MillerKnoll Stock Slides 14.47% on First Quarter Results / Steelcase Reports Second Quarter Fiscal 2025 Results: Sales Flat / ABI August 2024: Architecture firm billings continue to decline / Springboard Working Surfaces is now Fellowes / Amazon employees furious about the end of remote work / San Francisco On Pace For Best Year For Office Leasing Since 2019 / Maharam in London, Los Angeles, and New York / D.C.-Based Interiors Practice HYL Joins Global Design Firm Perkins&Will / Office Leasing Activity Expected to Continue Upward Climb Into Next Year / Most Cities See Gains In Office Absorption, But It Could Be Short-Lived / South Florida Leading the Country in Office Revival / Flexible Work Models Still Dominate Tech Industry / Study Shows Small Reduction In Smartphone Use Improves Work Motivation / Third of workers admit to faking productivity / Five key trends for future workplace design / and much more…


The Working Space

Monday, September 23, 2024

Industry News

MillerKnoll, Inc. Reports First Quarter Fiscal 2025 Results - Stock Falls 14.47%
MillerKnoll, Inc. reported its first quarter fiscal 2025 results, showing a decline in net sales across its segments compared to the previous year. The Americas Contract segment saw a 7.3% decrease in net sales, while the International Contract & Specialty and Global Retail segments experienced declines of 6.5% and 2.8%, respectively. Adjusted operating earnings for the company were $49.9 million, down from $55.4 million year-over-year. The company anticipates net sales for the upcoming quarter to range between $950 million and $990 million, with an adjusted earnings per share forecast of $0.51 to $0.57. Herman Miller shares closed down $3.97, or 14.47% to close at $23.50 on Friday after the results were announced Thursday. MillerKnoll shares traded as high as $31.73 in the past year.

Steelcase Reports Second Quarter Fiscal 2025 Results: Sales Flat
Steelcase reported strong second quarter fiscal 2025 results with revenue of $855.8 million and net income of $63.1 million, reflecting significant improvements in operating income and gross margin. The Americas experienced a 3% order growth, while international orders declined by 11%. The company anticipates third quarter revenue growth of 1 to 4% and has declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.10 per share. Total liquidity increased by $193 million, and adjusted earnings per share are projected between $0.21 to $0.25 for the upcoming quarter.
 
"Our business continued to improve this quarter as our adjusted earnings grew 26% and we drove 3% order growth in the Americas," said Sara Armbruster, president and CEO. "Our education business had especially strong results this quarter, which reflected the benefits of our strategy to diversify the customers and markets we serve. In the Americas, our strategy to lead the workplace transformation continued to gain traction as we have increased our market share over the past year based on available industry data through July. We expect order patterns from our largest corporate customers to return to growth in the second half of the year."
Architecture firm billings declined in August 2024, with the ABI score at 45.7, marking nearly two years of sluggish growth. While client inquiries for new projects increased, converting these to actual contracts proved difficult, leading to a fifth consecutive month of declining signed design contracts. Economic conditions softened, prompting expectations of interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve. Firms expressed mixed confidence about future revenue, with many citing winding down projects and uncertain economic conditions as major concerns. Overall, three-quarters of firms remain at least somewhat confident about improved business conditions in the next 12–18 months.

Springboard Working Surfaces is now Fellowes
Springboard Working Surfaces has officially joined Fellowes Contract Interiors, marking a significant milestone that promises an expanded product selection and enhanced customer service.

DIRTT Announces Results of Special Meeting of Shareholders
DIRTT Environmental Solutions Ltd. announced the results of its special meeting of shareholders on September 20, 2024, where shareholders voted 92.27% in favor of ratifying the Amended and Restated Shareholder Rights Plan Agreement. The plan was also approved by disinterested shareholders as per Toronto Stock Exchange rules.

Maharam in London, Los Angeles, and New York
Maharam will open three multibrand showrooms in London, Los Angeles, and New York, designed by architect Neil Logan. The London showroom, located in Clerkenwell, features a new artwork by Rana Begum and enhances Maharam's global presence. The Los Angeles showroom in Culver City will open in November, showcasing an extensive range of leathers and textiles in a unique industrial space. The New York showroom, debuting in spring, will offer a collaborative shopping experience near MillerKnoll's flagship location. Maharam, founded in 1902, is renowned for its textiles and commitment to design.

