Versteel Announces Tariff-Free Promotion for American Manufactured Tables / Component-maker Kaidi ramps up Grand Haven manufacturing plant / Kimball International Opens Health & Education Experience Center / Italian furniture makers experience impact of Trump’s tariffs at Milan Design Week / NOffice Construction Falls To New Lows In Top U.S. Markets / Tech Deals Lead San Francisco Office Leasing to 10-Year High / Want to Make the Office More Neuroinclusive? These Experts Offer a Start / The Building as Brand: A Watershed Opportunity in Manhattan Office / Remote Work’s Hidden Superpower: Cutting Emissions and Boosting Business / RTO Trends Slow as Weather and Hybrid Models Shape Workforce Patterns / Only half of Europeans say they work in psychologically healthy workplaces / Productivity concerns put brakes on adoption of flexible working / and much more…

Versteel Announces Tariff-Free Promotion for American Manufactured Tables 

Versteel has announced a promotion offering tariff-free pricing on all standard tables for its dealer network, emphasizing the reliability of American manufacturing. The company produces its tables in Indiana using high-quality American steel, supporting local industries and ensuring high standards of performance. President and CEO Scott Schwinghammer highlighted the benefits of domestic production, which allows for real savings without the risks associated with fluctuating import costs. The promotion is available to approved accounts, providing customers with confidence in pricing for their projects. Versteel also values its relationships with international partners, enhancing its American craftsmanship with innovative designs.

Furniture supplier ramps up production in Grand Haven as onshoring accelerates

Kaidi LLC has acquired a former West Michigan Molding Inc. plant in Grand Haven to produce office furniture components, shifting its plans from building a new facility in Holland due to pandemic-related delays. The company, which has been using the facility for warehousing, aims to ramp up production by the end of 2025, employing 60 people initially and potentially increasing to 150. The decision to buy the Grand Haven facility was influenced by high construction costs and a need for a local production site, allowing for closer supply chains and domestic manufacturing capabilities to meet customer demands. The site has room for future expansion and is strategically located to attract local workers.

Kimball International Opens Health & Education Experience Center

Kimball International has opened a 13,000 square foot Health & Education Experience Center at their Corporate Headquarters in Jasper, Indiana. This state-of-the-art facility aims to provide innovative solutions for healthcare and educational environments. Designed by Gensler, the center showcases flexible and high-performing spaces that prioritize factors such as daylight, air quality, and employee wellness.

The center features various settings, including caregiver stations and student study areas, allowing visitors to experience firsthand how furniture solutions can enhance patient care and learning experiences. Jessica Gubbins, Vice President of Brand, Digital, and Insights Marketing at Kimball International, expressed enthusiasm about the center's opening and its focus on meeting the unique demands of the healthcare and education sectors.

Kimball International’s health products are designed to optimize spaces for community, patients, and caregivers, while their educational offerings promote adaptable designs that support modern learning needs. The company is recognized for its commitment to craftsmanship and creating meaningful spaces, and it has been a key player in the commercial furnishings market since 1950.

Artopex and Trica: An alliance driven by a passion for furniture and innovation

Artopex has announced its acquisition of Trica, a well-known provider of high-end residential furniture. This merger aims to combine Artopex's expertise in office furniture with Trica's strengths in residential design, creating a new era of innovative and sustainable furniture solutions. The partnership will enhance both companies' capabilities, allowing them to design furniture that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional for various environments. The leaders of both companies expressed their commitment to maintaining their shared passion for quality and design while continuing to innovate in response to changing workplace needs. Artopex, recognized for its manufacturing excellence, aims to expand its market presence through this acquisition, benefiting from Trica's established reputation and expertise in the residential sector.

Italian furniture makers experience impact of Trump's tariffs at Milan Design Week

Italian luxury furniture makers are experiencing the impact of a new 20% tariff imposed by the U.S. on European Union products, which has raised concerns about the long-term effects on their industry. The U.S. is Italy's second-largest market for furniture, contributing significantly to its exports. While some manufacturers remain cautiously optimistic, citing resilience through previous challenges like Covid and the war in Ukraine, the presence of American clients at the Milan Furniture Fair has noticeably declined. Designers are worried that these tariffs could harm trade, leading some to consider relocating their businesses. Despite difficulties in traditional markets, emerging markets like the UAE and Saudi Arabia are gaining traction, and current design trends are leaning towards sustainability and natural aesthetics.

