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In this issue… Avanto launches Strata, a revolutionary action system for commercial furniture operations, while the industry mourns designer Giancarlo Piretti. Major office market shifts include Anthropic's 484,000-square-foot San Francisco lease and prime office price gains signaling renewed investor confidence. Coworking embraces portfolio discipline. Workplace wellness, smart lighting design, and hypermobile learning environments emerge as key trends. Gen Z navigates social awkwardness at work while Gen X thrives remotely, as device addiction threatens focus and Americans warm to AI automation. Features spotlight Bauhaus's centennial influence, Asia-Pacific's evolving hybrid work culture, Japan's office chair racing tradition, and Steelcase's accessibility initiative. New product launches span Designtex biobased textiles, DEDON's MDEAR modular lounging, Shaw Contract porcelain, Hightower's expanded Arlo seating, HAY's Spring 2026 collection, Herman Miller's Pawson Drift additions, and CBS's Lana ergonomic laptop stand. Home office design shifts toward wall-facing desks for a luxurious aesthetic.
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KI honors the life and creative legacy of Giancarlo Piretti, an influential Italian industrial designer who passed away on January 20, 2026, at the age of 85. Piretti's innovative work significantly transformed modern furniture design and has left a lasting impact on the industry. His collaboration with KI spanned decades, contributing to the development of various product families, including Doni, Strive, Grazie, Torsion, and the best-selling Pirouette tables. Piretti's designs are celebrated for their blend of practicality, elegance, and human-centered principles, reflecting his belief that design should enhance daily life while prioritizing visual clarity and ergonomic intelligence. His legacy continues to inspire designers and manufacturers worldwide, shaping contemporary spaces through thoughtful design.
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HNI Corporation has received a positive outlook from Benchmark Co., which raised its price target for the stock from $60 to $75 and maintained a Buy recommendation. This follows HNI's announcement of its planned acquisition of Steelcase Inc. for approximately $2.2 billion, expected to generate annual cost synergies of around $120 million and increase earnings per share by $0.50 to $0.60 by fiscal year 2027. Despite this, HNI plans to close its manufacturing facility in Wayland, New York, affecting about 135 jobs, while ensuring that production continues at other sites without changes to product quality. The company's diverse portfolio includes workplace furnishings and residential building products, with a history of consistent dividend payments over the past 55 years.
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| finance.yahoo.com
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2026 Office Furniture Recyclers Conference March 15-18 2026
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The 26th annual Office Furniture Recyclers (OFR) conference will take place from March 15th to 18th, 2026, in Naples, Florida. This event is designed for office furniture dealers, brokers, wholesalers, manufacturers, re-manufacturers, and suppliers, focusing on networking and education. Attendees can expect a variety of educational sessions, round table discussions, industry exhibitors, and networking opportunities. Notable speakers, including Locke Burnette from Cushman & Wakefield, will address modern workplace trends and employee needs. For more information and registration, visit www.ofrtoday.com.
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Avanto Launches Strata, an Action System Built for the Commercial Furniture Industry
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Avanto has launched Strata™, an innovative action system designed specifically for the commercial furniture industry. Strata aims to reduce operational friction among manufacturers, dealers, sales representatives, designers, and installers by transforming disjointed workflows into coordinated, automated actions that yield measurable outcomes. Unlike traditional ERP systems that require companies to conform to rigid frameworks, Strata is modular and adaptable, allowing organizations to implement only the necessary features while integrating smoothly with existing technologies.
Matt Danyliw, President of Avanto, emphasizes that the commercial furniture sector requires practical solutions to common issues such as inventory blind spots and payment delays, rather than additional tools. Strata functions as an intelligence ecosystem focused on execution, beginning with an operational discovery to pinpoint inefficiencies, errors, and profit losses. It then creates a customized action plan, activating only the essential modules and integrations needed.
Key features of Strata include:
- Modular activation to prevent unnecessary complexity - Headless integration with current systems
- Composable capabilities that connect seamlessly
- Outcome-driven execution aimed at enhancing performance
The platform promises quicker execution, improved accuracy, better visibility, and increased predictability without disrupting existing operations. With over ten years of industry experience, Avanto developed Strata based on real-world workflows, tackling order flow issues and margin loss throughout the supply chain. Strata is now available for commercial furniture manufacturers and partners, with discovery engagements offered to identify operational opportunities and tailor action plans.
