Business conditions at architecture firms remained weak in September, with the AIA/Deltek Architecture Billings Index (ABI) scoring 43.3, indicating a decline in firms reporting decreased activity. Inquiries into new projects have remained flat for two months, and newly signed design contracts have decreased for 19 consecutive months, suggesting ongoing soft conditions since late 2022.

 

Firm backlogs have softened, currently averaging 6.1 months, a decrease from 6.5 months earlier this year. Firms specializing in multifamily residential and commercial/industrial projects have shorter backlogs of around five months, while those focused on institutional projects average eight months. Billings declined across most regions, with the West experiencing the most significant downturn.

 

Consumer confidence fell to its lowest level since April, with a decline in the Conference Board Consumer Confidence Index® due to concerns about current business conditions and job availability, although optimism about future income has increased.

 

A survey revealed that 97% of architecture firms worked on reconstruction projects over the past year, with these accounting for an average of 50% of total design billings. Office buildings were the most common type of reconstruction, with firms citing goals such as modernization, system upgrades, and adaptive reuse. Two-thirds of firms expect the share of reconstruction projects in total revenue to remain stable, with many anticipating an increase in the coming years.

MillerKnoll has appointed Kevin Veltman as the new Chief Financial Officer, responsible for overseeing global financial operations and strategy. Veltman, who has been with the company for over a decade, previously served as the financial lead for the North America Contract segment and played a significant role in the integration of Knoll. He became interim CFO in September after Jeff Stutz transitioned to Chief Operating Officer. Veltman expressed his excitement about contributing to MillerKnoll's ongoing success. The company, a collective of design brands including Herman Miller and Knoll, generated net sales of $3.7 billion in fiscal year 2025.

The Doshi Retreat, designed by renowned architect Balkrishna Doshi in collaboration with his granddaughter Khushnu Panthaki Hoof and Sönke Hoof, is a new contemplative space located on the Vitra Campus in Weil am Rhein. This architectural addition, inspired by Indian spirituality, serves as a sanctuary for solitude and reflection while enhancing the campus's transformation into a public park that attracts 400,000 visitors annually. The retreat features a winding path that engages visitors in a sensory experience through sound and movement, culminating in a contemplation chamber surrounded by a rainwater basin and adorned with a brass mandala. Built from innovative low-carbon XCarb® steel, the retreat embodies Doshi's vision of spiritual exploration and the awakening of energy through sound and space. It encourages visitors to embark on a journey of discovery, emphasizing the connection between self and structure without formal labels.

A4LE and EDmarket Unite to Shape the Future of Learning Environments

The Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) and the Education Market Association (EDmarket) are merging to create a new association focused on innovating learning environments. This collaboration aims to enhance the design of educational spaces, fostering student inspiration and engagement. The merger was concluded after thorough analysis and unanimous agreement from both boards, highlighting a commitment to improving value for members globally.

 

Key commitments during the transition include maintaining independent operations through 2026, with unchanged membership services and events. Notable events like LearningSCAPES and EDspaces will proceed as scheduled. A timeline for the merger indicates that legal consolidation will start on January 1, 2026, leading to a unified association by early 2027, dedicated to all stakeholders in education. The partnership encompasses a wide range of expertise, from architects to educators, all aimed at creating sustainable and student-centered learning environments.

The U.S. office market has seen its first decline in vacancy rates since 2019, dropping to 22.5% as demand stabilizes. Net absorption reached 6.1 million square feet in the third quarter, indicating a recovery trend, despite a year-to-date absorption of -3.7 million square feet due to space removals and lease terminations. Development activity is contracting, with over 25 million square feet of office space converted this year amid high vacancy rates and discounted property sales.

Manhattan's commercial real estate sales surged to nearly $5B in Q3 2025, driven by significant office deals, including a $1B purchase of 590 Madison Ave. Institutional investors are showing renewed confidence, leading to a 191% increase in sales from Q2. Development site transactions also soared, with a notable 1,993% rise quarter-over-quarter, indicating a robust recovery in the market.