Tariffs seen as ineffective for job recovery in the furniture manufacturing

Recent tariff measures introduced by the Trump administration are deemed unlikely to revive domestic furniture manufacturing jobs in North Carolina. Shannon Williams, CEO of the Home Furnishings Association, highlighted that the furniture manufacturing sector, which once thrived in the 1990s, has shifted globally and is not expected to return.

Factors such as low domestic demand for factory roles and a shortage of skilled labor make reshoring efforts unrealistic. Williams noted that even if some companies consider returning their operations to the U.S., the process could take years, during which automation and AI could replace human workers.

Additionally, the tariffs have raised concerns about rising costs and a potential recession, prompting retailers to prepare for economic challenges. Some are stockpiling cash or seeking innovative adaptations, while others may face bankruptcy. The Home Furnishings Association has engaged with Republican members of the U.S. House Ways and Means Committee, who expressed interest in the industry's concerns.

In South Carolina, a Once Thriving Textile Hub Is Baffled by Trump's Tariffs

In South Carolina, particularly in Union County, the decline of the textile industry has left economic challenges in its wake. While some regions have successfully attracted new companies, many locals express skepticism about reviving the textile sector. Former workers reflect on the industry's poor pay and harsh conditions, arguing against its return. Despite President Trump's efforts to impose tariffs aimed at revitalizing American manufacturing, the realities of the modern economy, including the presence of foreign companies like BMW and Michelin, suggest that the region has moved on from its textile roots. Locals worry that reinstating tariffs could jeopardize existing jobs and economic stability while noting that any potential textile revival would need to adapt to contemporary manufacturing practices. The community is now focusing on recruiting diverse industries to improve local employment and living standards, acknowledging that the past cannot be fully restored.

Office Construction Falls To New Lows In Top U.S. Markets

Office construction is experiencing a significant decline as developers struggle to initiate projects without substantial preleases. By the end of the first quarter of 2025, the leading 14 office markets had 20.7 million square feet (SF) under construction, a decrease from 24.8 million SF at the end of 2024. This decline is attributed to a higher rate of completions compared to new projects starting.

Only three projects commenced in the first quarter, located in South Florida and Chicago. South Florida, Dallas, and Manhattan were the only markets with substantial office space under construction, while other markets like Boston and Los Angeles also showed activity but at lower levels. Notably, only 8.2% of South Florida's pipeline was preleased, contrasting sharply with the much higher prelease rates in Dallas and Manhattan.

The decrease in construction activity is linked to rising construction costs, diminishing tenant demand, and stricter financing conditions from lenders, who prefer to see higher preleased space percentages before approving deals. This slowdown may ultimately benefit the sector by increasing occupancy in higher-quality buildings as tenants seek premium office spaces.

Remote Work Drop Signals Shift in Rental Market and Housing Trends

The number of renters working from home in the U.S. has decreased, indicating a significant change in the rental and remote work markets. In 2023, there were four million rental units occupied by heads of households who worked from home, which is a 20% decline from the peak of five million in 2021. Despite this drop, the total number of full-time work-from-home renters remains 184% higher than pre-pandemic levels. The report suggests that while remote work has become more common, there is also an increasing momentum for returning to office environments, which may lead to further declines in the future.

Tech Deals Lead San Francisco Office Leasing to 10-Year High

Office leasing in San Francisco has reached a 10-year quarterly high of 3.4 million square feet in the first quarter of 2025, driven by significant tech deals. The total availability rate decreased to 35.6%, indicating a continued recovery in the office market. Notable transactions included Google's renewals and expansions at two locations, contributing to the overall increase in leasing activity for the fourth consecutive quarter.

