The Eames Institute of Infinite Curiosity Opens in Richmond, California / The big engine that could: U.S. economy barrels ahead and puts recession forecasts in rear view / Innovations Unveils Luxury Showroom in the Pacific Design Center / Haworth closes furniture plant / Interface Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2023 Results / How 3 Texas Cities Came To Lead The Nation In Empty Offices — And Why There May Be Further To Fall / 60% Of Office Vacancies Concentrated In 10% Of Buildings: JLL / CEOs turn to hybrid working to cut costs as suburban office footfall booms / Citadel’s New Real Estate Chief Sees A Return To A Different Kind Of Office / The Workplace Must Be a Destination, Not an Obligation / The Power of Pet-Friendly Workplaces / Deutsche Bank’s Return-to-Office Push Sparks Worker Backlash / How Tomorrow’s Workforce Will Shape Future Workplace Design / The hybrid working office: ushering in a new era for the workspace / and much more…
The Working Space
Monday, March 4, 2024
In today's rapidly evolving landscape of workplace dynamics and design, several stories stand out, offering insights into the shifting paradigms of office culture, the impact of technology, and the evolving needs of the modern workforce.
One significant development is the closure of Haworth's seating manufacturing facility in High Point, North Carolina. The consolidation of operations reflects a broader trend in the industry, as companies seek efficiency and adaptability in response to changing market conditions. While the closure may have affected employees, it also underscores the importance of strategic decision-making in maintaining competitiveness.
Meanwhile, Interface, Inc. reported its fourth quarter and full-year results for 2023, highlighting both challenges and opportunities in the office furniture sector. Despite a decline in net sales, the company demonstrated resilience through increased gross profit margins and strategic financial management. The performance of different segments, such as education and corporate offices, suggests varying trends in office space utilization and design preferences.
On the other hand, Innovations' unveiling of a luxury showroom in Los Angeles signals a commitment to elevating the customer experience and embracing the evolving demands of the design community. By investing in physical spaces that reflect their brand identity and values, companies like Innovations are redefining the role of showrooms as immersive destinations for inspiration and collaboration.
The emergence of hybrid working models is another prominent theme, as CEOs navigate the balance between cost-saving measures and employee well-being. The shift towards decentralized offices and flexible work arrangements reflects a broader reassessment of the traditional office environment's role in fostering productivity and innovation. Companies like Citadel are exploring innovative approaches to office design, emphasizing mixed-use spaces and amenities that cater to diverse employee needs.
However, challenges persist, as evidenced by the struggles of Texas cities like Dallas-Fort Worth, Austin, and Houston in their office markets. Economic shifts, coupled with broader trends in remote work and technology, are reshaping the demand for office space and challenging traditional real estate models. Adapting to these changes requires strategic planning and collaboration among stakeholders to ensure sustainable growth and resilience.
In the realm of design and innovation, stories such as the Eames Institute of Infinite Curiosity and the evolving role of technology in workplace design offer glimpses into the future of office environments. From embracing sustainability and user-centered design principles to leveraging technology for collaboration and connectivity, designers and industry leaders are reimagining the workplace as a dynamic ecosystem that fosters creativity, productivity, and well-being.
As we look ahead, the imperative to create meaningful and impactful workplaces becomes increasingly clear. Whether through innovative design solutions, strategic partnerships, or a commitment to employee-centric practices, companies have an opportunity to shape the future of work in ways that empower individuals and drive collective success. By embracing change and embracing the evolving needs of the workforce, we can build workplaces that inspire, innovate, and thrive in the years to come.
One significant development is the closure of Haworth's seating manufacturing facility in High Point, North Carolina. The consolidation of operations reflects a broader trend in the industry, as companies seek efficiency and adaptability in response to changing market conditions. While the closure may have affected employees, it also underscores the importance of strategic decision-making in maintaining competitiveness.
Meanwhile, Interface, Inc. reported its fourth quarter and full-year results for 2023, highlighting both challenges and opportunities in the office furniture sector. Despite a decline in net sales, the company demonstrated resilience through increased gross profit margins and strategic financial management. The performance of different segments, such as education and corporate offices, suggests varying trends in office space utilization and design preferences.
