Business conditions at architecture firms have remained weak as the fourth quarter of 2025 begins. The Architecture Billings Index (ABI) score rose to 47.6 in October from 43.3 in September, indicating fewer firms reporting declining billings. However, the value of new design contracts continues to decline, with clients hesitant to make commitments.

 

Billings fell across all regions except the Midwest, where they remained stable. The West experienced the weakest conditions, while the South saw a further decline following a brief period of growth. Commercial and industrial firms noted a significant drop in billings, reverting to early-year levels.

 

Interest rates have decreased due to inflationary pressures, prompting the Federal Reserve to lower rates by 0.25%. Expectations for 2025 revenue among architecture firms suggest a decline of 1.2%, with nearly 38% anticipating a downturn. Small firms expect a revenue drop of 7%, while larger firms project modest growth. Looking ahead to 2026, most firms foresee flat revenue, with the Northeast and small firms anticipating the largest decreases. Current project backlogs and delayed projects are seen as potential growth factors, while winding down projects and economic uncertainties are major concerns for those expecting revenue declines.

A German office furniture manufacturer, König + Neurath, has initiated self-administration proceedings at the Frankfurt am Main District Court due to a significant decline in orders following customer purchase postponements. This restructuring effort aims to secure employee salaries for three months and stabilize financing to ensure production continuity. The management believes in the company's long-term potential, emphasizing its expertise in the office furniture sector and the importance of its workforce in revitalizing the business model.

MillerKnoll has appointed York Business Interiors as its first Authorized Dealer in Taiwan, enhancing its presence in the Asia-Pacific market. This partnership, which began in 1988, now allows York to offer a full range of MillerKnoll’s brands, including Herman Miller and Knoll. A launch event in Taipei celebrated this milestone, attracting over 200 industry leaders. MillerKnoll's strategy focuses on providing integrated design solutions that enhance workplace performance and align with the growing recognition of the impact of workplace environments on business success.

Path21 Joins National Architecture Firm Hord Coplan Macht

Hord Coplan Macht (HCM), a renowned architecture and design firm, has announced the acquisition of Path21, a Denver-based healthcare and commercial architecture firm. This partnership enhances HCM’s portfolio by adding over 400 team members and a broader range of services, including landscape architecture and interior design. The collaboration aims to strengthen HCM's healthcare sector reputation, particularly in the Rocky Mountain region, providing clients with enhanced capabilities and innovative solutions. Both firms emphasize their commitment to quality service and strategic growth, aiming to deliver comprehensive solutions across various locations.

The U.S. office sector is experiencing a slowdown in construction activity as vacancy rates remain near record highs. As of October, national vacancy held at 18.6%, with average listing rates stable at $32.81 per square foot. Construction pipelines are limited, with just over 33 million square feet under construction, primarily in cities like Boston, Manhattan, and Dallas.

 

Remote work continues to decline from pandemic levels, but a full return to pre-2020 utilization is unlikely. The disparity between markets is evident, as Austin exhibits high physical occupancy despite significant remote work, while Manhattan, with lower remote work, shows lower occupancy rates.

 

Western markets face high vacancy rates, with Seattle and San Francisco leading at 27.4% and 26%, respectively, while Los Angeles focuses on premium developments. Midwestern markets are among the most affordable, with Detroit showing the lowest listing rates. Overall, the office sector is struggling to find equilibrium, with markets that maintain disciplined supply and diverse job growth performing better than those with high development rates. Creative reuse and flexible workspace models are becoming crucial in addressing demand gaps.

Office leasing in the U.S. is poised for improvement, even if hiring slows down, as existing office spaces are insufficient for a growing workforce. Kevin Thorpe, the global chief economist at Cushman & Wakefield, highlights a disconnect between office employment and space demand. Before the pandemic, an increase in office jobs directly correlated with higher demand for office space. However, during the pandemic, companies reduced their office sizes and adopted remote work while still hiring. Currently, the U.S. has around 2 million more office employees than it did pre-pandemic, including professionals who frequently work from the office. As smaller leases expire five years after the pandemic, companies are realizing they require more space.

Banco Master SA, which signed a lease for $200 per square foot for 27,000 square feet in Miami's 830 Brickell office building, has been shut down by Brazil's central bank. The bank never occupied its leased space, and construction was left unfinished. The CEO, Daniel Vorcaro, was arrested while attempting to flee Brazil, facing accusations of fraud as the bank's assets are being liquidated. This lease was notable for being the most expensive in Florida and was even a finalist for an award in the region. The building, which is fully leased, has attracted major companies and has become a significant part of Miami's business landscape.

