AI Could Drive Office Leasing Growth for Tech Sector / Office Visits Reach Highest Level Since 2020 / U.S. Office Edges Closer To Recovery Than At Any Point Since Pandemic's Onset / FIFTH THIRD BANCORP's Strategic Acquisition of Steelcase Inc Shares / Teknion Corporation and Koncept Lighting Announce Strategic Partnership / Dania Furniture to Partner with the Seattle Seahawks / Rudin Reports NYC Office Occupancy Surpasses 2019 Levels / Signs Of Life Appear For Metro Denver's Office Market / Feel Good Friday: The benefits of having dogs at work / Beyond The Boardroom: The Key Factors That Could Override Mandatory RTOs / RTO failing to deliver on boosted collaboration / Aging workforce calls for a closer look at workplace design / The Power Of The 95th Percentile: One Big Occupier Has A Formula To Calculate Office Space Needs / and much more…


The Working Space

Monday, November 18, 2024

Industry News

Teknion Corporation and Koncept Lighting Announce Strategic Partnership
Teknion Corporation has renewed its partnership with Koncept Lighting to introduce four new lighting solutions: Focaccia, Lady7, Mr. n, and Yurei, aimed at enhancing modern workspaces. Teknion and Koncept’s relationship first began in 2010. This continuing collaboration focuses on improving office environments through innovative lighting that boosts productivity and aesthetics.
 
 "We believe that lighting is essential in creating dynamic and engaging work environments," added Kenneth Ng, CEO of Koncept Lighting. "By collaborating with Teknion, we are poised to deliver holistic solutions that empower organizations to thrive in the ever-evolving workplace."
 
The new products feature versatile designs and energy-efficient technologies, reflecting both companies' commitment to creating dynamic and engaging work environments.
Fifth Third Bancorp acquired 11,414,767 shares of Steelcase Inc at $13.49 each, increasing its stake to approximately 11.4 million shares, representing 11.22% ownership. This strategic move enhances Fifth Third's investment portfolio and reflects confidence in Steelcase, which has a market capitalization of $1.51 billion and a PE ratio of 12.52. The acquisition aligns with Fifth Third's focus on technology and financial services, positioning both companies for potential future growth.
The tech sector is experiencing a rebound in office leasing, driven by a focus on artificial intelligence (AI) despite a slowdown in job growth. While tech job growth fell to 0.3% in 2023, it has improved to 1% in 2024, with predictions that AI could replace 2.4 million jobs by 2030. The share of office leasing by tech companies increased from 9% to 21% within a year, particularly in markets like San Francisco and Boston, where AI startups are thriving. Overall, the office sector is stabilizing, with Nashville, Charlotte, and Dallas-Ft. Worth identified as key markets for future tech growth.
The U.S. office market shows signs of recovery, with positive net absorption for the first time in two years and rising lease rates. Interest in office-to-residential conversions is high, with numerous projects underway. However, vacancy rates vary significantly by region, and only a small percentage of office buildings nationwide are suitable for conversion. The outlook for 2025 anticipates a surge in conversion activity, driven by low valuations and city incentives.

Dania Furniture to Partner with the Seattle Seahawks
Dania Furniture has partnered with the Seattle Seahawks for the upcoming football season, enhancing the fan experience with comfortable seating at Lumen Field and engaging activities for attendees. This three-year partnership aims to showcase Dania's modern home furnishings while promoting community involvement and excitement for the Seahawks' playoff aspirations.
Rudin Management Company reports that its New York office properties have surpassed pre-pandemic occupancy levels, with some buildings exceeding 100% occupancy compared to 2019. The company emphasizes the importance of amenities and open workspaces, adapting to tenant needs, and acknowledges that remote and hybrid work trends are here to stay. Rudin remains optimistic about the office market's recovery and continues to innovate in its offerings.
Denver's office market shows signs of recovery despite high vacancy rates and negative absorption. Recent leases, including Bet365's move to downtown, and the approval of ballot measure 6A for revitalization efforts indicate potential growth. However, the market remains fragile, with significant tenant movements impacting overall absorption, and a full recovery is still a work in progress.