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The coworking market is shifting towards strategic, data-driven expansion, focusing on portfolio discipline rather than unchecked growth. Major markets like Los Angeles and Chicago continue to see growth, while mid-sized markets are stabilizing. Average coworking site sizes remain over 18,000 square feet, with pricing largely stable. Regus leads the market with nearly 1,200 locations, while smaller operators refine their strategies.
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| www.globest.com
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The office sector experienced a 3.8% price increase in commercial real estate over the past year, reversing an 11.4% decline in 2024, indicating renewed investor confidence despite concerns about remote work. Other property types saw smaller gains, with multifamily assets rising 0.7% and industrial and retail prices increasing by 0.4%. The divergence between value-weighted and equal-weighted indices suggests a flight to quality, as institutional investors prefer core assets in major markets.
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| www.globest.com
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Billionaires Stephen Ross and Ken Griffin are launching a campaign called "Ambition Accelerated" to promote Florida's Gold Coast as a prime business hub. Each has contributed $5 million to the initiative, emphasizing Florida's favorable climate and business environment. Ross believes Florida is the best state for business, while Griffin highlights the region's talent, regulatory predictability, and quality of life as key factors for corporate expansion.
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| www.globest.com
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In December, U.S. job openings fell to their lowest level in over five years, decreasing by 386,000 to 6.542 million. This decline reflects a softening labor market at the end of 2025, with November's figures also revised down to 6.928 million. Despite a slight increase in hiring by 172,000 positions to a total of 5.293 million, the overall employment situation remains weak.
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| allwork.space
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Hybrid work is reshaping expectations in the Asia-Pacific region, emphasizing the need for workspace that fosters collaboration and individual performance. Cultural differences influence office utilization rates, with Greater China prioritizing in-person collaboration, while Australia embraces flexibility. Singapore leads with adaptive office designs that enhance engagement, and emerging economies are exploring hybrid models. The future of work focuses on human-centered, data-informed designs that promote well-being and productivity, moving beyond mere efficiency to create environments that empower individuals and organizations.
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| www.gensler.com
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The Japan Office Chair Racing Association (JORA) has organized the Isu-1 GP, a unique racing event for the past 16 years, where participants race using standard office chairs propelled by their legs. The races take place in ten cities, with strict rules against modifications to the chairs, and safety gear is mandatory. Races consist of 200-meter loops over two hours, with teams of three members who can alternate during the race. The upcoming race is scheduled for February 23, 2026, in Kumamoto, with prizes of rice awarded to the top three teams.
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| www.core77.com
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Thonet celebrates 100 years since the Bauhaus moved to Dessau, highlighting its influence on modern furniture design, particularly through the use of tubular steel. Iconic pieces like the B 9 H stool and contemporary reinterpretations, such as the S 243 chair and JS . THONET collection by Jil Sander, showcase the enduring principles of clarity, innovation, and material honesty that define the Bauhaus legacy. A limited promotion for the B 9 tables further emphasizes the cultural significance of these designs.
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| www.interiordaily.com
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The old Kickstarter office has been transformed into the Lighthouse, a venue for content creators featuring soundproof booths and equipment for gamers, podcasters, and influencers. The opening event attracted a young crowd engaged in networking and sharing their social media handles, highlighting the growing culture of content creation in the city.
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| www.curbed.com
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Steelcase collaborates with Disability Advocates of Kent County to enhance office furniture accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Through feedback from diverse test pilots, the company aims to create inclusive spaces by addressing barriers and implementing features like adjustable desks, lightweight chairs, and sensory areas. The initiative emphasizes the importance of considering accessibility in design to ensure everyone feels included and respected in the workplace.
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| www.wzzm13.com
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A recent survey shows that Americans are increasingly open to AI taking over 30% of jobs, especially if the technology proves to be more efficient and cost-effective. However, there is significant resistance to automating roles that involve trust and care, with 42% of occupations viewed as unsuitable for AI, particularly in fields like childcare and the arts. The findings suggest a shift in the debate from whether AI can perform tasks to whether it should, indicating that future workplace automation will need to balance efficiency with ethical considerations and public sentiment.
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| allwork.space
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A study shows that hybrid working patterns are stabilizing globally, with office occupancy averaging 50-60% and peak attendance on Tuesdays. Many organizations face operational inefficiencies due to concentrated attendance and high vacancy rates. Recommendations include dynamic attendance strategies and the creation of smaller meeting spaces. The report highlights a shift towards enclosed workspaces and informal social zones, with rising demand for solo workspaces. City-specific trends indicate varying commuting habits, while the overall conclusion emphasizes the need for organizations to adjust their real estate strategies to better align with employee behavior and preferences.
