2023-Q3 to Q4 Market Outlook Report / Office Furniture Exchange Closes Doors and Liquidates to Office Furniture Liquidations / Office Resources, Inc. Announces Its Expansion into Birmingham Acquiring the Alabama Operations of Empire Office, Inc. / Watson Furniture Announces Newly Redesigned Seattle Showroom / OFS to Open Showroom at The Herald in DC / AI Boosts Tech Industry Office Occupancy Rates / Federal Agencies' Slow RTO Putting More D.C. Office Buildings At Risk / 'We’ve Got To Find Something Else': Office Developers Forced To Reckon With Their Futures / Steelcase Research Finds Leaders' Priorities Shift / More UK Staff Coming to the Office Every Day Than Hybrid Working / Next Generation Perks That Tenants Want / and much more…


The Working Space
Monday, October 30. 2023

Industry News

Business is improving - 2023-Q3 to Q4 Market Outlook Report Now Available

Some of the best forecasts for the industry come from data collected from dealers around the country - and Canada. This information is invaluable to manufacturers and dealers alike. The Solomon Coyle 2023-Q3 to Q4 Market Outlook Report indicates continued macroeconomic strength supporting the Contract Furniture Industry. Government, education, and health sectors show stronger pipelines compared to the private sector. Key findings include positive dealer bookings trend, expected growth in bookings, strong pipelines in the South and Midwest, and significant momentum in education, healthcare, and government sectors.

• The positive Dealer Bookings trend continues, with 2.0% growth versus the 7.4% jump from the last quarter. The report also observed Dealer Backlogs leveling off from 2023-Q2 and dealers' Billings continued increasing.

• Dealers expect more growth in Bookings: +4.0% in Q4 and +1.6% in Q1-2024. There is still significant momentum for the remainder of 2023.

• Pipelines look very strong across all geographic regions but highest in the South and Midwest.

• Pipeline Activity by Sector shows the most significant momentum in Education, Healthcare, and Government. The Technology sector has the only negative Pipeline Activity Index but is nearly flat at -0.04.

• Pipeline Activity by Product Category is very positive across the board, with Furniture and Floor/Wall leading the way.

To view the current report, visit: www.solomoncoyle.com/dealer-market-outlook-report/

Office Furniture Liquidations (OFL) is acquiring the inventory and customers of Office Furniture Exchange as it closes its doors. OFL will continue to offer discounted new and used office furniture to business owners in the community. The owner of Office Furniture Exchange, Perry Shipler, made the decision to close the store after a battle with cancer. OFL will donate unsold items to local charities and a portion of the sales will be provided to the Shipler family. OFL aims to meet the increasing demand for office furniture as more people return to office spaces.
When a (residential furniture) company collapses, the fate of its furniture becomes a mystery. In the case of Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams, approximately 1,300 pieces of furniture worth hundreds of thousands of dollars were left stranded in transit. The ownership of the furniture is unclear, with potential suspects including customers who have paid in full, the bank that is owed money, and the logistics firm that stored the furniture. Furniture bankruptcies are notoriously chaotic, and the process of liquidation often leaves customers in limbo. Large-scale liquidation firms play a significant role in selling off distressed furniture brands. The Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams case is still ongoing, with the possibility of some customers receiving their orders and the rest of the inventory being liquidated to cover debts.