The highest leases for the quarter featured major companies such as JPMorgan Chase, Lyft, and Databricks, reflecting a growing demand for office spaces, particularly in prime locations. Average rents in the Financial District are among the highest in the city, with expectations of rising demand as office return rates increase. Despite high interest rates, the market is undergoing adjustments, including lender-facilitated sales and foreclosures. A significant loan backed by the KPMG Building is currently on the market, highlighting ongoing financial shifts in the office sector.

A recent survey revealed that many businesses plan to expand their office spaces and bring employees back to in-person work more frequently, indicating a positive outlook for the future of office leasing in San Francisco.

Miami Office Leasing Surges in Q1 with Smaller Spaces Leading Demand

Miami's office leasing surged in Q1 2025, with one million square feet leased, a 26.5% increase from last year. Smaller spaces under 5,000 square feet dominated 85% of leases, while average lease size rose to 4,351 square feet. Rents increased by 3.5% to $62.96 per square foot, despite a slight rise in vacancy rates to 15%.

Seattle Office Market Starts 2025 with Negative Absorption and Rising Vacancy Rates

Seattle's office market began 2025 with negative absorption of -265,000 square feet and a vacancy rate of 31.2%. Despite challenges, there was an increase in lease deal sizes, particularly for Class A properties, as companies seek premium locations to attract employees back to the office. However, leasing rates for Class A spaces have decreased, and no new supply has entered the market recently.

San Diego Office Market Shows Mixed Trends as Sales Surge but Leasing Slows

San Diego's office market shows mixed trends: sales surged 127.4% to 880,700 square feet, while leasing activity dropped 28% to 1.1 million square feet, with vacancy rates increasing to 13.8%. Future market predictions remain uncertain due to potential corporate tax cuts and deregulation.

Federal Office Cuts Unlikely to Impact Market Despite Termination of 679 Leases

Federal office space reductions from the termination of 679 leases are unlikely to significantly impact the national office market, with only a minimal increase in vacancy rates expected. However, the changes may create challenges for the recovery of the office sector, particularly in areas with high concentrations of GSA-leased space, while exacerbating the divide between demand for newer buildings versus older Class B and C properties.

L&L's Rob Lapidus On Why Building Offices Is Harder In Miami Than NYC

Building offices in Miami poses challenges for New York developers due to different market dynamics, including less preleasing and smaller tenant commitments. Despite these hurdles, demand for well-designed office spaces with amenities remains strong, as seen with Wynwood Plaza's development.

The Building as Brand: A Watershed Opportunity in Manhattan Office

Manhattan's office market is transforming, with companies viewing office space as a strategic investment rather than a commodity. This shift emphasizes the importance of location and building identity in shaping corporate culture and brand values, as businesses seek flexible, well-located spaces to attract talent and drive innovation.

Want to Make the Office More Neuroinclusive? These Experts Offer a Start

Organizations are prioritizing neurodiversity in workplace design to enhance inclusivity and productivity. Key strategies include flexible workspaces, understanding diverse cognitive needs, and fostering a supportive culture. Collaborating with neurodiverse individuals in the design process is essential for success.

Textiles & Neurodiversity: Our Research Insights

Research highlights the impact of textiles on neurodivergent individuals in the workplace, emphasizing the need for sensory-friendly materials and employee choice to enhance comfort and productivity. Recommendations include educating staff on sensory sensitivities and regularly assessing workplace materials.

Remote Work's Hidden Superpower: Cutting Emissions and Boosting Business

Remote work significantly reduces carbon emissions by decreasing daily commutes, leading to improved air quality and economic growth in flexible metropolitan areas. Satellite data shows that regions embracing remote work experience lower greenhouse gas levels, aligning business objectives with environmental goals and supporting sustainable urban transformation.

RTO Trends Slow as Weather and Hybrid Models Shape Workforce Patterns

As employers begin to reinstate return-to-office (RTO) mandates following the shifts in work routines due to COVID, data indicates that office visits are stalling. In early 2025, office attendance declined compared to previous years, with factors such as weather disruptions affecting worker commutes in major cities. The data reveals a consistent pattern where employees prefer to work from home on Fridays, leading to a concentration of office visits midweek. This hybrid work model is reshaping various industries, including fast-casual dining and business attire, with slower recovery rates observed on Fridays. The future of office attendance remains uncertain, but the hybrid work trend appears to be firmly established.