Robert Propst, the inventor of the cubicle, originally designed it as part of the Action Office concept in the 1960s, aiming to create a dynamic and flexible workspace that would enhance productivity and employee well-being. His first design was a commercial failure, leading to the more successful Action Office II, which featured colorful, modular components. However, businesses primarily adopted the cubicle for economic reasons, leading to cramped, monolithic workspaces that contradicted Propst's intentions. Despite his later criticism of how his design was implemented, the cubicle has persisted and is currently experiencing a resurgence as employees seek more privacy and personalization in their work environments.

Ford Motor Co. has opened a new global headquarters in Dearborn, Michigan, covering 2.1 million square feet and designed to foster collaboration among its teams. The building, which accommodates around 2,000 employees with plans to expand to 4,500 by 2027, aims to streamline operations and break down historical silos. Its design features open spaces, courtyards, and areas for both secure and public interactions, reflecting a shift in the company's culture towards a more integrated and flexible work environment. The headquarters symbolizes Ford's evolution as it prepares for a dynamic future in the automotive industry.

A modular office-furniture company is reshaping the future of work by providing flexible solutions that enhance productivity and privacy in dynamic work environments. With products like soundproof meeting pods and easy-to-assemble phone booths, the company addresses the challenges of open floor plans, which often compromise privacy and focus. Collaborating with WeWork, they offer quick installations and adaptable designs that allow companies to reorganize spaces as needed, accommodating a diverse range of user preferences, including those of neurodivergent employees. This shift toward modular workspaces is expected to redefine traditional office setups, making them more efficient and sustainable.

The office market is shifting as more employees return to their workplaces, with JPMorgan Chase's new Manhattan headquarters exemplifying this change. The bank prioritized employee desires over standard market offerings by partnering with a workplace research firm to survey thousands of workers. This approach contrasts with typical landlord practices, which often replicate amenities without understanding tenant needs. To enhance flexibility, landlords should segment their markets like hotels, adapting to tenant preferences as trends in office features evolve rapidly. Technology is becoming vital, providing landlords with real-time feedback to adapt spaces and services, making flexibility a crucial strategy in a changing market.

The office market is experiencing a recovery that is limited to a few elite districts, such as Park Avenue in New York and SoMa in San Francisco, while national office vacancies remain high at 14.1%. Most U.S. offices still face record vacancies, rising loan delinquencies, and shrinking space requirements due to the shift towards remote and hybrid work. This structural reset has left many landlords struggling to fill spaces even amid economic growth. Cities are bracing for significant financial challenges, with commercial property values declining sharply and tax revenues expected to fall, resulting in potential tax increases for residents to offset these losses. Investors are also pulling back, with office sales significantly down compared to previous years, leading to a growing divide between successful districts and those still grappling with vacancies and financial distress.

New York City is set to transform its sidewalk scaffolding with innovative designs aimed at improving safety and visibility. The new systems, developed by Arup and PAU, feature modular structures that adapt to various construction scenarios, allowing for better pedestrian movement and light access. Key designs include the Rigid Shed for major projects, the Air Shed which frees up sidewalk space, and the Flex Shed for maintenance tasks. PAU introduces additional options like the Speed Shed for quick installations and the Wide Baseline Shed for heavier loads, all designed to enhance the urban experience and reduce the oppressive feel of traditional scaffolding.

Furniture Marketing Group (FMG) has tapped industry veteran Chris Eberling to lead its Albuquerque division as Vice President, marking a strategic move to strengthen the company’s presence and performance in the New Mexico market.

 

In his new role, Eberling will oversee regional sales strategy, deepen client relationships, and drive growth across FMG’s operations in the state. The company cited his more than two decades of experience in the contract furniture industry—and his history of managing complex commercial projects—as key factors in the appointment.

 

Eberling’s background spans both the distribution and manufacturing sides of the industry, giving him what FMG described as a comprehensive understanding of operations, project delivery, and customer service. He has earned a reputation for improving market performance through clear communication, disciplined execution, and a customer-first leadership style.

 

“We are excited to add Chris to our New Mexico division. His experience in operations, combined with his ties to the local community for decades, adds an element to our team that will ensure we deliver best-in-class results for our clients,” said Nick Camp, Executive Vice President, Operations and Strategic Growth.

 

FMG noted that Eberling’s long-standing involvement in the region’s commercial real estate and design landscape positions him to immediately impact growth and client support. The company said his leadership aligns with FMG’s culture of collaboration and its commitment to delivering high-level service.

 

The appointment underscores FMG’s continued investment in seasoned leadership as it looks to expand its reach and reinforce its role in the Albuquerque market and surrounding region.

