In the wake of the pandemic, architectural firms are adapting their work policies, with some opting for a hybrid model and others remaining fully remote. Employee education and mentorship are key considerations in these decisions. Office footprints have changed, with some firms downsizing or renovating to accommodate new ways of working. Technology has played a critical role in facilitating remote work, with firms utilizing various digital tools for communication and collaboration. Client satisfaction remains high with virtual interactions, though in-person meetings are still preferred for significant project milestones. The increased flexibility has positively impacted talent retention and recruitment.

Many people working from home are choosing to work in spaces other than their home offices, such as kitchens, living rooms, and even swimming pools. The value of a dedicated home office is being questioned as workers prioritize comfort and productivity. Some have invested in remodeling their workspaces, while others prefer the flexibility of working from different locations. Despite the demand for home offices, some individuals find that working from unconventional spaces like the bed or the pool actually boosts their productivity and job satisfaction.

Salone del Mobile for 2024 provided an exciting lineup of installations, talks, and exhibitions featuring renowned figures like David Lynch, Formafantasma, Triennale Milano, Hans Ulrich Obrist, and Salone del Mobile President Maria Porro. The event aimed to showcase quality and cultural value, offering visitors an enriching experience with over 1,950 partners. Highlights include "Interiors by David Lynch. A Thinking Room," the 25th-anniversary celebration of Salone Satellite, and the Drafting the Futures Arena and Corraini Mobile Bookshop designed by Formafantasma.

Demetrio Apolloni, the new CEO of B&B Italia, is focused on expanding the brand beyond its popular Camaleonda sofa. Under the ownership of Design Holding, B&B Italia aims to grow its family of brands and increase its presence in the U.S. market. Apolloni emphasizes the importance of brand recognition and the balance between residential and contract design. He also highlights the significance of innovation and the company's commitment to working with designers. During Milan Design Week, B&B Italia showcased a mix of new pieces and items from its collection, emphasizing the brand's history and legacy.

Knoll presented new and re-defined ideas for contemporary design at Salone Internazionale del Mobile 2024. The Knoll pavilion, designed by OFFICE, showcases products for the home, including the Perron Pillo Sofa by Willo Perron and the reissue of the Tugendhat Chair by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. Knoll also introduces new ultra-matte finishes for the Wassily Chair, Laccio Tables, Cesca Chairs and Stools, and MR Chairs and Tables. The pavilion features interconnected rooms and gardens, reflecting Knoll's modernist paradigm.

As the potential health risks of working from home become apparent, working near home is emerging as an attractive alternative. This model offers the benefits of working from home while providing alternative workspaces such as coworking spaces and hospitality venues. Employers and shared workspace providers need to offer attractive alternatives to remote workers who are used to the comfort of their own homes. The future of work depends on reimagining the concept of the office, with a focus on personalized workspaces and a sense of attachment to the space. The hub-and-spoke office model, with centrally-based offices and locally-based satellite offices, is gaining popularity. Collaboration between local authorities, businesses, and private investors, as well as government support through policies and incentives, can make working near home a viable option for remote workers.

Corporate headquarters relocations have been a significant trend, with Texas attracting the most moves between 2018 and 2023. Cost savings, including lower taxes and wages, are the primary motivation for these relocations. While Texas has been successful in attracting companies, established hubs like California and New York City still retain appeal due to strong infrastructure and talent. The pandemic has slowed down the relocation frenzy, and economic conditions will likely determine future moves.

British designer Jasper Morrison shares his five favorite "super normal" projects, including the 1144 Handle for FSB, Glo-ball lighting for Flos, Evo-C chair for Vitra, Zampa Chair for Mattiazzi, and Table Clock for Hay. Morrison's work is known for its simplicity and functionality, and these projects exemplify his design philosophy.

Atlanta-based coworking company Switchyards plans to expand its operations with a $5M capital raise, aiming to open hundreds of coworking locations across the country. Founded in 2019, Switchyards operates 15 "work clubs" in the Southeast and offers a neighborhood-focused coworking concept. The latest funding round was led by Bullpen Capital, bringing the total raised to $10.5M. The company's revenue has doubled every year since 2021, and it aims to grow to 200 clubs nationwide by 2029.

Materials innovator 3form has launched Know New Plastic, an initiative that combines mechanical and molecular recycling methods to increase the amount of recycled content in their materials. Their Textures Collection is now made from 100% recycled content, achieved through molecularly recycled resin. This process allows for the recycling of a wider variety of plastics and helps reduce carbon emissions. 3form aims to extend this initiative across their entire product line and eventually eliminate virgin material usage. Their commitment to sustainability is reflected in their 20-year history of investments and expertise in recycling technologies.

 

“The Textures Collection’s shift to 100% recycled materials comes at no cost to our customers—that’s how committed we are to producing sustainable products,” said Karli Slocum, Vice President of Product & Marketing. “We want to create an incentive to buy non-virgin material, and we don’t want to pass the cost along to our customer, making our products harder to specify.”

 

As part of its commitment to transparency, 3form is pursuing certification from a third party which is expected in late spring.

 

Allseating has launched Allora, a versatile seating solution designed to redefine in-between spaces. Inspired by transitional moments, Allora offers a customizable design with various configurations to suit any environment. It adapts seamlessly to diverse spaces and empowers users to create inspiring and engaging experiences. With multiple frame options, stackable design, and optional features, Allora optimizes space utilization and provides comfort and style. 

9to5 Seating has launched HÅG Celi, a sustainable and innovative multipurpose chair with ergonomic technology and a playful design. Made from over 76% post-consumer recycled and renewable materials, HÅG Celi promotes wellness and movement with its rocking motion feature. The chair is available in four warm colors and offers endless design possibilities with various textile options. It is ideal for meeting areas, conference rooms, cafes, and open workspaces.