On the other hand, Innovations' unveiling of a luxury showroom in Los Angeles signals a commitment to elevating the customer experience and embracing the evolving demands of the design community. By investing in physical spaces that reflect their brand identity and values, companies like Innovations are redefining the role of showrooms as immersive destinations for inspiration and collaboration.
The emergence of hybrid working models is another prominent theme, as CEOs navigate the balance between cost-saving measures and employee well-being. The shift towards decentralized offices and flexible work arrangements reflects a broader reassessment of the traditional office environment's role in fostering productivity and innovation. Companies like Citadel are exploring innovative approaches to office design, emphasizing mixed-use spaces and amenities that cater to diverse employee needs.
However, challenges persist, as evidenced by the struggles of Texas cities like Dallas-Fort Worth, Austin, and Houston in their office markets. Economic shifts, coupled with broader trends in remote work and technology, are reshaping the demand for office space and challenging traditional real estate models. Adapting to these changes requires strategic planning and collaboration among stakeholders to ensure sustainable growth and resilience.
In the realm of design and innovation, stories such as the Eames Institute of Infinite Curiosity and the evolving role of technology in workplace design offer glimpses into the future of office environments. From embracing sustainability and user-centered design principles to leveraging technology for collaboration and connectivity, designers and industry leaders are reimagining the workplace as a dynamic ecosystem that fosters creativity, productivity, and well-being.
As we look ahead, the imperative to create meaningful and impactful workplaces becomes increasingly clear. Whether through innovative design solutions, strategic partnerships, or a commitment to employee-centric practices, companies have an opportunity to shape the future of work in ways that empower individuals and drive collective success. By embracing change and embracing the evolving needs of the workforce, we can build workplaces that inspire, innovate, and thrive in the years to come.
Industry News
Office furniture manufacturer Haworth has closed its seating manufacturing facility in High Point, North Carolina, as part of a consolidation with its other facilities in the state. The closure was first announced in May 2020 and the company has fulfilled existing customer orders while transitioning production to other Haworth facilities. The English Road plant is listed for sale, and the company declined to disclose the number of employees affected by the shutdown.
The English Road plant is listed for sale for $525,000. It includes 131,615 square feet of building space on 4.45 acres. It was built in 1920 and has undergone multiple additions.
Texas cities, including Dallas-Fort Worth, Austin, and Houston, are facing challenges in their office markets. Dallas-Fort Worth has seen a slowdown in demand from larger corporate tenants, resulting in a significant amount of unspoken for office space. Austin, once a booming tech market, is experiencing a surplus of office space under construction and a decrease in venture capital investment. Houston, heavily impacted by the energy industry, has the highest office vacancy rate among major U.S. cities. While the office market in Texas may never fully recover, the state's strong population and job growth continue to attract companies.
Features
Ray and Charles Eames were key figures in 20th-century art and design, known for their influential furniture designs and films. The duo's vast collection, including over a million documents, was donated to the Library of Congress, Vitra, and three museums. However, over 40,000 objects remained, which are now displayed at the new Eames Institute of Infinite Curiosity in Richmond, California.
Llisa Demetrios, Lucia Eames's daughter and the institute's chief curator, has worked with a creative team to showcase the Eames' extensive archive. The institute offers guided tours, revealing a plethora of objects including chair designs, artworks, and personal letters. The Eames' design philosophy of iterative problem-solving is also highlighted, alongside their commitment to user experience, affordability, and sustainable materials.
The institute also emphasises Ray's contributions, showcasing films that Charles preferred for exploration. The Eames' collection of toys, collected from their global travels, is on display, embodying Charles's belief that "toys and games are the preludes to serious ideas." The institute's collection also includes colorful pencils, fabric swatches, printed wallpapers, and playful objects. Visitors can engage in a "chair tasting" featuring iconic Eames designs. The institute aims to carry forward the power of storytelling inherent in the Eames' work.
The purpose and value of the workplace have never been clearer. The workplace must be a destination, not an obligation. It should be an "experience multiplier" that offers unique experiences and fosters relationships and company culture. The future workplace should be an ecosystem of flexible zones that cater to different tasks and team sizes, with comfortable gathering areas, virtual collaboration spaces, private nooks for deep focus, and premium amenities. By prioritizing the human experience and giving employees agency, the office can become a restorative and creative environment. Architects and designers have the opportunity to reimagine the workplace and create spaces that adapt to the changing demands of the workforce.