AI, robotics, and digital technologies are transforming life sciences, altering how researchers innovate and collaborate. The NEXT NEXT concept expands on the vision for future labs, emphasizing the need for environments that support automation and AI integration. As biotech evolves into "techbio," labs must adapt to attract the high demand for AI and data science talent. A cross-disciplinary task force has identified five key forces influencing lab design: competition for tech talent, changing space requirements due to AI, the emergence of automated labs, the use of AI in scientific discovery, and the need for knowledge workers to continually adapt. The design framework aims to create environments that serve as talent magnets, bridging the gap between science and technology. Key shifts include the transformation of traditional lab spaces to accommodate automation and fostering a hybrid culture that integrates science and tech talent. Concepts like Co-Location envision collaborative spaces for humans and machines, highlighting the need for flexible, adaptive workplaces.

Flexibility in workplace design is essential for fostering a culture where employees choose to work in the office. Stephen Jay emphasizes creating adaptable environments that reflect brand identity and support various work styles. Key metrics for success include space utilization, employee satisfaction, and the ability to quickly reconfigure spaces. The shift towards flexible design is driven by employee well-being and organizational needs, with barriers such as legacy systems needing to be addressed. Ultimately, high-quality, flexible offices will enhance brand experiences and employee engagement.

Experts from the architecture and design industry gathered to address the evolving challenges and opportunities presented by hybrid workplaces, particularly regarding acoustic comfort and visual aesthetics in modern office spaces. The discussion highlighted the need for better acoustic solutions as open office layouts and remote work increase noise levels and reduce speech privacy. Traditional testing metrics like Sound Transmission Class (STC) and Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC) were deemed insufficient, as real-world variables often differ from controlled settings. The panel advocated for the early involvement of acoustic consultants in the design process to ensure that acoustics are integrated as a fundamental aspect of spatial planning, rather than an afterthought. This approach could lead to innovative design solutions that prioritize both functionality and comfort, emphasizing that sound should be considered as crucial a design element as light or texture.

The evolving workplace must adapt to support dynamic workstyles and foster connections among employees. Modern office design prioritizes adaptable furniture, collaborative spaces, and experiential environments that enhance employee engagement and well-being. Metrics are shifting from capacity to connection, emphasizing the importance of human interaction and culture. Future strategies should focus on flexibility, autonomy, and outcomes, creating spaces that inspire and empower employees to perform their best work.

Hybrid work is now a stable norm, prompting a need for adaptable office designs that embrace modularity. This approach allows for flexible space utilization, enabling businesses to respond to changing employee needs without extensive renovations. Demountable partitions and modular furniture enhance workplace agility, supporting sustainable practices while fostering a productive environment. Designers must prioritize adaptability and simplicity in their solutions to prepare for future uncertainties.

Twelve successful designers share their journeys, emphasizing the challenges of making a living in design, the importance of patience, and the evolving landscape of the industry. They discuss the impact of social media, the need for practical experience, and the difficulties of contemporary design education. Many express concerns about rising costs and the oversaturation of the market, while also highlighting the shift towards self-empowerment and independent branding in design.

Humanscale has published its 2024 Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) report, highlighting both achievements and ongoing challenges in sustainable manufacturing. Key highlights include B Corp certification, the elimination of added antimicrobials in products, and 90% of waste diverted from landfills. The company also launched two circular business models, introduced a chair base made with ocean plastic, and acknowledged challenges such as stagnant factory energy use and staffing shortages affecting progress on reducing single-use packaging. In 2025, Humanscale was ranked No.1 for sustainability in the contract furniture sector and recognized by the International Living Future Institute. The report reinforces the company's commitment to combining performance, environmental stewardship, and transparency in responsible manufacturing.

Colebrook Bosson Saunders has launched its first Sustainability Report, setting ambitious targets for 2030 focused on environmental stewardship, human health, and transparency. Key highlights include a roadmap for net zero emissions, a goal for 100% recyclability of products, and initiatives to eliminate harmful substances. The company aims to drive industry change through education on ergonomics and plans to report progress annually.

Wagner Living introduces sustainable office furniture, replacing aluminum with recycled polyamide and glass fiber in the ‘Titan green’ collection, reducing carbon footprints by up to 70%. The ergonomic design promotes comfort and movement, featuring adjustable components and a silent mechanism. Additional products include the ‘d1 office PRO green’ chair with recycled aluminum and the ‘W3 green’ stool made from thermoplastic materials, both emphasizing environmental responsibility and user well-being.