D.C.-Based Interiors Practice HYL Joins Global Design Firm Perkins&Will
HYL, a woman-owned interior architecture firm, has merged with Perkins&Will, a leading global design firm, to enhance their commitment to healthy workplaces and diversity in design. The merger will allow HYL to expand its services nationally and internationally while focusing on design excellence. HYL's team will relocate to Perkins&Will's sustainable D.C. studio, and key staff will join studios in New York and Seattle. Both firms share values centered on material health, well-being, and excellence in design.
San Francisco's office leasing activity is on track for its best year since 2019, despite a record high vacancy rate of 37.3% in Q3 2024. Strong demand, particularly from AI companies, is driving leasing activity, which is projected to reach 1.4 million square feet for Q3. However, concession ratios for Class-A leases have increased, indicating a tenants' market. Major tech firms are facing lease renewals that could impact future demand, while overall office-using employment has declined since the post-COVID peak.
Office leasing activity is on the rise, with 3,166 leases signed in the first half of 2024, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. However, the average lease size has decreased by 27% due to economic uncertainty and a shift towards hybrid work. Renewals now make up 42% of transactions, up from 31% before the pandemic, with a 21% drop in average lease size for renewals.
In Q2 2024, 37 out of 64 major U.S. office markets experienced positive net absorption, indicating an increase in leased office space compared to the previous year. However, this trend may be short-lived, as 75% of U.S. businesses plan to reduce their office footprints in 2024 due to economic uncertainty and hybrid work adjustments. Despite a temporary positive absorption of 2.5 million square feet, experts predict a return to negative absorption in the coming quarters, exacerbated by new office space developments and ongoing economic challenges.
South Florida is leading the U.S. in office revival post-Covid-19, with over 90% of employees back in the office, surpassing the national average by 20 points. However, full-time office work is declining, especially on Thursdays and Fridays, suggesting a trend towards hybrid work, with up to 15% of Downtown Fort Lauderdale residents working from home.
More offices going the way of the apartment. Georgia-Pacific plans to redevelop its Atlanta headquarters by converting the upper floors of its 51-story tower into 400 apartments while retaining 600,000 square feet for office space. The project will also include 125,000 square feet of retail and entertainment space, along with a central plaza. Completion is targeted for fall 2027, and the redevelopment aims to stimulate economic growth and enhance the downtown area. Discussions about affordable housing units are ongoing, aligning with the city's goals for new housing development.

