After eight decades in the commercial furniture business, Steelcase dealer Empire Office is changing its name — and signaling a broader ambition.

 

The New York–based dealer and interiors provider has rebranded as Empire & Co., marking its 80th anniversary with a formal expansion beyond its traditional workplace focus into residential, hospitality and retail sectors. The move reflects both the company’s growth trajectory and the increasingly blurred lines between commercial and living environments.

 

Founded in 1946 with its first sale on Wall Street, the family-owned business has grown into one of the nation’s largest furniture and interior solutions providers, employing more than 500 people and representing over 500 manufacturers. Now in its third generation of leadership, the company says diversification is central to its next phase.

 

“Diversification is key to resilience in today’s economy,” said Jocelyn Corrigan, chief operating officer of Empire & Co., noting that the firm plans to apply its decades of workplace expertise to adjacent verticals. As hospitality-inspired workplaces and residentially influenced office spaces continue to converge, the company believes its design-driven, single-source model can translate across market segments.

 

President and CEO Peter Gaslow framed the rebrand as both a milestone and a strategic inflection point. Founded by his grandfather, the company has long emphasized relationships and quality as drivers of sustained growth, he said. That philosophy, he added, will carry forward as Empire & Co. expands its geographic footprint and market reach.

 

The expansion effort is already underway. In September 2025, Empire & Co. acquired Model Home Interiors, a design, furnishing and installation provider focused on lifestyle real estate. The deal formally introduced the company into the B2B residential space while extending its presence into North Carolina and Maryland. Model Home Interiors specializes in turnkey projects including multifamily housing, student housing, senior living communities and model homes — typologies that broaden Empire & Co.’s portfolio beyond corporate interiors.

 

Company leadership described the acquisition as the first in a series of planned investments and strategic moves slated for 2026, positioning Empire & Co. for long-term growth across multiple sectors.

 

The rebrand also includes a redesigned website and updated visual identity intended to unify the company’s expanding portfolio under a single banner. Later this year, Empire & Co. plans to open a new showroom in Miami, further strengthening its East Coast presence.

 

While the name on the door has changed, company executives emphasized continuity in mission. After 80 years navigating industry cycles, Empire & Co. says its focus remains on long-term partnerships, high standards and client satisfaction — now applied to a broader swath of the modern interiors landscape.

Distributor sentiment in the commercial furniture industry turned notably more optimistic at the close of 2025, according to the latest quarterly research from Solomon Coyle.

 

The firm’s 2025-Q4 to 2026-Q1 Dealer Market Outlook Report indicates that after months of uncertainty, North American distributors are seeing stronger-than-expected bookings and broadly healthy pipelines heading into 2026. While some caution remains around billings and backlog levels, the overall tone of the data suggests the industry is entering the new year on firmer footing.

 

Three months ago, dealers surveyed had projected 3.3 percent growth in fourth-quarter bookings. Actual reported growth came in at 5.1 percent, exceeding expectations and signaling renewed demand momentum. Looking ahead, expectations for first-quarter bookings have also strengthened, climbing from 0.6 percent growth to 2.7 percent.

 

At the same time, the report flagged a slight decline in billings paired with a moderate increase in backlog — metrics that could influence revenue recognition and cash flow timing in the coming quarter. Pipeline activity, a key forward-looking indicator, improved across nearly every economic sector, with the exception of Financial Services, which saw a pullback but remains generally positive overall.

 

Regionally, the U.S. West rebounded after recording the sharpest drop in pipeline activity in the prior quarter, suggesting a reacceleration of projects in that market. In contrast, Canadian pipeline activity declined significantly after leading all regions last quarter, pointing to more uneven geographic performance.

 

“After a period of uncertainty, distributor sentiment clearly shifted in a more optimistic direction in Q4, with bookings outperforming expectations and pipelines remaining broadly healthy across regions and sectors,” said Shelley Rosetta, principal at Solomon Coyle. She added that while billings and backlog warrant close monitoring, the broader indicators point to a steadier and more constructive start to 2026.