San Francisco leads the U.S. in office visitation growth with a 19% increase in September, outpacing Los Angeles's 9.9% and the national average of 13%. Despite this growth, both cities remain below pre-pandemic levels, with San Francisco at 40.2% and Los Angeles at 37.4% below 2019 figures. The resurgence in office visits, fueled by AI advancements and new mandates for in-person collaboration, suggests a potential recovery for California's office real estate market.

Foster + Partners has completed the 270 Park Avenue skyscraper in Manhattan for JPMorganChase, standing 1,388 feet tall and becoming the sixth-tallest building in New York City. The skyscraper replaces the former Union Carbide Building and is designed to accommodate 10,000 employees. Its unique cantilevered structure provides significantly more public space at the base, which includes a garden. The building's design emphasizes well-being, featuring high ceilings, natural light, and improved air quality. The interior incorporates a multi-floor dining concourse called The Exchange and various office neighborhoods designed for collaboration. Notably, the building operates on all-electric energy, uses 97% of materials from the previous structure, and reflects a departure from typical skyscraper aesthetics with its bronze cladding and geometric details.

JPMorganChase's new office tower at 270 Park Avenue, designed by Foster + Partners, is a $3 billion skyscraper that emphasizes sustainability, employee wellness, and modern workspaces. It features flexible work areas, wellness facilities, and is the largest all-electric tower in New York City. The building's design integrates traditional elements with innovative features, including a public plaza and green spaces. However, its construction involved demolishing a historic building, sparking controversy. As the company mandates a full return to office work, it remains to be seen if the new amenities will satisfy employees.

Wilkhahn has introduced the ‘WiChair,’ a reimagined swivel chair that emphasizes sustainability and durability. Constructed from recyclable steel and recycled aluminium, the chair features FSC-certified moulded wood for its seat and back. With a design focused on easy reparability, it incorporates a maximum of eleven screws for part replacement. The ‘WiChair’ promotes ecological responsibility, prioritizing environmental considerations over profit, and showcases industrial quality with a modern twist through a specially developed spring element that adjusts to the user's weight. Available in various materials and colors, it fits both formal and informal workspaces while maintaining a minimalist aesthetic. Additionally, it boasts a low product carbon footprint of 31 kilograms of CO2e and is certified under ISO 14001 for environmental management, positioning it as a potential classic in office furniture.

Hybrid work has become the norm, with over 60% of organizations adopting it, leading to more predictable demand for flexible workspaces. Enterprise adoption is accelerating, with a 170% growth in flexible workspace usage, prompting companies to shrink fixed office footprints while expanding flexible hubs. However, global supply is lagging behind demand, particularly in smaller cities, where demand is surging. Landlords are increasingly becoming flex providers, and small to mid-sized operators remain essential by focusing on community and service. The flex industry is maturing, becoming a central pillar of workplace strategy despite ongoing challenges.

WeWork, after filing for bankruptcy in 2023, has restructured under CEO John Santora and is now profitable with over 550,000 members and 77% occupancy. Santora emphasizes the importance of in-person interactions for innovation and growth, advocating for a return-to-office culture despite shifts caused by the pandemic and AI. He believes that essential conversations and idea generation occur in physical office spaces, which cannot be replicated in virtual meetings.

Fun at work should be a core aspect of productivity, not just an added benefit. Bree Groff emphasizes the importance of joy, connection, and curiosity in the workplace, advocating for diverse sources of satisfaction beyond traditional definitions of fun. Leaders can foster an environment conducive to joy through practices like check-ins and unstructured time, while individuals can create cozy team cultures that prioritize psychological safety. Ultimately, fun is essential for better work performance and should be embraced as a fundamental part of the work experience.

After a summer slowdown, office foot traffic saw a resurgence in September, indicating a rebound in the return-to-office movement. According to the October 2025 Office Building Index from Placer.ai, visits to 1,300 major office buildings were 26.3% lower than in 2019, reflecting a recovery similar to June's levels and reversing the decline observed in August. The increase in foot traffic was partly driven by new return-to-office mandates from companies like Intel and Toyota, which now require employees to be on-site at least four days a week. Additionally, September's calendar featured 21 working days, one more than in both September 2024 and 2019, making it the third-busiest month for office visits since the pandemic, following June and July of the same year.

