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In this issue… workplace and commercial-interiors news spans new industry events and showrooms (including a new U.S. workplace design fair and a Manchester design hub), plus brand moves like a major rebrand and broader “maker”/manufacturing initiatives. On the market side, office leasing shows mixed signals: surges in overall activity, AI-driven demand in London, but notable weakness in markets like Dallas–Fort Worth and Chicago, alongside big M&A in furnishings and executives warning that uncertainty and costs are slowing recovery. Features and workplace coverage focus on designing for belonging to counter loneliness, building neuroinclusive environments, and the continued shift to hybrid work (including the rise of coworking measurement tools and how AI is being used to fund workplace transformation). Trends highlight wellness-first, movement-oriented office architecture and a pivot toward data-led, flexible workplace strategy. Design coverage examines how high-profile federal renovations clash with preservation ideals. Product highlights include new wallcoverings, performance textiles and upholstery, modular and lounge seating, executive conference chairs, reclaimed-wood furniture, acoustic-integrated lighting, and ergonomic task seating.
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Featuring the Monday Morning Quarterback Monday, April 20, 2026
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By the Numbers
U.S. small-business confidence fell to an 11-month low in March, primarily due to rising oil prices linked to the war in Iran, which overshadowed the positive impact of low taxes. The Small Business Optimism Index dropped to 95.8, below the historical average, while the uncertainty index increased significantly. Business owners expressed pessimism about profit and sales prospects, with expectations for better conditions declining for three consecutive months.
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The U.S. coworking sector now comprises 9,135 locations and 164 million square feet, accounting for just 2.28% of the total office inventory. A new Coworking Index tool allows for tracking this sector across 120 U.S. metros, providing detailed market comparisons and growth insights. With office vacancies at 18.5%, the conditions for significant growth in coworking spaces are favorable, as enterprises increasingly integrate flexible workspaces into their strategies. The Coworking Index is designed to benchmark and visualize coworking activity effectively.
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"The impact (of ai) shows up in a narrow band of early-career and highly exposed office roles, even as knowledge jobs shift more broadly. Those early indicators of displacement among younger workers will likely grow over time, while other changes ripple through all types of knowledge work, regardless of experience level or pay." Jessica Morin, head of occupier research at Newmark
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Leggett & Platt Stock Jumps. The Company Gets Bought for $2.5 Billion
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Somnigroup International is set to acquire furniture industry component maker Leggett & Platt in an all-stock deal valued at $2.5 billion. This acquisition will help Somnigroup integrate its supply chain and expand into non-bedding industries. Shareholders of Leggett & Platt will receive 0.1455 shares of Somnigroup for each share they own, resulting in Somnigroup owning 91% of the combined company. Following the announcement, Leggett & Platt's stock rose by 13%, while Somnigroup's stock increased by 2.2%. The acquisition is expected to enhance adjusted earnings per share within the first year and generate annual cost synergies of $50 million within three years. The deal is anticipated to close by the end of 2026.
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A Decade of Making: Versteel Celebrates 10 Years of The Maker Project
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Versteel is celebrating the 10th anniversary of The Maker Project, which has evolved from an exploration of utility and function into a key part of the company’s portfolio. Launched in 2016, The Maker Project emphasizes a hands-on approach to product development, involving Versteel’s welders and fabricators in shaping ideas through real materials. Over the past decade, the collection has expanded to include various furniture pieces, driven by practical needs identified through real-world use. A significant development occurred in 2021 with the introduction of adjustable height tables, which gained popularity across multiple environments. To commemorate this milestone, Versteel has introduced a new logo for The Maker Project, reflecting the values of practicality and durability. Looking ahead, The Maker Project will continue to adapt and explore solutions that meet contemporary needs.
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McLain Group Unveils Rebrand, Signals Next Phase of Growth
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McLain Group Unveils Rebrand, Signals Next Phase of Growth
The McLain Group has introduced a refreshed brand identity and new website, marking a strategic evolution for the long-standing independent manufacturers’ representative firm.