 

The quarterly Dealer Market Outlook Report compiles forward-looking data from distributors across North America, tracking bookings, billings, backlog and pipeline activity by region and sector. The research is designed to provide dealers and manufacturers with actionable intelligence for budgeting, staffing and strategic planning decisions.

 

Solomon Coyle offers complimentary access to the full regional and sector report for survey participants, with additional access available through an annual subscription or participation in its Quarterly Market Intelligence Program. The firm continues to invite commercial furniture distributors across North America to participate in future surveys, with entries kept confidential.

 

As 2026 begins, the data suggests that while challenges remain, the industry’s mood has shifted decisively toward cautious optimism — a welcome change for a channel that has navigated significant volatility in recent years.

Humanscale has opened its first Australian showroom, establishing a permanent presence in Sydney and marking a significant step in the company’s continued global expansion into the Asia-Pacific region.

 

The new showroom is located on the ground floor of the Royal Exchange Assurance Building at 75 Pitt Street, a twelve-storey modernist landmark designed by Melbourne-based architects Seabrook and Fildes. Widely regarded as Sydney’s first modernist high-rise with a full glass façade, the building is a defining example of Inter-War Functionalist architecture. The choice of location underscores Humanscale’s emphasis on transparency, light and functional clarity — principles that closely mirror its ergonomic design philosophy.

 

The space was developed in collaboration with Suchi Reddy of Reddymade New York and Tribe Studio Australia. Rather than treating the showroom as a conventional product gallery, the design integrates Humanscale’s portfolio into realistic workplace settings. Architectural heritage elements are preserved while contemporary interventions highlight the brand’s ergonomic systems. According to Reddy, the goal was to create an environment where architecture and product work in concert to support physical well-being and the cadence of daily work.

 

Strategically positioned within Sydney’s design and business district, the showroom features expansive glazing and strong street visibility, reinforcing the connection between interior space and the surrounding urban context. Mark Nolan, Managing Director for Australia and New Zealand, described the opening as a platform for deeper engagement with the local design community, allowing architects, designers and end users to experience firsthand how ergonomics and sustainability can shape workplace performance.

 

The showroom presents a comprehensive range of Humanscale products across task, conference and collaborative environments. Visitors can experience seating including the Freedom, Liberty, World, Summa and Path chairs, alongside height-adjustable tables, monitor arms, task lighting, docking systems and integrated accessories. The layout incorporates collaborative zones, occasional seating and quieter focus areas to demonstrate flexibility across varied modes of work.

The global market for ergonomic office chairs is projected to reach $18.79 billion by 2030, according to a new industry analysis from The Business Research Company, underscoring sustained demand for healthier, performance-driven seating in both workplace and home environments.

 

The report identifies structural shifts in how and where people work as primary growth catalysts. Hybrid and remote work models have embedded home office investment into mainstream consumer behavior, while corporate employers continue to prioritize employee wellness and productivity. Heightened awareness of musculoskeletal health — particularly back and neck strain linked to prolonged sitting — has further elevated ergonomics from a discretionary upgrade to a core specification requirement.

 

Leading manufacturers including MillerKnoll, Steelcase and Humanscale remain dominant players, leveraging global distribution networks and R&D capabilities to refine product performance. Competitive differentiation increasingly centers on advanced ergonomic engineering — adjustable lumbar systems, weight-activated recline mechanisms, breathable mesh structures — alongside sustainability credentials such as recycled materials, low-carbon manufacturing and extended product lifecycles.

 

The Business Research Company notes that the market is segmented by chair type, materials, distribution channel and end-use application, providing clear lanes for strategic positioning. Enterprise procurement, dealer-based sales and direct-to-consumer e-commerce channels each represent distinct growth vectors. As the lines between commercial and residential design continue to blur, manufacturers are tailoring offerings to satisfy both contract-grade durability and residential aesthetics.

 

While competition remains intense, the projected valuation approaching $19 billion suggests the sector is far from saturated. Expanding global demand, combined with continued innovation and sustainability-driven purchasing criteria, may create entry points for new brands — particularly those able to carve out specialized niches or leverage digitally native sales models.

