Maybe there will be a lot more NeoCon's after all. The Mart, home to NeoCon, is unlikely to be sold in the near future despite interest from investors. Its significant size and stable rental income make it appealing, but the current market favors distressed properties, limiting potential buyers. The building maintains a strong tenant base and is known for its cultural significance and amenities, having undergone substantial renovations over the years. However, the complexity of a sale and the high valuation expectations suggest that maintaining the status quo is the most probable outcome.

MillerKnoll has been recertified as a Great Place to Work® for 2025-2026, reflecting its commitment to a positive employee experience rooted in trust and innovation. The certification is based on employee feedback across five dimensions: credibility, respect, fairness, pride, and camaraderie. MillerKnoll, a collective of design brands, emphasizes a people-first workplace culture and reported net sales of $3.7 billion in fiscal year 2025.

From September 4 to 8, Humanscale opens a new showroom in Paris at 3 Rue Édouard VII, coinciding with Paris Design Week. The showroom, open daily from 10:00 to 19:00, showcases a curated collection of premium products aimed at redefining modern living. With over 40 years of experience in ergonomic design, Humanscale extends its expertise into high-end residential spaces through Humanscale Living, which emphasizes beauty, comfort, and sustainability. The collection features the Diffrient Lounge chair, designed by Neils Diffrient, alongside other products like the eFloat Quattro table and Sedeo. These designs aim to enhance productivity and well-being in contemporary home life. Humanscale Living products are distributed through select retail partners committed to design integrity and a premium experience.

Workstories has merged with Roger Lewis, a specialist in precision joinery and upholstery, enhancing its position in British furniture design and manufacturing. This partnership will broaden Workstories' market offerings while reinforcing its commitment to quality, sustainability, and customer service. Roger Lewis, established in the late 1980s, originally focused on retail before expanding into the commercial market in 2013, emphasizing bespoke solutions and sustainability. The collaboration allows Roger Lewis to operate independently while serving as a key manufacturing partner to Workstories. Both companies share a commitment to craft and innovation, which will strengthen their capabilities and product offerings in the future.

Prime office costs are rising due to strong demand for Class A properties, with a 0.7% quarterly and 3.4% yearly increase in costs. North America leads in rising occupier costs, particularly in cities like Miami and New York. In contrast, Asia Pacific markets remain mostly flat, and while Europe shows slight increases, technology is influencing market dynamics, though innovations may not significantly reduce service charge growth.

New York City office visits have surpassed prepandemic levels for the first time, with a 1.3% increase in July 2025 compared to July 2019. Finance companies have implemented stricter in-office protocols, contributing to this trend. Nationwide, office attendance remains down 21.8% compared to 2019, but major cities like Miami, Atlanta, and Dallas are also seeing improvements. A recent report indicates that many organizations are prioritizing increased on-site presence, with attendance mandates viewed as the most effective strategy.

Downtown Los Angeles faces a potential $69.5 billion decline in assessed office property value due to high vacancy rates, which currently stand at 22%. This could lead to a loss of $353 million in property tax revenue, impacting essential services. A study suggests converting underused office buildings into housing could generate $12 billion in new assessed value and stimulate economic activity. Financial incentives are needed to support these conversions, emphasizing the urgency for policy changes to mitigate economic fallout.

Law office fit-out costs average $365 per square foot in 2025, reflecting a 7% increase from the previous year. Major urban centers like New York and San Francisco see costs rise to $459 and $467 per square foot, respectively. The bulk of expenses is allocated to hard construction costs, while technology and professional fees also contribute significantly. Regional variations exist, with Southern cities offering lower costs, and firms are adapting to new design expectations focused on flexibility and collaboration to attract talent. Economic pressures from tariffs and rising material costs are influencing future planning and spending strategies. 

Small U.S. firms are facing a significant financial burden due to new tariffs imposed by the Trump administration, with an estimated annual cost of $202 billion. These companies struggle with compliance and increased operational costs, while larger firms have more resources to adapt. The burden of tariffs is expected to shift from businesses to consumers, raising concerns about the viability of small businesses. Calls for clearer guidance on tariff implementation have emerged, as the current system creates confusion and operational disruptions.