Rather than a wholesale reinvention, the rebrand—developed in partnership with Barski & Co. led by brand strategist Laura Barski—is positioned as a refinement of the company’s core identity. The update aims to better reflect both its legacy and its forward trajectory in an increasingly complex contract furnishings landscape.
Founded in 1954 by Lonnie McLain, the company built its reputation on relationships and consistency, values that have carried through decades of industry change. Under Andy McLain’s leadership since the 1980s, the firm has navigated a more crowded and fast-moving market while maintaining a focus on practical solutions and long-term partnerships.
The new visual identity centers on a layered “M” logo, symbolizing the firm’s portfolio of manufacturer lines and their integration across projects. A retained blue color palette underscores continuity and trust, while the addition of grey reflects a more modern, balanced approach.
The redesigned website is intended to function as a resource hub for the A+D and dealer community, offering streamlined access to continuing education units, product programs, and manufacturer tools.
“This rebrand isn’t about changing who we are,” said Andy McLain. “It’s about setting the team up for what’s next and giving them something that reflects the way they already work—collaboratively, responsibly, and with pride in what we’ve built together.”
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Design at Work: Media 10 Announces Launch of a New Dedicated Workspace Design Fair for the U.S. Market for 2027
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Media 10 has announced the launch of Design at Work – New York, a trade event dedicated to commercial interiors and workplace design, scheduled for March 10-11, 2027, at the Javits Center. This event aims to gather key players in the industry, including manufacturers, architects, and designers, to explore contemporary workplace solutions. It will feature a curated selection of brands, high-level talks, and networking opportunities, emphasizing a specification-driven audience. The initiative marks Media 10's strategic expansion into the U.S. market, building on the success of its existing design events in the UK. The event will focus on creating meaningful connections and showcasing innovation in workplace design, supported by industry partnerships and a carefully designed exhibition environment.
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KI Europe has opened its first Northern design hub in Manchester, expanding beyond its London flagship. The hub, in partnership with Material Source, features immersive spaces for showcasing products and hosting events for the design community. It includes a workshop, theatre, and meeting room, all furnished with high-quality designs. The initiative aims to engage local designers and support the educational, hospitality, and workplace sectors, while emphasizing the importance of physical spaces in the design process.
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| www.mixinteriors.com
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Executives in the global furniture sector indicate that recovery in 2026 is hindered by economic uncertainty, rising costs, and cautious consumers, as discussed at High Point Market. Key challenges include tariffs, high fuel prices, raw material inflation, and volatile trade policies, exacerbated by the conflict in the Middle East which has led to increased oil prices and freight costs, impacting consumer sentiment. Housing affordability and high interest rates are significant obstacles, causing longer replacement cycles for major furniture items and reduced demand across categories. Brands like Bassett Furniture and Flexsteel report that consumers are postponing purchases due to broader economic instability, predicting any recovery will be slow and uneven. In response, manufacturers are tightening inventory control, diversifying sources, and investing in new products. There is a focus on omnichannel development and storytelling to boost demand when consumer confidence returns. Despite current challenges, many leaders express optimism about long-term demand for home improvement products, contingent on stabilized inflation, improved housing activity, and reduced geopolitical risks.
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| www.interiordaily.com
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Office leasing activity surged in early 2026, with tenants signing about 120 million square feet of leases, a 25% year-over-year increase and the strongest since 2018. The growth is driven by smaller leases rather than large corporate expansions, with lease sizes remaining below pre-2020 levels. While many major U.S. markets are nearing pre-pandemic leasing averages, some cities lag behind. Economic uncertainties and plateauing return-to-office efforts may hinder future demand, indicating a cautious recovery characterized by smaller, more flexible deals.