Workplace News

Research shows that having dogs in the workplace can significantly reduce stress and increase employee happiness by positively affecting hormone levels. Companies like Google and Amazon promote pet-friendly environments, leading to higher employee engagement and lower absenteeism. While dogs can enhance social interactions and create a welcoming atmosphere, companies should implement guidelines to ensure a safe and hygienic environment for both employees and pets.
Standard Chartered has developed a formula to calculate office space needs by monitoring building attendance over six months and using the 95th percentile of that data to determine workspace requirements. This approach helps avoid outliers and ensures adequate space usage. The company is also analyzing how employees utilize space, leading to more efficient layouts, such as creating smaller meeting rooms and optimizing seating arrangements based on worker interactions, ultimately enhancing productivity.
External factors like market competition, regulatory changes, and technological advancements are increasingly influencing return-to-office (RTO) decisions, often creating a disconnect between leadership and employees. Strict RTO policies can lead to higher turnover and decreased morale, as many employees prioritize work-life balance over rigid mandates. Effective RTO strategies should adopt a flexible approach that considers these external pressures, fostering trust and autonomy to enhance employee satisfaction and retention.
Despite corporate leaders' intentions to boost collaboration through in-person work, recent data shows a decline in workplace collaboration satisfaction, dropping from 36% in 2021 to 29% in 2024. Factors contributing to this issue include increased individual work habits due to remote work, political polarization among colleagues, and a lack of clear guidance on effective collaboration. Experts suggest that organizations need to rethink interaction norms and implement guided collaboration strategies to improve workplace dynamics and employee satisfaction.

Trends

Despite corporate leaders' intentions to boost collaboration through in-person work, recent data shows a decline in workplace collaboration satisfaction, dropping from 36% in 2021 to 29% in 2024. Factors contributing to this issue include increased individual work habits due to remote work, political polarization among colleagues, and a lack of clear guidance on effective collaboration. Experts suggest that organizations need to rethink interaction norms and implement guided collaboration strategies to improve workplace dynamics and employee satisfaction.

Design

Unispace’s recent Global Workplace Insights Survey reveals a decline in employer confidence in office design as a driver for employee innovation, down from 81% in 2023 to 76% this year. Employees want to return to the office for focused work and collaboration, but open-plan spaces often fail to support these needs, leading to workplace inefficiencies. Post-COVID, hybrid models have pushed office designs to compete with the convenience of home workspaces, requiring intentional changes in layout and amenities to enhance productivity and appeal.

The survey emphasizes that workplaces should prioritize adaptability, well-being, and meaningful employee connections. Moving away from rigid benchmarks, companies must focus on designs that accommodate dynamic work styles rather than maximizing occupancy. Open-plan “neighborhoods” often lead to noise and distraction, while thoughtful design encourages productive and purposeful office visits. As firms adjust to hybrid work rhythms, they should invest in technology for seamless virtual interactions and model behaviors that foster collaboration. Ultimately, true innovation requires more than aesthetics; it needs adaptable, intentional spaces aligned with the evolving needs of employees.

As the U.S. workforce ages, with a significant increase in employees aged 75 and older, HR leaders must adapt workplace designs to accommodate older workers. This includes recognizing the importance of creating inclusive environments that enhance productivity and retain talent. Health considerations are critical, as many older employees face disabilities, necessitating workplace adaptations. Legal protections exist for older workers, and companies should extend accommodations to all employees. Investing in these changes is not only compliant with laws but also beneficial for business, as it can reduce turnover and healthcare costs while improving employee morale.
Gensler and Virsona explore creating communal spaces for video gaming, emphasizing technology's role in enhancing social interactions rather than creating barriers. The design aims to foster connections through immersive experiences, with a focus on hybrid entertainment that blends digital and physical elements. The goal is to create inviting environments that encourage repeat visits by balancing excitement with comfort, while also integrating gamification across different locations to enhance social experiences.
The trend of "shy tech" integrates technology subtly into environments, minimizing visible gadgets while enhancing user experience. This approach, seen in automotive design like Tesla's, is expanding to homes and workplaces, focusing on human-like interactions and sensory experiences. Challenges include integrating tech into existing structures and addressing privacy concerns. Successful implementation requires clear objectives, robust decision-making, and a design that prioritizes user comfort and interaction.