Only half of Europeans say they work in psychologically healthy workplaces

Only 53% of European employees feel they work in psychologically healthy workplaces, with significant disparities across industries and regions. The UK is slightly below average at 52%. Public sector workers report the lowest wellbeing, while technology sector employees fare better. Senior leaders perceive higher workplace health than frontline staff, highlighting a need for better communication and support for mental health to improve employee retention.

Productivity concerns put brakes on adoption of flexible working

A significant number of British workers who have requested flexible working arrangements report that their requests have been denied due to employer concerns about productivity. Despite a large portion of the workforce believing they would be more productive with flexible work options, barriers such as employer skepticism and lack of resources still exist. Research indicates that many workers desire control over their hours and locations, but there remains a disconnect between employee preferences and employer perceptions. Since the implementation of the Flexible Working Act, awareness of its provisions is low, with many employees unaware of their rights and benefits regarding flexible working.

Hybrid Work Prevails as Return-to-Office Mandates Struggle to Gain Ground

As companies navigate the balance between return-to-office (RTO) mandates and the demand for flexible work arrangements, hybrid and remote work models continue to prevail. Major companies are pushing for stricter in-office policies, yet data shows that 68% of organizations are offering some form of flexibility. Concerns over talent retention in a competitive labor market have led employers to be cautious about rigid mandates, fearing they may drive employees to more flexible competitors. Office vacancy rates remain elevated, with Q4 2024 rates at 18.9%. Although some improvements in occupancy have been noted following RTO announcements, these changes may not be directly causal. Data indicates that office visits in 2024 were 34.3% below pre-COVID levels, with Fridays being particularly unpopular for in-office work. Challenges persist for office owners and investors, as newer buildings with modern amenities are seeing better occupancy rates compared to older properties. Economic factors, including significant job cuts, further complicate the future of workplace norms and attendance.

Knoll Collaborates with Contemporary Design Visionaries at Salone del Mobile 2025

At Salone del Mobile 2025, Knoll showcased innovative designs from leading creators, including the Biboni Sofa, Muecke Wood Collection, and Perron Bun Lounge Chair, all emphasizing sustainability and contemporary living. The pavilion, designed by OFFICE, features repurposed materials, highlighting a commitment to eco-friendly practices in design.

Haworth and Pantone Collaborate with Patricia Urquiola at Milan Design Week 2025

Haworth and Pantone have partnered with designer Patricia Urquiola for a collaboration showcased at Milan Design Week in 2025. The collaboration emphasizes innovative design and creativity, highlighting the synergy between the two brands and Urquiola's unique vision. The event is set to occur on April 14, 2025, and aims to attract attention within the design community.

What The White Lotus and Severance tell us about design culture

Severance and The White Lotus showcase contrasting design cultures: Severance emphasizes modernist design and intellectual discourse, while The White Lotus focuses on luxurious aesthetics and commercial appeal, reflecting different attitudes towards interior design in popular media.

How Office Design Will Use Color to Boost Workplace Productivity and Mood 

The use of color in office design is increasingly recognized for its potential to enhance workplace productivity and improve employee mood. Companies are rethinking their office environments to foster collaboration and motivation as they bring employees back to the office. Research indicates that colors can significantly affect psychological well-being, with preferences shifting during the work-from-home era towards more personalized and vibrant color schemes.

Emerging trends in office design include the use of saturated colors to create focus and engagement, as well as nature-inspired palettes that promote health and well-being. The concept of "color-drenched" spaces—where walls, floors, and ceilings are unified in hue—can stimulate creativity and reduce inhibitions, potentially boosting productivity.

In contrast, there is a growing trend towards neutral colors that promote calmness, alongside darker tones that signify hierarchy and exclusivity in executive spaces. The strategic application of color can delineate roles and create a sense of stability within the workplace. Overall, the thoughtful integration of color in office design is seen as a way to adapt to evolving workplace dynamics and employee needs.