Workplace News

Amazon CEO Andy Jassy announced that starting January 2, 2025, most employees will be required to work in the office five days a week, reverting to pre-pandemic office culture. This policy builds on a previous requirement for three days in the office and aims to enhance collaboration. Amazon plans to reestablish assigned desks in certain locations and reduce management layers. Despite challenges faced by other companies in enforcing return-to-office policies, Amazon is moving forward with this mandate.
Amazon's announcement to end remote work and mandate a return to the office five days a week starting January 2, 2025, has sparked significant backlash among employees. Many expressed their disappointment and frustration, emphasizing that remote work was essential for a balanced professional life. Concerns were raised about the strictness of the new policy compared to pre-pandemic practices, and some employees hinted at potential layoffs due to an increase in the worker-to-manager ratio.
Amazon's mandate for full-time office work risks employee dissatisfaction and turnover, as it contradicts the growing preference for flexible work arrangements. Research supports hybrid models as more productive, while Amazon's rigid policy may hinder collaboration and innovation. The company should adopt a flexible approach to attract and retain talent.
Nothing's CEO, Carl Pei, announced the end of the company's hybrid work model, transitioning to a fully in-office setup starting in October. He encouraged employees unhappy with this decision to seek other opportunities, stating that remote work hinders the company's potential. Pei emphasized the need for a mutual fit between the company and its employees, as the tech industry grapples with the challenges of hybrid work and its impact on productivity.
Research indicates that the tech industry remains flexible, with 79% of companies offering fully flexible work models. However, larger firms like Apple and Meta are shifting towards structured hybrid policies requiring in-office attendance. The prevalence of fully remote models has decreased from 37% to 23% over the past year, as companies recognize the need for office collaboration. Smaller firms are more likely to remain fully remote, while larger firms are increasingly adopting hybrid models.
A third of UK workers admit to faking productivity due to pressure to appear busy, with 44% engaging in this behavior under flexible hour expectations. Factors include burnout, unrealistic expectations, and strict time-tracking systems, which may promote fake productivity. Most managers distinguish between productivity and engagement, yet many organizations measure engagement solely by output, potentially leading to disengagement and lower work quality.
A report by JLL reveals that over half of Irish businesses are willing to pay a premium for office-based workers, although a full return to a five-day office week is unlikely. Two-thirds of business leaders anticipate increased corporate real estate budgets by 2030, with 62% expecting to use more office space. Many employers favor hybrid work models, with 57% promoting at least one to four in-office days per week. Additionally, 50% predict that offices may only open on certain days by the decade's end, and 53% see a potential for a four-day workweek.
Menopause is increasingly recognized as a workplace issue affecting productivity and talent retention, with over 10% of the workforce currently menopausal. Misconceptions persist, viewing it as a minor or solely women's issue, yet nearly 30% of women consider leaving their jobs due to inadequate support. Organizations are urged to create menopause-enabled workplaces that foster inclusivity through cultural, procedural, and physical changes, benefiting all employees and addressing a significant economic impact.
A study indicates that reducing smartphone usage by one hour daily can enhance employee satisfaction and motivation. Participants who limited their screen time reported improvements in mental health, work-life balance, and job satisfaction, while also experiencing fewer feelings of work overload. However, the study's demographic limitations suggest the need for further research across a broader age and racial spectrum. This approach may help combat burnout and improve workplace well-being.

Trends

The future of workplace design is shifting towards sustainability, biophilic elements, flexible connectivity, residential comfort, and sensory-rich environments. Offices are expected to become destinations that prioritize employee well-being, with a focus on reducing stress and enhancing collaboration, as businesses adapt to the rise of remote work.
Luxury gyms like Chelsea Piers and Equinox have thrived post-COVID by transforming into community hubs that offer more than just fitness, including social events and coworking spaces. They focus on member engagement and creating a welcoming environment, contrasting with budget gyms that primarily serve as quick workout spots. This shift reflects a growing demand for spaces that foster community and connection.

Design

Reimagining the hybrid workplace involves creating flexible, human-centric spaces that cater to diverse employee needs and preferences. Key strategies include designing adaptable environments, encouraging movement and interaction, and providing various work settings to enhance productivity. Effective communication and training on utilizing these spaces are essential for maximizing their benefits.

Dealers

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Tangram Interiors Celebrates Grand Opening of Nature-Inspired Showroom in Fresno
Tangram Interiors has opened a new 6,500-square-foot showroom in Fresno, celebrating local culture and nature. The grand opening on September 12th featured 140 guests, local food and drinks, and entertainment. The showroom design reflects Fresno's landscapes, with elements inspired by local landmarks. It is now open to the public, offering innovative interior solutions.

Office Environments & Services announces name change
Office Environments & Services (OE&S) in Jacksonville, Fla. is rebranding to Office Images, while retaining its leadership and commitment to workplace transformation. The company, led by Market President Madelen Salter (above), aims to innovate workspace solutions and enhance customer service. Office Images operates in multiple locations and is recognized as a leading Haworth dealership, focusing on creating dynamic spaces for various industries.

Workplace Wellness

Prolonged sitting is linked to serious health risks, including heart disease and diabetes, especially when done uninterrupted. Research indicates that breaking up sitting time with movement every hour can mitigate these risks. Public health guidelines recommend 150 to 300 minutes of moderate physical activity weekly, and even active individuals should minimize sedentary behavior. Standing desks may reduce sitting but aren't a complete solution; the key is to increase overall movement and reduce sitting time.
Coworking spaces provide significant well-being benefits, including reduced isolation, enhanced motivation, better work-life balance, and opportunities for meaningful relationships. They foster a vibrant community that supports productivity, creativity, and mental health through flexible environments, networking opportunities, and wellness amenities. As they evolve, coworking spaces are increasingly focused on member experiences, integrating technology and high-quality services to meet modern professional needs.