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| workplaceinsight.net
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Device addiction in the workplace leads to chronic stress and reduced focus, as constant interruptions from notifications and digital distractions erode motivation and cognitive stamina. This environment fosters a cycle of reactivity, where productivity appears high but meaningful work suffers. To counteract this, organizations should implement intentional device use, establish clear response expectations, and protect focus time, ultimately prioritizing attention to enhance motivation and performance.
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| allwork.space
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Remote work has improved work-life balance for nearly 70% of employees, but younger generations, particularly Gen Z, struggle with focus and burnout. Gen X shows higher digital confidence and productivity in remote settings, while many remote workers would consider leaving if forced back to the office. Companies must prioritize employee well-being and respect work-life boundaries to retain talent.
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| allwork.space
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Social awkwardness is increasingly prevalent among Gen Z in the workplace, with 85% acknowledging it as a widespread issue. The pandemic has exacerbated feelings of discomfort in social interactions, leading to avoidance strategies like using headphones and preferring asynchronous communication. Employers need to adapt work environments to accommodate these challenges by fostering smaller, voluntary interactions and providing quiet spaces for recharging. Gen Z workers can thrive by understanding their social limits and gradually engaging in social situations.
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| allwork.space
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OpenAI is launching the Frontier platform to help companies build and manage AI agents that integrate with existing systems, aiming to accelerate enterprise adoption of AI tools. This move is part of OpenAI's strategy to compete in the enterprise market against rivals like Anthropic, especially as both companies prepare for public offerings. Frontier is designed to facilitate easier implementation of AI agents, enhancing productivity within enterprises.
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| allwork.space
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Organizations are reimagining flexible spaces to support evolving work and learning needs, balancing adaptability with productivity. A case study with Sleeping Giant Capital highlighted the importance of modular furniture and predefined spatial configurations to enhance cognitive and emotional performance. Success was measured through user feedback, focusing on information sharing, connection, and adaptability. Key steps for effective hypermobile design include scene discovery, design, communication, implementation, management, and continuous improvement, emphasizing the need for a structured yet flexible environment to foster innovation and collaboration.
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| www.haworth.com
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Workplace wellness is evolving as employees split time between various locations, necessitating clear roles for employers and coworking spaces in supporting wellbeing. The corporate wellness market is projected to double by 2031, driven by the recognition of wellbeing as essential for performance and retention. Effective wellness programs should integrate mental health, physical health, and social connection, focusing on personalized, meaningful support rather than superficial benefits. Collaboration between employers and coworking spaces is crucial to address the holistic needs of hybrid workers, ensuring that wellness initiatives are embedded into daily routines and aligned with employee engagement and performance.
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| allwork.space
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Office tenants now expect spaces that enhance employee wellbeing and productivity, making smart lighting design crucial. Effective lighting can reduce absenteeism, eye strain, and fatigue, while maximizing natural light and providing tenants with control over their environment can significantly increase satisfaction and retention. Landlords should invest in adaptable lighting infrastructure to meet tenant needs and improve the overall workplace experience.
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| propmodo.com
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Recent trends in home office design favor placing desks against the wall with the chair facing it, enhancing aesthetics and focus. Designers recommend creating visual interest with unique wall designs, using windows as focal points, and opting for minimal decoration. Built-in furniture and clever use of small nooks can maximize functionality while maintaining an appealing workspace.
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| www.housebeautiful.com
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Wilsonart® Solid Surface is an innovative material redefining modern interiors in both residential and commercial spaces. Known for its seamless construction and durability, it now serves as a versatile design medium that supports sculptural forms and cohesive material palettes. The solid surface offers uninterrupted visual flow with features like invisible seams and integrated sinks, enhancing the architectural feel of spaces such as kitchens and reception areas. Beyond aesthetics, it addresses wellness and maintenance needs, being non-porous, repairable, and resistant to moisture and bacteria. This makes it ideal for hygienic environments while supporting sustainability through its renewability. Available in a wide range of colors and patterns, Wilsonart Solid Surface integrates well with various materials and has been enhanced with new designs that mimic natural stone textures. It allows designers to create warm, modern interiors that prioritize seamless aesthetics and human-centered performance.
