calibre line-up of speakers includes the musician and racing driver Smudo, football coach Ralf Rangnick, neurobiologist Bernd Hufnagl, UX expert Sophie Kleber, designer Sabine Marcelis, HR executive Cawa Younosi, architect Ben van Berkel and digital expert Sascha Lobo, alongside many other renowned experts.Further information on the festival program is available at: https://iba.online/en/festival/

Tickets for ORGATEC are available at: Buy tickets | ORGATEC

BDNY 2024: Redefining Hospitality Design With Unmatched Innovation and Networking Opportunities
Boutique Design New York (BDNY) will take place on November 10-11, 2024, at the Javits Center, NYC, featuring innovative design showcases, networking opportunities, and educational sessions. Highlights include immersive spaces by leading designers, a new Dine & Design PopUp, CEU-accredited seminars, the Platinum Circle Awards Gala honoring industry leaders, and the Gold Key Awards recognizing excellence in hospitality design.

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.

Project Leads

ArentFox Schiff is relocating its headquarters to Midtown Center, signing a lease for 120,000 square feet across three floors, moving from its current location just two blocks away. This move comes as Fannie Mae plans to vacate a significant portion of its space in the same building. The new office aims to provide a vibrant environment with first-rate amenities, reflecting the firm's priorities in its office search. The deal also highlights ongoing changes in the office space market, with Fannie Mae and WeWork reducing their footprints in the building.

Industry Briefing

//3877 Welcomes Seasoned Talent to Expanding A&D Team
Architecture and design firm //3877 has welcomed three new professionals: Interior Designer Abigail Fundling, Architect Caroline Zimmermann, and Senior Interior Designer Christina Kerr. Their diverse backgrounds and expertise are expected to enhance the firm's project capabilities and culture of teamwork. The new hires will focus on various projects, including hospitality and wellness, aiming to push design boundaries and foster creativity within the team.

Landscape Forms Partners with Peopledesign for Enhanced Website and Customer Experience
Landscape Forms has partnered with Peopledesign to redesign its website, enhancing user experience and functionality. The new site streamlines information architecture, making it easier for customers to navigate and engage with products. It allows users to save configurations and project details, reinforcing Landscape Forms' position as a leader in outdoor site furniture design. The redesign aims to elevate customer experience and align with the brand's high-end image.

Hord Coplan Macht Opens Two New Offices
Hord Coplan Macht has opened two new offices in Charleston, South Carolina, and Durham, North Carolina, to enhance its presence in the Carolinas and support growth across various market sectors. CEO Tim Barnhill emphasizes the firm's commitment to contributing to local architectural landscapes and fostering relationships with clients, including partnerships with institutions like the University of North Carolina Charlotte and Roper St. Francis Healthcare. The firm aims to create innovative and impactful projects while maintaining a focus on collaboration and user needs.
DIRTT Environmental Solutions Ltd. has received the ICMA Platinum Medallion from the Industrialized Construction Group, recognizing its outstanding performance in industrialized construction. This achievement reflects DIRTT's commitment to excellence and provides a roadmap for continuous improvement. The Platinum Medallion is awarded to companies scoring in the top one percent based on a comprehensive assessment of various performance aspects.

Chemetal Designs Featured at the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards
Chemetal showcased its decorative metals at the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards, celebrating the event's 40th anniversary. Featured designs included #276 Flux, an embossed reflective material, and #310 Antique Brushed Brass, enhancing the set's aesthetic. Chemetal's president highlighted the significance of their materials being used in high-profile projects, especially with stars like Taylor Swift. The company specializes in innovative metal designs for interiors and has been family-owned for over 50 years.

Announcing the Winners of the Fifth Edition Fantini Design Awards
Fantini USA announced the winners of the fifth edition Fantini Design Awards, celebrating excellence in kitchen and bath design in North America. The three winners, selected for their creativity and design, are: Saint-Pierre in Montreal, Foxbar Residence in Toronto, and Crystal Green in Quebec. Each winner will receive an all-expenses-paid trip to Fantini's headquarters in Italy in 2025, where they will tour the factory and experience local traditions. The awards emphasize the influence of water and Italian design in the projects.

MillerKnoll will Debut Research and Designs at 2024 Healthcare Design Conference and Expo
MillerKnoll will showcase new research and designs at the 2024 Healthcare Design Conference and Expo, focusing on clinical environment planning to enhance patient and staff experiences. The company will feature over 30 healthcare furniture products, including new recliners, and conduct an educational session on mitigating nurse burnout. Additionally, the MillerKnoll Healthcare Scholarship will support emerging architects to attend the conference, promoting the next generation of healthcare design leaders.
The Atlas of Mid-Century Modern Masterpieces is a comprehensive visual guide showcasing 450 notable buildings from the mid-century modern architecture movement, spanning from the early 1950s to the early 1970s. Compiled by Dominic Bradbury, the atlas highlights the global influence of this architectural style, featuring iconic structures and lesser-known projects alike, while emphasizing the era's innovative use of materials and design principles that continue to shape contemporary architecture.

Civic Design Forum | Tin Building by Jean-Georges
The IIDA NY is hosting a Civic Design Forum event on October 15, 2024, at the Tin Building by Jean-Georges, focusing on the design and process behind the recent work at Pier 17. The event includes a discussion led by the project's architect and offers a reception afterward. Registration is required, with tickets priced at $60 for members and $75 for non-members, providing attendees with 1 IDCEC CEU and 1 AIA credit.
Find the best Contract Furniture Industry jobs and hire the best talent.
Dear Stephen, I'm a regional VP at one of the Top 4 major manufacturers in a major Southwestern metropolitan area. We sell a prestigious brand-a favorite of design firms like #Gensler and A&D firms big and small. While we have great dealers, there's always a bad apple.
Become part of a forward-thinking team at a company that's quickly becoming an industry game-changer. Wyatt seeks a Territory Sales Manager to promote and sell our seating products in their assigned territories.
Become part of a forward-thinking team at a company that's quickly becoming an industry game-changer. Wyatt seeks a Regional Sales Manager to promote and sell our seating products in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia.
BioFit Engineered Products is seeking an experienced Sales Manager to oversee and lead the activities of the sales department by performing the duties outlined below. This individual will participate in corporate planning, budget setting, and strategic direction including product & services, markets and channels.
The Regional Sales Manager will be responsible for the sales and sales growth of The Senator Groups products in the region of the country outlined.
The Regional Sales Manager will be responsible for the sales and sales growth of The Senator Groups products in the region of the country outlined.
The Product Manager will be responsible for outlining the relevant product features and developing a sales strategy for the desking product sales effort. 
N9NE Furniture Group is expanding its reach on the East Coast, and we are seeking a dynamic and results-driven Sales Agency to represent us in the New York and Connecticut territories.
As an Account Manager for Unisource Solutions, you will work with small to medium-size clients, for projects from inception to completion and also be responsible for growing business within assigned.
The individual will be responsible for the Company’s new business development activities for the greater Los Angeles County market. Such duties will include identifying, contacting, qualifying new business leads, and assisting with the closing of sales opportunities. 
Design and create furniture plans, 3D renderings, and specifications for contract furniture.
The Logistics Specialist plays a crucial role in managing and optimizing the flow of goods and materials within a company and to customers. This individual is responsible for coordinating transportation, movement of inventory, and distribution activities to ensure efficient and cost-effective operations.
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