Office Resources, Inc. Announces Its Expansion into Birmingham Acquiring the Alabama Operations of Empire Office, Inc.
Office Resources, Inc. (ORI) has announced its expansion into Birmingham by acquiring the Alabama operations of Empire Office, Inc. This acquisition allows ORI to provide enhanced architectural and technology solutions, offering a comprehensive range of contract furniture and services across Alabama, Kentucky, and Tennessee. ORI is known for its high-performance work environments and commitment to excellent service. The remaining locations and operations of Empire Office outside of Birmingham will not be affected by this acquisition.
Furniture manufacturer OFS has signed an 11-year lease for a showroom at The Herald in Washington, D.C. The company will occupy over half of the fourth floor to create an office furniture showroom. The historic building, acquired by Marx Realty in 2020, features unique architectural elements and amenities such as a boardroom, cafe, and lounge. OFS was represented by CBRE, while Marx Realty was represented by Avison Young.
Watson Furniture announces the newly redesigned Seattle Design Studio (SDS) showroom, located in Pioneer Square's Polson Building. The redesign aims to showcase Watson's products and highlight their commitment to being a standout partner. The SDS serves as a central hub for customers, designers, architects, and Watson employees, providing inspiration and resources for envisioning vibrant office spaces. The showroom features representations from Watson's latest collections, including Tonic, Edison, and Mastermind. Visitors can experience the showcased products as well as classic Watson products like mobile meeting tables and storage solutions.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is boosting office occupancy rates in the tech industry, according to a report from CBRE. The top five U.S. markets for venture capital funding also have the highest office leasing activity by AI companies. Tech leasing has increased this year, although it remains below pre-pandemic levels. The long-term growth prospects for the tech industry are strong, with AI's impact on business growth potentially reaching the scale of the mobile internet. Tech submarkets near universities or major tech employers have performed well, with higher rental rates compared to their cities as a whole.
Top cities in the Asia Pacific region, including Sydney, Hong Kong, and Mumbai, are expected to face a significant shortage of net-zero carbon (NZC)-ready office space in the coming years. Despite ranking highly in sustainable office certifications, these cities are struggling to meet the growing demand for energy-efficient buildings powered by renewable energy. The lack of stringent regulations and the limited availability of renewable energy are contributing factors. Retrofitting existing buildings and government support are crucial in bridging the supply-demand gap and achieving net-zero goals.
The slow return-to-office progress of federal agencies in Washington D.C. is posing a risk to the revitalization of downtown and its older office buildings. The federal government's efforts have been hindered by pushback from employee unions and a focus on decreasing its footprint. As a result, the demand for B and C grade buildings has decreased, leading to an increase in office-to-residential conversions. However, this situation also presents opportunities for potential buyers once prices drop significantly.
The office sector has experienced challenges during the pandemic, with CMBS default rates increasing significantly. A report from Trepp CRE Research reveals a shift in default rates between CBD and suburban offices. Historically, CBD offices outperformed suburban offices, but since late 2019, the gap has closed, with CBD default rates at 6% and suburban rates at 5%. The reduction in suburban office loans may have led to stronger financials and more stringent underwriting. However, refinancing difficulties may arise as over $90 billion in office loans mature in the current quarter.
The decline in office usage and weak fundamentals in the office market have made it difficult for office developers to secure financing and start new projects. Greenstone, a prominent office developer, is pivoting to multifamily, mixed-use, and hospitality opportunities due to the sorry state of the office market. Other developers, like Seven Oaks, are also shifting their focus to managing existing office portfolios and exploring other property types such as industrial. The future of new office construction in Atlanta appears uncertain, with build-to-suit projects for corporations being the most likely to break ground. The office development business is facing significant risks and challenges, and a clear path out of the current situation is not yet apparent.
According to a report by the CIPD, technology and hybrid working have had a significant impact on HR and workplace professionals in the UK and Ireland. Advancing technology is transforming the way HR teams operate, while hybrid working has made supporting mental health and building organizational culture more challenging. However, the report also highlights the opportunities presented by these changes and emphasizes the role of people professionals in providing training and keeping policies and culture under review. The report also includes international comparisons, showing similar trends in Ireland and the Middle East, and differences in Australia and Singapore.
Leasing activity in Denver's office market increased by 38% in Q3 compared to the previous year, but analysts caution that the market still faces significant challenges. The popularity of remote and hybrid work options, economic uncertainty, and downsizing by tenants contribute to the struggles. Construction activity is also facing downward pressure due to high costs of capital and construction materials. Despite these challenges, there are some bright spots such as a low unemployment rate. However, subleasing activity is expected to convert into direct vacancy as tenants show little desire for office space.
Steelcase's new research reveals that global business leaders are prioritizing employee wellbeing, sustainability, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. The company also releases its 2023 Impact Report, highlighting its progress in creating better futures for people and the planet. Steelcase expands its CarbonNeutral® product portfolio, offering designers more sustainable choices.
According to a survey by Hays Plc, more British workers are returning to the office full time compared to those working from home on a hybrid schedule. The survey found that 43% of white-collar staff were working entirely from the office, while only 39% were on a hybrid schedule. Despite this, employers still want to increase office attendance in the next 12 months. However, some employees are resisting the return to the office, opting for flexibility. London has the lowest percentage of employees back in the office full time, reflecting the competitive job market and a middle ground between remote and office work.