Green / Sustainability

Kimball International’s Chicago Showroom Earns WELL Certified™ Platinum Distinction
Kimball International's Chicago showroom has achieved WELL Certification at the Platinum level, recognizing its commitment to health and well-being through design and operational strategies. This certification highlights the company's dedication to creating inclusive environments that promote human health, with additional WELL Platinum certified locations in Jasper, Dallas, and Los Angeles. The showroom features an outdoor terrace and ample natural light, contributing to a healthy atmosphere for visitors.

Podcasts

Allsteel’s “Tell Me More” Podcast Releases a New Episode Exploring Circularity & Responsible Decommissioning with Green Standards
Allsteel's podcast "Tell Me More" features a new episode discussing circularity and responsible decommissioning with Green Standards. The episode, led by Andrea Gauss, highlights the importance of sustainable practices and collaboration in reducing post-occupancy waste. It also covers Allsteel's initiatives and partnership with Green Standards to repurpose office furniture through donations, aiming to keep materials out of landfills and support sustainability goals. Listeners can access the podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Latest Product News

The Sedeo Stool by Humanscale, designed by Don Chadwick, emphasizes ergonomics and comfort for bar and counter-height surfaces. Chadwick brought his years of experience in industrial design (other legendary pieces include the Aeron chair and Chadwick Modular Seating) to perfecting the design of Sedeo. His deep curiosity and continuous push to refine his approach resulted in a stool with ergonomic precision and timeless style.
 
The design of the seat embraces healthy back posture, as the ergonomic contours of the seat shell are based on essential sacral support. For the creation of this seat, Chadwick drew inspiration from the illustrious designs of Wegner, Eames, and Nelson.
 
Sedeo comes in a range of finish options at both bar and counter height, including polished aluminum, maple, black, and solid oak frames, and white or black seat shells, allowing it to compliment any environment. Quality crafted with a die-cast aluminum frame, solid wood legs that are sourced from local sustainable farms, stainless steel foot ring, and high quality seat materials, Sedeo is built to endure well over a decade of heavy use.
 
Both Chadwick and Humanscale have a deep commitment to sustainable and human-centered design. Sedeo incorporates 94% recycled content into its frame and is made from healthy materials, making it as safe for interiors as it is for the planet. From $614. Humanscale.com
The X2 Modular System by Calyx By Claridge is designed to enhance collaborative environments in colleges. This versatile system features modular writing surfaces and tackboards, allowing students to interact, share ideas, and create dynamic learning spaces. The Connect X2 Modular System offers a sleek, modern design that can be customized to fit various spatial and aesthetic requirements.

Key features of the X2 Modular System include high-quality writing surfaces made from LCS Porcelain or Calyx Glass, and tackboard options in Calyx Cork or fabric. The system's flexibility extends to its trim options, with a narrow 1/4" face satin anodized aluminum trim available in reveal or flush designs. Additionally, users can customize panel configurations and colors to match their specific needs and room aesthetics, making it an ideal solution for creating engaging and functional college spaces.

