The Office is entering its lounge era / The End of an Era: The Rise and Fall of Trendway Corporation / The return-to-office debate may settling down—in a way that makes everyone unhappy / SRG Partnership Merges with CannonDesign to Forge a Future of Sustainable and Socially Responsible Architecture / Arper to Open New Showroom Space in Chicago  / ‘Zombie Offices’ Spell Trouble for Some Banks / Where Office Development is Happening / CBRE Could Pay More Than $1B To Buy Global Facilities Management Firm / Visits To Dallas-Area Office Buildings Down 34% From Pre-Pandemic Levels / Mercato Place Continues its Evolution as the Go-To Source for Samples / Why More Corporate Offices Are Moving to Suburban Downtowns / Bring Office Cubicles Back; Improve Employee Productivity, Hybrid Work / Is There Still a Place for Desks in the Modern Office? / Alluring Tenants with Reimagined Properties and Hospitality-Infused Amenities / and much more…


The Working Space
Monday, February 12, 2024

The Rundown

Navigating Change in the Office Furniture Industry and Beyond
The upcoming closure of Trendway Corporation, a mainstay in the Holland-area business community since 1968, signifies a poignant end to an era in the American office furniture industry. Once celebrated for its innovative office systems, seating, and movable walls, Trendway's journey from inception to its closure under Fellowes Brands Inc. encapsulates the broader shifts and challenges within the sector.

In 2019, Fellowes Brands, an Illinois-based family-run business, acquired Trendway as part of a strategy to diversify and strengthen its presence in the office furniture market. However, less than five years later, Fellowes announced the shutdown of Trendway's operations by July 2024, citing irreparable business conditions. This decision affects over 100 employees and underscores the harsh realities of evolving market demands and technological advancements.

This event is emblematic of the wider transformations in the office furniture industry and the corporate world at large. Companies like Arper are expanding their footprint, with new showrooms opening in Chicago, showcasing a blend of community, hospitality, and sustainable design. Meanwhile, platforms like Mercato Place are evolving as essential resources for architects and designers, offering an expansive selection of material samples.

The merger of SRG Partnership with CannonDesign highlights a growing emphasis on sustainable and socially responsible architecture, reflecting the industry's pivot towards environmental and community-centric projects. However, the debate over the return-to-office model persists, with a hybrid work model emerging as a compromise that satisfies neither employers nor employees fully.

Commercial real estate and office development are witnessing a downturn, with significant reductions in new office space construction. Yet, cities like Boston and Manhattan continue to see new developments, suggesting a nuanced landscape of demand and supply. The acquisition of J&J Worldwide Services by CBRE Group points to a strategic expansion in facilities management, indicating a shift towards more integrated and service-oriented business models.

The concept of "zombie offices" highlights the ongoing challenges in the commercial real estate sector, with a significant portion of office loans underwater, posing risks to banks and financial institutions. This situation calls for innovative solutions, such as the adoption of modular architecture to enhance office adaptability and flexibility, catering to the evolving needs of the modern workforce.

As companies strive to attract tenants and employees back to office spaces, the introduction of hospitality-infused amenities and the reimagining of workspaces to include more private and communal areas reflect a shift towards creating more engaging and comfortable environments.

The integration of AI in interior design is revolutionizing the field, offering new tools for creativity and efficiency. Meanwhile, the coworking space industry, as seen in the attempts by WeWork's co-founder Adam Neumann to reclaim control of the company, underscores the ongoing evolution and challenges within the workspace domain.

In conclusion, the closure of Trendway Corporation, alongside the developments in office design, coworking spaces, and the commercial real estate sector, underscores the need for ongoing innovation, sustainability, and adaptation to shifting market dynamics. As the landscape of work and workspace continues to evolve, companies and industries must navigate these changes with strategic foresight and a commitment to sustainability and community values.

Industry News

The End of an Era: The Rise and Fall of Trendway Corporation

The closure of Trendway Corporation, a staple of the Holland-area business community since 1968, marks a significant end to a notable chapter in the American office furniture industry. Once a thriving manufacturer known for its innovative office systems, seating, and movable walls, Trendway's journey from its inception to its ultimate demise under the ownership of Fellowes Brands Inc. reflects broader trends and challenges within the industry.