Features

Steelcase's new research reveals that global business leaders are prioritizing employee wellbeing, sustainability, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. The company also releases its 2023 Impact Report, highlighting its progress in creating better futures for people and the planet. Steelcase is taking actions to reduce its carbon footprint, design for circularity, and choose and use materials responsibly. Additionally, the company expands its CarbonNeutral® product portfolio to include height-adjustable desks Migration® SE and Ology®, allowing customers to offset carbon emissions. Steelcase aims to create a more sustainable, inclusive, and equitable global society.
Leading organizations recognize the value of purpose-built headquarters in enhancing employee experience and business outcomes. The shift to remote and hybrid work has resulted in low office occupancy and high vacancy rates, impacting companies' growth strategies and innovation. Creating a compelling workplace experience is crucial for attracting and retaining top talent. In-person collaboration and shared purpose are essential for success. The value of placemaking and human-centric design is integral to office presence, but commercially available options may not align with worker priorities and company needs. Build to suit offers a solution by allowing companies to construct customized office buildings that reflect their specific needs, brand, and culture, while considering future adaptability.

Workspace News

More U.K. employees are returning to offices full-time than working in a hybrid setup, according to a survey by Hays Plc. However, despite the shift back to in-person work, employees still prefer a hybrid work arrangement. The survey also revealed that many employees desire a four-day workweek without a pay cut. Employers, on the other hand, are hoping to have more staff back in offices in the next 12 months. The future of work may require finding the right balance between in-person and hybrid work to accommodate employee preferences and foster company culture.
Disagreements over return-to-office (RTO) strategies are causing conflict among leaders in the C-suite, with generational and personality differences playing a role. Older leaders tend to prefer in-person work, while younger leaders understand the benefits of remote and flexible work. Middle managers are often tasked with implementing RTO plans, leading to further conflicts. To resolve these disputes, leadership teams should rely on HR to understand employee perspectives and consider the next generation's preferences. Addressing internal disagreements over hybrid work is crucial for effective business strategy.
Commuting can have various benefits, including well-being and calibrating circadian rhythms, providing liminal space for mental shifts, and creating healthy boundaries. Enhancing the workplace experience can also make commuting more appealing, with a focus on communicating company culture, designing for future flexibility, and curating an experience worth commuting for. These efforts can lead to a more inspiring workspace that fuels employees and promotes innovation.
HomeSwap apps like HomeExchange, Behomm, and Kindred are enabling remote and hybrid workers to travel affordably while working. These platforms offer exclusive membership-based accommodation options, allowing users to swap homes and experience new destinations without using their paid time off. The flexibility and cost-benefit of these apps make it easier for workers to combine their jobs with travel, enhancing work-life balance and providing unique experiences.
In lease discussions for commercial real estate, up-to-date amenities are becoming increasingly important. The top amenities gaining momentum include hybrid work, work-life balance, wellness initiatives, culture/pride in place, shared desks, location-agnostic hiring, live-work-play communities, sustainability, and smart buildings. In the office sector, creating a desirable workplace is crucial, with considerations for outdoor spaces and social activities. For industrial properties, employee wellness initiatives and aesthetic design are driving amenity upgrades. Technology is still evolving, with companies exploring heat maps and mobile apps. Overall, landlords and employers must provide what employees need and want to attract and retain them.
As the pandemic continues to impact office usage, the traditional five-day office schedule is becoming obsolete, with over 1 billion square feet of office space expected to be obsolete within seven years. The focus for employers and landlords is shifting towards priorities such as proximity to mass transit options and vibrant neighborhoods rather than amenities within the building. Location and flexibility are key considerations for tenants, with shorter lease terms and options for expansion or contraction becoming more important. Despite a decline in leasing, buildings closer to mass transit options are seeing more activity. The office market may be reaching its bottom, and owners are starting to tap into rescue capital.
Less than one-third of employees feel engaged and energized by their work, according to a report from Gartner. The survey highlights that employee engagement has a significant impact on business outcomes, with engaged employees more likely to stay, go above and beyond, and contribute more. One of the main issues impacting engagement is employee dissatisfaction with the lack of action taken after providing feedback. To address this, HR needs to solve the right problems, support managers in engagement efforts, and make engagement initiatives more relevant to employees.
Workers are experiencing flux and uncertainty as they navigate the return to office and transition to hybrid work. Many employees believe their companies' remote or hybrid work policies will change in the next year, leading to a sense of ongoing instability. Managers, in particular, bear the responsibility of facilitating hybrid transitions and are more likely to anticipate policy changes. The lack of clear communication from employers about these changes is a major concern for employees. Honesty and transparency from leaders are crucial to foster loyalty from staff. Companies are concerned about their ability to maintain the quality of work and talent amidst evolving workplace arrangements. Employee turnover has been higher than anticipated for companies with mandated return-to-office plans. The idea of long-term employment with one employer is being challenged.

