Vitra unveils Manhattan showroom in "industrial" New York loft / What Pennsylvania factory workers at PS Furniture say about Trump’s tariffs now / Office Recovery: A Post-Pandemic Patchwork / The New Workplace Experiences That People Crave / JLL Sees Office Leasing Surge as Market Recovery Gains Momentum / U.S. Corporate Relocations Quintuple / The Largest Hotel Companies Are Preparing For A U.S. Downturn / DOGE Has Walked Back More Than Half Of Its Claimed Real Estate Cuts / Little evidence that hybrid working has encouraged high skilled people to relocate to cheaper regions / It’s Time for the Traditional Conference Room to Make Way for New Spaces / The latest news about NeoCon, DesignDays and Clerkenwell Design Week / and much more…

Vitra unveils Manhattan showroom in "industrial" New York loft

Vitra has opened a new showroom in a loft overlooking the Manhattan Bridge in Chinatown, transforming a former dim sum restaurant into a vibrant space for retail and events. The 582-square-metre showroom features a communal bar, dining area, and showcases both new and classic products from Vitra and Artek. Designed by Vitra's in-house team, the space emphasizes its industrial architecture with exposed ceilings and large windows that allow for natural light. The showroom aims to provide a permanent base for Vitra in New York, celebrating the brand's historical connection to the city. The design includes a mix of warm colors and natural materials, creating an inviting environment for visitors.

What Pennsylvania factory workers say about Trump’s tariffs now

In Pennsylvania, factory workers at contract furniture maker PS Furniture express mixed feelings about President Trump's tariffs on Chinese imports. The tariffs have led to an increase in demand for American-made furniture, allowing the company to secure new sales and compete more effectively against cheaper Chinese products. Despite the short-term benefits, workers remain concerned about rising prices and the potential for future job losses in industries reliant on imported goods. While some employees acknowledge the positive impact of tariffs on their business, they also worry about the long-term implications and emphasize the need for stability and consistency from the government regarding trade policies. Many workers have been with the company for decades and take pride in producing quality American-made products, but they are apprehensive about how ongoing tariff changes will affect their livelihoods and the local economy.

Office Recovery: A Post-Pandemic Patchwork

The office sector continues to face challenges post-pandemic, with hybrid work arrangements reducing demand for office space. Vacancy rates rose significantly during the pandemic, peaking at 17.2% in Q1 2024. However, recent indicators show positive absorption in both urban and suburban markets over the past four quarters. Despite this, vacancy rates vary widely, with suburban areas performing better than older urban towers. Factors influencing office space demand include migration patterns, job creation, and state and local policies. While some markets like Dallas and New York City are seeing stronger absorption, others, such as Oakland and San Francisco, continue to struggle with high vacancy rates. Looking ahead, limited construction and potential economic downturns could impact demand, making the future of office space uncertain.

JLL Sees Office Leasing Surge as Market Recovery Gains Momentum

JLL's CEO, Christian Ulbrich, highlighted a surge in office leasing driven by a return-to-office mandate and a lack of new developments, contributing to increased rent growth, particularly in high-quality office spaces. There is a noticeable "flight to quality," with premium buildings seeing the most demand, while some Grade B properties face challenges. JLL's CFO, Karen Brennan, noted that larger office transactions significantly boosted performance. The capital markets sector experienced 16% growth, with strong gains in investment sales and debt advisory services. Overall, JLL's positive trends align with industry observations, although concerns about tariffs affecting business outlooks vary among firms.

DOGE Has Walked Back More Than Half Of Its Claimed Real Estate Cuts

DOGE has significantly reduced its claims regarding terminated federal office leases, initially stating it had canceled 748 leases to save the government $660 million. However, recent analyses reveal that the actual number of terminated leases is now 563, amounting to $262 million in savings, which is less than half of the original claim. Some leases initially reported as terminated were found to have been canceled before DOGE was established, and discrepancies exist between DOGE's figures and those provided by the General Services Administration (GSA). The GSA reported canceling 595 leases worth $298 million in future obligations. The situation has raised questions about the accuracy of DOGE's reported numbers and its effectiveness in cutting costs.