 

In practical terms, even with heavyweight incumbents entrenched in the category, the macro outlook indicates that the ergonomic chair business may still offer meaningful opportunity. For dealers, manufacturers and investors assessing diversification strategies, the data points to a segment that continues to benefit from long-term shifts in workplace behavior and health-conscious design priorities. Read more >

Recent surveys indicate that 70% of New York business leaders plan to expand their office space within the next 12 to 18 months, even as 57% are reducing entry-level positions due to the impacts of AI and automation on hiring. Despite concerns about the local economy, 96% of executives remain confident in their companies' growth prospects. The demand for office space is driven by the need to attract and retain talent, with workplaces increasingly seen as essential for fostering social connections. While hiring expectations have decreased, the demand for technology and AI-related companies continues to fuel leasing activities. Overall, companies are focusing on creating high-quality, collaborative office environments with a smaller, more skilled workforce.

Demand for flexible office spaces in the UK has surged, with a 25% increase in deals as companies commit to longer-term arrangements. Major sectors, including finance and technology, are moving beyond trial phases, with average lease terms reaching 22 months. Landlords are adapting by redesigning properties to meet the needs of hybrid work environments, indicating a shift in how organizations view flexible workspaces as integral to their real estate strategies.

Commercial real estate stocks have experienced significant declines, losing billions in market value due to fears that AI advancements may reduce demand for office space. Major brokerages like CBRE and JLL saw substantial drops in their stock prices, prompting concerns about the potential impact of AI on labor-intensive real estate services. Despite strong recent profits, investors are wary of AI's ability to disrupt traditional brokerage models, leading to a sell-off that has affected office landlords as well. Analysts suggest that while AI could enhance productivity, it may also threaten job security and revenue in the sector.

Activity for office spaces in Austin is slowing down, despite a strong overall year. Net absorption fell to -94,400 square feet in the fourth quarter, according to a report from Colliers, which noted a significant reduction in leasing activity, with more move-outs and fewer large lease commitments. However, demand for the full year 2025 remained strong, with a net absorption of 706,000 square feet. The largest lease in the fourth quarter was Vmware's renewal of 134,600 square feet in the Northwest submarket, followed by NVIDIA Corp and Harmony School of Excellence Austin with renewals of 79,300 and 50,000 square feet, respectively. Vacancy rates increased by 40 basis points year-over-year to 22.3 percent, due to tenants becoming more selective and preferring higher-quality spaces.

Vornado plans to start construction on three major projects in NYC, including a $6B office tower on Park Avenue, a 475-unit apartment building near Penn Station, and the redevelopment of an office tower above Saks Fifth Avenue. The company aims to capitalize on a strong office leasing year, with occupancy in its NYC portfolio rising to 91.2%. Vornado's strategy includes significant investments and potential asset sales to fund these developments, while also navigating a challenging rental market.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement is rapidly expanding by opening over 150 new offices to support its deportation efforts, with at least 54 properties already targeted for leases. This expansion is facilitated by a surge team at the General Services Administration, bypassing typical bidding processes due to national security claims. The initiative follows a White House directive to hire 13,000 new ICE employees and is concentrated in states like Texas, New York, and California, often near sensitive locations such as schools and courthouses. Additionally, ICE is planning significant investments in immigration-related construction amid local pushback.

Ahrend, a Dutch company founded in 1896, specializes in sustainable office furniture and services. With a focus on research, design, and execution, it provides customized solutions for various sectors while emphasizing circularity and waste reduction. The company operates a unique circular hub for refurbishing products, allowing clients to reduce their carbon footprint. Ahrend aims to expand its international presence and collaborate with partners to meet growing sustainability demands across Europe, maintaining profitability through innovative refurbishment methods.

A surprising design show is taking place in a clothing store, showcasing midcentury furniture curated by Rarify. The exhibit, titled Skidmore, Owings & Merrill: Hidden Furniture Masterpieces, highlights how the architecture firm contributed to American design by mass-producing furniture for their buildings. Located in a high-end Italian clothing store in NoHo, the exhibition features around 60 pieces from Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, along with archival photos and documents. The collection emphasizes the significance of seemingly mundane design elements and the craftsmanship involved. Collecting the pieces required diligent work on platforms like Facebook Marketplace, as many items lack labels or archives. The curator, David Rosenwasser, expresses the joy of revealing this important aspect of design history, even suggesting that audio guides could enhance the experience for visitors.