B Lab overhauls B Corp certification

B Lab has released the seventh edition of the Certified B Corp standard, raising the certification requirements for companies with over 1,000 employees or $350 million in sales. The updated guidelines require companies to meet minimum performance thresholds across seven environmental, social, and governance topics while committing to continuous improvement. The revision was based on four years of consultation and feedback from over 25,000 comments.

Key areas of focus include stakeholder governance, climate action, human rights strategies, fair work policies, environmental stewardship, and principles of justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion. Large companies must also publish detailed plans regarding their environmental and human rights impacts, gender wage gaps, and include social performance targets in executive incentives.

The update aims to enhance accountability and ensure that certified companies demonstrate meaningful action across all impact areas. B Lab is providing a transition period for current B Corps to adapt to the new standards, with a focus on increasing adoption in Europe as companies align with the European Union’s sustainability reporting mandates.

State-of-the-Art Manufacturing Facility Opens for Mitchell’s Sta-Kleen Silicone Line

The Mitchell Group has opened a new eco-friendly manufacturing facility for its Sta-Kleen Silicone line, emphasizing sustainable practices and clean energy. The facility features advanced production methods, zero waste emissions, and holds multiple certifications for quality and environmental management, reinforcing its leadership in the performance textiles market.

Landscape Forms Unveils Long-Term Sustainability Roadmap — A Commitment to Lasting, Industry-Leading Change

Landscape Forms has launched a 25-year sustainability roadmap focused on reducing environmental impact through responsible manufacturing and stewardship, aiming for carbon neutrality by 2040, improving energy efficiency, and promoting biodiversity while collaborating with experts for continuous improvement.

New "Mid-Century Modern Design in the U.S." Book

Phaidon is set to release a new book titled "Eventually Everything Connects: Mid-Century Modern Design in the US," which offers a fresh perspective on the mid-century modern movement. Featuring hundreds of images from the Cranbrook Art Museum, the book aims to provide a visual tour of American mid-century modernism through photographs, drawings, and pieces of ephemera. It highlights key figures such as Charles and Ray Eames, Harry Bertoia, and Florence Knoll, while also recognizing historically overlooked designers. The book, priced at $90, is currently available for pre-order and will be shipped in July.

You Can Plug This $19K Backyard Office Into an Outlet

A new prefab backyard office called the WorkPod has been introduced by Autonomous, a company known for its office furniture. Priced at $18,900, the WorkPod offers a gross floor area of 102 square feet and features a modular, eco-conscious design that allows for easy self-installation. Key highlights include sustainable materials, energy-efficient systems, and customizable options such as smart furniture and climate control. The WorkPod is designed for quick setup with minimal environmental impact and is typically classified as a shed, making it exempt from many building permits. The company is expanding its reach across the U.S. and exploring international markets while focusing on eco-friendly manufacturing and logistics.

HON Enhances Iconic Ignition® 2.0 Performance Seating in Fresh Suite of Bold Colors

The HON Company has updated its popular Ignition® 2.0 seating collection by introducing a new range of 22 colors in a breathable Spectrum Mesh fabric. This update enhances customization and comfort while incorporating 20% post-consumer recycled polyester, emphasizing sustainability. The collection features ergonomic designs, including lumbar support and adjustable arms, making it suitable for various environments, from private offices to collaborative spaces. Ignition 2.0 is designed to meet modern needs and is available for quick delivery, demonstrating HON's commitment to both style and functionality.

Introducing Hudson by Three H: A Scalable, Sophisticated Private Office Collection Crafted for Today's Evolving Workspace

Three H launches the Hudson private office collection, designed for modern workspaces with scalable solutions, diverse aesthetics, and refined functionality, emphasizing a human-centered approach and innovative materials. The collection is supported by a comprehensive marketing campaign and follows the successful Kynde Conference Tables.

Small Footprint. Big Impact. Meet hushFree Meet.XM: The Most Compact Two-Person Pod on the Market.

The hushFree.XM is introduced as the most compact two-person pod available, designed to optimize space in modern office environments. It provides exceptional acoustic privacy and is tailored for the needs of today’s hybrid workforce. Featuring industry-leading acoustics and innovative Hush Assistant technology, the pod enhances productivity by adjusting lighting and ventilation according to natural rhythms. With a footprint of under 24 square feet, it complies with fire safety regulations, reducing compliance costs. The pod is certified for acoustics, sustainability, and inclusion, and is available for order, shipping within seven days. Thinkspace, the company behind hushFree, emphasizes its commitment to improving workspace environments with innovative and stylish solutions.