The Largest Hotel Companies Are Preparing For A U.S. Downturn

Attention hospitality furniture makers, the largest hotel companies in the U.S. are preparing for a downturn as demand has started to decline, with expectations that this trend will continue throughout the year. Despite a strong first quarter, economic uncertainty and a downward-trending economy are impacting the hospitality sector. Executives from major hotel chains, such as Hyatt and Marriott, have lowered their revenue forecasts and expressed concerns over softer booking demand.

IBM's NYC Hub Unites Innovation-Centric Teams Under One Roof

IBM has established a new flagship headquarters at One Madison Avenue in Manhattan, designed by Gensler to facilitate team-based collaboration across its diverse business units. The 270,000-square-foot space accommodates over 2,000 employees and features various zones for independent work, collaboration, and relaxation. Notable elements include a 40-foot-long Quantum Wave sculpture in the lobby, a central gathering spot called the Blue Bar, and a 25,000-square-foot outdoor terrace with live plants. The design emphasizes user experience, flexibility, and a blend of natural and futuristic materials to enhance the work environment.

What Tenants Want: 4 Companies On What Drove Their Office Leasing Decisions This Year

Office tenants are leveraging current market conditions to secure favorable leasing agreements as they bring employees back to the office five years after the pandemic began. Over 54 million square feet of office leases were finalized in the first quarter of 2025, reflecting an 18% increase from the previous year. Key factors influencing leasing decisions include commute times, neighborhood vibrancy, and amenity quality, with many markets experiencing high vacancy rates, prompting landlords to invest in property upgrades.

Why unlimited paid time off doesn't work

Unlimited paid time off (PTO) policies are losing effectiveness as employees often take less time off due to ambiguity and pressure. Companies are shifting towards mandatory vacation policies and structured time-off models to promote well-being, equity, and clear expectations, ultimately enhancing productivity and morale.

Indeed Executive Says This Is What Your Future Workforce Will Really Look Like

The future workforce will rely on AI to enhance human capabilities, emphasizing skills over experience in hiring. Organizations must prioritize employee well-being and continuous learning to adapt to rapid changes, ensuring a collaborative environment where both AI and humans thrive together.

Little evidence that hybrid working has encouraged high skilled people to relocate to cheaper regions - Workplace Insight

Research indicates that hybrid working has not significantly changed residential patterns among high-skilled workers in the UK, as most remain near urban job hubs. Housing factors drive relocation decisions, challenging the belief that remote work will distribute talent more evenly. Without targeted policies, regional disparities may worsen rather than improve.

Formaspace Unveils NextGen Lab and Furniture Solutions for Every Space in Showroom #11-124 at NeoCon 2025

Formaspace is set to showcase its NextGen Lab and furniture solutions at NeoCon 2025, highlighting the integration of laboratory spaces within modern office environments. The display will focus on two main concepts: NextGen Laboratories and One Manufacturer for All Spaces. This approach emphasizes the coexistence of lab and office areas to enhance workflow efficiency and attract talent. Formaspace’s custom solutions cater to various spaces, including wet labs and collaborative hubs, all manufactured in-house at their Texas headquarters.

TOOtheZOO launches latest design at NeoCon trade show in Chicago

TOOtheZOO is set to launch its latest design, TOOthePOINT, at the NeoCon trade fair in Chicago. This innovative workspace concept provides users with a personal zone within shared spaces, offering a sense of security while maintaining connection to the environment. It is ideal for brief work, meetings, or relaxation in various settings such as offices, hotels, libraries, and airports. The design addresses the demand for flexible workspaces and promotes privacy and comfort, aligning with the hybrid work model now prevalent in many industries. Known for its functional and distinctive work furniture, TOOtheZOO continues to create human-centered spaces that foster tranquility without isolation.