Trends

According to the Yardi Commercial Edge National Office Report, "urban suburbs" are a bright spot for office landlords. Workers, especially young ones, are seeking walkable and amenity-rich suburban neighborhoods that support mixed-use developments. Commute times are a significant factor in the decision to return to the office, leading workers to choose suburbs over urban settings. The report suggests that suburban offices lacking mixed-use destinations may be converted, and there is potential for last-mile delivery or data centers in converted industrial facilities.
The future of work in 2024 will be influenced by key trends such as the rise of Gen Z in the workforce, the impact of Generative AI on various industries, the shift towards hybrid remote work models, and the increasing popularity of side hustles. Professionals need to prepare for these trends by embracing the innovative ideas and diverse skill sets of Gen Z, upskilling in AI tools, adapting to hybrid work arrangements, and considering side hustles as a source of additional income and career flexibility.

Design

Designing a new workplace to embrace future workstyles involves creating a compelling in-person experience, providing a higher-quality physical space, and integrating seamless technology. A lifestyle-focused workplace allows for autonomy and emphasizes essential needs. An experience manager plays a critical role in optimizing spaces and connecting people to the physical environment. The future of work requires resilience in design, flexibility in setting types, and equity-based group engagement. Design decisions should be data-driven and measured for post-occupancy impact. The office of the future should address specific needs, provide community spaces, redefine meeting rooms, and capture the style of work derived from remote work experiences.
Office design plays a crucial role in shaping a company's brand identity and conveying its values. Thoughtfully designed spaces reflect a company's culture and aspirations, while also fostering trust and authenticity. Incorporating branding into reception areas, furniture choices, consistent color schemes, and personalized design can create a powerful visual narrative that leaves a lasting impression on employees, clients, and visitors.

Coworking

The co-working sector is experiencing changes in different cities across the United States. Manhattan saw a decrease in co-working spaces, partly due to WeWork's downsizing. Dallas-Fort Worth has seen an increase in co-working spaces despite weak demand for office space. Phoenix's co-working sector is growing, driven by population and employment growth. Washington, D.C. experienced a slight decrease in co-working spaces, while Raleigh-Durham rebounded with a 13% increase. Overall, the co-working sector remains resilient, with some cities showing steady growth and others facing fluctuations.
This article discusses the profitability of coworking spaces after the pandemic. It highlights that slightly more coworking spaces operated in the black compared to before the pandemic, but some groups fared worse. The article mentions that high occupancy rates, high density of desks and members, and private offices contribute to profitability. It also notes that older locations and larger chains were less likely to be profitable. The average margin of profitable coworking spaces was 20%, and small coworking spaces had the highest returns on investment.

Technology / Software

Sony's Nimway is a smart office solution that reduces friction and provides a seamless workplace experience. It allows employees to control their day, find spaces to work, and gain insights into space utilization. New features include Nimbubbles for location services, Arrive on Time reminders, and an Add a Room feature. The solution helps real estate and facility managers stay on top of changing space needs through real-time analytics and a dashboard. It uniquely manages peaks and valleys of space utilization with integrated sensors and supports ESG and wellness initiatives. Sony's expertise in AI and machine learning is leveraged in Nimway, and they will be showcasing their solutions and live workflows at CoreNet.

Green / Sustainability

In an interview with Wilkhahn's Sustainability Manager, Jörg Hoffmann, he discusses the company's commitment to the environment and its key considerations when selecting materials. Wilkhahn focuses on using materials that are suited for their intended use, low in emissions, and contribute to good indoor air quality. They also prioritize energy-efficient production and waste reduction. The company's sustainable practices extend to its partner firms, where audits are conducted to ensure social and ecological guidelines are followed. Wilkhahn also emphasizes circularity by offering refurbishment and recycling options for its products. The interview highlights specific sustainable products, such as swivel chairs made from recycled materials, and discusses Wilkhahn's efforts in using green energy, reducing electricity consumption, and optimizing transport logistics. The company aims to continue its research and development of environmentally-friendly materials and innovative manufacturing processes.