Arcadia Introduces Stash - A Wood Folding Guest Chair 

Arcadia introduces the Stash wood folding chair, designed for easy setup and storage, featuring a solid beech wood frame and ergonomic molded seats. Accommodating up to 400 lbs, it combines durability with refined aesthetics, making it suitable for various environments like healthcare and corporate settings.

Meet the Aceray SOLO Family

The Aceray SOLO family features a range of sophisticated lounge chairs, each designed for comfort and style, including the Solo-T for quick connections, Solo-QN for longer sits, Solo-R for privacy, Solo-S for stability, and Solo-U with a modern circular design.

TAKT introduces the new edition of the "Cross Task Chair"

TAKT introduces the Cross Task Chair with armrests, enhancing ergonomic support while maintaining a minimalist design. Crafted from eco-friendly materials, it emphasizes durability and repairability, reflecting TAKT's commitment to sustainable, high-quality furniture at accessible prices.

COR unveils a new piece at the Milan Design Week

COR has introduced a new wooden chair called Kagu, designed by the duo Jehs+Laub, at the Milan Design Week. This chair, showcased in the vibrant COR apartment in Brera, features a sculptural design with harmonious lines and a combination of upholstery and wood. The chair's legs extend into the armrests and are integrated into the seat shell, emphasizing a minimalist yet functional aesthetic. Available in ash or oak, Kagu is designed to blend seamlessly into various living and working environments, offering a timeless appeal while prioritizing sustainability and individuality.

Apero From emuamericas Offers Enduring Style, Effortless Comfort - Indoors or Out

The Apero collection, crafted in Italy by EMU and distributed by emuamericas, features a blend of sleek design and durability for indoor and outdoor seating. Designed by Martin Drechsel, the collection includes various seating options such as side chairs, armchairs, barstools, and counter stools, all made from tubular steel and wrought iron with an e-coated powder finish for weather resistance. Available in 16 finishes, including quick-ship colors, the Apero collection combines modern aesthetics with comfort, making it suitable for cafés, patios, and other design-focused spaces.

Pierre Renart creates bench for Longchamp's first furniture collection

Pierre Renart designed a fluid and dynamic bench and chairs for Longchamp's first furniture collection, debuting at Milan design week. The pieces blend American walnut and leather, showcasing Renart's woodworking expertise and Longchamp's craftsmanship, resulting in elegant, harmonious designs.

Stacy Garcia Design Studio Unveils Wallcovering Collection in Collaboration with Momentum

Stacy Garcia Design Studio launches a new wallcovering collection with Momentum, featuring four nature-inspired designs: Echelon, Hierarchy, Second Nature, and Unwind, crafted with durable Type II Clean Vinyl for commercial spaces.

Taking Walls to New Heights: Koroseal Introduces New Additions to Arbor Collection, Performance Wallcoverings and Digital Substrates

Koroseal introduces new wallcoverings in the Arbor Collection, Performance Wallcoverings, and Digital Substrates, featuring designs inspired by natural wood and classic motifs, combining aesthetic beauty with durability. New options include geometric patterns, botanical prints, and textured effects, available for immediate sampling.

EF Contract's Anthology Collection Offers Up an Enthralling Narrative for Any Space

EF Contract's Anthology collection features four new carpet tile patterns that blend sophistication with subtle textures and neutral colors, designed to complement any space. Crafted from sustainable materials, the collection includes styles like Designer’s Choice and Modern Classic, each offering unique aesthetics while coordinating with existing EF Contract products.