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| allwork.space
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The demand for office space is experiencing a temporary boost due to artificial intelligence, but this trend may reverse by the end of the decade as automation changes workplace needs. A Newmark report forecasts minimal growth in office-using employment, predicting a slight increase in the national office vacancy rate by 2030. Currently, AI and related sectors are driving demand primarily in the San Francisco Bay Area, with signs of expansion into other major markets.
However, job disruptions related to AI are becoming evident, particularly among early-career employees in routine roles, while higher-skill positions may benefit from AI support. The report emphasizes that firms should be cautious about cutting costs by eliminating entry-level positions, as this could lead to talent shortages in the future. Despite potential job losses, AI could foster new business opportunities and job categories.
As automation decreases space requirements, traditional office environments may face challenges, while collaborative workspaces that promote well-being and culture are more likely to thrive. For property owners, long-term success hinges on maintaining high-quality locations with diverse tenants that can adapt to the evolving demands of the workforce.
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| www.globest.com
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AI firms are rapidly expanding their presence in London, leasing significant office space amid ongoing questions about the long-term impact of artificial intelligence on job markets. Anthropic has signed a lease for 158,000 square feet at One Triton Square, nearly filling the 300,000 square-foot building. This expansion follows another lease of 89,000 square feet at Regent’s Quarter, indicating a shift from a previous headcount of 200 to a planned accommodation for 550 staff. Meanwhile, Databricks has leased the entire 136,000 square-foot Network W1 building. The leasing activity reflects a pivot back to the tech sector as other sectors cool, with British Land refurbishing and adapting properties after previous tenants, like Meta, withdrew from their leases.
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| www.bisnow.com
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Atlanta's office market has seen positive absorption for the first time since late 2022, with 215K SF leased in Q1 2026. Factors contributing to this rebound include a return to office plans and a shift in tenant preferences towards suburban Class-B offices, which showed stronger absorption than Class-A buildings. Despite some job losses in the tech sector and ongoing economic concerns, there is optimism in the market as companies are beginning to make leasing decisions after a period of hesitation.
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| www.bisnow.com
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Chicago's office recovery is lagging behind other major markets, with office visits growing 11% year-over-year in March, yet still down about 40% since March 2019. The city's recovery is the slowest among 11 tracked markets, significantly below the national average decline of 26.5%. Miami and New York lead in recovery, with both markets exceeding 90% of their pre-pandemic levels. Chicago's leasing volume has also dropped 40% from pre-pandemic averages, with Class-A and Class-B leasing down 37% and 42%, respectively. Despite these challenges, significant office transactions have occurred, including a large building purchase in the Loop and a Michigan Avenue office acquisition.
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| www.bisnow.com
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The Dallas-Fort Worth office market has experienced significant negative absorption, totaling 6.8 million square feet over the past three years, with almost two million square feet in the first quarter alone. Class A properties were hit hardest, and overall leasing decreased by 26.9% year-over-year. Vacancy rates rose to 28.5%, largely due to one major tenant vacating. Despite these challenges, average rents increased by 5.3%, with Class A properties seeing a 7.2% rise. Construction activity has also declined, with notable projects underway in Uptown/Turtle Creek and Far North Dallas.
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| www.globest.com
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The discussion highlights the issue of workplace loneliness, which affects over half of American employees and has a significant economic impact. In contrast, belonging is portrayed as a fundamental human need that enhances employee satisfaction and retention. The design of workspaces plays a crucial role in fostering a sense of belonging, which can be achieved by expanding teams to include diverse skill sets, uncovering true user needs, creating personalized spaces, and activating environments to encourage community engagement. By prioritizing belonging, workplaces can transform into vibrant spaces that mitigate loneliness and foster meaningful connections.