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| Visit Wilsonart > www.officing.com
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Global introduces Comprise™, a new healthcare seating solution that sets a high standard with its innovative materials and advanced engineering. The seating features contoured, injection molded composite nylon arms and legs, providing seamless surfaces that are easy to clean, warm to the touch, and resistant to infection control reagents. The modular design allows for customizable multiseat layouts to meet various design and space occupancy needs, with connecting tables that support different configurations. Additionally, Comprise includes tamperproof power and charging outlets that can be mounted above or below the tabletops, ensuring devices remain charged throughout the day.
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| www.officing.com
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Hightower has expanded the Arlo Collection with new models designed for comfort and functionality, including the Arlo 1.5 Lowback, Highback, and Two-Seat Highback with Screen. These additions focus on personal space and privacy, featuring larger seating options and integrated power solutions for flexible work environments. The collection emphasizes durability, sustainability, and inclusivity, ensuring that the furniture supports well-being and fosters a sense of belonging in various settings.
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| www.officing.com
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Herman Miller expands the Pawson Drift Collection with new pieces including a corner sectional, ottoman, and occasional tables, designed by John Pawson. The collection emphasizes comfort and elegance, featuring a solid hardwood frame and premium textiles. The tables create a floating effect with a shadow gap design. Herman Miller, known for its innovative designs and collaborations with iconic designers, continues to focus on problem-solving and timeless aesthetics.
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| www.officing.com
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HAY launches a new furniture collection for Spring 2026, featuring versatile indoor and outdoor pieces designed for hospitality and public spaces. Key highlights include the Deville chair and table made from recycled aluminum, the reimagined Palissade range with a floating cantilever frame, a new armless Layout chair from recycled plastic, an expanded Bella coffee table, and the adaptable Facet cabinet. The collection emphasizes sustainability, contemporary design, and functionality for professional environments.
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| www.interiordaily.com
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Room & Board for Business introduces the Esme Office Chair and Ames Electric Adjustable Standing Desk, designed for ergonomic performance and modern aesthetics. The Esme chair features a sculptural design with adjustable height and 360-degree swivel, available in four colors. The Ames desk offers height adjustability with customizable finishes and a choice between corded or cordless power options, promoting movement and flexibility in various work environments.
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DEDON introduces the MDEAR modular lounging collection by Sebastian Herkner, featuring five organic shapes that can be used individually or combined for larger seating. The design emphasizes adaptability and flow, suitable for both indoor and outdoor spaces, with a unique contrast in weaving styles that highlights DEDON's innovative approach.
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| www.officing.com
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Colebrook Bosson Saunders has launched Lana, an ergonomic laptop stand designed for hybrid work environments. It features a circular design for sustainability, durability for over five years of use, and a minimal aesthetic that integrates well into various workspaces. Lana supports laptops up to 16 inches and facilitates a streamlined setup with USB C charging devices. The product is now available globally, with U.S. availability expanding in April.
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| www.officing.com
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Pallas Textiles has launched The Collective, a platform for designers to access essential materials and colorways for various markets. It features Color Capsule 2.0 with refreshed colorways and new Essentials, Chambray and Matka, which offer durability and aesthetic appeal. The initiative emphasizes collaboration and responsible design, incorporating biobased technologies. Over 160 new colorways are now available for sampling and specification.
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| www.officing.com
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Designtex has introduced Terrene and Mote, new biobased coated textiles that enhance comfort and connection in modern spaces. Terrene features layered stripes for a dynamic look, while Mote combines structure and softness with a tailored grid. Both textiles contain 12% biobased content and are free from harmful chemicals, aligning with various sustainability certifications. They offer designers expressive and livable options without compromising performance or responsibility.
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| www.officing.com
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Shaw Contract has launched the Bask & Dusk porcelain tile collection, emphasizing contrasts between light and shadow, warmth and coolness. The collection features versatile colorbody porcelain tiles in various sizes and finishes, suitable for both interior and exterior applications. Designed for high-traffic environments, these tiles are durable and environmentally friendly, certified for indoor air quality and sustainability. The collection aims to enhance spaces through artistry and utility, making it ideal for designers and architects.
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| www.officing.com
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3form introduces its 2026 Color Collection featuring an 8-color palette inspired by historically significant hues. The collection emphasizes colors that connect cultures and traditions, with shades like Cabernet, Spice, and Indigo. Designed for versatility across various industries, the materials are Red List Free and SCS Indoor Air Advantage Gold certified, enhancing spaces with a calming and grounded energy. This collection marks the sixth by 3form, showcasing the importance of meaningful colors in architectural design.