In 2019, Fellowes Brands, an Illinois-based, family-run business known for its office and technology accessories, acquired Trendway. This move was part of a broader strategy to expand its portfolio and footprint in the office furniture market. However, less than five years post-acquisition, Fellowes announced the difficult decision to shut down Trendway's operations by 2024, citing the business's descent into a state "beyond salvage."

The shutdown will affect the nearly half a million square foot facility located at 13467 Quincy St. in Holland Township, impacting over 100 employees. Some of these employees have dedicated decades of their lives to the plant, contributing significantly to the local economy and the industry at large.

Fellowes Brands' strategy shift, which includes discontinuing various products within its contract furniture lineup, signals a significant pivot in its business model. Despite investments in system upgrades and process enhancements aimed at rejuvenating Trendway, these efforts proved futile. The company's investments in 2023 to update enterprise resource planning and warehouse management systems were deemed disproportionate, leading to what was described as an "unrecoverable condition."

CEO John Fellowes acknowledged the exhaustive efforts and resources deployed in a bid to salvage Trendway, stating that these efforts ultimately fell short of their brand promise and financial obligations. In a poignant acknowledgment of the workforce, the company expressed gratitude for their service and committed to supporting their transition, reflecting its core values even in the face of difficult decisions.

The closure of Trendway is not just the end of a business but also a reflection of the evolving landscape of the office furniture industry, marked by changing workplace dynamics and technological advancements. Fellowes Brands plans to continue its presence in the contract furniture market, focusing on products like monitor arms, power solutions, and air quality solutions, suggesting a shift towards a more technology-oriented portfolio.

This story of Trendway's rise and fall underlines the challenges companies face in adapting to changing market conditions and the impact of strategic decisions on local communities and the broader industry. It's a reminder of the impermanence in the business world and the need for ongoing innovation and adaptation. As Fellowes Brands looks to the future, the legacy of Trendway serves as a poignant lesson in the complexities of corporate acquisitions and market shifts.

Arper to Open New Showroom Space in Chicago
Arper, a global design brand, will open its first Chicago showroom in the Fulton Market district. The standalone showroom aims to reach a broader audience and showcase Arper's portfolio in various settings. The 4,500-square-foot space, designed by Charlie Green Studio, will feature an outdoor area and emphasize community, hospitality, and design. Arper plans to host a grand opening celebration and events to engage with partners and clients. The showroom embodies sustainability and offers a studio-like setting for designers and clients to browse and specify solutions tailored to their needs.

Mercato Place Continues its Evolution as the Go-To Source for Samples
Mercato Place, a platform for architects and designers, celebrates its two-year anniversary as the go-to source for material samples. With curated categories like textiles, wall coverings, and furniture, Mercato Place offers a simplified way to discover and order samples from trusted brands. The platform continues to expand, adding popular residential brands and offering exclusive features like CURATOR for personalized assistance. Backed by Thoroughbred Fulfillment, Mercato Place plans to add more categories and services in the future.