Landscape Forms Announces Industry-Leading Sustainability Initiatives
Landscape Forms, a designer and manufacturer of site furniture, has announced new sustainability initiatives. They have become a SITES Community Partner, prioritizing projects that enhance biodiversity and mitigate climate change. Additionally, they are conducting Life Cycle Analyses to assess the carbon footprint of their products. These initiatives aim to promote sustainability, accountability, and transparency in the industry.

Other News

Neo Chair, a small Korean company, has become the top-selling office chair brand on Amazon, surpassing foreign brands. It focuses on manufacturing high-quality office chairs at reasonable prices and prioritizes customer satisfaction over profits. The company directly ships its chairs from China and Vietnam to the US, offering free shipping and returns. Neo Chair's success is attributed to its big data analysis capabilities, customer feedback integration, and optimized information provision. The company plans to expand its market presence to the UK, Germany, France, Canada, and Italy, and aims to diversify into the home furniture market.

Latest Products

Kirei has launched seven new EchoLine acoustic panels as part of their Level Up collection. These panels offer elevated designs with smooth curves, precise lines, and beveled cuts, providing designers with a wide range of options. The panels not only absorb sound but also create inspiring and resonating spaces. Each panel can be custom-cut, and there are various designs available, including Crackle, Roman, Braid, Stucco, Santa Fe, Cloud City, and Emerald City. The panels are made from recycled PET felt and can be custom printed. Kirei also offers design services and support for project specifications.
Altispace offers two products, Illuminated Laminate Beams and Illuminated Acoustic Blades, that enhance the visual appeal of spaces while reducing noise. The Illuminated Acoustic Blades provide noise reduction and aesthetic elegance, with customizable options for size and color. The Illuminated Laminate Beams offer a wide range of laminate options for customization and style. Both products feature integrated LED lighting and lightweight construction, and can be tailored to fit unique space requirements. Altispace provides a cost-effective solution for transforming environments with a harmonious blend of aesthetics and acoustics. Info: https://altispace.com/
A strange office chair design called the Movably Pro features a split seat that can be used for one-legged standing or leaning against the backrest. The chair is currently being crowdfunded on IndieGogo and has already reached over two-thirds of its $95,000 goal with 28 days left to pledge. The chair is priced at $1,500.
Thermaltake's 'X Comfort Air' is a gaming chair with active cooling fans to keep gamers comfortable. It utilizes a wind-blocker frame to efficiently direct cool air and has an optimized design for lower power consumption and higher airflow. This introduces active cooling features in gaming and office furniture, and presents opportunities for innovation in ergonomic seating.

Trends in Commercial Projects from Around the Globe

Developer Skanska USA has partnered with architecture firm Perkins + Will to create outdoor workspaces at the proposed 15-story office project at 1811 Sacramento St. in Downtown Los Angeles’ Arts District. The project aims to incorporate functional outdoor spaces into post-pandemic office design, recognizing the rising demand for outdoor workspace. The outdoor segment of the property will feature passive design principles, natural resources, and various seating options with tech connections. Outdoor workspace has been found to enhance well-being, cognition, creativity, and social interaction, contributing to greater productivity. Skanska is leading the charge in outdoor office space, having already developed similar spaces in other Los Angeles projects.
William Duff Architects' new San Francisco offices, located in the South of Market neighborhood, showcase a modern aesthetic and sustainable design. The 7,200 sqft space repurposes a historic building, highlighting its manufacturing past while incorporating modern elements. The office features an open floor plan, a statement staircase, conference rooms, and a café with reclaimed redwood joists. The design prioritizes occupant health and comfort, with energy-efficient systems and a hybrid-style work environment. The project involved collaboration with various consultants and suppliers to achieve the desired outcome.
Iratzoki Studio has transformed an old carpentry workshop into a multifunctional office space in the Basque Country. The restoration respects the existing structure and surroundings, with exposed beams and a bespoke piece of furniture dividing the space. The office includes a prototype workshop, meeting room, kitchen, and rest area. Energy efficiency is maximized with insulation and underfloor heating. The exterior is planted with wisteria and ivy, blending it into the rural setting. The studio's new visual identity, inspired by nature and traditions, will be launched with a new website. The cohesive aesthetic reflects the beauty of their furniture creations.
British-Nigerian artist and designer Mimi Shodeinde transformed a former pottery studio into a warm and inviting corporate office for venture capital firm Giant Ventures in London. The space features abundant natural light, sustainable raw materials, and a mix of neutral tones with pops of color. Wood plays a prominent role, and the office showcases a collection of vintage National Geographic magazines and artwork by renowned artists. The result is a unique and elevated workspace that feels cozy and professional.