Learn more

Boss Design has launched Mews, a modular workplace pod system designed for flexible and functional work environments. The Mews system balances focus and collaboration, featuring ergonomic pods equipped with lighting, temperature, and acoustic controls. It aims to enhance user comfort and encourage in-person collaboration in remote and hybrid work settings. The design is inspired by traditional mews architecture and offers customizable options for power, connectivity, and aesthetics, making it a sustainable choice for modern workplaces.
Herman Miller has introduced the Bay Work Pod, an ergonomic workspace solution designed for hybrid work and video conferencing. It features inclusive design elements like flattering lighting, a skylight for privacy, and space for ergonomic seating. The pod aims to enhance comfort and reduce distractions during video calls, with options for customization and accessibility. Available in various sizes and styles, it can be purchased through Herman Miller and MillerKnoll dealers.
Versteel has introduced the Troupe Media Wall, a versatile freestanding collaboration hub designed for modern workspaces. It features customizable heights, shapes, and finishes, along with integrated technology solutions for seamless connectivity. The design emphasizes flexibility, allowing for dynamic space configurations while maintaining a professional appearance. The Troupe Media Wall reflects Versteel's commitment to innovative and functional furniture solutions.
Hightower has launched the Stanza Collection of modular planters, designed to enhance open spaces by guiding foot traffic and creating functional divisions. Inspired by artist Richard Serra, the collection features customizable configurations that serve both as planters and surfaces for work. Stanza is suitable for indoor and outdoor use, available in various colors, and designed for easy assembly. The collection was showcased at NeoCon, demonstrating its blend of form and function.
The Mitchell Group has expanded its product catalog with two new offerings, Lodge and Patina, under the Sta-Kleen brand. Lodge features a smooth grain and warm tones suitable for commercial applications, while Patina boasts a unique multi-layer color scheme with an aged appearance, designed for versatility in furniture applications. Both products emphasize performance, aesthetics, and sustainability, reflecting the company's commitment to providing diverse options for commercial projects.
Luum Textiles has launched the Kinetic Energy Collection, featuring six sustainable textiles inspired by the dynamic interplay of digital and physical realms. Each textile, such as Scattergraph and Datastorm, showcases innovative designs and eco-friendly materials, suitable for various applications including upholstery and wrapped walls. The collection emphasizes movement, color, and texture while adhering to sustainable practices, including the use of recycled materials and compliance with health regulations.
Concertex's Aerial Collection features ten patterns and two NappaTile patterns that celebrate the interplay between human ingenuity and nature's beauty. Notable designs include Metropolis, showcasing a nightscape with ultrasonic embossing, Hex Tekloom® inspired by city planning, and Helios, a versatile fabric suitable for indoor and outdoor use. The collection encourages appreciation for the artistry found in everyday environments.
The Brilliance Collection by Burch Design Studio offers luxury and performance with products named Luna, Luster, and Shimmer, featuring soft textures in 28 colors and the patented Crypton technology for durability and radiance.
Christiane Müller's 'Moments of Wander' collection for HBF Textiles transforms outdoor inspirations into luxurious indoor/outdoor fabrics, featuring three designs: Fields of Velvet, Trails of Tweed, and Seeds of Colour. Each design captures the beauty and diversity of nature, evoking emotions and memories while showcasing Müller's expertise in textile design. The collection emphasizes the connection between nature and interior spaces, encouraging designers to create their own moments of wander through unique fabric combinations.
Artaic has expanded its "Designs on Demand" collection by introducing three new mosaic designs—Pueblo, Hacienda, and Pueblo Medley—along with three new colorways: Old Fashioned, Sandy Sea, and Shoreline. These designs can be produced and shipped within two to four weeks, providing clients with quick and customizable mosaic options. The collection is priced at $49 per square foot with a minimum order of 60 square feet, and Artaic plans to continue adding new patterns and colorways throughout 2024.
Shaw Contract has launched the Montage Collection, a large-scale solid vinyl tile designed for commercial spaces, featuring a classic terrazzo visual. The tiles are durable, water-resistant, and easy to maintain, with no waxing required. Montage offers a 25-year commercial warranty and is designed for high-traffic environments, resisting scratches and stains. It is also certified for low VOC emissions, supporting sustainability initiatives. The collection provides design flexibility with various color options and contributes to improved indoor environmental quality.
Yellow Goat Design has launched the Poinciana lighting fixture, inspired by the Poinciana flower, featuring digitally printed acrylic petals and directional LEDs. This fully dimmable fixture is designed for various environments and is customizable, measuring 5’-4” x 4’-8” x 6’-2” H.