SRG Partnership Merges with CannonDesign to Forge a Future of Sustainable and Socially Responsible Architecture
SRG Partnership and CannonDesign have merged to expand their collective impact in sustainable and socially responsible architecture. The merger adds SRG's studios in Portland and Seattle to CannonDesign's network, creating a total of 18 offices and over 1,300 teammates across North America and India. The firms share a commitment to designing spaces that benefit people, communities, and the environment. The merger is expected to enhance their architectural style, design culture, and expertise in sustainable design.
After years of debate and flip-flopping, most knowledge workers and employers have settled on a hybrid work model, but questions remain about its long-term sustainability. Studies show a clear divide between workers who prefer remote work and those concerned about a return to the office. Employers have sought to bring workers back but faced backlash and protests. A recent study suggests that a three-day in-office compromise is emerging as the norm, but neither employers nor employees are entirely satisfied. While employers may be ready to move on, workers value flexibility and remote options. The labor market dynamics and a shrinking population may eventually shift the balance of power towards workers. Most office workers are willing to settle for a hybrid compromise, but the debate continues, and many employers have not fully embraced flexibility.
According to an analysis by CommercialCafe, major cities in the US, including Boston, San Francisco, Seattle, San Diego, and Austin, are experiencing significant increases in office space under construction. Nationally, 97 million square feet of office space is currently in development, 28% less than in 2023. While Boston leads in the amount of space being added, Manhattan is home to the largest structures, such as the 22-story 4 Hudson Square and the Terminal Warehouse Redevelopment. Other notable developments include Sacramento's Richards Boulevard Office Complex, Seattle's Tower 1 at Bellevue 600, and Cleveland's Sherwin Williams HQ. However, the $1 billion office project in Charlotte, 1030 Centene Court, is facing challenges as Centene pulled out of the arrangement due to the remote work trend.
CBRE Group is set to acquire J&J Worldwide Services, a facilities maintenance provider for over 250 federal government establishments, for an initial cash purchase price of $800M. An additional $250M will be paid in 2027, contingent on J&J meeting performance standards. The acquisition aligns with CBRE's strategy to enhance technical services capabilities, increase revenue resilience and growth, and expand their government client base.
Foot traffic to Dallas-area office buildings remains significantly below pre-pandemic levels, with visits down over 34% compared to four years ago. However, Dallas outperforms the national average, which saw a 42.1% decline. Other cities like Miami and New York had smaller declines, while San Francisco and Chicago had larger gaps in return-to-office rates. Despite this, Dallas still has a high office vacancy rate and a significant amount of new office space under construction.
A slow-burning crisis is unfolding in the commercial real estate sector, particularly in office buildings, as employees continue to work from home and high interest rates erode the value of properties. A recent study estimates that 14 percent of all commercial real estate loans and 44 percent of office loans are underwater. Banks holding a significant portion of America's commercial real estate debt are at risk of significant losses, with the question being whether the impact will be a slow bleed or a panic-inducing wave. The recent troubles at New York Community Bank serve as a reminder that many lenders are likely to face pain. Regulators are closely monitoring the situation, but the potential for a broader panic remains.

Features

A new report from WeWork reveals a shift in office design towards more informal spaces like lounges and cafes. This trend is driven by a decrease in demand for executive offices and an increase in requests for communal areas. The pandemic has played a role in this shift, as people have become accustomed to working in unconventional spaces. WeWork's design strategy now focuses on creating flexible spaces that can serve multiple purposes. A current trend is to incorporate quiet spaces within lounge areas.
Companies are embracing modular architecture to make offices more adaptable and flexible. By using prefabricated rooms and modular construction techniques, office spaces can easily be reconfigured to meet the changing needs of the users. This approach reduces downtime between tenants, allows for continuous evolution of office spaces, and provides flexibility for organizational changes. Modular architecture also offers sustainability benefits and enables businesses to cater to diverse workstyles. Designing offices as iterative products requires a shift in mindset and forward-thinking by developers and property owners. This approach can enhance office efficiency, adaptability, and comfort, while also increasing employee engagement and satisfaction.

Workspace News

More corporate offices are choosing to relocate to suburban downtowns due to the draws of downtown areas, the benefits for employees, and the positive impact on the community. Suburban downtowns offer highly amenitized buildings, access to conveniences, and proximity to green spaces. Employees also benefit from a sense of community and local engagement. By collaborating with the public and private sectors, corporations can enhance suburban downtowns, boost local economies, and create vibrant, economically viable areas.
Young associates in law firms desire workplaces that support collaboration, flexibility, and technology. They value open spaces that foster idea exchange, hybrid work models that allow for some remote work, and offices equipped with advanced technology for seamless connectivity. The physical workspace plays a critical role in staff retention, particularly among younger associates who tend to job-hop more frequently. Law firms that invest in these areas are likely to attract and retain top talent.