Green / Sustainability

Clear Design Achieves Indoor Air Quality Certification across its FAST Program Product Lines
Clear Design has achieved the SCS Indoor Advantage Gold Certification for its FAST Program product lines, including workstations and storage solutions, highlighting its commitment to sustainability and innovation. This certification enables dealer partners to utilize environmentally responsible products that meet green building standards, with a focus on quick delivery and support for projects. Clear Design aims to enhance its market leadership in fast workspace solutions that prioritize employee wellbeing.

HLW Achieves Renewal of Just 2.0 Label
HLW, a global architecture and design firm, has renewed its Just 2.0 Label from the International Living Future Institute, recognizing its commitment to equity and social justice. This achievement highlights HLW's dedication to a people-first work environment, emphasizing diversity, inclusivity, and transparency. The firm improved its performance in areas such as well-being, health care, and gender pay equity, while maintaining high scores in gender diversity and charitable giving. HLW plans to enhance management training to further its inclusivity and equity goals, continuing its commitment to meaningful impact and sustainability.

Armadillo Releases Its Second Impact Report | Creating Impact Inside and Outside the Home
Armadillo, a luxury Australian rug brand, has released its second impact report for 2024, highlighting its commitment to sustainability and philanthropy. The brand achieved carbon neutrality, re-certified as a B Corp with a top score, and reduced its waste footprint. Notable philanthropic efforts include funding scholarships for girls in India and Nepal and partnerships with various non-profits. Armadillo has also been recognized as one of the Best Places to Work and initiated a Justice, Diversity, and Inclusion training program for employees.

RadTech Degradable Materials Task Force Announces the 2025 UV+EB Degradability Challenge: Pioneering Sustainable Solutions for a Cleaner Future
The RadTech Degradable Materials Task Force has launched the 2025 UV+EB Degradability Challenge to promote the development of degradable materials using UV+EB technology, addressing the low recycling rates of plastic waste. Researchers and companies are invited to submit projects or proposals for materials that demonstrate degradability. Applications will be judged on innovation and commercial viability, with winners receiving a trip to RadTech 2025 in Detroit to present their work. 

Related Markets - Luxury Hospitality

BDNY 2024 Recap: Trends, Optimism, and Industry Insights

The Stump team attended BDNY (Boutique & Design New York) at the Javits Center, where over 650 exhibitors displayed captivating products for the hospitality industry. With attendance rising to 13,000, up from 9,000 in 2023, the two-day event was bustling with designers, purchasing agents, and industry insiders eager to connect.

Industry Pulse

2024 has been solid for many exhibitors following a record-breaking 2023, though recent new order slowdowns are attributed to U.S. election uncertainties and interest rate questions. With the election over, optimism for 2025 is high.

Quote of the Market: “Energy, traffic, and quoting are excellent, but purchase orders remain a bit elusive.”

Key Talking Points

1. Tariffs: CEOs discussed potential tariffs on imports, planning with overseas vendors to adjust pricing. Domestic companies face challenges expanding U.S. capacity due to labor and regulatory constraints.

2. Luxury Demand: The high-end hospitality sector is booming, with large and boutique projects flourishing. Rising demand for $1,000-a-night hotel rooms underscores the need for luxury-focused suppliers.

3. “Resi-mercial” Trends: Residential and commercial design are blending, with major residential players eyeing the hospitality sector, especially through interior designer channels.