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| officing.com
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In Sweden, whiteboards are designed with aesthetic appeal, exemplified by the Frame Mobile, a product by Halleroed and Matti Klenell. This mobile whiteboard features a double-sided glass surface that is magnetic and comes in 24 colors, all framed in a continuous bentwood design that serves as a handle for easy mobility. It is produced by the Swedish office furniture brand Lintex.
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| www.core77.com
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Malte Lundberg has designed an all-wooden ergonomic office chair named Silas, made entirely from birch wood, including its height-adjusting screw. Developed in collaboration with Stolab during his studies, the chair aims to replace technical office chairs with a more domestic aesthetic. It features sculptural forms for comfort and can be used in various settings. Silas is currently exhibited at Stockholm Design Days, highlighting innovative student designs.
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| www.dezeen.com
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The Circulus modular seating system, designed by Mario Ferrarini, features a lightweight aluminum frame with perforated panels to reduce material use. Upholstery clips onto the frame without adhesives, allowing for easy on-site repairs and recycling at the end of life. The system includes backless, low-backed, and high-backed seats that can be connected indefinitely, and is produced by Offecct.
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| www.core77.com
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Sustainability management faces ongoing tensions between profit, planet, and people, requiring leaders to be adept at tension management. Emotional factors significantly influence decision-making, with corporate archetypes shaping sustainability strategies. A strong business case for sustainability is essential, as companies must balance moral imperatives with financial returns. The landscape is shifting, necessitating strategic choices on when to act boldly or take incremental steps, while navigating complex political and economic climates.
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| trellis.net
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NeoCon 2026 / DesignDays 2026 June 7-10, 2026 | Chicago, IL
NeoCon has served as the world’s leading platform and most important event of the year for the commercial design industry since 1969. A launch pad for innovation—NeoCon offers ideas and introductions that shape the built environment today and into the future. For 2026 NeoCon is introducing a special preview day on Sunday, June 7th, from 12-4 PM. All NeoCon attendees and exhibitors are invited to visit on Sunday.
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This year's NeoCon theme, "Where Design Connects," emphasizes innovation and resilience in the built environment. Keynote speakers include Jessica O. Matthews, who will discuss the personal impact on innovation; Nick Foster, who will challenge future assumptions; and David “Shingy” Shing, who will explore the evolving relationship between technology and design. Registration for the event opened on February 3, 2026, and the event will feature seven exhibition floors, highlighting a new focus on lighting through the "Illuminate at NeoCon" initiative.
Joining at the same time, in Fulton Market is DesignDays, a compatible show that now hosts more than half of the largest office furniture manufacturers. Hint: See both.
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Clerkenwell Design Week
May 19 - 21, 2026 | London, UK
Clerkenwell Design Week will take place from May 19–21, 2026, featuring a mix of new and established venues, along with an international presence in EC1. The event promises to transform the area into a hub of design, architecture, and creativity, showcasing the best of both international and UK design through exhibitions, immersive installations, talks, and showroom events. New venues include "The Luxury Edit" at Haberdashers' Hall and workplace products at Goldsmiths'. Additionally, a new CDW app will launch, assisting visitors in planning their experience by providing access to badges, maps, and event information.
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The 2026 edition of Salone del Mobile will feature 1,900 exhibitors from 32 countries at the Rho Fiera Milan from April 21-26. The theme, "A Matter of Salone," encourages visitors to explore materials as embodiments of memory and potential. The event will include discussions on sustainability, a new section called Salone Raritas showcasing unique design pieces, and insights into the future of contract furniture design led by OMA. The event aims to strengthen Milan's role as a hub for global design discourse.
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| www.mixinteriors.com
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The 2026 Milan Salone del Mobile will feature Salone Contract, led by OMA partners Rem Koolhaas and David Gianotten, focusing on contract furniture for public spaces. This initiative will serve as a precursor to a formal launch in 2027, emphasizing design and operational reliability. Koolhaas will introduce the concept through a lecture and thematic itinerary, with plans for an international road tour starting in September 2026 to build a global audience.