Trends

The cubicle, once detested, is making a comeback as workers yearn for privacy and focus in the office. Open-office layouts, initially embraced for collaboration, have faced criticism for noise and distractions. Studies show mixed results on the impact of office design on communication and productivity. The return of the cubicle reflects a tension between building camaraderie and getting work done, as well as the rise of hybrid work. Ultimately, workers' attitudes about office design are influenced by the broader economic landscape and the need for a space where they feel valued.
The allocation of desk space in modern offices is evolving due to the rise of lounge-style seating and hybrid work models. Organizations are reducing desk space and prioritizing collaborative areas. Office furniture choices are also changing to accommodate collaboration and privacy. Sensors can provide data on office space utilization, and desk reservation software streamlines desk allocation. The future of office design may involve offices without desks, with advanced sensor technologies and software playing a crucial role in optimizing space usage and promoting flexibility and collaboration.
To attract tenants, commercial building landlords are reimagining properties with refreshed lobby spaces and high-end tenant lounges. Hospitality-inspired amenities, such as social spaces, outdoor areas, and on-site dining, are in high demand. First impressions are crucial, so the design of the lobby should set the tone for the building. Wellness and comfort are also important, with spaces for relaxation and calm being incorporated into designs. Outdoor spaces that connect tenants with nature are beneficial, and amenity programs such as wine bars, fitness centers, and team sports facilities can enhance the appeal. These strategies can redefine market positioning and increase leasing activity.
At Heimtextil, the global fair for textiles, six trends for the future of textiles were highlighted. These trends include unconventional plant-based textiles, textile technologies focusing on resource use, bioengineered textiles, textiles adopting regenerative design principles, colors drawn from the earth, and meeting sustainability standards. The trends reflect a growing emphasis on sustainability, upcycling, and innovative materials in the textile industry.

Design

As employees are asked to return to in-person work, having their own private bathroom is a luxury they value highly. A recent survey found that 20% of workers consider having their own bathroom while working from home a "total game changer" and a key reason they don't want to return to offices. Some employers are revamping restrooms in their open-office spaces by adding more single-stall bathrooms or redesigning communal bathroom stalls to offer more privacy. The cleanliness of the bathrooms is also important to employees.
Designing workplace spaces that promote Zen can have a significant impact on employee well-being, reducing stress and anxiety while enhancing focus and overall happiness. This article suggests ten ideas to design for workplace Zen, including prioritizing natural light, using subdued colors, incorporating aromatherapy and fresh air, considering speech privacy, providing healthy food options, ensuring access to water, using soft materials, and prioritizing comfort and ergonomics.

Green / Stainability

According to a report from BDO, office buildings with high efficiency and sustainability ratings have higher service charges compared to other offices. Buildings with BREEAM certification had service charges 26% higher, while sustainable offices with an EPC rating of A or B had charges 6% higher. The report also found that service charges for office accommodation rose by an average of 10% in 2023, with the highest costs seen in the least efficient offices. Service charge costs were higher in London compared to other regions.

ai

The article discusses how AI is revolutionizing the interior design industry. It highlights the use of generative AI by architects, graphic designers, and artists to automate tasks, experiment with new concepts, and create installations. The article also features insights from four top interior designers who have implemented AI in their studios, including the use of custom GPTs to match their aesthetic, the potential for AI to assist with spatial planning and drawing plans at scale, and the importance of human taste and creativity in collaboration with AI. The designers emphasize that while AI is a valuable tool, it will never replace the human touch and the iterative design process.

Coworking

The Latest on WeWork
Adam Neumann, co-founder and former CEO of WeWork, is making headlines (again) with his ambitious attempt to reclaim control of the once-thriving coworking company, now firmly in chapter 11 bankruptcy. Supported by hedge fund manager Daniel Loeb of Third Point, Neumann's bid involves his real estate company, Flow Global, actively pushing to purchase WeWork. Despite the bankruptcy that has plagued the company, Neumann's efforts underscore his continued influence and knack for drawing financial backing, highlighted by his personal accumulation of wealth and his partnership with billionaire Loeb.