Luxxbox Introduces the Acoustic Analyzer: A Revolutionary Tool for Acoustic Design

Luxxbox has launched the Acoustic Analyzer, a free online tool aimed at helping architects and design professionals incorporate acoustic lighting and sound solutions into their projects. This user-friendly platform simplifies the process of specifying acoustic products by providing clear, actionable insights based on room dimensions, materials, and intended functions. Key features include an extensive product library, data-driven results with recommended reverberation times, visual representations of room layouts, and the ability to generate professional reports. The Acoustic Analyzer is designed to enhance acoustic comfort, which is vital for improving focus, productivity, and overall well-being in various environments, such as offices and hospitality settings. The tool is now available for professionals looking to optimize sound in their designs.

Casual Seating: Konstantin Grcic's THING_01

Konstantin Grcic has designed a casual seating object called THING_01, which was showcased at Milan Design Week. This unique piece features a stool without a traditional seat and is made to order, limited to six units per buyer. The TPE caps are available in yellow, black, or grey, and each unit is priced at €550 (approximately USD $607). The design emphasizes modern aesthetics and functionality, catering to contemporary seating needs.

Studio Lugo's Anachron Series: Agriculture-Inspired Furniture

Studio Lugo's Anachron series blends ancient Anatolian agricultural influences with modern design, using materials like Kutnu fabric and stainless steel to create timeless furniture that reflects cultural heritage and contemporary aesthetics. The collection will debut at Alcova Milano.

Victor Manuel's "Geometric Chimera" Style of Furniture Design

Victor Manuel's "Geometric Chimera" style blends Midcentury Modern aesthetics with innovative, bold designs that challenge traditional furniture norms, creating functional sculptures that emphasize individuality and artistic expression.

Enhancing Collaboration at Harmony Healthcare's Long Island Office

Harmony Healthcare's new 20,000 sq ft headquarters in Garden City, designed by TPG Architecture, emphasizes flexibility and collaboration with open workstations, private offices, and communal spaces. The design integrates sustainability features and aims to enhance employee well-being and community service.

Expanding in Style at the Publicis Office in Philadelphia, PA

Publicis Groupe has expanded its presence in Philadelphia, relocating to a new 40,000 sq ft office in the historic Bourse Building. Designed by Montroy Architecture, the office features a modern layout that emphasizes flexibility and collaboration, accommodating a hybrid work model. Key design elements include multiple social areas, hospitality-inspired spaces, and a mix of workstation areas and lounges. The project incorporates historical elements discovered during renovations, such as original plaster moldings and brick walls. The upgraded office aims to attract employees back to the workspace with a focus on comfort and functionality, while preserving the building's unique architectural heritage.

5Thirdway's 15 Rathbone Place makes its West End debut

Thirdway's new office at 15 Rathbone Place features large arched windows and exposed brick, creating an agile workspace with various zones for collaboration, private meetings, and vibrant accents throughout the design.

Vivek Kumar - Workspaces

Vivek Kumar, a Staff Product Designer at Disney+ Hotstar, shares his workspace setup featuring high-end tech like an Apple Macbook Pro and LG displays. He emphasizes creativity through disconnecting from the internet and finds inspiration in nature and travel. His typical day starts peacefully with coffee and reading before work.

Interview with Jil Sander on her cooperation with Thonet

Jil Sander discusses her reinterpretation of Marcel Breuer's S 64 chair for Thonet, focusing on material and color choices to enhance its presence and sensuality, while emphasizing the importance of timeless design and thoughtful consumption in modern furniture. She introduces two design lines, 'Serious' and 'Nordic', reflecting contemporary aesthetics and functionality.

Float Mini and Trea Shine on the Global Stage with 2025 iF DESIGN AWARDS Wins

Humanscale's Float Mini and Trea collection won the prestigious iF Design Award 2025 for their innovative ergonomic designs, emphasizing sustainability and functionality in the workplace. The Float Mini features a height-adjustable table design, while Trea offers intuitive ergonomic support with a unique recline mechanism, both recognized for their quality and aesthetic appeal.

Thinkspace hires Veteran Sales Leader to Head Key North American Markets

Thinkspace has appointed Leanne Johnston as the new Vice President of Sales for the Northeastern U.S. and Canada. Johnston has a strong background in sales leadership within the furniture industry, having previously worked with notable brands such as Steelcase, Herman Miller, and Humanscale. She played key roles in launching new product segments and enhancing sales performance in various markets. Johnston expressed enthusiasm for joining Thinkspace, highlighting the company's innovative design approach and her excitement about engaging with a new team and expanding the business. Thinkspace, founded by Anjul Chandi and Mark Bailey, focuses on providing uniquely designed furniture solutions that enhance work environments.