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| www.interiordaily.com
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ICFF 2026 will take place at New York's Javits Center from May 17–19, focusing on collaboration and shared values in design. The theme, "Common Ground," emphasizes global dialogue and sustainability. Key partnerships include Habitat for Humanity and the Mayfair Design District. The event will feature discussions on healthy materials, affordable housing, and an expanded Emerging Designer Spotlight initiative, culminating in a live presentation at the fair.
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| www.interiordaily.com
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Trends in Commercial Projects
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OTJ Architects designed the Aquatic Capital offices in Chicago, creating a biophygital environment that integrates digital and physical workspaces. The 33,000 sqft headquarters features open workspaces, private offices, tech-forward meeting rooms, and amenities like a café, lounge, and recreational areas, fostering collaboration and a connection to nature through organic materials and dynamic design elements.
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| officesnapshots.com
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The design for DXC Technology's Sofia offices by MBL features innovative collaboration spaces and a sophisticated Visitor Center, emphasizing the company's leadership in digital transformation. The office layout includes a mix of collaborative areas, private offices, and meeting rooms, with a focus on clarity and spatial flow. Key elements like interactive zones and flexible meeting spaces enhance client engagement, while ergonomic and sustainable solutions ensure a productive environment.
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| officesnapshots.com
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Setter Architects designed the Viola Group Offices in Tel Aviv, emphasizing a woven narrative of innovation and identity. The design integrates industrial elements with warmth, featuring distinct collaborative spaces. The layout includes two wings connected by a bridge, each with unique lobbies and meeting rooms that enhance comfort. The office reflects Viola's identity and values, showcasing art and the group's achievements, transforming it into a spatial expression of their entrepreneurial spirit.
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| officesnapshots.com
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Spencer Scott Pugh is a tech creator and digital media strategist who focuses on consumer technology and its impact on daily life. He runs a YouTube channel featuring long-form videos and a newsletter that share thoughtfully designed products and ideas. His workspace includes various tech tools and plants, and he emphasizes the importance of intentional living and work-life balance. His daily routine involves structured workdays dedicated to content production and administrative tasks, while also prioritizing family time.
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| www.workspaces.xyz
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Criss cross chairs have gained popularity for their wide seats that allow users to sit cross-legged at desks, appealing to fidgeters and yoga enthusiasts. While these chairs offer flexibility and a break from standard office chair postures, they lack essential ergonomic features found in well-designed office chairs. Testing revealed that while criss cross chairs permit position shifting, they should not be seen as replacements for traditional office chairs. They are better suited for brief activities like meditation or journaling rather than extended work sessions.
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| www.consumerreports.org
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SO many chairs under $200 SUCK, but the ProtoArc EC200 is REALLY impressive and I think the best chair under $200 I've tested.
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| www.youtube.com
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An AI firm, Tractian, is moving its headquarters to Midtown's Coda tower, expanding from 7K to nearly 22K square feet. The company, which specializes in AI-driven solutions for machinery efficiency, aims to benefit from proximity to Georgia Tech for recruitment. Founded in Brazil in 2019, Tractian has 50 employees in Metro Atlanta and 500 across the Americas. This move reflects a trend of tech companies expanding their presence in Metro Atlanta, despite concerns about AI's impact on jobs..
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| www.bisnow.com
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Anthropic has signed a lease for 484,000 square feet at 300 Howard and 342 Howard in San Francisco, marking one of the largest leases in the city's history. This move is part of the city's recovery driven by the tech sector, particularly the AI industry, which accounted for a significant portion of office demand in 2025, leasing 2.5 million square feet overall.
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| www.globest.com
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Omni Workspace welcomes Chris Erdeljac as Regional Vice President for the Southwest region of Atmosphere Commercial Interiors
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Omni Workspace has appointed Chris Erdeljac as the Regional Vice President for the Southwest region of Atmosphere Commercial Interiors, effective February 2, 2026. Atmosphere, headquartered in Minneapolis, is a leading provider of furniture, architectural solutions, and facility services across various industries. In his new role, Erdeljac will act as General Manager, overseeing the region’s vision, team performance, and business strategy, reporting to Jeff Anderson, Executive Vice President of Sales. With 29 years of experience in integrated interiors, including his recent position as CEO and President of a Houston dealer, Erdeljac is well-equipped for this role. Anderson expressed confidence in Erdeljac's collaborative management style and leadership skills, anticipating a positive impact on strategic growth and client experiences. Erdeljac is eager to contribute and develop his team, emphasizing the importance of strong relationships and personal growth within the organization.