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| www.gensler.com
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This piece highlights ten significant chairs that have shaped design history. It begins with the No. 14 chair by Michael Thonet, which pioneered mass production in the late 19th century. The No. 35 folding chair, rooted in ancient Egypt, symbolizes authority and has influenced various cultures. Eileen Gray's Bibendum chair offered a sensual contrast to Bauhaus designs in the 1920s. Marcel Breuer's B33 chair defined the 1920s with its cantilevered structure, emphasizing transparency and mobility. The B.K.F. chair, or Butterfly chair, is celebrated for its simple yet relaxing design, popularized in the 1950s. The molded fiberglass armchair by Charles and Ray Eames revolutionized accessibility in design. Gio Ponti's 699 Superleggera is noted for its lightweight elegance, while the Sacco chair represents radical design from the 1960s. Donald Judd's Back Slant Chair merges functionality with artistic vision, and the Aeron chair by Don Chadwick and Bill Stumpf introduced innovative ergonomic seating in the 1990s, becoming a staple in modern office environments.
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| www.nytimes.com
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Organizations are facing the challenge of enabling hybrid work while managing costs. The "Harvest to Invest" model allows companies to self-fund workplace transformation by identifying inefficiencies in real estate and technology, capturing savings, and reinvesting them into initiatives that enhance employee experience. AI plays a crucial role in uncovering these inefficiencies, optimizing space usage, and streamlining technology tools. By reframing workplace strategy as a driver of financial performance, organizations can align more closely with business objectives and treat their workplace as a dynamic asset that continuously generates value.
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| allwork.space
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A study reveals that many European organizations struggle to balance strong workplace culture with the need for speed and innovation, leading to a "productivity paradox." While 42% of organizations foster a collaborative culture, 41% face issues with bureaucracy and slow decision-making. The report suggests adapting collaborative cultures for quicker decision-making without losing trust. Technology is seen as a key opportunity, while economic uncertainty poses a threat. Leadership approaches need to shift towards enabling outcomes and faster decision-making while ensuring psychological safety.
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| workplaceinsight.net
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Hybrid working has become the leading strategy for attracting tech talent, surpassing salary as a key factor. A significant majority of business leaders emphasize the importance of advanced technology skills for promotions, with many organizations appointing younger tech professionals to leadership roles earlier than traditional timelines. Flexibility and work-life balance are crucial for retaining talent, especially among younger generations, while AI skills are increasingly valued over formal education in hiring decisions.
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| allwork.space
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Traditional inclusive design has focused on physical disabilities, but it must also consider neurodiversity to fully support all individuals. The "Experience Gap" highlights the differences in sensory experiences between neurodivergent and neurotypical individuals, affecting executive functioning and overall well-being. This gap is often invisible, leading to misunderstandings and increased burdens on neurodivergent employees. Effective workplace design should create environments that accommodate diverse sensory needs, promoting well-being and performance for everyone, not just those who fit a neurotypical standard.
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| www.gensler.com
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The trend of "soft off days" allows employees to use work hours for personal activities like errands, workouts, or even traveling, often without employer awareness. This practice, seen as a form of "time theft," has gained popularity since the pandemic, as remote work has normalized such behaviors. Many workers believe these days are essential for maintaining work-life balance, with some even taking liberties to travel internationally while managing their work responsibilities.
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| www.fastcompany.com
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Wellness is being integrated into office architecture, exemplified by Habitat in Los Angeles, which features distinct environments for work and rest. The design encourages movement and prioritizes pedestrian access over cars, with amenities supporting health and well-being. The development includes residential units and targets Fitwel certification, reflecting a shift towards active design that promotes physical activity and cognitive performance in the workplace.
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| propmodo.com
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Recent events indicate a shift in workplace strategy, focusing on three priorities: justifying commutes, understanding space usage through data, and adopting flexible design approaches. There's a move towards attracting employees to the office rather than mandating attendance, with an emphasis on experience and tailored environments. The commute is now considered part of the workplace experience, and AI is being discussed for strategic applications. Data interpretation is becoming more important, and flexibility in space design is emphasized, reflecting an evolving workplace. Concerns about the relationship between the work environment and productivity are influencing design decisions, with a shift towards broader performance indicators.