The endeavor has been marked by frustration from Neumann's side, particularly with WeWork's current management's reluctance to engage or provide essential information for the acquisition process. A letter from Neumann's legal team has voiced these concerns, alongside a proposal for a $200 million debtor-in-possession facility, aiming to secure the company's operations amidst financial restructuring. WeWork, on its end, maintains that it is reviewing all external interests but is focused on its plans to mitigate rent expenses and restructure internally, hoping to preserve its independence and financial stability without external acquisition.

Critics of Neumann's bid express skepticism, pointing to his tumultuous tenure as CEO and the massive debt burdening WeWork, arguing that his leadership may not be the solution to revitalize the company. They suggest that for WeWork to have a viable future, it would require a management team with a proven track record in the coworking industry, rather than returning to the leadership that led to its financial woes.

Despite these challenges, Neumann's proposal, with potential backing from Loeb's Third Point, indicates a strategic move to not only buy back the company but also possibly take on its considerable debts. This has raised questions about the company's valuation and the feasibility of such a takeover. However, Neumann's history of attracting investment and navigating the real estate market remains a critical factor that could sway the deal in his favor, potentially allowing him to further enhance his fortune and reaffirm his stature in the industry.

In the midst of these developments, WeWork's stance reflects a cautious approach to any takeover bids, emphasizing regular reviews of expressions of interest while prioritizing its restructuring efforts. The company's reluctance to provide detailed information for Neumann's bid suggests a complex negotiation process ahead, with the outcome poised to significantly impact the future of WeWork and its position in the coworking space industry.

Other News

Maharam supports Formafantasma at the Stockholm Furniture Fair with their Reading Room installation, featuring the Artek Forest Collection and textile Gemma by Sander Lak. The Reading Room provides a space for reflection and showcases Formafantasma's work, including films on wood production. Maharam's textile donation to educational institutions extends the installation's life beyond the fair. Formafantasma is a research-based design studio, while Maharam is a leading creator of textiles for interiors.
Form Us With Love has transformed its studio into a pop-up workspace called Testing Grounds for Stockholm Design Week. The space will serve as a live experiment, inviting architects and interior designers to test new furniture designs and provoke conversations about the future of the office. The aim is to create adaptable workplaces through a systems-led approach to design, with a focus on modularity and customization. The exhibition features four new product ranges, including flexible power outlets, a reconfigurable office chair system, a hybrid collection of chairs and tables, and a modular lighting system.
The post-pandemic era has brought about changes in the role of sales representatives in the design industry. In-person meetings have been replaced by more targeted interactions, often conducted remotely. Designers now rely more on reps for curated samples and recommendations, considering them as part of their team. While designers have less time for reps, they trust them more. Digital tools and user-friendly websites have become essential for reps to connect with designers and tailor their offerings. The shift towards digital platforms has opened up new opportunities for reps to reach designers outside their local area. Despite the challenges, reps are finding ways to adapt and make meaningful connections with designers.