Tech companies, including Apple and Nvidia, are increasingly purchasing office spaces in Silicon Valley to secure control over their facilities amid a shift towards artificial intelligence. Owner-user deals made up over half of the transaction volume in early 2025, with firms taking advantage of discounted pricing. This trend reflects a strategic focus on research and development hubs, with a notable increase in semiconductor companies expanding their owned real estate. The office leasing market is rebounding, driven by major tech firms requiring in-office attendance, although this surge in ownership could limit available leasing options for other tenants.

UK office take-up has reached its highest level in three years, totaling 20.3 million square feet in the twelve months to Q2 2025, driven by business expansion and demand for high-quality space. The South East recorded its highest half-year total since 2019, while London saw a 13% increase in take-up compared to 2024. Despite ongoing changes in occupier behavior, demand for prime space remains strong, influenced by quality and sustainability, with potential for further improvement in the second half of the year.

The built environment should prioritize human experience alongside energy efficiency, shifting focus from traditional metrics to those that enhance productivity, well-being, and adaptability. Hyper intelligent buildings (HIBs) leverage real-time data and AI to create responsive environments that improve occupant comfort and performance, ultimately leading to higher ROI. This new approach emphasizes human KPIs and integrates technology in a way that aligns economic value with functional performance, making buildings more valuable and desirable in the evolving market.

Rarify is an innovative e-commerce platform focused on vintage and contemporary furniture, co-founded by David Rosenwasser and Jeremy Bilotti. The platform emphasizes sustainability, restoration, and education, showcasing a collection that includes iconic pieces like Eames chairs. Rarify has gained popularity through social media, attracting a younger audience and promoting the idea of outfitting spaces with refurbished vintage items, thereby reducing waste and enhancing design quality.

The article explores the enduring appeal of iconic office furniture designs from the mid-20th century, such as the Barcelona Chair and Eames Aluminium chair, questioning why contemporary designs have not achieved similar iconic status. It discusses the evolution of office furniture in response to changing work environments but notes a lack of groundbreaking new designs. The author suggests that current trends focus more on themed collections rather than individual iconic pieces, indicating a shift in market strategy that may not lead to future design icons.

The U.S., U.K., and Germany are leading the trend of pet-friendly workplaces, with major companies implementing policies that allow pets in the office. The U.S. has established comprehensive pet programs, while the U.K. sees a growing acceptance of pets in work environments. Germany emphasizes work-life balance and pet ownership, offering benefits like pet leave. Pet-friendly policies are shown to reduce stress, improve mental health, and enhance recruitment, making them a strategic advantage for businesses.

The four-day workweek has shown to increase productivity and reduce burnout, as evidenced by a successful pilot at Work Design. Employees reported improved focus, better time management, and a stronger sense of connection to their work and colleagues. The initiative involved careful planning, employee involvement, and a commitment to maintaining productivity while prioritizing well-being. Overall, the shift reflects a growing recognition that employee experience and trust are crucial for effective work environments.

Ambiverts, who blend traits of introverts and extroverts, excel in the workplace due to their adaptability, emotional intelligence, and communication skills. They perform better than their one-sided peers, particularly in hybrid work environments where they can balance collaboration and independent tasks. Employers can enhance performance by recognizing diverse personality types and creating supportive environments that accommodate ambiverts' needs, ultimately fostering stronger, more adaptable teams.

New York City's office market is recovering rapidly post-pandemic, with JPMorgan Chase moving into a new $3 billion headquarters. Office visits have surpassed pre-pandemic levels, driven by a push from executives to return employees to the workplace. High-end office spaces are in demand, with significant leases signed by firms like Deloitte. The city's office vacancy rates are easing as new supply decreases and some offices are converted to residential buildings.

Major employers are reducing their workforce due to efficiency gains from AI, with CEOs acknowledging a shift towards leaner operations. This trend could mark the decline of large employers in favor of smaller, more agile companies, which may foster innovation but also limit career advancement opportunities for workers. The potential for job creation in startups exists, but it may not compensate for the losses in larger firms, raising concerns about the future job market for college-educated workers. The focus on using AI to maintain or reduce headcounts rather than creating new opportunities poses risks for economic growth and worker stability.