Verner Panton, a Danish designer born in 1926, is celebrated for his vibrant and experimental approach to furniture and lighting design. Known for iconic pieces like the Heart Cone and Panton chairs, he distinguished himself by embracing new materials such as plastic and steel, which contrasted with the traditional craftsmanship of his contemporaries. Panton began his career working with renowned designers like Arne Jacobsen and later developed a unique design language focused on industrial manufacturing. His work included the Bachelor chair, designed for single living spaces, and the groundbreaking Panton chair, the first all-plastic chair produced in one piece. Throughout his career, Panton's designs reflected the cultural shifts of his time, often characterized by bold colors and innovative aesthetics. His later projects included colorful interiors for clients like the Der Spiegel publishing house and the Circus building in Copenhagen. Panton passed away in 1998, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire modern design.

The Fourth Place is a hybrid workspace concept combining elements of cafés, maker spaces, and support centers, aimed at fostering continuous learning and collaboration. It emphasizes leveraging hidden employee skills, adapting to generational media differences, and utilizing AI as a supportive tool rather than a replacement. The idea promotes social connections at work and suggests designating Fridays as a special day for engagement and learning.

A recent study highlights that hybrid work policies could significantly boost fertility rates in the U.S., which have fallen to around 1.6 children per woman. Research indicates that the increase in remote work during the pandemic has led to approximately 290,000 additional births annually due to more available time and flexible schedules. International examples support this, as countries like Norway and Italy experienced rises in birth rates linked to flexible work arrangements. However, many employers are tightening in-office requirements and reducing family-related benefits, which could negatively impact fertility and workforce participation. The study suggests that workplace design and flexibility may be more effective in addressing birthrate declines than financial incentives alone.

Only 31% of workers feel fully focused due to busy work and meetings dominating their day. Many employees spend significant time on repetitive tasks and unproductive meetings, leading to burnout and fragmented attention. Digital connectivity pressures workers to remain available outside normal hours, further disrupting concentration. To improve productivity, employers should provide uninterrupted work time, reduce unnecessary tasks, and limit excessive communication.

The U.S. office market is stabilizing with a shift towards hybrid attendance and higher-quality buildings, as companies adapt to new workplace strategies. Vacancy rates are declining due to the removal of outdated office spaces, while demand is concentrated in newer properties. Investment in office space rose significantly, driven by discounts and technology sector demand, particularly from AI firms. Sublease availability is decreasing, and average office rents are reaching record highs, although growth is slowing. The market is recalibrating to support flexible work arrangements, focusing on quality over quantity in office space.

The U.S. labor market showed weak job growth in 2025, adding only 584,000 jobs and maintaining a 4.4% unemployment rate due to a reduced workforce from lower immigration. While healthcare and leisure sectors grew, manufacturing and retail faced declines. Younger workers experienced higher unemployment, and employers are cautious about hiring, limiting entry-level opportunities, particularly as automation increases. Overall, stability in unemployment is attributed to fewer available workers rather than economic expansion.

The "Future of Work Urban Dictionary" defines various terms related to evolving workplace dynamics. Key terms include "AI Limbo," which describes a gap between employee expectations for AI and organizational support; "Bare-minimum Mondays," where employees do only the essentials on Mondays; and "Boomerang Employee," referring to those who leave and later return to their previous company. Other notable terms include "Career Cushioning," where employees upskill while exploring new job opportunities, and "Digital Nomad," a worker who utilizes technology for a flexible, location-independent lifestyle. The dictionary also covers concepts such as "Email Apnea," "Gen Z Stare," and "Heartbreak Leave," reflecting current workplace trends and challenges.