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101st anniversary party of PORRO S.p.A.
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On February 5th, PORRO S.p.A. celebrated its 101st anniversary at their showroom in New York City. The event featured Maria Porro, the Marketing and Communications Director of PORRO S.p.A., who is also the first female President of Salone del Mobile since 2021. During the celebration, Maria conversed with Stephen Viscusi about his upcoming plans to attend Salone del Mobile and visit her factory near Milan. The discussions also touched on the current state of the luxury industry, highlighting the connections between attendees, many of whom are clients of The Viscusi Group.
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Sunon Honored with “Brand of the Year Award” at the China General Chamber of Commerce 2026 Lunar Year of the Horse Gala
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At the 2026 Lunar Year of the Horse Awards Gala, Sunon was awarded the "Brand of the Year" by the China General Chamber of Commerce for its contributions to economic relations and community development. The event emphasized cooperation between China and the U.S., with Sunon recognized for its strategic focus on the U.S. market and efforts in local operations, including a U.S. subsidiary and manufacturing base in Mexico. The award highlights Sunon's commitment to sustainable development and cross-border collaboration.
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OFS and Carolina Sponsor the 2026 IIDA Student Design Competition Supporting Emerging Designers
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OFS and Carolina are sponsoring the 2026 IIDA Student Design Competition, inviting students to design a primary care clinic in rural Montana. The competition emphasizes real-world design challenges and requires that at least 50% of the furniture used comes from OFS and Carolina. Financial awards are provided for the top three submissions, and the competition is open to interior design students worldwide, with submissions due by February 6, 2026.
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Introducing the NEW Mayer Fabrics + Borgo Partner Cards
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Mayer Fabrics and Borgo have launched three new partner cards: Theatre Seating, Hyphyn™ high-performance upholstery, and Coated Seating fabrics. The Theatre Seating Card features durable textiles for performance environments, the Hyphyn™ Card offers biodegradable vinyl with exceptional durability, and the Coated Seating Card combines bold patterns with high-performance features for commercial spaces. Borgo emphasizes customer experience and design excellence, while Mayer provides resources for accessing textiles through Configura’s Material Portal.
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Ask Stephen: Why Furniture Dealer Owners All Seem Cut from the Same Cloth
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A manufacturer's rep expresses frustration with the common personality traits of furniture dealer owners, noting their confidence often borders on arrogance. Stephen responds by highlighting that this behavior stems from a need for control and leverage in a fragmented industry where mutual resentment exists between dealers and manufacturers. He suggests that the rep's perception may be influenced by their role, emphasizing the importance of understanding dealer owners rather than reducing them to stereotypes to foster better relationships.
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| Read the article > |
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As Regional Sales Director, you will drive revenue growth, shape market strategy, and forge strong partnerships throughout the Northeast and Western U.S. office furniture markets. Working closely with rep agencies, dealers, and the A&D community, you will expand specifications, strengthen market presence, and deliver sustainable, measurable results.
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This hybrid, full-time Account Executive role with an established commercial furniture dealer in Sarasota or Fort Myers, Florida, focuses on field sales and relationship-driven business development. The position involves generating leads, managing the full sales cycle, preparing proposals, and maintaining CRM data while collaborating with a supportive team. Ideal candidates have at least one year of sales experience, strong communication and customer service skills, and proficiency with CRM and Microsoft Office. The company has served Southwest Florida since 1974 and offers the opportunity to sell quality commercial furniture while living and working in a warm, no–state-income-tax environment, with relocation candidates welcome.
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Inside Sales / Customer Service Rep
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Hi5 Furniture is hiring for Inside Sales / Customer Service Rep!
This role is critical to deliver exceptional customer experience by handling written quotes, order entry, and day-to-day support for dealers, sales reps, and customers.
If you’re highly organized, calm under pressure, and a strong written communicator, this is your opportunity to join a fast-growing furniture manufacturer and make a real impact.
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| See Job Opening > |
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Hi5 Furniture is hiring a Factory Direct Rep for Missouri & Kansas!
This role is for a relationship-builder who thrives on connecting with contract furniture dealers, A&D firms, and end users to drive specifications and close deals.
You’ll own your territory, build strong partnerships, present innovative products, and manage projects from first conversation to installation. If you’re competitive, self-motivated, and know the contract commercial furniture world, this is your chance to make a real impact with a fast-growing brand.
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| See Job Opening > |
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