Latest Product News

Allsteel introduces the Admix Table Collection, a versatile and adaptable solution for collaboration in the evolving workplace. The collection offers a range of ancillary options and tabletop shapes, including a V-Shape table for hybrid meetings. Sustainability is prioritized with interchangeable casters and glides, low VOC materials, and environmentally responsible design choices. Admix aims to create equity and versatility in hybrid settings while empowering designers to curate workspaces that meet unique requirements. 
Hightower has released new additions to its Nest collections, including slimmer variations of Nest System Tables with customizable configurations and an integrated table option. The Nest Easy seating now offers an 11" stationary integrated table and coordinating ottomans. These enhancements aim to improve the user experience and provide more options for customers. For more information, visit hightower.design/collections.
David Allan Pesso introduces the Dayton occasional table series, designed to bring a minimalist residential feel into commercial and institutional spaces. The series consists of interchangeable frames and table tops, offering multiple options for finishes and scales. The collection is versatile, cost-conscious, and suitable for various workplace needs. Plural Studios, the distributor, supports the concept of creating adaptable furniture solutions that bring people together.
Carl Hansen & Son introduces the VLA26 Vega Chair with a chrome-plated steel frame. Designed by Vilhelm Lauritzen in 1956, the lightweight and stackable chair is now available for both private and public use. The chrome frame adds a beautiful contrast to the warm wood and upholstery, while the solid oak feet and craftsman-like details create an elegant look. The chair is available now.
The Stack chair, designed by Martini & Dall'Agnol, is a fastener-free, easy-to-assemble polypropylene chair that ships in two pieces and can be snapped together. It is suitable for indoor or outdoor use and is produced by Italian furniture brand Midj.
J+J Flooring's Warp & Weft collection is a new tufted carpet plank collection inspired by woven textiles. The collection offers three styles with different scales of design and texture, and comes in 10 coordinating color options. The collection is designed to create unique floorscapes with virtually invisible plank edges and is suitable for high-traffic areas. The carpet planks are made with Encore SD Ultima Nylon for maximum performance and sustainability. They can be easily coordinated with other products from J+J Flooring's portfolio.
OFGO STUDIO announces a curated offering of new laminates, carefully selected to meet design trends and market demand. The new finishes include Venetian Walnut, Golden Oak, and Hardrock Maple, and will be available on all laminate products. The laminates feature premium construction and contribute to recycling efforts. Linea Vanilla and Riviera Maple laminates will be phased out. 
Treefrog Veneer is celebrating its 20th anniversary by introducing 11 new prefinished woods, including seven new Designer Veneers. The collection now includes six veneers by Piero Lissoni, offering a more natural structure. Sottsass Grey, designed by Ettore Sottsass, is a standout veneer. As part of its anniversary, Treefrog has improved its prefinished veneers with a more flexible and greener color-matched wood backer. The new Designer Series is FSC certified, and Treefrog's production process prioritizes sustainability. 
Fräsch has unveiled 22 new colors of 9mm PET in its product catalog, refreshing its offerings after 18 months of research and feedback. The new colors include greens, purples, blues, browns, and grays. The launch was preceded by Fräsch reps receiving sample boxes, and more information will be shared on the company's social channels and website. Fräsch specializes in acoustical design and sustainable solutions, offering custom and existing products made from eco-friendly PET felt.
Framery, a Finnish soundproof pod pioneer, has launched the Framery Connect suite, a smart office solution that helps employees find secure spaces to meet, focus, and work in seconds. The suite includes sensors, an analytics platform, and an app that allow companies to optimize office space and provide employees with a convenient way to book spaces. The technology has already been adopted by over 12,000 companies worldwide, including H&M, Puma, and LinkedIn.

Trends in Commercial Projects from Around the Globe

Method Architecture designed a creative and colorful office space in Houston, Texas. The space features a multi-wall mural by local artist David Maldonado, exposed ceilings with decorative elements, a white creative conference room, and a combination of three different carpet styles. The office also includes a white brick wall with a drip paint mural, meeting booths with psychedelic-inspired fabrics, and distinctive light fixtures. The design aims to create a dynamic and engaging workspace that fosters creativity.
Mailchimp's new headquarters in Atlanta is a creative and art-filled space. The 360,000 square feet office features murals by local and international artists, color-coded floors, and themed breakout rooms. The tower can accommodate up to 1,000 employees and includes amenities like a fitness center, cafeteria, event spaces, and a dedicated maker space. The office reflects Mailchimp's charm and commitment to creating a desirable workplace.
Kinzo, an architecture and interior design office, has completed a city-themed office for Evangelisches Siedlungswerk (ESW) in Munich. The renovation and relocation of the main office allows ESW to be more accessible to its residents. The office features wooden cuboids that create separate areas, glass-fronted rooms for meetings, and additional storage space. The design incorporates sustainable materials and a color palette that reflects the vibrant neighborhood. The office provides a modern space for collaboration and concentration.

Upcoming Industry Events

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.

Upcoming:
Workspace Design Show reveals all-encompassing speaker programme
The Workspace Design Show, taking place on February 27-28, 2024, in London, will feature over 120 speakers across various discourse elements, including the Workspace Design Talks programme, Sustainability Works, the Occupiers Forum, and the FIS Conference. The event aims to bring together industry professionals to exchange insights on workplace design and showcase innovative ideas.