4. M&A Outlook: Despite a soft market over the past two years, there’s optimism for 2025 with potential lower interest rates and renewed business confidence. Stump is actively marketing companies in both hospitality and office sectors and anticipates a busy start to the new year.

Kasthall Wows at Inaugural Debut at BDNY 2024
Kasthall successfully debuted at BDNY 2024, showcasing its new VICHY collection, which reinterprets the classic checkered pattern with high-quality wool and vibrant colors. The collection features eight color options and emphasizes durability and versatility. Additionally, the updated Feather collection introduces five new lively colors inspired by nature, enhancing its playful and contemporary appeal. Both collections offer customization options for designers.

Heller Celebrates Modern Design with New Launches at BDNY 2024
Heller showcased new modern designs at BDNY 2024, including the Bellini Bar & Counter Stools, which expand the iconic Bellini Chair family, and the Fortune Chair by JUMBO Design Studio, inspired by fortune cookies. The SOS Stool, a versatile piece that serves multiple functions, was also reintroduced. All products emphasize sustainability, being made from recycled materials and suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

HBF Textiles Wins Two Awards in it’s Debut at BDNY 2024
HBF Textiles won two awards at the BDNY 2024 trade show, including the Best Fabrics Collection for the "Moments of Wander" collection, designed by Christiane Müller, which evokes nature through its designs. The Bao Collection, designed by ALA Studio, received the Aspire Award for Seating, featuring a versatile design that bridges formal and informal settings, available in multiple sizes and variations.

Ethnicraft Showcased 2024 Novelties at BDNY
Ethnicraft showcased its latest furniture collections at BDNY 2024, highlighting items like the Sono Sideboard, PI Wall-Mounted Desk, PI Dining Chair, and Chopped Room Divider. These pieces emphasize craftsmanship and design innovation, blending functionality with aesthetic appeal. The Sono Sideboard features antique-inspired craftsmanship with modern elegance, while the PI collection honors natural design with hand-finished items. The Chopped Room Divider serves both functional and decorative purposes, catering to the growing demand for versatile space solutions in modern interiors.

DEDON Shined Bright at BDNY 2024
DEDON excelled at BDNY 2024, winning the Best Booth Award and showcasing innovative outdoor designs. Highlights include the SEASHELL GRAND, a finalist in the Product Awards, and new collections like ATOLO, FLLAIR, and SEASHELL NUO, which emphasize modularity, coastal inspiration, and sustainability with DEDON's EcoCycle Fiber. The SATELLITE tables offer practical elegance with various heights and sizes for versatile dining experiences.