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

Nevers Appoints Isela Chavez as Territory Sales Specialist
Isela Villarreal-Chavez has been appointed as the Territory Sales Specialist for Nevers Industries, based in Houston, Texas. With a background in commercial furniture and interior design, Isela brings versatility and experience to support the company's central US sales territories. She is known for her multitasking abilities, self-starting attitude, and strong organizational skills. Isela holds a degree in interior design and has been involved in national and international design projects. Outside of work, she enjoys home remodeling and volunteering for the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.

Ethosource Promotes Jake Ruth to Installation Manager
Ethosource announced the promotion of Jake Ruth to the role of Installation Manager. Ruth will oversee all installation operations, ensuring seamless execution and maintaining Ethosource's commitment to excellence.

HON Showcases Amenities Driven Workplace as the Premier Sponsor of ISG Industry Week 23’
The HON Company sponsored ISG Industry Week 23' in New Orleans, showcasing amenities-driven workplace solutions and products such as Flexion and HON Ignition 2.0. The event provided networking opportunities, educational seminars, and insights from industry experts for approximately 800 attendees from the business products community.

3 is a Magic Number: Furniture Firm Launches Collaboration with Leading Design Studios
Furniture Fusion, a leading contract furniture firm in the UK, has launched a collaboration called '3 is a Magic Number' with three design studios for the upcoming HIX2023 event. The collaboration showcases unique hotel designs in the areas of lounge & lobby, restaurant & bar, and bedroom, featuring Furniture Fusion's bespoke furniture and sustainable materials. The project highlights the creative approach of each studio and their partnership with Furniture Fusion in bringing future-facing interiors to life. The final designs will be unveiled on 16 November at London's Business Design Centre.

Resource Furniture Celebrates Its Roots with Clei’s 60th Anniversary
Resource Furniture celebrates the 60th anniversary of Clei S.r.l., the Italian furniture pioneer known for its innovative transforming designs. Resource Furniture became the exclusive distributor of Clei's furniture solutions in 2007. Clei's goal was to reinvent the Murphy bed concept, and Resource Furniture found success in offering space-saving solutions during the 2008 financial crisis. Today, Resource Furniture and Clei continue to innovate together, with the latest launch being a customizable wall bed called the LGM.

Configura becomes reseller of Twinmotion
Configura is now an authorized reseller of Twinmotion, offering an exclusive bundle on their Marketplace. The bundle includes a one-year CET Twinmotion Extension license and a perpetual Twinmotion license, allowing users to seamlessly sync CET drawings with Twinmotion for stunning visualizations and presentations.

Woman-Owned and Led Office Furniture Plus Unveils One of the Nation's Largest Office Furniture Showrooms
Woman-Owned and Led Office Furniture Plus has opened one of the largest office furniture showrooms in the United States. Located in Irving, Texas, the showroom spans over 100,000 square feet and offers a wide selection of new and used office furniture. The showroom showcases the "Blended Office Furniture" trend, providing cost-effective and sustainable solutions. Office Furniture Plus, a subsidiary of Total Office Solutions, invites business owners and interior designers to explore their showroom and find the perfect office furniture solutions.

Perkins&Will Opens New Studio in Kansas City, Strengthening Presence in the U.S. Heartland
Perkins&Will has opened a new studio in Kansas City to meet the growing demand from clients in the U.S. Midwest. The studio will offer comprehensive design solutions in various sectors, including sports, healthcare, higher education, and sustainability consulting. With a diverse economy and a concentration of animal health companies, Kansas City is an ideal location for design solutions that respond to evolving markets. Perkins&Will has a strong presence in the region and is committed to delivering world-class service to its clients.

IIDA NY Celebrates 21st Anniversary of Color Invasion®
IIDA NY is celebrating the 21st anniversary of Color Invasion®, an event that raises awareness and support for the Pajama Program and IIDA NY student awards programs. The event will feature a Gala of Thieves theme, with guests encouraged to dress in costumes. Attendees will enjoy an experiential journey, live entertainment, and a DJ, with surprises and creatively designed spaces throughout the venue. Color Invasion® has partnered with the Pajama Program, and attendees are encouraged to bring donations of new pajamas and storybooks. Event sponsorships and tickets are available. For tickets, visit Eventbrite’s Color Invasion® 2023 link.