Industry Briefing

Kin to Bolster Boss North American Sales Team

Boss Design has announced a new partnership with Kin Reps, a well-respected representative in the architecture and design community. This collaboration aims to amplify the reach of Boss brand products across the North American market.

Kin Reps are more than just sales representatives - they're advocates, educators, marketers, and project managers. The team, led by co-founder Amy Rudkin, is proud to join forces with Boss Design. Amy explains, "Our strategy has always focused on working with first-rate manufacturers and we’re proud to be selected to join the Boss Design team."

Since its inception in 2016, Kin Reps has made a name for itself in the commercial furniture sector, representing a select group of high-quality, design-orientated brands. The team, including industry veterans Amy Rudkin, Kyle Rudkin, and Sandy Borland, has a proven track record of supporting customers with complex schemes in collaboration with dealer and design partners.

Dan Chong, President of Boss Design North America, expressed his excitement about the partnership, stating, "We’re excited to have Kin Reps join the Boss Design family. They have deep roots in the A&D community and they know what it takes not just to bring projects to life but to shape destination spaces for customers."

Kin Reps will work closely with architectural and design clients across North America, highlighting the unique design DNA of Boss Design. While the furniture lines were initially conceived in the UK, they have a strong European design heritage and have been localized for the US market at the Boss Design facility in High Point, North Carolina.

Amy Rudkin is especially excited to promote the Boss Design range, stating, "Boss Design creates comfortable, high-quality, ergonomic furniture that deserves a wider audience in the United States. It’s a company with a long heritage in furniture manufacturing and upholstery and a design ethos that blends clean, contemporary lines with accents of the European furniture-making tradition and a sustainable approach. All these factors have strong appeal with discerning customers."

This partnership marks a significant step in Boss Design's expansion in North America, promising to bring its unique blend of European design and American manufacturing to a wider audience.

The Mitchell Group Welcomes Nikki Rubalcaba as Sales Leader for New York Region
Nikki Rubalcaba has joined The Mitchell Group as the major account sales representative for the New York region. With extensive experience in the contract textile industry, Rubalcaba will be a valuable resource for clients in need of performance coated textiles. She brings a strong background in product design and has worked with leading commercial textile companies. Rubalcaba also represents Crypton for woven products and holds degrees in buying and merchandising, as well as production management of textiles.

COFCO, a Henricksen Company, Appoints Joanna Verdi VP of Sales for Washington D.C. Region
COFCO, a Henricksen Company, has appointed Joanna Verdi as the new Vice President of Sales for its Washington, DC office. With her background in real estate, construction, and engineering, Joanna brings valuable insights and a proven track record for delivering quality-driven, large-scale projects. She will lead the organization's expansion efforts in the Washington DC metropolitan area, aiming to provide boutique-like client service experiences and deliver leading-edge product solutions.

Ethosource Announces New Account Executives, Jessica Wilkinson and Jack Cossa
Ethosource, a leading provider of pre-owned, refurbished, and new office furniture, announces the hiring of Jessica Wilkinson and Jack Cossa as Account Executives. Jessica brings a wealth of experience in sales, while Jack brings a fresh perspective as a recent graduate. They will collaborate with the team to elevate sales efforts and contribute to Ethosource's commitment to excellence and client satisfaction.

Perkins&Will Announces New Interior Design Leadership for the Firm’s Dallas Studio
Perkins&Will has announced new interior design leadership for their Dallas studio. Courtney Johnston and Amber Wernick will oversee the interiors practice, while Sarah Wicker will head a new local branded environments practice. Mary Alex Turner has also joined as the business development manager. The new team members will join existing principals and design principals to continue building on the firm's distinguished portfolio. Perkins&Will is a research-based architecture and design firm committed to designing a better world.

Creative Office Resources Elevates Candice Gould and Holyn Nickerson to Managing Principals
Creative Office Resources has promoted Candice Gould to Managing Principal, Operations, and Holyn Nickerson to Managing Principal, Business Development. These promotions recognize their exceptional leadership and contributions to the company's success. The CEO and CMO express confidence in their abilities to strengthen the company's strategic vision.