Steve Miller, CTO of Steelcase, discusses the impact of the AI boom on office design, highlighting how AI is reshaping the work environment. After a merger with HNI, Steelcase is focusing on creating flexible office spaces that accommodate new AI-driven workflows. Partnerships with Microsoft and Logitech aim to explore how AI influences workspace needs. Key features of future office designs include acoustically private areas for AI interactions, collaborative spaces for human-AI teamwork, and rejuvenation zones to combat employee burnout, which is reported to be higher among frequent AI users. Steelcase has implemented AI tools like the Casey AI Assistant to optimize design processes and enhance user experience, showing a significant repeat user rate. Miller emphasizes the need for careful vetting of AI solutions to ensure data security and effective governance as the company navigates the evolving landscape of AI integration in the workplace.

The discussion highlights the evolving nature of office design in response to claims of the office's demise. Experts argue that while remote work is prevalent, the office remains vital for in-person collaboration and culture. They emphasize the need for adaptable, human-centered spaces that foster creativity and connection, while acknowledging the importance of technology in modern work environments. The future of office design should focus on creating dynamic ecosystems that meet changing employee expectations and enhance productivity.

Sound significantly impacts office productivity, with both excessive noise and too little noise leading to stress and decreased performance. The ideal acoustic environment is around 50-55 decibels, promoting energy and collaboration. Effective office design should create acoustic zones tailored to different activities, balancing lively spaces with quieter areas for concentration. This approach recognizes sound as a design element rather than a nuisance, fostering environments that enhance both comfort and productivity.

A study by EthosEQ found that Mute's Modular office system significantly reduces costs and emissions compared to traditional constructions. The research, covering 27 cities across three continents, indicates that modular rooms can save businesses over €1 billion in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, and €1.5 billion in the American market. Mute Modular rooms are cheaper to install and maintain, with reinstatement costs being three times lower than traditional rooms. The findings suggest that modular solutions are now a strategic choice for businesses aiming to minimize financial risk and environmental impact.

Landscape Forms, a leading designer of high-design site furniture, has expanded its popular Every Day Chair line to include new lounge chairs and standing-height stools. The original Every Day Chair, launched in 2024, was designed for outdoor dining and gathering spaces, emphasizing style, durability, and adaptability. The new lounge chair features a wider and lower silhouette for enhanced comfort, while the stools come in high-back and low-back options, catering to bar-height environments. All pieces maintain the original design elements, such as powder-coated steel construction and a playful personality, making them suitable for various outdoor settings including hospitality and public spaces. The new Every Day Seating line is now available in all standard powdercoat colors, designed for versatility in casual dining, poolside lounging, and rooftop gatherings. Landscape Forms, established in 1969, is recognized for its high-quality products and has collaborated with notable clients and designers globally.

BRC Group has launched Softscape™, a new line of acoustic PET solutions aimed at enhancing privacy and focus in modern workplaces. Designed to reduce noise distractions and improve acoustic privacy, Softscape minimizes reverberation and dampens sound transmission, making it ideal for open offices, collaboration areas, and educational settings. The collection features two profiles—one with a right-angled design and another with rounded edges—available in 10 colors, allowing for a balance of aesthetics and functionality. Sustainability is a key aspect, with the products made from 50–90% recycled PET content, aligning with BRC's commitment to responsible material use. Softscape is now available through BRC’s dealer network.

Luum Textiles has introduced Cloud Nine, a large-scale, multicolor upholstery inspired by the cloud formations in New York City and various felt concepts. Part of the Beyond the Surface collection, this unique textile is produced using an innovative spray-dye technique that merges artistry with technology. The process involves a chunky chenille base cloth moving down a conveyor belt, where nozzles spray three colors that blend naturally, resulting in a fluid pattern that creates a soft, tactile surface with a distinctive look available in six colorways.

Verner Panton, a renowned mid-century modern designer, is celebrated for his innovative and colorful contributions to furniture and lighting design. To commemorate his 100th birthday, a selection of ten of his most iconic pieces is highlighted. These include the Panton Chair, notable for its S-shape and being the first cantilevered chair made from a single piece of plastic; the Flowerpot lamp, which embodies the flower-power movement; and the Heart Cone Chair, recognized for its unique heart-shaped design. Other significant pieces include the Panthella lamp, Barboy trolley, Living Tower, Cloverleaf sofa, Globe lamp, System 1-2-3 chairs, and the Fun lighting series, showcasing Panton's experimentation with materials, forms, and functionality throughout his career.