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| workplaceinsight.net
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Trump's renovations to federal architecture reflect his personal aesthetic preferences, challenging the principles of republican simplicity established by earlier presidents. His changes, including a grand ballroom and lavish decor, risk erasing historical legacies and the egalitarian ideals embodied in these structures. Critics argue that such alterations undermine the original intent of federal architecture, which should represent the American people rather than individual tastes. The ongoing legal and public disputes highlight the tension between contemporary design ambitions and the preservation of historical integrity.
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| www.fastcompany.com
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Groupe Lacasse Achieves LEVEL® 2 Gold Certification
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Groupe Lacasse has renewed its LEVEL® 2 certification for all laminate collections, now including all seating and systems products, demonstrating its commitment to sustainability. The company aligns its product offerings with environmental and social responsibility standards, ensuring transparency and empowering customers to make informed choices through the ANSI/BIFMA e3-2019 Furniture Sustainability Standard.
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Landscape Forms Commits to 100% Clean Electricity by 2030
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Landscape Forms is committed to achieving 100% clean electricity by 2030, driven by its ongoing campus expansion in Kalamazoo, designed to operate on clean energy from day one. The new facility will feature a rooftop solar array, generating renewable energy on-site while partnering with a local utility for additional capacity. This initiative aligns with the American Society of Landscape Architects' goals for emission reductions and positions the company to significantly cut its operational greenhouse gas emissions. The CEO emphasizes that this commitment reflects the company's values and aims to lead the manufacturing industry toward greater environmental responsibility.
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Earth Day Spotlight: How Wolf-Gordon Is Rethinking Materials and Sustainability on Deep Green
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A new episode of Deep Green features an interview with Marybeth Shaw from Wolf-Gordon, discussing how material and product innovation can promote sustainability. The podcast focuses on the intersection of creative evolution and environmental responsibility, exploring how manufacturers can rethink materials to positively impact climate and equity in the built environment.
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The Include Task models are designed with a kinetic, synchro-tilter mechanism that adjusts automatically to the user's weight, ensuring fluid motion with the right tension and balance. These ergonomic chairs feature an articulating lumbar support and are suitable for boardrooms and management offices. The new models include adjustable T-arms that provide comfort and support, and the molded foam seat has a waterfall front edge to alleviate pressure points during extended use. The chair base options include Black nylon and polished aluminum to match the overall design aesthetics.
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| www.officing.com
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Allermuir introduces the Bastille Pedestal Base Stools, designed for both dining and lounge settings, featuring a minimalist aesthetic that combines heritage and modernity. Available in counter and bar heights, these stools offer elegance and comfort with a steel pedestal base and an auto-return mechanism, ensuring a tidy appearance. The fully upholstered seat and back provide durability and comfort, highlighting the craftsmanship of the design.
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| www.officing.com
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Allermuir introduces Clo, a hospitality-inspired club chair designed for modern environments, featuring a compact footprint, 360° visual symmetry, and an auto-return 180° swivel base for functionality. Its elegant design and extensive upholstery options make it suitable for lounges, cafés, reception areas, and collaboration spaces, enhancing comfort and aesthetics in social settings.
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| www.officing.com
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Room & Board for Business is expanding its Urban Wood Project by incorporating reclaimed American elm into the Hensley collection, promoting sustainable materials in furniture manufacturing. This initiative diverts urban wood from landfills and supports local partnerships to create a supply chain for durable design. The collection features various furniture pieces with a focus on solid wood construction and environmental impact, aiming to reclaim more trees and support tree repopulation efforts.
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| www.officing.com
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Pact Flex offers a modular seating solution designed by EOOS, featuring a minimalist structure that allows for customizable configurations. It adapts to various workplace environments, with three base styles for enhanced versatility. The design emphasizes sustainability, utilizing FSC®-certified wood and a clear recycling plan, making it suitable for evolving workspaces and environmentally responsible practices.