Lawrence Group Hires Sydney Mitchell, Ashley Buchmiller as Interior Design Professionals

Lawrence Group has hired interior design professionals Sydney Mitchell and Ashley Buchmiller at its St. Louis headquarters. Mitchell holds a Bachelor's in Interior Design and has experience in event planning and internships, while Buchmiller has an Accelerated Master's in Interior Design and has worked as a teaching assistant and intern in design firms.

Configura Enhances Offering of Commercial Interiors Products in Q1 2025

Configura is expanding its offerings in the commercial interiors sector by adding two new extensions to its CET Commercial Interiors platform and incorporating ten additional manufacturers into its CI Library. This enhancement aims to improve user experience by providing a wider range of premium products and efficient processes. The new manufacturers include Poppin, Impact Acoustic, RFM Seating, Tremain, Venue Industries, Cortech USA, Vondom, Onsemble, Cabot Wrenn, and Paul Brayton Designs, each contributing various SKUs to the library. Configura’s CET system allows designers and salespeople to create detailed designs in both 2D and 3D, facilitating collaboration and visualization in commercial space planning. Additionally, the two latest extensions, MiEN and Open Plan Systems, cater specifically to the education market and comprehensive office solutions, respectively. 

Fluidconcepts Now Live on CET and My Resource Library—Material Bank Coming Summer 2025

Fluidconcepts has enhanced its accessibility and efficiency for designers and dealers. The Contour collection is now available on CET, allowing for real-time layout creation, quoting, and visualization. My Resource Library (MRL) serves as the central hub for Fluidconcepts' customizable and sustainable furniture solutions, streamlining the process of managing specifications. Additionally, Fluidconcepts will launch on Material Bank in summer 2025, enabling designers to order finish samples with next-day delivery. These developments aim to improve collaboration and support for design teams, making working with Fluidconcepts more efficient and effective.

Tekloom®: The World’s Toughest Woven Fabric at EFA Expo 2025

Tekloom® is introduced as the world's toughest woven fabric, set to debut at the Environments for Aging Conference + Expo in Lexington, Kentucky, from April 27-29. This innovative fabric, developed using proprietary TPE technology, combines aesthetic appeal with exceptional durability, offering a liquid barrier that can withstand over one million double rubs. It boasts properties such as ink, oil, and stain resistance, as well as bleach-cleanability, making it suitable for healthcare environments. Furthermore, Tekloom® is free from harmful chemicals and complies with CAL 01350 standards, promoting better indoor air quality. The fabric aims to transform healthcare interiors by providing long-lasting, attractive, and eco-friendly textile solutions.

Revolutionizing the Future of Design: Arcadis Launches ‘The Design Perspective

Arcadis launches ‘The Design Perspective’, a groundbreaking design forecast addressing challenges in the AEC sector with strategies like AI-driven design, modular construction, and regenerative architecture, emphasizing digital transformation and human-centric innovation for resilient urban environments.

Ask Stephen - Why Would You Leave a Manufacturer to Go to a Dealer?

Transitioning from a manufacturer to a dealer can offer higher earnings and closer customer interactions, as many salespeople find more financial success and job satisfaction in dealer environments, leveraging their insider knowledge for better sales outcomes.

Independent Sales Representative @ RT London

RT London, a leader in residence hall furniture solutions, is seeking independent rep firms to represent the following territories: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, and Tennessee.

Regional Sales Manager - Furniture @ SP Richards

Under the direction of the Director of Sales–Furniture and in total alignment with the Vice President of Furniture and the Vice President of Sales, the FRSM’s function is to drive the Furniture to new heights. 

Executive Account Manager @ Office Star Products

As an Executive Account Manager, you’ll build and maintain strong relationships with dealership partners, drive sales growth, and ensure exceptional client service. You will manage key accounts, identify new opportunities, and execute market strategies to achieve sales targets.