MillerKnoll to Lead Discussions and Debut Research and Designs at the 2023 Healthcare Design Conference and Expo
MillerKnoll is preparing for the 2023 Healthcare Design Conference and Expo (HCD - November 4th-7th in New Orleans) where they will showcase their brands' fresh perspective on designing healthcare environments. They will present research, designs, and nearly 50 healthcare products, including a sensory-friendly chair co-designed with the Center for Autism and Neurodiversity. Dr. Michelle Ossmann, Director of Health Knowledge & Innovation at MillerKnoll, will speak at workshops and educational sessions. MillerKnoll also sponsors the MillerKnoll Healthcare Scholarship, sending emerging architecture professionals to the conference. The 2023 HCD will take place in New Orleans, Louisiana, highlighting the latest research, strategies, and innovative products in healthcare design.
The article discusses the inspiration behind the "WTF is Happening to the Office?" video series by Work Design Magazine. It highlights the transformation of the work environment, the challenges faced by the commercial office market, and the need for workplace design to address intangible human concerns. The series emphasizes the importance of inclusive conversations, strategic prioritization, and creating work environments that support, engage, and empower individuals and teams. The series aims to uncover the path towards creating supportive, healthy, sustainable, and high-performing workspaces.

Bjelin Expands Us Reach with Spartan Partnership
Bjelin has partnered with Spartan Surfaces to expand its reach in the US market. Spartan Surfaces will serve as the national distribution partner for Bjelin's commercial hardened wood range. This collaboration aligns with Bjelin's expansion plans and demonstrates their commitment to the commercial sector. Bjelin's flooring, made with innovative technologies, is three times stronger than engineered wood floors and more resistant to dents and water. The range is ideal for heavy-traffic areas and features a leakproof floor-locking system for quick and waterproof installation. Bjelin's products are made with responsibly sourced wood and the production process allows for more flooring to be produced from each log.
Find the best Contract Furniture Industry jobs and hire the best talent.
Dear Stephen, I'm in my mid-thirties, and I'm a sales rep for a contract furniture company. During the pandemic, business was really slow, and I was afraid I was going to be laid off, so I took a second job because I knew that I wasn't going to make my sales goal and my commissions were going to be down.
Innovations is looking for a Digital Marketing Coordinator to join our Marketing Department to assist in the development and execution of marketing plans for our website, social media, and email campaigns.
As the Healthcare Account Manager, you will be responsible for the planning and management of all aspects of Healthcare Accounts, from the selling process, through design, project management, and the completion of the project, exercising discretion and independent judgment to ensure the highest level of customer satisfaction.
As the Healthcare Account Manager, you will be responsible for the planning and management of all aspects of Healthcare Accounts, from the selling process, through design, project management, and the completion of the project, exercising discretion and independent judgment to ensure the highest level of customer satisfaction.
As a Senior Designer, you will be responsible for applying Pivot’s creative expertise and design services to support new and existing clients.
As a Senior Designer, you will be responsible for applying Pivot’s creative expertise and design services to support new and existing clients.
RT London is seeking a Regional Sales Manager to cover the Pacific Northwest. They will be responsible for developing new business, managing the sales process and providing excellent customer service to our customers.
Intelligent Office Furniture is seeking experienced individuals and established groups within the Eastern USA, Midwest, and Southern Markets who are looking to grow and diversify their portfolio.
As an On-Site Client Design Specialist, you will play a key role in partnering directly with our clients in the field at their facilities to achieve seamless moves, adds, and reconfigurations of their existing workspaces.
OED, one of the industry’s leading Independent Manufacturer’s Rep organizations, is looking for a Representative to enhance our Georgia coverage. Position is based in our premier Midtown Atlanta showroom.
OCI Seating a leading mid-market contract furniture manufacturer is rapidly growing and is in need of experienced sales reps for several open territories across the US.
Rightsize Facility is excited to invite a charismatic and strategic sales leader to join our vibrant team.
MOD, a leader in power and lighting components for furniture in the workplace, hospitality, education furniture industry is seeking an energetic and motivated individual to join our team as a Territory Sales Representative.
Working with our education sales & design teams, we are currently seeking an interior designer to provide software & design expertise in presenting furniture solutions for today’s classrooms.
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