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| www.officing.com
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HALCON has launched FERRA, its first executive conference chair collection, designed in collaboration with Italian designer Mario Ferrarini. The chair combines lasting design with comfort, featuring fine leathers, rich finishes, and polished metals. FERRA emphasizes craftsmanship with signature ribbon arms and a tailored mechanism for intuitive movement. The design reflects a balance of beauty and function, aiming to enhance corporate environments while maintaining HALCON's legacy of excellence since 1977. The official launch date is April 14th.
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| www.officing.com
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Arcadia introduces the Talina lounge seating collection designed by CLAUDIO BELLINI Studio, featuring a sleek metal frame and pillowy cushions for a contemporary look. The series includes lounge and love seat models with tailored upholstery, suitable for both casual and upscale settings. It offers a variety of metal finishes that can be coordinated with upholstery for a cohesive or contrasting appearance. The collection emphasizes comfort and design, making it ideal for lobbies, collaborative spaces, private offices, and hospitality environments.
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| www.officing.com
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Kirei has launched the Lit Collection, an integrated acoustic lighting solution developed with RESOLUTE Lighting, combining sound absorption and illumination in a single ceiling design. This collection allows for streamlined installation and specification, reducing the need for additional fixtures while enhancing aesthetic and acoustic performance. It offers over 40 color options and is compatible with Kirei Ink for custom graphics, supporting sustainable practices with materials made from recycled PET. The collection aims to provide designers with greater creative freedom and aligns with LEED and WELL building standards for healthier indoor environments.
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| www.officing.com
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Pathway is a new multipurpose textile from Luum Textiles, designed for upholstery and various interior applications, featuring a heathered yarn for visual interest. It comes in 16 colorways and is made from 100% post-consumer recycled biodegradable polyester, enhancing sustainability. Pathway is part of the Beyond the Surface collection by Creative Director Dorothy Cosonas, aiming for well-priced textiles with short lead times made in North America.
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| www.officing.com
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Carnegie has launched four new upholstery options in the Eden collection, inspired by nature with designs that emphasize color, texture, and organic patterns. The offerings include Alder, Cobble, Monaco, and Plume, each with unique characteristics and durability ratings. These fabrics are free from harmful substances and meet various sustainability standards, reflecting Carnegie's commitment to responsible innovation in commercial textiles. The collection aims to provide designers with stylish, high-performance materials that contribute to healthier spaces.
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| www.officing.com
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The Fifth & Form Collection by Koroseal features Type II wallcoverings inspired by architecture and fashion, blending Art Deco design with traditional menswear elements. It includes 7 patterns in 80 colorways, crafted from durable vinyl suitable for high-traffic spaces. The designs balance glamour and refinement, making them versatile for various commercial interiors, creating spaces that are both beautiful and functional.
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| www.officing.com
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Yves Behar and Moooi will unveil Peaks, a modular seating system inspired by alpine topography, at Milan Design Week 2026. The design features triangular modules that can be reconfigured for various uses, emphasizing both form and functionality. Available in multiple textile finishes, Peaks promotes adaptability and interaction in residential and hospitality settings, aligning with trends towards customizable furniture solutions.
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| www.interiordaily.com
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Japanese artist Iyo Hasegawa creates furniture using threaded rods and stacked offset wrenches, allowing for flexibility and transformation into various shapes. The pieces can be folded for easy storage and all materials can be returned to their original state. They are available for purchase through the Copenhagen-based gallery Adorno.
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| www.core77.com
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Knoll has collaborated with designer Dozie Kanu to create a collection of leather-fringed tables that blend African ceremonial dress motifs with Texas cowboy culture. The collection includes a console, coffee table, and side table, featuring bronze or dark manganese skirts with tassels. Kanu's design aims to transform static objects into animated experiences, with fringe that moves to reveal items underneath. This collection will be showcased at Salone del Mobile 2026, highlighting Kanu's Nigerian-American heritage and contemporary influences in furniture design.