Industrial Design

Hem is reviving the iconic Experiment Chair, originally designed by Yrjö Kukkapuro in 1982, which symbolizes postmodernist defiance. The new version retains the original's quirky design but is slightly larger and sturdier, reflecting modern manufacturing techniques. Hem's founder, Petrus Palmér, emphasizes the importance of balancing progressive design with historical influences as the company approaches its 10-year anniversary. The chair remains a polarizing symbol of design, challenging norms and evoking strong opinions.
Cali Pitcher's Notions furniture piece, designed for compact living, won the 2024 Next Work Environment Competition. It functions as a work-from-home station, dining table, and storage unit, inspired by Mid-century modern design. The piece incorporates multiple functionalities, including a writable surface and storage compartments, and is made with various Formica products. Cali aims to evolve Notions into a smaller version for children.

Trends in Commercial Projects from Around the Globe

Industrious collaborated with Morgan Lovell to design a 22,000 square-foot coworking space in London, integrating American office aesthetics with European design trends. The layout features 60% rental desk space and 40% shared amenities, catering to the English market's needs for larger offices and private spaces. The design includes lighter woods and iconic American furniture, ensuring a high-quality standard while resonating with local preferences. Regular updates were provided to maintain communication throughout the project.
The new headquarters of Prosek Partners in NYC, designed by Andre Kikoski Architecture, emphasizes creativity and connection, featuring a 34,000 sq ft space with biophilic design elements, distinct "neighborhoods," and vibrant colors. The office includes collaborative areas, an outdoor terrace, and amenities that encourage community and flexibility, aiming to create a work environment that feels "better than home."
The Los Angeles Tech Office HQ by MAWD, winner of the 2024 Next Work Environment Competition in the office design category, emphasizes a balanced employee experience through diverse collaborative and focused spaces. The design incorporates warm materials, reclaimed elements, and environmental considerations, fostering connectivity while ensuring privacy. Unique pathways for employees and clients enhance the spatial experience, and the interior reflects a hospitality-driven approach, moving away from traditional tech office aesthetics.

Latest In Real Life WFH

Andreas Eldh, a designer and developer from Stockholm, works at Linear and recently released their mobile app. His workspace includes a Mac Studio, Studio Display, and various other items, with LED strips noted for improving lighting. He values a distraction-free environment for creativity and maintains a routine that includes gym workouts and family time.

Upcoming Industry Events

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

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

Allsteel to Host TEDxChicago Coaching Sessions at Chicago Experience Center
Allsteel will host TEDx coaching sessions on September 18th and 19th at its Chicago Experience Center to prepare speakers for TEDxChicago 2024: Lighting the Way, taking place on September 27th. The event will feature seven local speakers discussing various topics, along with live performances and local food. Tickets are available for purchase online.

THE LATEST: ORGATEC 2024: experience the workspaces of tomorrow in person
ORGATEC 2024, taking place from October 22 to 25 in Cologne, will showcase future-oriented office management solutions in the #OfficeXperience Focus Area. The event will feature interactive exhibits, workshops, and discussions aimed at addressing productivity, sustainability, and flexibility in modern workspaces. Various companies and institutions will collaborate to present innovative concepts, creating a community focused on enhancing office building management. Additional highlights include other focus areas like #TheCircularHouse and #InspiredAugmentedOffice, setting new standards for modern work environments.

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

NeoCon 2025 / DesignDays 2025
June 9-11, 2025 | Chicago, IL
 
NeoCon has served as the world’s leading platform and most important event of the year for the commercial design industry since 1969. A launch pad for innovation—NeoCon offers ideas and introductions that shape the built environment today and into the future.  Joining at the same time, in Fulton Market is DesignDays, a compatible show that now hosts more than half of the largest office furniture manufacturers. Hint: See both.

Industry Briefing

Ware Malcomb Names Banafsheh Soltani Studio Manager, Interior Architecture & Design in New Jersey Offices
Ware Malcomb has appointed Banafsheh Soltani as Studio Manager for Interior Architecture & Design in New Jersey, where she will enhance market share and quality assurance processes. With over a decade of experience and a background in various corporate design projects, Soltani also teaches at NJIT and Kean University and is actively involved in professional organizations. Her leadership in the CoreNet New Jersey Communications Committee has improved the chapter's newsletter by incorporating diverse industry perspectives.

