

Post-pandemic office occupancy has finally passed the 50% mark, and its glacial tick upward is indicative of lasting changes in the way we work. A new office existence calls for furniture products that can accommodate varied settings and uses, according to COE Distributing, a leading U.S. wholesaler of office furnishings. Flexible pieces that are easily configured and also meet technology and video conferencing requirements are key, and COE is designing for the challenge with its private label, OfficeSource. Whether creating informal gathering areas, sequestered solo workspaces or zones for collaboration, today’s offices call for a relaxed aesthetic incorporating comforts of home into the professional environment.


Milan design week is the biggest annual design event in the world and takes place from 17 to 23 April 2023. The week includes the furniture fair Salone del Mobile, which takes place at the Fiera Milano exhibition centre and is the largest event to take place during the week. The selection of fringe events collectively named Fuorisalone also takes place across the city.





The International Interior Design Association (IIDA) has recently announced the winners of two highly regarded design competitions: the 49th Annual Interior Design Competition and the 30th Annual Will Ching Design Competition. These prestigious competitions celebrate innovation and creativity in the design industry, recognizing outstanding achievements in a variety of categories such as corporate spaces, entertainment venues, public spaces, and restaurants.
The Interior Design Competition winners include projects from around the world, such as the CCD Global Headquarters Office in Shenzhen, China, the Capital One Hall in Tysons, Virginia, and the 800 Fulton Market in Chicago. Meanwhile, the Will Ching Design Competition winner is the innovative restaurant, Kann, located in Portland, Oregon, which was designed by Fieldwork, a Portland-based commercial design firm.
The finalists and winners of both competitions will be recognized and celebrated during Revel in Design, IIDA's black-tie event, at The Ritz-Carlton in Water Tower Place, Chicago on Sunday, June 11, 2023.