Commercial office operators are reassessing their strategies for employee engagement and office utilization, with many adopting hybrid work models. Panelists at CREtech New York discussed the need for consolidating office space and ensuring that offices serve a clear purpose, emphasizing the importance of amenities in attracting employees back to the workplace. The use of artificial intelligence for data collection on space utilization is also highlighted as a key factor in decision-making.

48% of employees are staying in their jobs longer for stability, with 75% planning to remain for at least two more years. This trend, known as "job hugging," reflects a preference for comfort and security over career advancement. While many feel satisfied with steady pay, concerns about missed opportunities and burnout persist. Employers benefit from loyalty and reduced turnover costs, indicating a cultural shift towards valuing stability in the workforce.

Allsteel is leading a transformation in workplace design, moving away from traditional, routine-focused environments to vibrant spaces that foster collaboration, culture, and purpose. The company emphasizes the importance of flexible, sustainable, and personalized workplaces that reflect organizational values. Key trends identified include the use of conscious materials that enhance sustainability and employee well-being, the power of personalization in workspace design, and versatile solutions that support agility. Products like the redesigned Evo chair showcase Allsteel's commitment to sustainability by using upcycled materials and ergonomic design, illustrating that eco-friendly practices can align with aesthetic and cultural values in the workplace.

A retro revival is trending in design, blending ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s aesthetics with modern technology. This includes analog-looking devices with digital functions, nostalgic decor, and furniture featuring soft silhouettes and bold colors. The trend appeals to younger generations seeking comfort and emotional connection amid digital overload, while also reflecting a cultural fascination with vintage styles and nostalgia-driven design choices.

At the Build Reuse conference in Saint Paul, Minnesota, architects, designers, facility managers, and sustainability advocates gathered to discuss how to create better endings for buildings. The result was a guide, Better Endings, which offers practical ideas for designing, measuring, and marketing reusable built environments. The workshop emphasized the importance of designing spaces that can evolve and reuse materials intelligently, advocating for modular designs that allow buildings to adapt rather than be demolished. Key points included the need for meaningful metrics to measure reuse, focusing on salvage value and community impact. The marketing strategy reframed reuse as storytelling, encouraging a narrative that celebrates the history of reused items. Participants were encouraged to change their language around building lifecycle, promoting a mindset shift from wasteful endings to circular beginnings. The guide is aimed at professionals in the built environment, promoting adaptability and sustainability in design.

Workplace design should prioritize simplicity, clarity, and natural materials to enhance user experience and accommodate diverse cognitive needs. By reducing visual noise and complexity, spaces can become more legible and supportive for everyone, including those with neurodiverse conditions. This approach emphasizes the importance of choice, comfort, and connection to nature, ultimately creating environments that are not only inclusive but also better for all users.

The landscape of college sports is evolving to resemble professional leagues, driven by soaring revenues from media rights, which are projected to exceed $4 billion by 2027. The introduction of Name, Image, Likeness (NIL) rules has shifted the focus towards market-driven athlete compensation, prompting schools to rethink their revenue strategies and operational models. As recruiting priorities change, student-athletes prioritize building their personal brands over luxurious facilities. Consequently, investment in sports venue design is becoming more strategic, emphasizing functional spaces like data analytics and recovery over extravagant training centers. Additionally, there is a trend towards monetizing underutilized areas, transforming them into premium experiences, thus diversifying the offerings beyond traditional suites and club seats to cater to fans seeking exclusivity and elevated experiences.

Workplace design in 2025 emphasizes employee health, learning, and adaptability. Key strategies include creating wellness-promoting environments, supporting continuous learning through structured programs, balancing technology with human interaction, and providing flexible workspaces. Organizations that prioritize these elements see improved employee engagement, satisfaction, and retention, ultimately leading to enhanced performance and resilience.