Emerald Promotes Keisha Byrd to VP and Brand Director for the Hospitality Design Group
Emerald has promoted Keisha Byrd to Vice President and Brand Director for the Hospitality Design Group, overseeing event strategy for brands including BDNY and various non-tradeshow events. With 11 years of experience in managing BD and HD events, Byrd has played a crucial role in connecting the hospitality design industry. Upcoming events include BDNY on November 10-11, 2024, and HD Expo + Conference on May 6-8, 2025.

Yellow Goat Design Introduces Sheridan Markham, New Design Associate
Sheridan Markham has joined Yellow Goat Design as a new Design Associate, bringing expertise in arts and hospitality design. With a background in high-profile projects for major brands and teaching experience, she will collaborate with teams to manage projects and aid in business development. Markham's appointment coincides with the launch of new lighting fixtures, and her addition is seen as a valuable asset to the company.

Three H Announces Lee Fletcher as New VP of Product Design
Three H Furniture has promoted Lee Fletcher to Vice President of Product Design, recognizing his significant contributions as Design Director since January. Under his leadership, the company has launched successful product lines like the Kynde Conference Tables and Hudson Private Office Collection, which emphasize innovation and sustainability. CEO Chris Binnendyk praised Fletcher's transformative impact on product development, while Fletcher expressed excitement about continuing to push design boundaries and focus on creating collaborative, people-centered products.

Boston Business Journal Names AIS Among the Most Charitable Companies in Massachusetts
L-R | Arthur Maxwell, co-Founder and vice chair of AIS, Leominster official, company President and CEO Nick Haritos, and Deanna Zarrella, vice president of human resources are pictured at the annual Johnny Appleseed festival in 2023 where they presented a check for $20,000 to flooding support victims.
 
AIS has been recognized by the Boston Business Journal as one of the top charitable contributors in Massachusetts for the fifth consecutive year, donating over $100,000 to local charities in 2023. The company emphasizes community support through financial contributions, volunteering, and product donations, particularly in response to local crises like flooding in Leominster. AIS's commitment to corporate citizenship is part of its mission since its founding over 35 years ago.

ASID Releases the 2024 Economic Outlook Report
The ASID's 2024 Economic Outlook Report highlights sustained national employment growth despite rising interest rates, with a focus on the commercial office space sector seeing slight increases in renovation spending. Construction spending in healthcare, education, and recreation is expected to rise in 2024 but slow in 2025, while lodging and retail will see a decline in 2024. From February 2020 to May 2024, employment rose by 4.1%, with interior design services employment increasing by 29% and average hourly earnings by 9.5%.

IIDA Rochester - Introduction to WELL: Unlock the Power of Healthy Spaces
The IIDA New York Chapter is hosting a Professional Development event titled "Introduction to WELL: Unlock the Power of Healthy Spaces" on October 10th, 2024, at The SHED @ RIT in Rochester, NY. Led by Ann Miller-Michaels and Jessica Cooper, the session will focus on creating healthier environments using WELL v2, covering its 10 core concepts and their integration with LEED standards. Registration is $10 for members, $15 for non-members, and $5 for students, offering 1 IDCEC CEU.

Tekloom® Will Exhibit at Healthcare Design Conference + Expo
Tekloom® will exhibit at the Healthcare Design Conference + Expo in Indianapolis from October 5th-8th, showcasing its innovative woven textiles combined with coated fabrics. The product features a unique TPE layer, making it resistant to liquids, stains, and easy to clean, while complying with health standards and being free from harmful chemicals.

Lumens: 20 Years Defining Design
Lumens celebrates 20 years of iconic modern design, having evolved from a local showroom to North America's online leader in design lighting and furnishings. The milestone will be marked by an Instagram LIVE event featuring notable designers and a collaborative art piece created by supporters. CEO Laura Walsh emphasizes the company's commitment to creativity and customer relationships, while Lumens continues to source exceptional international design brands as part of the Flos B&B Italia Group.
Find the best Contract Furniture Industry jobs and hire the best talent.
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