The new "Seeds" collection, designed by Cristina Celestino for Ethimo, harmonizes design, environment, and flexibility in outdoor accessories. It emphasizes the importance of outdoor spaces for creating memorable experiences. The collection features modular furniture, including benches and tables with slender, stem-like legs, made from variegated terracotta that reflects artisanal craftsmanship. Each piece is versatile, allowing benches to transform into coffee tables and vice versa. The collection also incorporates various materials for tabletops, such as terracotta and natural teak. Available in different heights and customizable with cushions, it adapts seamlessly to various outdoor settings, making it ideal for both residential and commercial spaces. The metal frames come in several color combinations, adding decorative elements that enhance the overall aesthetic.

The Balolo Setup Cockpit is a highly functional and aesthetically pleasing workstation designed to reduce clutter and enhance productivity. Made from quality hardwood and steel, it features a variety of modular accessories like laptop risers, storage trays, and cable management solutions, allowing for personalized configurations. The design emphasizes efficiency and simplicity, supporting diverse work styles without unnecessary gadgets, while combining premium materials with German engineering.

Naoto Fukusawa's Za and Déjà-vu stools showcase different design approaches; the Za is a welded aluminum piece priced at $1,305, while the user-assembled Déjà-vu is flatpacked and costs $700, highlighting significant shipping cost savings and design versatility.

Key climate and nature standards are evolving, with various frameworks undergoing updates and consultations. Notable initiatives include the Global Reporting Initiative's call for input on standards priorities, the Science Based Targets initiative's feedback requests for net-zero standards, and several upcoming methodologies related to emissions accounting, net-zero targets, circularity, and biodiversity. A timeline of these developments is provided, emphasizing the importance of staying informed about changes in sustainability standards.

Modern workspaces, while equipped for productivity, often overlook the emotional and personal aspects of the work experience. Art can enhance workplace well-being and inspire creativity, serving as a silent collaborator. A new collaboration between Zilenzio and Paper Collective combines sound panels with curated artworks, addressing both aesthetic and acoustic needs in open-plan offices, creating environments that are both functional and enjoyable.

Hendrick’s New Ground-Up Building for Synovus Bank: A Model of Community-Focused Design

Hendrick has designed the new Synovus building in downtown Columbus, integrating community-focused elements and human-centric design principles. The project emphasizes employee well-being, collaboration, and adaptability, featuring biophilic design, flexible workspaces, and areas for social interaction. A comprehensive change management strategy was developed to support employees during the transition, while the design reflects Synovus' culture and commitment to community investment.

Inside a Penang Technology Hub: Elevating Performance and Comfort

A Fortune 500 semiconductor company in Penang, Malaysia, designed a new 209,000-square-foot office and engineering lab to foster innovation and attract top talent. The space integrates engineering labs, collaboration zones, and wellness amenities for over 1,200 employees, prioritizing comfort and ergonomics. Each workstation features adaptive chairs and monitor arms from Humanscale, supporting long hours of work while promoting good posture. Sustainability was key, with a focus on durable, low-impact furnishings made from recycled materials. The office reflects a commitment to employee well-being and has set a new standard for engineering environments, emphasizing that comfort enhances performance and creativity.

Louisa Gareiss is an iOS Engineer who won Apple’s Swift Student Challenge in 2023 and is developing an app called Walk that syncs walks to Apple Health. Her workspace features a minimalist setup with items like an Apple Studio Display, Mac mini, and a LEGO bonsai tree for calmness. Key software tools she uses include Xcode, Photoshop, and Figma, while she prefers to keep music separate from work devices using an iPod.

The LiberNovo Omni chair uncovered troubling patterns behind the scenes on YouTube, including hidden sponsorships, undisclosed affiliate links, and suspicious engagement tactics that may violate YouTube policies and advertising laws. I found this behavior from MASSIVE YouTubers such as UrAvgConsumer and Matthew Moniz and even chair review channel, BTODtv.