Contract Furniture, Inc. Announces Retirement After 27 Years of Service; Hosts Farewell Warehouse & Truck Sale

Contract Furniture, Inc. (CFI), (owned by Darla and Mike Vegenski), has announced its retirement after 27 years of service in the Tampa Bay area and the Southeast. To celebrate its legacy, CFI is hosting a Warehouse & Truck Retirement Sale featuring a variety of office and home furniture, equipment, and company vehicles at discounted prices. The sale, which runs from late October to early November 2025, will start with private access for loyal customers before opening to the public. The event will take place at their Tampa location, with specific open warehouse days scheduled. CFI plans to close its warehouse by December 31, 2025, after which remaining assets will be sold or donated. CFI was a dealer for companies such as Kimball, Global, National, Davis, Bernhardt, HBF, Hightower, and Humanscale, among others.

MillerKnoll has been recognized as one of America’s Greenest Companies by Newsweek for its environmental sustainability efforts, including using 100% renewable electricity and reducing waste. The company focuses on sustainable product design, innovative materials, and smart packaging, significantly decreasing single-use plastics. This accolade follows other awards for sustainability and innovation, highlighting MillerKnoll's commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

Davis Furniture and HBF Textiles have announced a partnership that integrates HBF Textiles' portfolio into Davis' graded-in textile program, enhancing design options for the architecture and design community. This collaboration reflects both brands' commitment to quality and timeless design, providing designers with a curated selection of textiles that simplifies the specification process. The graded-in offering includes a wide range of options, from best sellers to new patterns from the Feel & Form Collection. The partnership aims to inspire cohesive and elevated interior spaces, emphasizing a shared design ethos between the two companies.

FilzFelt has launched four new acoustic wall panels—Drift, Mesa, Peak, and Valley—designed by Bernd Benninghoff. These panels feature three-dimensional designs for enhanced sound absorption, crafted from biodegradable wool felt and recycled materials. They are available in over ninety colors and are easy to install with z-clips. The collection emphasizes sustainability and innovative design, aiming to blend aesthetic appeal with effective acoustic performance.

Loll Designs introduces the Aurora Collection, featuring a sofa, chair, footstool, and table with a fully metal frame and taller seat height. The durable frame is designed for year-round use, with secure cushions to withstand inclement weather. The collection will be showcased at High Point Market in the 313 Space, Atrium A04.

Gloster showcases new furniture and lighting collections at High Point, emphasizing nature-inspired designs with muted earth tones and handcrafted teak. The highlight is the Fern Lounge Chair by Sebastian Herkner, featuring a powder-coated aluminum frame and woven outdoor rope, available in dark Meteor or light Bone colors, suitable for both outdoor and interior settings.

DEDON introduces the MYMI collection, designed by GamFratesi, inspired by Parisian cafe culture. This outdoor collection features a blend of feminine and structured elements, artisanal details, and a color palette inspired by nature. MYMI will be showcased at High Point in their studio and permanent space.

Humanscale launches the Freedom Ocean, an ergonomic chair made from reclaimed fishing nets and ocean plastic, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability. The chair features advanced ergonomic design, modularity for easy maintenance, and is produced in zero waste facilities. It aims to combat ocean pollution while providing comfort and support, and is available in various models and finishes. The Freedom Ocean is Living Product Certified, ensuring it is environmentally positive and free from harmful chemicals.

Landscape Forms has launched Cove, an elevated outdoor structure designed for durability and aesthetic appeal, in partnership with Renson. It features standard sizes, integrated lighting, and customizable options, making it suitable for various environments. Manufactured in the U.S., Cove aims to reduce project timelines and enhance flexibility. The structure is supported by a dedicated field services team for seamless installation, reflecting the company's commitment to quality and design integrity.

Spokes Ambient is a new WiFi-enabled lamp from Foscarini that combines Italian design with smart technology, allowing users to customize brightness and mood through an app. It features two adjustable LED light sources for versatile lighting, providing both ambient and task illumination while maintaining a lightweight and elegant design.

Cassina Custom Interiors and architect Giulia Foscari introduced the Ottagono Wellness Gym at Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, designed as a multifunctional space that blends furniture and lighting. The compact gym features Technogym equipment, including Connected Dumbells and a screen for virtual training, and transforms from a sleek cabinet into a fully equipped workout area. This innovative design aims to enhance guest experiences by merging art, design, and wellness in a luxurious setting.