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| www.dezeen.com
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Issey Miyake has created handcrafted furniture from compressed rolls of waste paper, a byproduct of its pleating process. The collection includes stools, chairs, and tables, showcasing unique marbled patterns and textures. The furniture will be unveiled at the Milan store during the design week, emphasizing sustainability and the beauty of imperfections from the pleating process. Each piece is unique, with colors transferred from textiles used in garment production, and the exhibition will also feature pleated sculptures made from the same paper waste.
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| www.dezeen.com
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The '80s design aesthetic shifted towards hard edges and industrial styles, exemplified by Oliver Michl's Architect's Lamp, which, despite its name, served more as a ceiling-mounted statement piece than a practical desk lamp. It was produced by the German brand Lucelab and drew inspiration from equal space dividers.
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| www.core77.com
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The Modular Star System of decorative lighting by Mario Tsai Studio features fabric-covered modular units with integrated LEDs, utilizing a daisy-chain power transmission through specialized connectors. Currently displayed in their Hangzhou showroom, it remains unclear if this design is intended for exhibition, a specific client, or as a product line.
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| www.core77.com
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A Chinese automaker, Seres, has patented a slide-out toilet that fits under a car seat, designed for long journeys and camping. The toilet includes a fan, exhaust system, and a heating element for waste management, and can be activated by button or voice commands. While in-vehicle toilets may not be common in the U.S., they could appeal to certain markets, particularly in China, where cars are increasingly designed as living spaces.
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| www.fastcompany.com
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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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Leading Industry Experts Tapped for 2026 Best of NeoCon Jury
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NeoCon has assembled a jury of approximately 45 industry professionals for the 2026 Best of NeoCon Awards, focusing on evaluating innovative products in the commercial design sector. The jury includes architects, designers, and facility managers from leading firms, ensuring diverse perspectives. The awards will recognize excellence across 46 categories, including a new lighting classification, with winners announced on June 8, 2026. Attendees can also participate in the People's Choice Awards, voting for their favorite products. Submission deadlines for entries are set for April and May 2026.
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A showcase of launches and classics for emuamericas at HD Expo 2026
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emuamericas will showcase new offerings at HD Expo 2026, including the debut of the Saint Martin collection, designed by Marco Acerbis, which features a versatile steel base and options in both steel and wicker. The Nef collection, known for its aluminum structure inspired by hot air balloons, will also relaunch with improved materials for enhanced durability. Attendees can visit Booth 3745 from May 5–7 and register for a complimentary expo pass using promo code HDX126.
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Trends in Commercial Projects
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Float Studio designed a 1,225 square foot office for tech start-up Antiwork in a historic Dumbo building, blending 1970s retrofuturism with modern functionality. The design includes vibrant colors, vintage-inspired materials, and flexible work zones to accommodate a fluctuating team size. Key features include a kitchen entry, triangular openings defining meeting spaces, and a focus on fostering human interaction amidst digital work. The compact layout reflects Antiwork’s innovative spirit and vision of a "future of the past."
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| www.onofficemagazine.com
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Whitepaper's London offices combine industrial heritage with refined design, reflecting the firm's growth and enhancing team collaboration. Located in Elder Studio, the space retains original features while introducing sophisticated elements. Designed for flexibility, it includes a breakout area, collaboration zones, and a design library, fostering creativity and a distinct identity for the team.
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| officesnapshots.com
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Ákos Kőműves is a Principal Software Developer in Hungary with over 18 years of experience in software development, specializing in AI-powered solutions for startups. He maintains a weekly newsletter sharing insights on React, TypeScript, Next.js, and AI tooling. His workspace includes a fixed wireless charging stand and he seeks to replace his desk with a warmer design. Ákos balances creativity through writing and meditation, and his daily routine includes work, family time, and fitness, appreciating the efficiency and presence that working from home offers.