Hubs Travel offers affordable monthly workations across Europe starting at €340, providing remote workers with private accommodations and coworking spaces in destinations like the Swiss Alps, London, and Budapest. Each location features high-speed Wi-Fi, ergonomic workstations, and community events, making it easier for professionals to work remotely while exploring vibrant cities and scenic areas. Spots are filling up quickly for the autumn season.

The U.S. coworking sector has experienced a slowdown in growth, with a decline in locations for the first time since 2023, but corporate demand is driving a potential resurgence. Despite economic challenges, the sector has opened over 1,500 new locations since 2023, primarily in suburban areas, catering to corporate clients seeking flexibility. Companies like Regus and WeWork are expanding their offerings, targeting both individual users and larger corporate clients, as the need for adaptable office solutions continues to rise amid ongoing uncertainty in the workplace.

The U.S. coworking sector is shifting towards efficiency and profitability, with major markets like Manhattan contracting while secondary cities such as Long Island and Birmingham experience growth. For the first time post-COVID, the total number of coworking locations has declined, emphasizing quality over quantity with larger, amenity-rich spaces. Membership prices remain highest in Manhattan and Brooklyn, while top operators are focusing on strategic expansions in high-demand areas.

Predictive analytics enables institutions to design flexible workspaces by testing multiple scenarios, improving space utilization and collaboration. Brown University's consolidation project exemplifies this, achieving a 25% space reduction while maintaining operational capacity through coordinated scheduling. However, some departments require consistent availability for student support, highlighting the need for tailored solutions. Early adopters of these strategies report higher workplace satisfaction, positioning themselves advantageously for future challenges in higher education.

Effective workplace design prioritizes psychological safety, fostering environments where employees feel valued and empowered. Incorporating hospitality into design creates welcoming spaces that enhance comfort and connection. Case studies, like Gardner Skelton, illustrate how intentional design can nurture well-being and creativity. Inclusive design goes beyond compliance, celebrating diversity and ensuring that spaces reflect the identities of all users, ultimately shaping a culture of belonging and mutual respect.

Higher education institutions must integrate human-plus-technical skills into third spaces to prepare students for a workforce increasingly influenced by AI. Key areas include evolving libraries into hubs for AI literacy, creating incubators and maker spaces for practical skill development, establishing AI-focused computing centers for interdisciplinary collaboration, and fostering residential communities that promote diverse interactions. These changes aim to equip students with essential skills like creativity, leadership, and emotional intelligence, ensuring they can effectively navigate and lead in an AI-driven environment.

Digital technology has become a core discipline in workplace design, alongside traditional design and workplace strategy. It now plays a leading role in defining work environments, driven by advancements in data analysis and user expectations for control and connectivity. Key changes include increased data availability, improved connectivity, and enhanced data processing capabilities, allowing for real-time insights and optimization of workplace conditions. The future requires hiring skilled professionals in data analysis and educating both clients and designers about the potential of digital technology in creating effective workspaces.

As AI transforms workplaces, designers must create flexible infrastructures that support on-premise AI solutions, enhancing security and user experience. Key considerations include robust physical infrastructure, future-proofing spaces, and integrating AI technologies for improved efficiency. Sustainable practices, such as liquid cooling and renewable energy sourcing, are essential for data centers. Collaboration among architects, engineers, and technology experts is crucial to develop adaptable solutions that prioritize ethical and regulatory standards while fostering a smarter, more human-centric environment.

Negotiators discussed a new draft treaty on global plastic pollution that does not limit plastic production or address toxic chemicals. While about 100 countries advocate for production caps and better recycling, oil and gas nations oppose these limits, favoring waste management instead. Discontent was expressed by various delegations, with some deeming the draft unacceptable, while others viewed it as a starting point. The draft emphasizes sustainable production and aims to reduce problematic plastic products, but lacks specific articles on production and chemicals.

Potato Head and designer Max Lamb have collaborated to create a sustainable design brand called Wasted, which repurposes waste materials from the hospitality industry into functional objects. The collection includes items made from recycled plastics, ceramics, and textiles, emphasizing zero waste and local craftsmanship. Lamb's approach focuses on using materials that would otherwise be discarded, aiming to inspire a new culture of sustainability in design.