Latest Product News

Yet, another blast from the past. Knoll has launched (or relaunched) the Morrison Hannah Chair, originally designed in 1973, now updated for modern lifestyles with enhanced comfort and functionality. The chair features simple adjustments, holistic ergonomics, and a new rocking mechanism, making it ideal for hybrid work environments. It is available in various models and colors, starting at $1,095 USD. The design emphasizes minimalism and adaptability, reflecting the philosophy of its creators, Bruce Hannah and Andrew Morrison.
Tayco has launched the Studi Table, designed for dynamic workspaces, featuring a nesting design for easy storage, soft-locking casters for mobility, and a versatile frame compatible with various tabletop sizes. The table supports eco-friendly practices with reduced plastic packaging and compact shipping. It aims to enhance adaptability in office environments, making it ideal for collaborative spaces while reflecting Tayco's commitment to user-focused design and sustainability.
Scandinavian Spaces introduces the Sander chair, a modern reinterpretation of a Swedish classic designed for the contract market. Inspired by 1950s Scandinavian aesthetics, it features a curved veneer back, solid wooden armrests, and customizable finishes. The chair combines elegance with comfort, making it suitable for contemporary commercial interiors while honoring traditional design principles.
emuamericas has launched the Café Collection, designed by Christophe Pillet, featuring versatile side chairs, armchairs, and barstools suitable for commercial spaces. The collection offers 16 color options, ergonomic design for comfort, impressive stackability, and a unique expanded metal sheet pattern for durability. It debuted at BDNY in New York City and will be available for order in Spring 2025 through authorized dealers.
Room & Board has expanded its Urban Wood Project in partnership with Storm Trees, introducing the Graft collection of tables made from reclaimed white oak. This initiative aims to divert urban wood from landfills, promoting sustainability and quality craftsmanship. The Graft collection features various table styles and is priced from $999. Room & Board plans to divert 1,000 trees annually from waste by 2025, continuing its commitment to environmental protection through collaborations with like-minded partners.
FilzFelt has launched the Nest Baffle, a series of contoured and linear acoustic panels made from 100% biodegradable Wool Design Felt. The panels, designed by Kelly Harris Smith, come in various configurations to enhance sound absorption and visual appeal in spaces. Key features include a Noise Reduction Coefficient of 0.70, compliance with environmental standards, and customizable heights. The product aims to create inviting and tranquil environments through its design and material properties.
The Mitchell Group has launched two new products, Cowboy and Lone Star, from its Mitchell Collection, designed for commercial settings. Cowboy features a distressed leather look with a durable vinyl surface, while Lone Star offers a refined feel in 13 rich colors, suitable for hospitality and high-traffic areas. Both products are made of 100% PVC, ensuring durability and easy maintenance, catering to the needs of discerning product specifiers in various commercial applications.
Artaic has partnered with wildlife artist and conservationist Dr. Guy Harvey to create "The Guy Harvey Collection," featuring vibrant mosaic designs of marine wildlife. The collection includes hand-cut glass medallions and vitreous glass tile murals, showcasing iconic pieces like "Grand Slam III" and "Dolphins Racing." Available in various sizes, the mosaics are designed for durability and versatility in settings such as pools and outdoor spaces. A portion of sales will support ocean conservation through the Guy Harvey Foundation.
Normann Copenhagen has launched the Mat chair collection, made from environmentally friendly materials like hemp and eelgrass, emphasizing circular design principles. This innovative collection, developed in collaboration with the Danish Technological Institute, aims to reduce plastic use and enhance sustainability in furniture production. The chairs are designed for durability and aesthetic appeal, with a take-back scheme for recycling at the end of their lifecycle. Lifecycle assessments indicate that the Mat chairs emit significantly less CO2 compared to traditional polypropylene chairs, marking a significant step towards sustainable furniture design.

Industrial Design

Steelcase and Logitech have developed the Ocular View, a dedicated videoconferencing booth designed to enhance hybrid collaboration by providing a more immersive experience. This solution addresses the challenges of traditional video calls, such as lack of eye contact and mental fatigue, by creating a comfortable environment that prioritizes human connection over technology. The booth features life-size renderings of remote participants and aims to facilitate natural gaze and engagement, making virtual interactions feel more personal and less distracting.
Cathay-Pacific's new Premium Economy seats, designed by JPA, feature enhanced privacy inspired by wingback chairs, integrated reading lights, thigh support, foldable footrests, large seatback monitors, and convenient storage compartments with USB-C ports. The design aims to improve comfort and functionality for passengers on the airline's 777-300ER planes.
Carhartt WIP has collaborated with Japanese furniture brand Nychair X to create a foldable chair and ottoman, featuring a brown canvas reminiscent of workwear. The design, inspired by Nychair X's original 1970 chair, includes stainless steel legs and wooden armrests. The lightweight pieces are designed for minimal space usage and are part of Carhartt WIP's Fall/Winter 2024 line.
The exhibition "Adaptations" at Aram in London showcases the work of 10 UK-based designers who have creatively modified USM's modular Haller system to enhance everyday life. Each designer brings a unique perspective, exploring themes of deviation, function, and narrative through their innovative furniture designs, which include items like a lamp, a bookshelf, and a pull-out unit for a campervan. The exhibition runs until December 14, 2024.