The tech industry's approach to workplace design and culture is shifting, as exemplified by the downfall of Sam Bankman Fried and the abandonment of FTX's headquarters. The rise of 'lazy girl jobs' and the popularity of remote work indicate a move away from intense work cultures. The future of workplace design may prioritize employee well-being and flexibility over grandiose physical spaces.
Workspace News
Dog-friendly workplaces are proving to be transformative in enhancing workplace morale and productivity. The presence of dogs can significantly lower stress levels, elevate mood, and foster an overall sense of well-being among employees. Dogs also contribute to reducing feelings of isolation or loneliness and can create a more empathetic work environment. Dog-friendly policies can encourage employees to return to the office and enhance the overall work experience. However, implementing such policies comes with challenges, such as accommodating allergies and maintaining cleanliness. Finding the right balance between flexibility for pet owners and maintaining productivity is crucial. Grants and expert consultation can support the transition to a pet-friendly workplace. Overall, dog-friendly workplaces represent a positive shift in work culture, creating a more inclusive and satisfying environment for employees and their pets.
Trends
The design of the workplace is crucial for collaboration, innovation, and productivity in today's evolving work landscape. Research on U.S. college students and office workers reveals four key intersections that will shape future workplace design: multimodal learning and work, the presence of hybrid models, the importance of place as a destination, and the office as a campus-like environment. By integrating insights from higher education, organizations can create dynamic and engaging work environments that meet the needs of the future workforce.
Design
Jasper Morrison is a renowned British designer known for his minimalist and functional approach to furniture and everyday objects. His collaborations with Giulio Cappellini and Emeco have resulted in successful product lines. Morrison's design philosophy is reflected in the Super Normal exhibition, which emphasizes the beauty of everyday objects. His designs can be found in prestigious museum collections worldwide.
Paola Antonelli, Senior Curator in the Department of Architecture and Design at NYC's Museum of Modern Art, discusses the power of design, the role of museums as R&D for society, and her work in curating exhibitions and hosting podcasts. She emphasizes that design is essential for navigating a complex world and driving progress.
Marcus Engman, the Creative Director at Ingka Group (Ikea Retail), believes that design is more important than ever in solving the world's problems. He emphasizes the need to focus on sustainable living and finding innovative solutions, such as utilizing waste materials and new production technologies. Engman also discusses the importance of considering the broader impact of design and addressing societal challenges like mobility and consumption. He highlights the role of technology and the potential for big brands to be more locally relevant. Overall, Engman encourages designers to tackle significant problems and create meaningful change.
Diane Hoskins and Andy Cohen, co-CEOs of Gensler, emphasize the importance of design in addressing global challenges and making a positive impact. In their book, "Design for a Radically Changing World," they discuss the need for designers to be more involved in addressing crises such as climate change and economic instability. Gensler's global scale allows them to bring best practices from around the world to local contexts, finding innovative solutions to challenges like the oversupply of office buildings and housing shortages. The firm's co-leadership model and emphasis on collaboration drive innovation and push the firm forward.
In planning for the busiest day of the week in the new hybrid office, it is important to consider providing choice in seating options, integrating acoustics to manage noise levels, and implementing change management strategies to ensure employees understand how to use the space effectively. Additionally, incorporating technology that supports both in-person and virtual participants in meetings is crucial. The focus should be on creating agile and flexible spaces that meet the changing demands of the workforce.
Coworking
Customizing coworking spaces for niche markets provides tailored amenities and designs to foster creativity and collaboration. Operators can leverage opportunities by offering industry-specific services, fostering strong communities, and creating targeted marketing strategies. Niche coworking encourages networking, innovation, and supports industry growth.
Technology
Apple Vision Pro is being used by professionals in various ways to enhance productivity and work experiences. The headset allows for remote work without being tied to a desk, offers an infinite canvas for interacting with work apps, and enables immersive training experiences. It also promotes employee well-being through meditation and mindfulness apps. While there are some limitations, such as avatar representation during video calls, the Vision Pro is seen as a transformative tool for hybrid work and learning.