Aceray has launched the Duo lounge seating collection, designed by Gualtiero Ceschia, which embodies the essence of Italian craftsmanship. Each piece is meticulously crafted in Italy, showcasing a blend of woodworking and upholstery skills. The Duo collection features a sweeping circular frame that provides comfort with its solid wood structure and multi-density polyurethane foam. Available in a single lounge chair and a loveseat, the Duo series is designed for various settings, including hotel lounges and office lobbies. It offers leg options in polished chrome steel or solid wood, ensuring versatility and aesthetic appeal. The Duo collection exemplifies the lasting value of well-crafted furniture that remains stylish and functional over time.

 

Chemetal has launched Resist, a new line of three scratch and fingerprint-resistant HPL metals designed for high-traffic commercial environments. These durable, Class A fire-rated surfaces feature a refined matte finish and come in Stainless, Champagne, and Black. With a thickness of .039” and a sheet size of 4’ x 8’, Resist offers a contemporary aesthetic and superior performance, making it suitable for various applications, including corporate, hospitality, retail, and restaurant interiors. The product combines affordability with ease of fabrication for millworkers, enhancing the sophistication of design spaces while ensuring durability against everyday wear.

 

visit www.chemetal.com

Star Tile has introduced Kaiyo, a handcrafted tile inspired by ocean waves, designed to enhance both interior and exterior spaces. This tile incorporates the Fibonacci sequence into asymmetrical hexagon shapes that mimic the fluid movement of water, offering a dynamic alternative to traditional tiles. Co-founder Andrea Keller emphasizes that Kaiyo creates an emotionally restorative experience, promoting mental clarity and inviting creativity in design. The tile’s pattern can be installed in various ways, allowing for versatile applications in architecture. Grounded in neuroscience, Kaiyo reflects the calming effects of natural patterns and sacred geometry, with the name deriving from the Japanese word for "ocean," symbolizing serenity and emotional flow. Available in natural tones, Kaiyo combines artistry with science to create immersive environments. Star Tile, a woman-owned ceramic studio, focuses on healing through design, crafting unique tiles that serve as transformative elements in high-end spaces.

 

Visit www.star-tile.com

Encore introduces Pepa, a stylish and versatile stacking chair designed by Gemma Bernal, featuring a unique looping metal frame and comfortable cushions. It is lightweight, stackable, and suitable for various environments, enhancing both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Pepa is available with or without arms and comes in multiple finishes, making it adaptable to different settings while preserving surrounding surfaces. The chair balances ease of use with visual interest, making it ideal for dynamic spaces.

EF Contract's Wildwoods is a new LVT product inspired by nature, featuring sophisticated colorways that reflect the aesthetics of ancient woodlands. Designed with biophilic principles, it offers a calming, grounded surface suitable for various environments, including workplaces and healthcare. Available in 7”x48” planks with 12 color options, it is FloorScore certified and fully recyclable.

Designtex and West Elm's seventh collaboration features three new high-performing textiles: Acre, Template, and Marl. These versatile fabrics are bleach treatable and suitable for various environments, including healthcare, education, and hospitality. The designs reflect West Elm's residential roots with muted tones and a focus on livability, combining visual character with performance for diverse applications.

Eureka Introduces Tulip Luminaire

Eureka has launched the Tulip luminaire family, featuring chandeliers, pendants, and surface mount units with a bouquet-inspired design. Available in various sizes and diffuser options, Tulip luminaires offer versatility for modern spaces and can deliver up to 150 lumens. They include dimming options and a 16-color palette, enhancing environments in lobbies, restaurants, and more. Eureka, part of Acuity Brands, focuses on innovative lighting solutions since 1987.

Pearson Lloyd, in collaboration with the Trent Institute for Learning and Teaching, has developed the "café classroom" concept, which promotes informal, tech-enabled learning environments that support various postures and collaborative work. This design aims to enhance engagement and well-being while being durable and recyclable, addressing the evolving needs of modern education and the workplace.