Come Inside Flourish: A Hub for Connection, Discovery, and Delight

Flourish at Bishop Ranch in San Ramon, CA, is a reimagined coworking space designed to blend play, community, and creativity. The project, completed in November 2024, spans 5,600 SF and features a variety of meeting spaces, including indoor/outdoor social gathering areas and a café with specialty food options.

How AI Agents Are Streamlining Coworking Operations

AI agents are transforming coworking operations by automating tasks like customer interactions and lead management, allowing for more personalized experiences and freeing up human resources for complex work. Developments in agent-building tools, investment, and multi-agent collaboration are driving their adoption, with early adopters reporting improved efficiency and customer engagement.

The New Club Workplace: More Than an Amenity

The office leasing sector is experiencing a recovery, with many tenants downsizing their spaces while maintaining a strong demand for lifestyle-driven amenities. Employees are increasingly seeking environments that offer culinary, wellness, and retail spaces, moving away from traditional corporate settings. The concept of the Club Social has emerged as a shared amenity designed for tenant interaction and collaboration, providing flexible spaces for networking and teamwork. This new approach to workplace design emphasizes experience-driven environments that foster connections among diverse professionals, enhancing both social and business opportunities.

The New Workplace Experiences That People Crave

Creating desirable workplace experiences involves connecting employees to nature, providing flexible and inspiring spaces, and prioritizing employee engagement, which leads to increased innovation, satisfaction, and loyalty. Employers should co-create these experiences with their teams for better outcomes.

It's Time for the Traditional Conference Room to Make Way for New Spaces

The traditional conference room is becoming obsolete as workplaces shift towards more adaptable and intentional environments that better facilitate various types of in-person interactions. Research indicates that employees now require different spaces for different activities, such as informal conversations, scheduled meetings, and collaborative workshops.

HBF Introduces Hazel Guest Chair by Alyssa Coletti

HBF has launched the Hazel guest chair collection, designed by Alyssa Coletti, which combines thoughtful detailing with comfort and support. This collection showcases HBF's craftsmanship in wood and upholstery, making it suitable for modern workspaces and social settings. Hazel features ergonomic design elements, a solid ash frame, and various fabric options that allow for customization. The chair's aesthetic emphasizes rounded edges and a welcoming silhouette, while its construction meets sustainability standards. HBF aims to provide a seating solution that balances functionality and emotional comfort, encouraging interaction and thoughtful design.

Studio TK, In Partnership With Modus, Launches Art, Arne, and Abe

Studio TK, in collaboration with Modus, has introduced a collection of occasional tables named Art, Abe, and Arne, designed by Michael Sodeau. Each table serves a unique purpose while sharing design similarities. Art is the smallest, featuring an angled cutout for holding books; Abe includes a lower shelf; and Arne is the largest, designed as a central coffee table with a cutout ideal for magazines. Made from 100% recycled cork materials sourced from wine bottle production, these tables are environmentally friendly, being both water-repellent and sound-insulating. The cork oak forests from which the cork is derived are vital biodiversity hotspots, as cork oaks can regenerate without harming the trees, promoting sustainability and habitat preservation.

Pedrali presents Griante, the new seating collection designed by CMP Design

Pedrali introduces Griante, a new seating collection inspired by Lake Como, featuring a chair, armchair, and lounge chair for indoor and outdoor use. The design emphasizes sustainability with FSC®-certified materials and a handwoven seat crafted from recyclable polypropylene, combining comfort and Italian craftsmanship.

KFI Studios Introduces Tumble Occasional Table

KFI Studios introduces Tumble, a sustainable occasional table collection made from recycled textiles, featuring a unique flecked tabletop and a sculptural wood base inspired by the tumble-dry symbol. Available in two sizes and various finishes, Tumble emphasizes eco-friendly design for collaborative spaces.

Berco Designs Launches A Modern Booth - RANGE

Berco Designs has introduced a modern booth called "Range," which combines style, comfort, and practicality. The booth is designed with three back height options and four customizable back treatments, allowing users to create versatile spaces. This product reflects the company's evolution and decades of manufacturing expertise, as booths have been a staple of their offerings. Brooke Corcoran, Berco's Vice President of Sales & Marketing, emphasizes that Range redefines the company's identity and builds on their reputation for durable, value-driven furniture. 