Latest Product News
DARRAN Furniture's internal design studio, DARRAN Studio, has launched the Abacus Screen Collection, a line of sound-absorbing room dividers and privacy screens for the commercial market. The collection utilizes innovative PET technology to reduce ambient noise, creating quieter and more private zones within open spaces. It is available in various sizes, colors, and material finishes, and is designed to seamlessly integrate into any environment. The screens are easy to assemble and can be moved as needed. The Abacus Collection is crafted from environmentally responsible materials and offers benefits such as improved employee productivity, enhanced collaboration, reduced stress, and ample light and airflow. It is available for purchase through dealers and sales representatives.
DARRAN Furniture has unveiled the "Six" collection of occasional tables designed to enhance modern office spaces. The hexagonal tabletops and varying heights offer visually dynamic arrangements. The collection incorporates a range of materials and finishes, with sustainability in mind. Available for purchase starting February 20th, 2024, the "Six" collection is ideal for Higher Education, Hospitality, and Corporate environments.
DARRAN Furniture has launched the "Plus" modular lounge collection, designed to transform Higher Education, Hospitality, and Corporate environments. The collection offers comfort, elegance, and adaptability with its plush forms and modular design. It incorporates various modules and integrated tables to cater to different needs. The Plus Modular Collection is available for purchase now.
Maharam introduces Beyond and Midair, woven textiles designed in collaboration with multimedia artist Jacob Hashimoto. The textiles reflect the materiality and intricacy of Hashimoto's sculptures, with Beyond featuring circular motifs and vibrant accent hues, and Midair showcasing compact clusters of connected kites in nineteen vibrant patterns. Hashimoto's work combines painting and sculpture, creating layered installations that evoke a sense of space, pattern, light, and motion.
Maharam introduces Beyond and Midair, woven textiles designed in collaboration with multimedia artist Jacob Hashimoto. The textiles reflect the materiality and intricacy of Hashimoto's sculptures, with Beyond featuring circular motifs and vibrant accent hues, and Midair showcasing compact clusters of connected kites in nineteen vibrant patterns. Hashimoto's work combines painting and sculpture, creating layered installations that evoke a sense of space, pattern, light, and motion.
Shaw Contract has launched the Creative Zone carpet tile collection, inspired by everyday landscapes and designed for all learning environments. The collection offers four styles in six core neutrals, allowing designers to create color schemes that promote creativity, calmness, and school spirit. The collection includes Daydreamer, Imagine, Mindscape, and Ponder tiles, each with unique patterns and textures. The tiles are made with EcoSolution Q100™, a high-performance recycled content nylon fiber, and can be recycled through Shaw's re[TURN]® Reclamation Program. Shaw Contract aims to positively impact people and the planet with their products and solutions.
Fräsch, a Catalyst Acoustics Group company, announces the expansion of its award-winning STRATAWOOD collection with STRATAWOOD 2x2. This new compact panel is designed to fit into a standard 15/16" T-Grid ceiling and offers easy installation and field cutting options. It is available in popular woodgrains and features superior acoustical performance. Fräsch aims to provide both acoustic solutions and design elements for commercial projects.
The Carousel furniture collection by emuamericas, designed in collaboration with Sebastian Herkner, reinterprets traditional weaving with a modern twist. The collection includes outdoor/indoor furniture pieces such as lounge chairs, armchairs, end tables, coffee tables, and footrests, featuring woven rope and aluminum construction. The signature feature of Carousel chairs is the three-dimensional aluminum armrest. This versatile collection is a stylish addition to any space.
Herman Miller expands their Archival Poster Collection with five historical pieces by artists Barbara Loveland, Linda Powell, Tomoko Miho, John Massey, and Steve Frykholm. The collection celebrates the design sensibilities of the 1960s to 1980s, featuring bold and tactile prints on cotton paper. The posters are available for purchase, with the Brochure Cover series coming later this spring.
markilux presents the Pergola Stretch, a retractable pergola shading solution that offers sun and weather protection with a motorized folding technique. It features a streamlined design, versatile features, and customization options. The Pergola Stretch has received recognition for its design and innovation, making it a leader in outdoor living.
Trends in Commercial Projects from Around the Globe
Intuit's new Atlanta office, designed in collaboration with local design firms and Mailchimp's creative agency, is inspired by the concept of a city. The office is divided into distinct "neighborhoods" that cater to different teams and work styles. It features various spaces for collaboration, innovation, and comfort, including libraries, maker spaces, rooftops, and hidden bars. The office also showcases an extensive art program with commissioned artworks that inspire creativity and collaboration. Sustainability is a key focus, with targets for LEED® Gold Certification and Fitwel Certification. The office design aims to balance collaborative spaces with areas for focused work, providing employees with versatile and functional spaces. In this ever-changing landscape, creating spaces that promote collaboration, creativity, and wellness is essential for the modern office.