Landscape Forms Celebrates 27 Design Awards and Recognitions in 2023

In 2023, Landscape Forms, North America’s leading designer and manufacturer of high-design site furniture, structure, LED lighting, and accessories, received 27 design awards and recognitions from leading industry organizations and publications. The awards recognized the company’s products for their excellence, innovation and outstanding sustainability efforts. Three products in particular stood out: The Theory line of street and transit furnishings, the Backdrop modular outdoor structure system, and the Typology Collection of seating and lighting.

The Theory line, winner of multiple awards including a GOOD DESIGN® Award and Architectural Record's Product of the Year, combines familiar streetscape elements with expressive pieces that inspire playfulness and discovery. The Backdrop, an adaptable structure system, won two Gold Certifications in the Grands Prix Du Design and Architectural Products’ Product Innovation Award, and is designed to activate underutilized areas. The Typology Collection, winner of two Red Dot Awards and the 2023 SIT Furniture Design Awards Design of the Year, is a seating and lighting collection that adds dynamic dimension to any site and creates unique, three-dimensional spaces that invite and connect, surprise and inspire.

(Re)Introducing Studio Alliance
Studio Alliance, a D.C.-based design and architecture firm, has recently undergone a brand identity revamp and is now led by Sherry Banaei as Creative Director. With a people-first design philosophy, the firm prioritizes authentic relationships with clients and aims to transform projects into timeless spaces. Their expertise spans various sectors, including commercial design, future law firm design, technology integration, and individuality within design.

Andreu World Unveils Newest Showroom in Stockholm
Andreu World, a global furniture manufacturer, has opened its newest showroom in Stockholm, Sweden during Stockholm Design Week. The showroom showcases collections from renowned international designers and highlights the company's commitment to nature, creativity, sustainability, and wellbeing. The showroom is located at Askrikegatan 1, 115 57 Stockholm, Sweden and will host various events throughout the week.

THOR Industries Inc. Names Lorenger to Board of Directors
THOR Industries, Inc. has appointed Jeffrey D. Lorenger to its board of directors. Lorenger, the president, CEO, and chairman of HNI Corporation, brings extensive experience in manufacturing and leadership. His appointment fills a recently vacated board seat, and THOR's board now has nine members.

Attendance registration opens for 55th NeoCon
Registration is now open for the 55th edition of NeoCon, the world's leading platform for commercial space design. The event, held from June 10-12 in Chicago, will feature thought-provoking speakers, dynamic activations, and the latest trends and innovations in various verticals. Attendees can register starting February 6 to explore over 1 million square feet of game-changing commercial design solutions. The conference program will showcase top visionaries in architecture, art, and fashion, and there will be featured presentations, workshops, and special activations. Show registration is free, and programming registration will open on April 3, 2024.
 
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BRC is looking for an effective independent manufacturers representative group to drive sales in Florida’s strong commercial market.
The Design Liaison Associate will be responsible for working closely with key design community and specification stakeholders within a given market area supporting design and specification of The Senator Groups brands, both Allermuir and Senator.
BRC is looking for an enthusiastic Regional Sales Director to join our dynamic team.
Territory – Covering Ohio (Davis Group), Michigan (DII), KY (TMG-KY), IN (TMG-IN), Central/ Southern IL (Direct rep), Chicago and Northern IL (Direct Sales team), WI (Direct rep), MN, ND and SD (True North), IA, NE, KS and MO (M2 Inc and M2 Inc - MO), 
Successful, fast growing Canadian lock manufacturer is looking for a We are looking for an experienced Sales Executive to develop new long-term customer relationships.
Spacefile USA is looking for a Strategic Account Manager that will be responsible for calling on commercial furniture dealers in the Northeast.
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.
BRC is looking for an enthusiastic Regional Sales Director to join our dynamic team.
MODSILVER, a premier provider of cutting-edge commercial table bases, table legs, and accessories that manufactures its products in the USA, is expanding its sales team and seeking independent sales representatives to cover select US territories.
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