Gubi Launches Pierre Paulin's F300 Chair and Companion T877 Table Exclusively at Design Within Reach in North America

Gubi has launched Pierre Paulin’s F300 Lounge Chair and the T877 side table, exclusively available at Design Within Reach in North America. The F300, originally introduced in the late 1960s, is celebrated for its distinctive fluid curves and innovative materials, becoming an icon in modern design. The chair is designed for comfort and versatility, now made with HiREK, a sustainable engineered polymer derived from industrial plastic waste. This material provides durability, a lightweight structure, and a high-gloss finish while minimizing production waste. The F300 and T877 are available in various colorways, allowing them to complement diverse interior styles. This launch marks the revival of Paulin’s timeless designs, showcasing a blend of sculptural form and practical functionality.

Introducing 360 Solar: A Breakthrough in Off-Grid Solar Lighting by Landscape Forms

360 Solar is an innovative off-grid solar lighting solution developed by Landscape Forms in collaboration with FlexSol Lighting Solutions. This system features a cylindrical solar array that maximizes solar absorption and enhances durability, making it resistant to various environmental factors. It incorporates an intelligent autonomous control system that optimizes energy usage based on real-time conditions, ensuring high performance without manual adjustments.

DecoScape Unveils Eclipse: Merging Design and Durability in Outdoor Design

DecoScape introduces the Eclipse Collection, featuring modern outdoor furniture with a blend of design and durability, crafted from powder-coated aluminum and weather-resistant materials. The collection offers customizable options for comfort and style, all manufactured in-house in Miami.

The Mitchell Group Introduces Fresh, Fashionable, Cost-Effective Vinyl Products

The Mitchell Group has launched five new cost-effective vinyl products—Belmont, Canyon, Ridge, Tallahatchie, and Wrangler—designed for commercial interiors, emphasizing style, durability, and affordability to meet evolving customer needs.

Koroseal Introduces Three Additions to the Stacy Garcia New York Wallcovering Collection

Koroseal introduces three new wallcoverings inspired by New York City: Astoria Accent, Brighton Lane, and Ridgewood Raffia, featuring unique textures and colors designed for commercial interiors. Crafted with durable Type II Vinyl, these designs reflect contemporary trends and are available for immediate sampling.

Koroseal Introduces New Arte Specialty Wallcoverings: 8 wallcoverings in 86 colorways total

Koroseal and Arte introduce 8 new wallcoverings inspired by natural textures and fabrics, offering sophisticated décor options in various colorways, including Arundo, Bolga, Bouclette, Flemish Flax, Madagascar, Mercury, Muga Silk, and Sand Waves, each with unique characteristics and aesthetic appeal.

Gubi brings back Pierre Paulin's space-age 'F300' chair

Gubi reissues Pierre Paulin's iconic 'F300' chair, originally debuted in 1965, using sustainable HiREK material instead of fibreglass. The chair reflects a blend of industrial precision and hand-finished quality, emphasizing casual, ergonomic design that resonates with modern interiors while celebrating its 1960s roots.

Joe Doucet's OLO Table Gives New Life to Old Refrigerators, Keyboards and Computer Mice

Joe Doucet has introduced the OLO Table, a unique piece of furniture created in collaboration with the Good Plastic Company. This table is made from 100% Polygood Oyster material, which is produced from recycled polystyrene sourced from discarded keyboards, computer mice, and refrigerators. The OLO Table features a fluid design with semi-circular legs and a seamless top, showcasing the material's thermoformable qualities. Doucet emphasizes that this project demonstrates the harmonious blend of sustainability and high design, asserting their interdependence. The OLO Table is a one-off creation, with no plans for mass production.