This article discusses a unique design of a desk with only one leg, which may be suitable for resource-poor environments. Made of rosewood and chromed steel, the desk is described as a vintage wall desk from 1970s France. While the price is high and the designer and manufacturer are unknown, the design showcases the concept of doing more with less.

Brännboll is Ikea's first full video game-related collection. It's designed to make video game furniture blend into the rest of the house.

Danish brand Mater has expanded its line of biodegradable furniture with the Alden collection, which is made from coffee waste and wood fibers. The furniture is fully biodegradable except for the frames made from 94% recycled steel. The collection, designed by Patricia Urquiola, includes lounge tables, a side table, and a stool in various colors. The furniture is made from Mater's patented Matek material, which combines coffee waste or wood fibers with biodegradable plastic made from sugar cane. The exact decomposition time is uncertain, but the materials can be returned and recycled.

The Porsche x Vitra Pepita Edition Chairs are a limited-edition range of seating solutions developed in partnership between the brands. The chairs feature the signature Pepita houndstooth fabric and are crafted in Germany. They are priced from $911 to $5,179 and will be launched on April 22, 2024 (today). This collaboration showcases cross-industry collaborations in furniture design and textile manufacturing, catering to upscale clientele seeking unique and high-quality goods.

Foscarini's Aplomb Suspension Light, designed by Lucidi and Pevere, combines sophistication with texture by using Maestrie, a material that achieves harmony between the roughness of concrete and the airiness of light.

Blending interactive design with luxury materials - Pulley Pendant from Allied Maker

HNK Amsterdam Sloterdijk is a next-generation office concept that combines the elements of a hotel and office. Designed by hd+vk, the renovated office space focuses on sustainability, well-being, convenience, and hospitality. The user-centered workplace offers flexible meeting rooms, focus workplaces, podcast studios, wellness facilities, and a library. The design features organic shapes, soft materials, and a colorful palette. The project aligns with the future vision of Amsterdam Sloterdijk as a modern Green Station District.

TPG Architecture has reinvented the office space by prioritizing connection and creating a bright, dynamic environment. Instead of open cubicles, the New York office features glass-walled team rooms for smaller groups. The space also includes communal areas, a café, a private terrace, and a cozy "quiet car" room for smaller gatherings. The design aims to provide a comfortable and valued work environment for employees.

HGA has created a centralized campus for Becoming Independent in Santa Rosa, California. The new Program Headquarters consolidates three buildings into one, providing a multi-dimensional hub for participants and staff. The design focuses on accessibility, flexibility, and sustainability, with key features including a flexible program space, commercial kitchen, outdoor garden, and administrative offices. The space also offers event rental opportunities and vocational training. The project was developed through collaboration with key stakeholders and incorporates cutting-edge technology and environmentally friendly materials. Overall, the new Program Headquarters supports Becoming Independent's mission to help individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities live meaningful and productive lives.

Mateus Almeida is a content creator and social media manager based in Austria. His content revolves around Desk Setups, Tech, and lifestyle, aiming to build his personal brand, MAMOA Creative. In his refreshed workspace, he features items such as the Apple M2 Max Mac Studio, LG 4K Monitor, Argon Quiet Storm, and Logitech MX Master 3S mouse. He prioritized aesthetics and minimalism to create a visually pleasing workspace with minimal distractions.

April 30 - May 2, 2024, | Las Vegas

 

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

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

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

NeoCon 2024
June 10-12, 2024 | Chicago, IL

 

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

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

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

Find the best Contract Furniture Industry jobs and hire the best talent.

Vice President of Sales for a rapidly growing full service Steelcase dealership. Position will be responsible for leading sales teams in multiple markets in AL.

The Healthcare Account Manager will be responsible for representing Wieland products to the healthcare market in Iowa and Nebraska. 

Works in team environment consisting of a Salesperson, Project Coordinator, Designer and Project Manager.

Maverick Desk is a leading manufacturer in modern office furniture solutions. We are expanding our sales team and are seeking independent sales representation to develop new business opportunities in select U.S. territories.

We’re seeking a knowledgeable in-house Project Coordinator, experienced in systems office furniture. In this role, you will handle full coordination of our in-house office furniture projects from the point of sale until each project is completed and beyond.

Indoff is expanding and is in need of experienced outside sales professionals in your area. If you’re tired of missing out on money due to low commission rates or you’re sick of quotas, then Indoff is the perfect solution for you.

We are seeking a motivated and experienced commercial furniture and interiors Sales Manager to lead our sales team and drive business growth.

A Project Designer's role includes, but is not limited to, design programming, concept development, space planning, furniture and material selections, creating supporting documents, pricing, and drawings via commercial furniture software, such as AutoCAD, Project Matrix and CET Designer.

Dynamic and fun Arlington, VA-based office furniture dealership, Washington Workplace, seeks a qualified sales superstar to add to its growing staff. Make some money!!!!

This position identifies prospective customers, generates leads, and lands new business opportunities; oversees all aspects of an account’s business; responsible for all project and daily work order activities and full customer satisfaction for all accounts.

The Account Manager is responsible for all project and daily work order activities, much of sales and marketing, and full customer satisfaction for large and/or multiple healthcare accounts. This person oversees all aspects of an account’s business and will leverage the team (design, project management, account coordination, installation) that supports that account. 

The Account Manager is responsible for all project and daily work order activities, much of sales and marketing, and full customer satisfaction for large and/or multiple accounts. This role oversees all aspects of an account’s business and will leverage the team (design, project management, account coordination, installation) that supports that account. 

The primary responsibility of a Designer is to provide technical design support for furniture budgets, space plans, product solutions, specification, and pricing for projects generated by Sales/AS.