Koroseal introduces five new performance wallcovering designs in collaboration with artist Patty Madden, featuring bold, abstract visuals that transform walls into statement pieces. The designs—Celestial Loom, Lunar Fold, Myralyn, Sundar Grove, and Velora Drift—explore light, structure, and texture, combining artistry with durability, and are produced in-house at Koroseal's facility in Louisville, KY.

HBF Textiles has launched the 'Feel & Form' collection, featuring five patterns designed to create emotionally immersive environments through light-responsive textiles and rich textures. Key offerings include Velvet Cord, Velvet Mix, Blended Boucle, Petite Suede, and Metallic Muse, each crafted to enhance the aesthetic and emotional atmosphere of spaces. The collection emphasizes the interplay of light and texture, merging durability with artistic expression, making it suitable for various commercial applications while inviting tactile engagement.

Designtex collaborates with nanimarquina to create textiles that celebrate the beauty of imperfection. The new products, Join and Mending, combine high-performance materials with handcrafted aesthetics. Mending features a grid design that highlights visible repairs, while Join uses irregular stripes to evoke balance and rhythm. Both textiles draw inspiration from nature and emphasize simplicity and tactile connection, reflecting a commitment to craftsmanship and enduring quality.

Mario Ferrarini's Circulus is a modular sofa designed for versatility and sustainability, suitable for various environments like offices and lounges. It emphasizes customization, allowing clients to configure elements as needed, and showcases a commitment to sustainability through visible components that facilitate recycling. The design aims to provide comfort while maintaining an "honest" aesthetic that highlights its construction and materials.

The Set Table Lamp by Canadian designer Jamie Wolfond for Muuto features a unique screw mechanism that allows the shade to be manually rotated, enabling users to adjust the light's effect. The lamp produces a bright bounce light, significantly altering the atmosphere depending on the shade's position. It is currently in production by Muuto.

The Waldorf Astoria has undergone an extensive $2 billion renovation, transforming its historic structure into luxury residences with 375 condos and over 50,000 square feet of private amenities. The design blends French neoclassicism with modern features, including a new swimming pool, wellness areas, and unique interior details. Originally opened in 1931, the hotel faced challenges during its renovation, including ownership changes and the pandemic, but has now reopened, offering a glimpse into its storied past while providing contemporary living spaces.

tp bennett has designed a next-generation office building named Stonecutter in London, focusing on flexible, wellness-oriented spaces and sustainability. The 250,000 sq ft structure, completed in June 2025, achieved full occupancy before completion, attracting major tenants like Travers Smith. It meets ambitious sustainability targets, including the City of London’s embodied carbon goals and features advanced energy conservation systems. The design incorporates public green spaces and emphasizes natural light, addressing post-pandemic workplace needs while enhancing the local urban environment.

Canada Water is an evolving development hub in Southwark's Old Surrey Docks, undergoing significant regeneration since the 2000s. The area is part of a 53-acre masterplan by British Land, aiming to create London's first new town in over 50 years, featuring 130 acres of green space alongside modern offices, homes, retail, and leisure facilities. The first commercial building, Dock Shed, has been completed, designed by Allies and Morrison with interiors by Conran and Partners, representing a warm and inviting warehouse space that aims to rival nearby Canary Wharf.

Luboš Volkov is a designer with over 15 years of experience, known for his strategic design work with startups and global brands. He emphasizes discipline and care in his creations, which have been showcased at notable events. His workspace includes high-end Apple products and is a reflection of his personal life, constantly evolving with items that inspire him. His morning routine involves family time, gym workouts, and planning his tasks with a focus on productivity, which has increased since becoming a parent.

Stripe has expanded its office space at 28 Liberty Street in the Financial District by leasing an additional 140,000 square feet, bringing its total to 285,997 square feet across eight floors. The asking rent for the new space ranges from $75 to $80 per square foot. The company previously occupied 146,500 square feet through a sublease, which will remain in effect until the direct lease begins.