Trends in Commercial Projects from Around the Globe

Scotiabank's new Toronto office, designed by KPMB Architects, emphasizes employee engagement and a diverse, collaborative culture. The 375,000 sq ft space features inclusive design elements, ample natural light, and third spaces for social interaction. Employee feedback shaped the design, leading to amenities that promote wellness and collaboration. The project reflects a strategic blend of functional design and artistic integration, resulting in high employee experience scores.
HOK's renovation of the Cummins Technical Center in Columbus, Indiana, transforms the 1968 modernist tower into a modern workplace for approximately 500 employees focused on R&D for next-generation power solutions. Key features include collaborative spaces, gender-neutral restrooms, and upgraded facilities, all while respecting the building's architectural legacy. The project, completed in late 2024, marks a significant milestone for Cummins in its innovation strategy.
NBCUniversal has redesigned its LA headquarters to resemble a college campus, creating a collaborative workspace with outdoor amenities and modern facilities. This redevelopment, part of a 25-year plan, aims to revitalize the studio lot amidst challenges in the film industry, including a decline in production and the rise of streaming. The new design incorporates elements inspired by college campuses, enhancing the work environment for film professionals and encouraging collaboration and creativity.
Central Insurance has opened a new 48,322-square-foot office in Dublin, OH, designed by NELSON Worldwide to honor its history in fire insurance while accommodating future growth. The office features innovative design elements that reflect the company's legacy, including a glass-disc wall and brass inlays. The space includes various employee amenities and community engagement areas, with positive feedback from agency partners highlighting the blend of history and modernity in the design.

Latest In Real Life WFH

Connor Murphy, a freelance designer with a background at Shopify and InVision, focuses on web and product design for startups. His workspace features a MacBook Pro, custom gaming PC, and various tools like Figma and Notion. He emphasizes a clean workspace for creativity and follows a flexible daily routine, balancing work and personal projects while enjoying outdoor activities and good food in Denver.

Project Leads

Verizon has renewed its office lease for over 172,000 square feet at 60 Hudson Street, marking the largest lease deal in Downtown Manhattan for Q3 2024. The building has seen significant renovations and now includes additional data center space. Overall office leasing in Manhattan has increased by 24.7% year-to-date, with average asking rents at $75.97 per square foot. Despite a negative net absorption of 7.4 million square feet, leasing activity is expected to surpass 2023 totals with more large deals anticipated in Q4.

Upcoming Industry Events

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

New director of sales indicates expansion across North America for Camira Group
Camira Group has appointed Morgan Levien as the new director of sales, focusing on expansion in North America. With over 15 years of experience, Levien aims to double the group's business in the region over the next five years. Camira, celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2024, is known for its sustainable textile innovations and has a strong global presence, producing eight million meters of fabric annually.

Tangram Interiors Appoints Nick Meter as President, Emphasizing Strategic Growth and Innovation
Tangram Interiors has appointed Nick Meter as President, emphasizing strategic growth and innovation. With nearly two decades at Tangram, Meter aims to optimize business units and implement a growth strategy while adapting to industry changes. His leadership will focus on sustaining the company's legacy, enhancing creative talent acquisition, and addressing workplace demands, all while ensuring Tangram remains a leader in integrated interior solutions.

Office Images promotes Morgan Hochstetler to Business Development Manager
Office Images has promoted Morgan Hochstetler to Business Development Manager, where she will focus on identifying growth opportunities and strengthening client relationships. Hochstetler, who joined the company as a sales development representative, has a background in management, marketing, sales, and client relations, and holds a degree in communication from the University of North Florida. Office Images is a leading dealership in workplace furniture and architectural solutions.