To celebrate the 10th anniversary of Philippe Starck's Bon Jour Unplugged lamp, Flos is updating it with new color options, adjustable LED color temperatures (2200K to 3000K), precise dimming settings, and wireless charging. The lamp will now come standard with a transparent shade, available in various hues, fabric, or rattan options, and is priced at $330.

The Duna Sofa, designed by Pierre Paulin in 1968 and initially prototyped with Herman Miller, was not produced due to high costs during the 1970s economic downturn. Years after Paulin's death, his son began manufacturing the design, which has since gained popularity among celebrities, with some even purchasing homes to accommodate the sofa.

Conexus Studio's redesign of AET and MISC's Singapore headquarters features a maritime-inspired, energy-efficient layout that promotes collaboration and connection. The 42,174 sq ft office incorporates nautical elements and advanced technology, achieving Green Mark Platinum certification. Key design features include a sculptural spiral staircase, flexible work zones, and immersive social spaces, all aimed at enhancing employee interaction and supporting a people-first culture. The project successfully addresses spatial zoning challenges and ensures long-term adaptability, receiving positive feedback from users post-occupancy.

Valentyn's office in Cologne, designed by Thomas van den Valentyn, features timeless interiors with classic furniture and neutral colors, promoting both professional and personal well-being. The 2,100-square-meter space includes formal work areas and wellness facilities, emphasizing sustainability and functionality through modern upgrades. The design encourages collaboration and informal interactions, with dedicated areas for relaxation and wellness amenities like a gym and sauna.

Kevin Bhagat is a Senior Product Designer at Unfold and the creator of Curated to Create, which provides tools and resources for enhancing creativity and business. His workspace includes a Macbook Pro, Dell 4K monitor, and Sony XM4 headphones, which he values for their noise-canceling feature. He appreciates the flexibility of remote work, which enhances his productivity and work-life balance by allowing him to change environments.

JSI Welcomes Katie Escovedo to Arkansas & Oklahoma

JSI welcomes Katie Escovedo as the new representative for Arkansas and Oklahoma, bringing over 25 years of experience in the contract furniture industry. Her people-first approach and strong connections within the design community make her a valuable asset, as noted by Doug Shapiro, VP of Sales at JSI.

IIDA NY to Host Conversation on Practices of Personal Identity in Design 

IIDA NY is hosting an event titled "Practices of Personal Identity," showcasing LGBTQ+ and immigrant artisans in a new format that encourages one-on-one conversations about their creative journeys. The event will feature diverse works across architecture, furniture, fashion, and poetry, emphasizing the importance of personal identity in design. Attendees will engage with artists like Giuseppe Amato and Michael James Casey, and enjoy entertainment including a live band and a drag show. Tickets are available, and the event offers 1 IDCEC CEU.

We’re seeking an experienced Operations and Supply Chain Manager to lead procurement, inventory, and logistics operations for a fast-paced manufacturing environment. You’ll manage global and domestic vendor relationships, build scalable systems for efficiency and cost savings, and collaborate cross-functionally to drive growth. This is a high-impact role for someone who thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, can collaborate cross-functionally, and is passionate about continuous improvement!

We have an outstanding opportunity for motivated sales professionals to embark on a career path that has tremendous growth with earning potential well into the six-figure range. All Ethosource Account Executives are provided with cutting edge technology and expert in-house support. Salesforce CRM is utilized to further support and enhance sales efforts. No industry experience necessary. We will train the right individual!

We are seeking a results-driven Account Executive to join our growing team in the U.S Southeastern region. This role is ideal for a motivated sales professional with experience in the commercial office, furniture, or interiors industry who thrives on building strong client relationships and closing deals.

MergeWorks is seeking a Regional Sales Manager for the western US to grow sales and manage Independent Representatives. Responsibilities include developing sales strategies, training reps, collaborating with marketing, and resolving customer service issues. Candidates should have 5-10 years in the contract furniture industry, strong communication skills, and be willing to travel 30% or more.

The Regional Textile Consultant will drive sales, via new business development and account management of existing customers within the assigned territory. This role is responsible for promoting LDI Interiors, providing related consultation, and growing revenue.

As a District Sales Manager, your responsibilities would include business development, promotion, support, and training activities targeted towards designated Dealerships, A & D Firms and End Users in the Dallas market.