Despite challenges, businesses are accelerating their sustainability commitments, with 53% maintaining and 32% expanding their efforts. Clean energy investments are projected to reach $2.2 trillion in 2025, outpacing fossil fuels. Major companies like General Mills are enhancing their climate action plans, while investor initiatives like Nature Action 100 are mobilizing for biodiversity. Advocacy for clean energy policies continues, even amid political headwinds, emphasizing that sustainability is crucial for long-term business success and economic growth.

IoT in coworking spaces faces challenges such as unreliable sensors, high costs, and integration issues, limiting its effectiveness. While some operators achieve small successes in energy optimization and desk booking, the promise of fully autonomous smart buildings remains unfulfilled. Improvements in sensor reliability, cost reduction, better operational integration, and member-centered design are necessary for IoT to deliver real value in these dynamic environments.

Hightower has launched the Nest Club Chair, enhancing its Nest Collection with a design that promotes comfort and productivity in shared spaces. The chair features a metal or wood base, ergonomic design, and options for integrated tables, making it suitable for various uses from quiet retreats to collaborative meetings. It is also environmentally friendly, certified for low VOC emissions, and designed for durability. Hightower emphasizes sustainability and responsible practices, being a certified Women Owned Business Enterprise and a B Corp.

Allseating has launched Olive, a versatile task chair designed to enhance workplace environments with expressive colors and thoughtful features. It aims to support emotional well-being and creativity, offering customizability to reflect company culture. The chair includes height-adjustable lumbar support and new mesh color options, promoting neurodiversity and catering to diverse work styles while maintaining functionality and comfort.

KFI Studios has launched Silva, its first fully wood furniture collection, designed with Union Design. The collection features guest and lounge chairs, stools, and tables in various heights, showcasing the natural beauty of solid beech wood with soft curves and satin finishes. It offers seven stain options, including modern hues, and chairs can have upholstered seats. The design emphasizes comfort and simplicity while highlighting the wood's grain and character.

emuamericas has introduced Alisea, a chair designed by Alessandro Stabile, featuring a lightweight metal structure that balances movement and stability. Available with various finishes, it is suitable for hospitality and lounge environments. The design emphasizes craftsmanship and modern aesthetics, aligning with EMU's legacy of quality and innovation in furniture manufacturing.

MYMI is a versatile outdoor furniture collection inspired by Parisian cafe culture, designed by GamFratesi. It features a blend of artisanal details and modern aesthetics, with woven textures and a refined silhouette that enhance hospitality and home environments. The color palette draws from nature, offering soft organic tones alongside bolder hues, with various options for weaving and materials to create a cohesive look.

Luum Textiles has launched Spatial Element, an upholstery fabric inspired by early industrial punchcards, featuring a large-scale tri-color geometric pattern. Part of the Five Elements collection, it is made from recycled polyester fibers and is suitable for high-traffic environments like offices and healthcare, available in eight bleach-cleanable colorways.

The Mitchell Group has introduced new colorways for its popular vinyl patterns, Elio and Enzo, enhancing their collection with stylish options suitable for various commercial interiors. Elio features a refined woven leather look with new colors like Ash and Indigo, while Enzo offers bold embossing with fresh hues such as Blueprint and Cool Grey. These additions aim to provide designers with versatile, durable materials that balance aesthetics and performance for high-use environments.

Designtex has launched two luxury performance textiles, Adorn and Flutter, crafted in Italy. Adorn features intricate, tapestry-inspired designs with a watercolor effect, while Flutter showcases a bold, graphic basket weave. Both textiles combine aesthetic appeal with durability, are made from 100% polyester, and meet various environmental certifications. They are available in three colorways and emphasize the balance of beauty and performance.

Artemide has reissued the Sintesi lamp, originally designed by Ernesto Gismondi in 1975, emphasizing its modular and intelligent design. The lamp features a Y-shaped support that allows height and inclination adjustments, reflecting a balance of form and function. Its elemental design is versatile and sustainable, available in various colors, and aims to foster personal lighting management. This relaunch is part of a broader initiative to revisit Artemide's design archives.

The bFRIENDS line of desktop organizers, designed by Pearson Lloyd and produced by Batch.Works, utilizes recycled plant-based plastic and emphasizes closed-loop circular design principles. These organizers can be returned for recycling, allowing materials to be reused in new products, thereby promoting sustainability in the workplace.

The Shift Pro system by Simes is a modular, weatherproof urban pole that integrates lighting, Wi-Fi, surveillance, audio, and power. Users can customize the configuration of the head units, which can rotate 360 degrees and adjust the lighting direction, providing a comprehensive solution for smart city management.