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| www.workspaces.xyz
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Together AI has leased 150,000 square feet at 2 Henry Adams St. in San Francisco for its new headquarters, following a significant growth from its initial 3,000 square feet space. The lease is for six years, with occupancy expected this summer. This move is part of a broader trend, as AI companies now occupy 8.75 million square feet of office space in San Francisco, a significant increase from 2 million square feet in 2020.
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| www.bisnow.com
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Henricksen Elevates Chris Knoeppel to Chief Growth Officer
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Chris Knoeppel has been appointed Chief Growth Officer at Henricksen, where he will lead market expansion and growth initiatives. His focus includes strengthening existing strategies and identifying new opportunities while fostering a strong team culture. Knoeppel has extensive experience in the industry, having previously held leadership roles at Steelcase and Forrer Business Interiors. Henricksen is a leading national dealer of contract furniture and architectural solutions, committed to providing high-quality services since 1962.
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Allseating Announces Partnership With Crane Reps LLC
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Allseating has partnered with Crane Reps LLC, designating it as a pillar brand to enhance its market presence in the Southwestern US, including Arizona, New Mexico, and Las Vegas. Crane Reps, with over 70 years of combined experience, will showcase Allseating's products in their mobile showroom and shared showroom environment, aiming to support diverse projects and strengthen brand visibility through strategic partnerships and ongoing education.
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Configura Grows Ecosystem with roster of New Manufacturers in Q1 2026
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Configura has expanded its CI Library with new manufacturer partnerships, enhancing workflows and creative flexibility for designers and dealers. Notable additions include RT London, Sandler Seating, Mantra Inspired Furniture, Omnicharge, Aceray, and Fi™ Interiors, each contributing a variety of SKUs. The CI Library is approaching 300 manufacturers, making it a comprehensive platform for the commercial interiors industry. Access to the full library is available through MyConfigura with a CET Commercial Interiors license.
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Humanscale to Host Dr. Alan Hedge on May 12 for Live NYC Event on the Science of Sitting, Seating Design, and Workplace Wellness
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Humanscale will host a live event on May 12 featuring Dr. Alan Hedge, an expert in ergonomics, discussing the science of sitting and its impact on health and performance. The hybrid format allows for both in-person and global virtual participation, including a Q&A session. The session will cover common posture mistakes, workstation setup, and practical tips for balancing sitting and movement to enhance workplace wellness. Following the presentation, attendees can connect over lunch and experience Humanscale's ergonomic solutions.
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We are seeking a Director of Enterprise Growth & amp; Strategic Accounts to help drive the next chapter of OFS’s growth by developing relationships with large enterprise organizations and expanding strategic partnerships across our portfolio of corporate and global accounts.
This role is designed for a strategic “hunter” and relationship builder who enjoys opening doors with large organizations, building executive relationships, and developing long-term growth opportunities.
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| contract.careers
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Tremain is a commercial office furniture manufacturer based in Monterrey, Mexico, with more than a decade of experience designing, producing, and delivering workplace solutions for corporate environments across North America.
Unlike many brands in the market, Tremain is not an importer. We are a direct manufacturer, which allows us to maintain full control over design, engineering, production, and quality standards. Our vertically integrated process ensures consistent results, competitive pricing, and reliable lead times for large corporate projects.
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| contract.careers
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If you are looking for a career with excellent earnings potential and sales opportunity - then look no further than Global Furniture Group, one of the largest manufacturers of workplace, education, healthcare + hospitality furniture in North America.
Global Furniture Group has an immediate career opportunity for Territory Manager, Dealer Sales in the Long Island area. This candidate will increase Global’s brand and interest among dealers, designers, and end-users within your assigned territory.
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| contract.careers
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The CFO directs the financial affairs of the Company and prepares financial analyses of operations including interim and final financial statements with supporting schedules, for the guidance of management. The CFO is responsible for the Company’s financial plans and policies, its accounting practices, the conduct of its relationships with lending institutions and the financial community, and the maintenance and preparation of its financial reports.
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| See Job Opening > |
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