Landscape Forms’ Operations Engineering Manager Charles Washburn Honored with Michigan Manufacturing Associations’ 2024 Emerging Leader Award
Charles Washburn, Operations Engineering Manager at Landscape Forms, has been awarded the 2024 Manufacturing Emerging Leader Award by the Michigan Manufacturers Association for his mentorship, positive workplace culture, and commitment to excellence. Recognized for his collaborative leadership style and dedication to personal growth, Washburn has significantly impacted his team and the manufacturing community, engaging in mentorship activities and supporting students interested in manufacturing careers.

Darran Accepted as Members of "Be Originals Americas"
DARRAN Furniture has been accepted as a member of "Be Original Americas," recognizing its commitment to original design in the Contract Furniture industry. This membership highlights DARRAN's efforts to innovate and contribute to the design conversation, emphasizing the importance of authenticity, environmental responsibility, and quality manufacturing. Founded in 1977, DARRAN is a woman-owned, family-operated company focused on creating thoughtfully designed work environments that enhance productivity and culture.

Herman Miller’s OE1 Sit-to-Stand Table designed by Industrial Facility receives Archiproducts Design Award
Herman Miller's OE1 Sit-to-Stand Table, designed by Industrial Facility, has won the Archiproducts Design Award for its innovative design and functionality. The table features a height-adjustable design with a single-column base and a discreet power foot pedal, available in various shapes. It is part of the OE1 Workspace Collection, which includes versatile office solutions aimed at enhancing productivity and adaptability in workspaces.

Lawrence Group Celebrating 25 Years of Growth in Austin, Texas
Lawrence Group celebrates its 25th anniversary in Austin, Texas, highlighting its growth under Managing Principal Luma Jaffar, who succeeded I. Earl Swisher. The firm aims to double its size in five years by expanding its staff and project scope, particularly in community, hospitality, and healthcare design. Jaffar emphasizes strengthening partnerships and pursuing diverse projects to enhance public spaces, continuing the firm's legacy of impactful civic work in Central Texas.

Spec Furniture Inc. Launches New CEU "Accessibility Considerations: Purposeful Design for All" to Promote Inclusive Interior Design
Spec Furniture has launched a new Continuing Education Unit (CEU) titled "Accessibility Considerations: Purposeful Design for All," aimed at promoting inclusive interior design. The course educates professionals on universal design principles, accessibility guidelines, and strategies for creating functional environments for individuals of all abilities. It emphasizes the importance of accessibility in enhancing quality of life and is available in person for design and construction professionals. Spec Furniture, established in 1991, is committed to producing innovative and environmentally conscious contract furniture solutions.

Nemo Tile + Stone Leases Slab Gallery in New Jersey
Nemo Tile + Stone has signed a lease for its new Nemo Slab Collection Gallery in Lyndhurst, NJ, set to open in Winter 2024/2025. This 30,000-square-foot facility will showcase a wide range of premium porcelain and natural stone, catering to architects, designers, and contractors. The gallery aims to enhance the sourcing experience by merging artisanal craftsmanship with modern technology, offering over 100 years of industry knowledge, hands-on workshops, and an intuitive selection process to address common industry challenges.

Winners Announced for the 2024 NanaAwards Project and Design Competition
The 2024 NanaAwards Project and Design Competition announced its winners, celebrating outstanding achievements in architecture and design. Gold winners were recognized in 13 categories, including Best Residential Design (Timberline Residence) and Best Commercial Project (Treehouse at Willow Oaks). The competition received over 11,000 votes from the community, highlighting innovation and creativity in design. Winning projects will be showcased on NanaWall's platforms, reflecting the adaptability and performance of operable glass walls. To view previous winners, please visit the NanaWall website. 
Find the best Contract Furniture Industry jobs and hire the best talent.
Goldsit Office Furniture is a leading manufacturer based in Turkey, known for its high-quality, ergonomic, and innovative office furniture solutions. With a strong reputation across Europe, we are now expanding into the U.S. market, and we are seeking Independent Sales Rep Groups to help us build our presence and grow our customer base in this exciting new territory.
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