German designer Moritz Putzier and Polish brand artu have created the Tolu chair, made from ash veneer. It features a bold design, exceptional comfort with a 3D-shaped seat, and a lightweight, flat-packable structure. Notably, its repairable construction allows individual components to be replaced, promoting longevity and sustainability.

A solid-gold toilet artwork named America, created by Maurizio Cattelan, sold for $12.1 million at auction. Originally offered to Trump as a satirical gift, it became a symbol of his presidency and was previously displayed in the Guggenheim Museum. The artwork's history includes a high-profile theft in 2019, and the version sold is the only other one in existence. Cattelan's work reflects themes of absurdity and societal commentary, making it a striking emblem of wealth and excess during Trump's terms.

Integra Seating’s Odyssey Collection Wins Gold in 2025 Nightingale Awards

Integra Seating's Odyssey Collection won the Gold Nightingale Award in the Seating: Guest/Lounge category for its design and durability. Engineered for high-performance commercial settings, it features a 1,200-pound static load capacity, a continuous wrap-around design, and easily replaceable upholstery covers. The award recognizes its aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability, with a focus on providing resilient and supportive furniture for healthcare environments. Integra, a family-owned company since 1982, emphasizes durability and environmental responsibility in its product offerings.

Multiples' new Mumbai office, recognized with a Shaw Contract Design Award, embodies a balance of precision and performance while connecting to the local context. The design features organized work zones, vibrant social areas, and biophilic elements that enhance wellbeing. The office reflects Mumbai's dual character through its material palette and spatial organization, fostering collaboration and community.

Supermayorista Vital's headquarters in Buenos Aires has been transformed into a vibrant workspace that integrates architecture, art, and nature. The design emphasizes openness and connectivity through a central four-level atrium, fostering collaboration and community. Key features include multi-functional spaces, a sculptural staircase, and curated art from emerging national artists, all enhancing employee engagement and well-being. The renovation harmonizes corporate identity with a modern, collaborative environment, elevating the overall workplace experience.

Rijkskantoor B73, a mid-century government office in The Hague, has undergone a biophilic transformation by Studio Prototype and Zenber Architects, emphasizing flexibility and wellbeing. The renovation includes vibrant meeting spaces, indoor greenery, and sustainable materials, creating a collaborative environment for three ministries while enhancing air quality and reducing cooling demands.

Zineddine Benhaya, a graphic designer from Turkey, is exploring content creation through his YouTube channel, showcasing his passion for tech and aesthetics. He is focused on refining his workspace, valuing the flexibility of working from home, which allows him control over his schedule and productivity.

In a podcast episode, Matt Bertman discusses leadership insights, emphasizing the importance of emotional intelligence, trust-based communication, and understanding employee perspectives. He reveals that 60% of employees would "fire" their bosses if possible, highlighting leadership blind spots and the need for two-way feedback in performance reviews. The conversation also touches on the impact of hybrid work on employee expectations and the necessity for leaders to build authentic relationships with their teams.

Configura Launches Aline: A Web-Based Proposal Tool for Easier Specifying, Collaboration, and Proposals

Configura has launched Aline, a web-based proposal tool designed to streamline the specification of commercial furniture products. Aline enhances collaboration and reduces delays by integrating product data, customizable discounts, and team controls. The platform simplifies the sales process, allowing teams to efficiently move from request to order-ready, while its user-friendly interface and subscription-based licensing make it accessible for various team sizes. Aline is now available through the Configura Marketplace, supported by training resources.

HON Named ISG Members’ Choice Best Supplier for 2025

The HON Company has been recognized as the ISG Members’ Choice Best Supplier for 2025, highlighting its commitment to providing exceptional products and tools that positively impact ISG members. Ric Andersen, Vice President of Sales, emphasized the importance of this recognition, attributing it to the collaborative efforts with their dealers. HON is praised for being a trustworthy partner, offering strong local representation, competitive pricing, and innovative solutions that support dealer success. The award is determined by members of the Independent Suppliers Group, which evaluates suppliers on various criteria, including pricing, service, and supply chain efficiency. Established in 1944, HON focuses on enhancing workspace functionality and comfort.

A mid-size contract furniture manufacturer seeks advice on hiring top salespeople, feeling frustrated by the need to persuade candidates to join. The response emphasizes that good salespeople are in demand and suggests focusing on selling the company’s benefits, such as career advancement opportunities, better accounts, and improved benefits. It warns against hiring out of resentment and stresses the importance of a positive attitude in the recruiting process, encouraging the owner to view hiring as a mutual selling opportunity.