Laurids Gallée's Tralucid Stools, Both Crisp and Blurry

Laurids Gallée introduces the Tralucid Stool, designed to reflect his interest in the interplay between crispness and blurriness. The stool features internal geometry that creates an illusion, making the internal legs appear to project onto the outer walls. Constructed from four solid blocks, the stool maintains visibility from within while blending into negative space externally. It is produced in limited edition by Delvis Unlimited.

MSCHF creates collection with Mercedes-AMG from "pile of car parts"

MSCHF, an art and design collective, has created a furniture collection using auto parts from Mercedes-AMG vehicles. This collection features unique pieces, such as a couch with headlight armrests and a trash can that incorporates car pedals. The collection, displayed in MSCHF's studio during NYCxDesign, consists of eleven furniture items, clothing, and accessories.

Clerkenwell Design Week 2025 will testify to the reinvention of the office design sector

Clerkenwell Design Week 2025 promises to be a standout event, celebrating the intersection of heritage and modernity in design. This year marks its 14th iteration, with a strong focus on sustainability, emerging talent, and innovative creativity. The event features eleven exhibition venues showcasing a diverse range of contemporary design, including new products from established companies like Bisley and Shaw Contract, as well as fresh perspectives from emerging designers.

Nowy Styl and Kusch+Co unveil premium product collection at CDW25

Nowy Styl and Kusch+Co launched a premium product collection at Clerkenwell Design Week, emphasizing contemporary design, ergonomic functionality, and sustainability, aimed at enhancing modern workspaces. The collaboration showcases versatile seating, tables, and storage solutions, reflecting a commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility.

Geico sets up Chicago office in the Merchandise Mart

Geico has opened a new corporate office in Chicago's Merchandise Mart, employing over 100 staff in various roles. This expansion reflects Geico's commitment to the city and follows similar growth initiatives in other locations. Governor JB Pritzker welcomed the move, highlighting its potential to create jobs and enhance the local business ecosystem.

A New Hybrid Office in Riegrovy Sady Park, Prague, Czech Republic

A new hybrid office in Prague's Riegrovy Sady Park features an open design to enhance communication, with large windows for natural light, a central communal area, and a mix of retro and modern furniture to create a welcoming atmosphere. The project faced challenges due to minimal documentation but was completed within budget.

Come Inside Leafline's Workspace: Where Modern Design Meets Nature

Leafline's workspace in Kolkata integrates nature-inspired design with modern functionality, featuring a leaf motif that symbolizes growth and vitality, enhancing employee well-being and collaboration while utilizing cutting-edge technology for efficiency. Feedback indicates improved morale and innovation through biophilic design elements.

Now you can visit creative studio PlayLab's archive in LA

PlayLab, a multidisciplinary creative studio, has opened a new workspace in the Los Angeles Arts District, which will serve as both a private studio and a public venue showcasing its archive. Co-founders Archie Lee Coates IV and Jeffrey Franklin, who started the studio in 2004, designed the space to accommodate their evolving needs and to provide a comfortable environment for creativity. The studio features a flexible layout with areas for collaboration, storage, and meetings, as well as distinctive furniture and artwork reflecting PlayLab's history. The opening marks a significant milestone in the studio's 21-year journey, highlighting its growth and commitment to innovation in design and collaboration.

Combining Elegance and Employee Well-Being at Sabormex in Mexico City

A new office design for La Costeña in Mexico City by Gerardo García Studio enhances employee productivity and well-being through functional aesthetics, ergonomic furniture, and collaborative spaces, while integrating natural elements and optimal lighting.

Matt Fitzgerald

Matt Fitzgerald, a content creator, transformed a storage room into a functional office to balance family life and creative projects. His workspace includes various tech items and he aims to improve the aesthetics of the concrete walls in future iterations. He also manages content systems for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints while juggling family responsibilities.

Arcadis Welcomes Phanie Gapinski as Hospitality Interiors Principal

Arcadis has appointed Phanie Gapinski as Principal of its hospitality design studio in Washington, D.C. She brings extensive experience from Marriott International and will lead efforts in living, residential, and hospitality design, aiming to expand the firm's client base and enhance design culture.