AE Works collaborated with the National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke to create a reimagined workplace that fosters collaboration and innovation. The project involved improving space flexibility and efficiency, opening the floor plan for cross-departmental collaboration, and enhancing access to natural daylight. The design solution included a curved corridor, modular office spaces, and sustainable design principles. The renovated space now provides a collaborative, light-filled environment for the organization's vital work in improving public health.
Maris Interiors transformed Planet's financial services office in London into a vibrant and inviting workspace inspired by boutique hotels. The design aimed to foster creativity, collaboration, and productivity by creating a space that resembled a private members' club. The office features various zones catering to different work styles, plush furnishings, a thoughtful color palette, and ambient lighting integrated with functional technology. This transformation represents a significant shift in the perception of what a financial services office can be, blending luxury, comfort, and functionality to create a dynamic and productive work environment.
Upcoming Industry Events
Industry Briefing
Kimball International’s Dallas Showroom Earned WELL Certification at the Platinum Level
Kimball International's Dallas showroom has achieved WELL Certification at the Platinum level, demonstrating their commitment to health and well-being. This certification ensures that the space meets industry standards for health and performance, and reinforces the company's dedication to their employees and visitors. Kimball International's corporate headquarters is also WELL Platinum certified, and they are pursuing certification for other showroom locations nationwide.
Haworth Dealers Named Best in Class
Haworth has recognized 36 dealers as Best in Class for their outstanding performance in market development, sales, and operational excellence. These dealers have demonstrated adaptability, improvement, and a commitment to meeting customer needs. The dealer include: Advanced Business Interiors, BOS, BurkeMICHAEL+, CFI, Cime Business Environments, Commercial Office Environments, Corporate Interior Systems, CTI Working Environments, Cultura, DBI Business Interiors, Elements IV Interiors Inc., encompas, Fluid Interiors, Furniture Marketing Group (FMG), Freeform, HBI Office Plus, Heritage Business Interiors, Interior Systems Contract Group (ISCG), Interphase Interiors, JC White Architectural Interior Products, King Business Interiors Inc., M & M Office Interiors, LLC, Merchants & Co., Michigan Office Environments (MOE), Norby’s Work Perks, Office Interiors, PAPSA, PeopleSpace, PMC Commercial Interiors, Price Modern, Professional Office Environments (POE), RCF Group, Royer Commercial Interiors, System Source, turnerboone, and Unisource.
DBI Business Interiors, encompas, Interphase Interiors, and Price Modern have received this designation 13 times. “To be named Best in Class, dealers must embrace adaptability and improvement, excel in their marketing efforts and, most importantly, consistently meet the needs of their customers,” said Jack Cottrell, Haworth Vice President of Channel and Dealer Development. “These 36 dealers have demonstrated their dedication over the past year and have earned this accolade.”
Find the best Contract Furniture Industry jobs and hire the best talent.
The Territory Sales Rep will be responsible for the specification and sales of The Senator Groups products, including both its Allermuir and Senator brands, in the New York/Northern New Jersey MSA.
The position will streamline the sales and design process on commercial furniture projects to provide thebestresults for A&D and other new business development partners.
The Senator Group has an immediate career opportunity for a Territory Sales Rep in the Baltimore/Washington DC area.
Indoff is expanding and in need of experienced outside sales professionals in your area. If you’re tired of missing out on money due to low commission rates or you’re sick of quotas, then Indoff is the perfect solution for you.
This Merchandise Mart based Dual Role position provides collaborative support for the Chicago market and is responsible for all showroom management duties for our brand new AIS showroom.
MergeWorks is an ancillary furniture manufacturer seeking an experienced and enthusiastic Regional Sales Manager to...
The Designer provides design services and workspace solutions to dealership customers, including site/inventory verifications, programming, space planning, typical development, presentation materials, working/installation drawings, specifications and site-to-plan review.
The Project Manager (PM) is the point of contact for all aspects of assigned contract furniture projects, from inception of project to final close-out and invoicing.
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),