Kristin Vesely

Courtney Wcislo

Keilhauer Expands Sales Leadership Team

Keilhauer has appointed Kristin Vesely and Courtney Wcislo as Regional Sales Managers to enhance their sales leadership team. Effective February 9, both bring extensive experience to their roles. Kristin Vesely has over a decade in the commercial interiors industry, previously founding WorkWell Interiors and holding leadership positions at Kentwood Office Furniture. She will manage independent sales reps across the Eastern US. Courtney Wcislo, with a background in business development and sales leadership, returns to Keilhauer after serving as Director of Sales at Holmes + Brakel Business Interiors. She will oversee independent sales reps in Canada.

Renson and Corradi Join Material Bank, Expanding Access to Premium Architectural Solutions

Renson and Corradi have joined Material Bank, enhancing access to premium architectural solutions for design professionals. This partnership allows architects to request samples with overnight delivery and reduced packaging waste, streamlining the specification process. Additionally, both brands are expanding their digital engagement by offering continuing education units through AEC Daily, emphasizing their commitment to efficiency, innovation, and sustainability in design.

TPG Architecture Recognizes Internal Leadership with Three Promotions

TPG Architecture has promoted Emma Lazarus, Jeffrey Mitcheltree, and Jennifer O'Meara to Managing Associate, recognizing their contributions and leadership within the firm. Each brings extensive experience and a collaborative approach to project management, enhancing client relationships and driving innovative solutions. Lazarus focuses on workplace strategy, Mitcheltree excels in process leadership, and O'Meara is known for her precision in project design and delivery. Together, they will strengthen TPG's commitment to holistic design and operational success.

Lumens has a new CEO

Lumens appointed Dave Nielsen as CEO, the former president of Beyond Inc., replaced Cristina Miller, who had served as interim CEO since March of last year.

Wolf-Gordon Celebrates 25 Years of Design Partnerships

Wolf-Gordon celebrates 25 years of design partnerships by relaunching iconic patterns from Laurinda Spear’s 2001 "Linework" collection, including Bamboo and Macao. These designs, known for their architectural inspiration and vibrant colors, are updated for contemporary use while maintaining their original essence. The company emphasizes collaboration with diverse designers to push the boundaries of surface design, ensuring products meet commercial standards and are environmentally friendly.

2026 Benchmarking Survey Opens for Commercial Furniture Dealers

Solomon Coyle has launched its 2026 Operational & Financial Benchmarking Survey for commercial furniture distributors in North America, open from February 2 to April 30, 2026. This annual survey serves as a vital research tool, offering dealers objective peer comparisons and actionable insights to enhance financial visibility and operational effectiveness. Key benefits of participation include customized insights, peer comparisons, strategic planning support, and contributions to the industry’s trusted benchmarking standard. Dealers are encouraged to participate early to be included in this benchmarking cycle. For more information, interested parties can visit the Solomon Coyle website or contact their support team. support@solomoncoyle.com

After being let go amicably, the writer grapples with the ethics of presenting themselves as still employed on LinkedIn. The response emphasizes that being unemployed is not shameful and advises against dishonesty, as it can damage credibility. Instead, the writer should frame their situation as a "consulting transition assignment" if applicable, but be truthful about unemployment when necessary. Maintaining honesty is crucial for reputation, which is more valuable than any temporary arrangement with a former employer.

The role is for a seasoned industry professional who understands the commercial interiors ecosystem. This is a high-impact territory sales role covering New York City, Long Island, Northern New Jersey, and Westchester County, NY. The position is based out of a centrally located Midtown Manhattan showroom and focuses on building/maintaining deep relationships with dealers, architects, designers, and end-users while driving specifications and sales across a comprehensive product portfolio.

 

COE Distributing Seeks Midwest Sales Representation

COE Distributing is seeking strong independent sales representation in Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota. As a leading office furniture supplier, COE supports dealers nationwide with fully stocked warehouses in Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Texas, offering deep inventory on every SKU and fast, reliable delivery. Our model is simple: make it easy for dealers to do business—and give reps the resources they need to grow.

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.

 

 

Inside Sales / Customer Service Rep

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.

Factory Direct Sales Rep

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.