TPG Architecture Elevates Claudia Opel to Managing Associate

Claudia Opel has been promoted to Managing Associate at TPG Architecture, recognized for her leadership in healthcare design and commitment to enhancing patient experiences. With over 20 years of experience, she aims to mentor future designers and further the firm's impact in the healthcare sector.

TPG Architecture Announces Four Promotions across its Retail Studios

TPG Architecture has announced the promotions of four team members: Christina Faley, Katie Kanakos, Jon Fox, and Sarah Whalen. Faley has been recognized for her leadership and design capabilities, having joined the firm in 2016. Kanakos, also promoted to Managing Associate, is noted for her expertise in high-end build-outs and strong client relationships. Fox is acknowledged for his project leadership across all phases of design and delivery since joining in 2015. Whalen, now Creative Director, is celebrated for her ability to create immersive brand experiences. TPG Architecture, based in New York City, focuses on creating interior environments that align with clients' strategic goals and has a global reach.

IIDA NY Bestows 2025 Leadership Award of Excellence to Amy Mays

Amy Mays, Vice President at HDR, received the IIDA NY 2025 Leadership Award of Excellence for her commitment to advancing interior design, fostering collaboration, and mentoring future designers. Celebrated for her inclusive leadership and community engagement, Mays emphasized the importance of relationships in her acceptance speech at the annual Leaders Breakfast event.

DeskMakers Appoints Akers Business Solutions as Mid-Atlantic Sales Representatives

DeskMakers has appointed Akers Business Solutions as its independent sales representative for the Mid-Atlantic region, enhancing its presence in corporate, healthcare, education, and government markets. Darlene Akers emphasizes the company's commitment to quality and customization, aligning with DeskMakers' growth strategy. Akers will also participate in industry events, including NeoCon 2025.

ERP Success Partners and KiSP, Inc. Announce Strategic Technology Partnership to Bring Manufacturer Catalog Access and Product Visualization to the CFI Suite

ERP Success Partners and KiSP, Inc. have formed a strategic partnership to enhance the CFI Suite with direct access to manufacturer catalogs and product visualization, streamlining the order process and improving efficiency for dealers. This collaboration aims to reduce errors and enhance client experiences with instant access to product information and imagery.

Avanto’s Presence at Chicago Design Events Set to Accelerate Growth of Commercial Interiors Business Solutions

Avanto is enhancing the commercial interiors market by streamlining operations with AI-driven solutions and intelligent technology, focusing on sales enablement, financial services, and consulting. They will showcase their innovations at NeoCon and Design Days, addressing dealer challenges and promoting operational efficiency.

emuamericas' Robust Quick Ship Offering Helps Customers Prepare for Summer

emuamericas, a distributor of high-quality outdoor furniture, offers a Quick Ship program designed to ensure timely delivery of outdoor products for the summer season. Understanding the increasing demand for outdoor furniture, the company provides a range of in-stock items ready to ship from their Pennsylvania Distribution Center. The program features popular collections and accessories, all clearly marked for quick availability on their website. By optimizing the ordering and shipping process, emuamericas aims to enhance customer experience for both residential and commercial needs, currently without any tariff surcharges.

Environments Announces Cisco Advisor Select Partnership

Environments, a leader in smart space management solutions, has become a Cisco Advisor Select Partner, enhancing their commitment to intelligent buildings through 'phygital' transformation. This partnership allows Environments to utilize Cisco's advanced technologies for creating scalable and secure infrastructure that integrates various building systems. CEO Erin McDannald emphasized the importance of smart power in optimizing energy and integrating building systems. The collaboration aims to drive innovation in network integration and automation across multiple sectors, including workplace, education, healthcare, and retail.

Ask Stephen: I Love Working at a Dealer! Why Doesn't Everyone?

A dealer salesperson expresses love for their job, highlighting the autonomy and income potential in dealer sales, while Stephen acknowledges the varied experiences in the industry and emphasizes the importance of dealers in the contract furniture market.

District Sales Manager @ OFS

OFS is seeking a Sales Representative to join our team in Southern California.