Banc of California has signed an 11-year lease for 40,000 square feet at TCW Tower in Downtown Los Angeles, with plans to display its name on the building. The move from its previous location is set for the third quarter of 2026, despite a high vacancy rate in the area. The bank aims to strengthen its presence in the LA market, highlighting the region's economic significance.

Three H Welcomes Adam Sinclair as Director of Engineering

Three H has appointed Adam Sinclair as Director of Engineering, bringing over 15 years of experience in contract furniture. Sinclair, with a background in Mechanical Engineering, will lead engineering initiatives focused on sustainable product development and innovation. His appointment emphasizes Three H's commitment to quality and adaptability in modern office furniture design.

Samuelson Furniture Announces Michael Chalfin as President 

Michael Chalfin has been appointed as President of Samuelson Furniture, succeeding his father Lawrence Chalfin, who becomes CEO and Chairman. Michael brings over 20 years of experience and aims to uphold the company's commitment to quality and service while expanding market opportunities. Samuelson Furniture, a fourth-generation family-owned company, specializes in high-end furniture for hospitality and senior living sectors, blending artisanal heritage with innovative technology.

Integra Expands Rep Network with Kinari & Company in New York, New Jersey 

Integra Seating has expanded its representative network by partnering with Kinari & Company to enhance its presence in New York and Northern New Jersey. Kinari, founded by Thomas Altamirano and Austin Saltzman, focuses on sustainable and well-crafted products that align with Integra's values of quality and performance. Both co-founders expressed excitement about representing Integra, emphasizing the brand's commitment to innovation and user-centered design. Integra, a family-owned company known for durable and stylish seating solutions, aims to provide exceptional service and solutions nationwide through this partnership.

Wyatt Seating Adds New Rep

Wyatt Seating has appointed Jimmy Allen from Jimmy Allen & Associates as the new representative for Mississippi and Louisiana. With significant industry experience and knowledge of the local market, Jimmy will enhance Wyatt Seating's commitment to excellent service for dealers across the nation.

Ethnicraft Unveils new HQ during High Point Market

Ethnicraft will open its new headquarters near High Point Market, showcasing its latest Fall novelties and the MORPHO Collection in beautifully styled vignettes. The IHFC showroom will also feature more 2025 novelties and core collections during the event.

IIDA NY Rochester to Host Interactive Session on Balancing Time and Energy

IIDA NY is hosting an interactive session on November 13th, focusing on managing energy for enhanced well-being, led by Dr. Suzanne Piotrowski. Participants will learn to create a personalized 30-day energy plan, with registration available for $15 for members, $25 for non-members, and $10 for students. Dr. Piotrowski brings over 30 years of experience and emphasizes the importance of personal well-being for professional growth.

NEOCON ANNOUNCES CALL FOR 2026 PROGRAMMING | Accepting On-Site & Virtual Programming Submissions for the Show’s 57th Edition

NeoCon is set to open its Call for Programming on October 30, 2025, for its 57th edition taking place from June 8-10, 2026, at The Mart in Chicago, with a new Preview Day on June 7. The event is inviting submissions for Continuing Education Units (CEUs), workshops, and NeoCon Talks from industry leaders, focusing on key themes such as artificial intelligence, multi-generational design, and the integration of technology and wellness in design. The 2026 edition will also feature "Illuminate at NeoCon," a dedicated exhibition on lighting. Proposals are accepted in various categories and formats, with a submission deadline of January 15, 2026. Further details can be found on the NeoCon website.

Job seekers are increasingly experiencing ghosting from employers, often due to overwhelmed HR departments and high application volumes. Ghosting can manifest as no response at all or silence after multiple interviews, which reflects poor organizational practices within companies. It's crucial for employers to maintain communication and provide updates to candidates, as this fosters goodwill and protects their reputation. Candidates should not take ghosting personally, as it often indicates disorganization rather than their qualifications.

The Senior Accountant is responsible for managing key components of the financial reporting process on behalf of client accounts, ensuring the timely and accurate preparation of financial statements in accordance with US GAAP.