DIRTT Gains Over $7 Million in New Projects as Market Activity Accelerates / Fursys Expands into Southeast Asia as Domestic Sales Stall / Teknion on the New Collaboration in the Workplace / Trump tariffs drive up US prices as consumer burden rises / Atlanta’s Office Sector Sees Positive Absorption for First Time in 2025 / 3 In 10 Companies To End Remote Work By 2026 / Here’s Where Remote and Hybrid Work Are Headed Next / Manhattan Office Now Set for Strongest Annual Leasing Since 2014 / A Multigenerational Workforce Demands Multigenerational Design / The Future of Real Estate Metrics: Human Connection / Who is Designing AI Workplaces? / Flexible Workspaces Are On The Rise, But Managing Them Is The Real Test / Remote Or Bust: Workers Would Rather Lose 25% Of Their Pay Than Give Up WFH / The real reason why your workplace strategy isn’t working / Miami’s Office Visitations Outpace Gateways Including Manhattan and Dallas / and much more…
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DIRTT Environmental Solutions Ltd. has announced the advancement of over $7 million in new projects with five clients, reflecting a growing commercial pipeline. These contracts span various sectors, including healthcare, workplace, and aviation, with notable projects such as a $1.5 million contract with The Hospitals of Providence in El Paso, Texas, and a $4.7 million project with The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, which will extend through April 2026. The company's CEO, Benjamin Urban, emphasized the strength of client relationships and the positive market indicators for growth. DIRTT's 12-month forward pipeline has shown a 1.2% increase, indicating sustained demand for its adaptable interior construction solutions.
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| finance.yahoo.com
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Fursys Expands into Southeast Asia as Domestic Sales Stall
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South Korean office furniture giant Fursys is stepping up its international ambitions by launching full-scale operations in Vietnam, signaling a strategic pivot toward Southeast Asia amid stagnating domestic sales.
The company has inaugurated a new showroom and office in Ho Chi Minh City, designed as an experiential space to let customers interact directly with Fursys’ premium office furniture offerings. The move is part of a broader push to establish local roots, develop a stronger dealer network, and tailor its product mix—including ergonomic chairs and workstations—to better align with regional preferences.
The expansion comes at a critical juncture for Fursys. According to company data, a staggering 94.3% of its revenue still comes from within South Korea. In the first half of this year, Fursys reported a 3.7% decline in total sales, coupled with a sharper fall in operating profits. Overseas sales have also disappointed, with weakened performance in both North America and broader Asia.
Faced with these headwinds, Fursys is betting on Vietnam and the larger Southeast Asian region as future growth engines. The company cites increasing demand for office space, fueled by rapid urbanization and foreign direct investment, as key factors in its decision. By establishing a local presence and leveraging in-region production capabilities, Fursys aims to offer competitively priced, high-quality products suited for fast-developing markets.
Founded in 1983, Fursys Inc. has long been a dominant player in South Korea’s office furniture industry, known for its sophisticated modular systems, ergonomic design, and comprehensive solutions for corporate interiors. The company has historically served large Korean conglomerates and government entities but has more recently sought to globalize its brand. In addition to Vietnam, Fursys has showrooms and operations in the U.S., China, and the Middle East.
Still, breaking into Southeast Asia will be no small feat. The region’s furniture market is both highly fragmented and fiercely competitive, with a mix of local players and international brands vying for contracts in everything from commercial fit-outs to co-working spaces. For Fursys, success in Vietnam could be a bellwether for broader regional penetration.
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In Manhattan, leasing activity for office spaces surged to 10.6 million square feet in the third quarter, marking a 20.4% increase from the previous quarter and a rise of 1.1 million square feet compared to the same period last year. Year-to-date leasing has reached 31.7 million square feet, positioning it to potentially be the strongest year for signings since 2014. Core industries, including financial services, technology, and legal services, contributed significantly to this recovery, accounting for 61.1% of the leasing activity. Notably, Deloitte signed the largest lease of the quarter at 807,000 square feet in Hudson Yards, while Guggenheim Partners and Salesforce followed with 356,658 and 313,691 square feet respectively. Additionally, office availability in Manhattan decreased to 16.2%, with Midtown seeing a notable drop to 13.8%.
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| www.globest.com
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Atlanta's office sector experienced positive net absorption of 156,000 square feet in Q3 2025, driven by a major lease from a national financial institution. While overall demand improved, Buckhead faced negative absorption. Rental rates increased by 5% to $33.62 per square foot, with premium properties reaching $54.68. Leasing activity rose by 15%, with UPS leading the largest lease at 310,000 square feet.
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| www.globest.com
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The Bay Area office market is cautiously rebounding, with a shift towards shorter, flexible leases and tech-enabled workplaces. AI firms are driving demand, leasing nearly 1M SF this year, while vacancy rates are decreasing. Investors are focusing on high-quality assets and seeking predictable returns, with varying conditions across submarkets. Landlords are adopting creative leasing strategies to retain tenants, and return-to-office activity is gradually increasing, indicating a recalibration of space needs and market strategies.
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| www.bisnow.com
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Seattle's office vacancy rates have increased as tenants downsize, despite a slight improvement in absorption rates. Overall rents have decreased, but Class A lease rates have risen due to landlords enhancing amenities to attract tenants. Return-to-office mandates have not significantly boosted leasing activity, although they are resulting in more densely occupied offices.
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| www.globest.com
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The recent federal government shutdown is impacting commercial real estate in key U.S. markets, particularly near federal buildings in Washington, D.C., Chicago, and Los Angeles. Retail and restaurant businesses reliant on government worker foot traffic are experiencing reduced sales and customer visits, raising concerns about tenants' ability to meet lease obligations. While the broader commercial real estate market remains stable for now, prolonged shutdown effects could lead to deeper disruptions in leasing, hospitality, and investment activities, highlighting the sector's vulnerability to government-related demand.
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| allwork.space
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New buyers are driving a pricing reset in Chicago's office market, with increased leasing activity despite high vacancy rates. Family offices and small investment groups are purchasing properties at lower prices, renovating them, and attracting tenants. Financial services and law firms are leading leasing deals, while tech companies are slower to expand. The market is stabilizing, trending towards pre-pandemic conditions, with expectations for continued momentum into the next year.
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| allwork.space
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Construction job openings have significantly decreased, with 115,000 roles disappearing last month, yet the labor shortage persists. The industry is in a holding pattern, with projects delayed or canceled due to economic uncertainty. Despite a backlog of work, firms struggle to find qualified workers, especially for specialized roles. While larger firms have longer backlogs, smaller firms continue to hire, although many projects are currently on hold due to market conditions.
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| www.bisnow.com
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The Superman Building in Providence has been empty since 2013 after Bank of America left, symbolizing downtown blight. Efforts to convert it into apartments faced challenges, including the death of the developer David Sweetser, who had secured financing for the project. Many historic office buildings across the U.S. are struggling with high vacancy rates and costly renovations, leading cities to explore conversions to housing. However, rising costs and the need for public subsidies complicate these projects, as seen in various cities facing similar issues with iconic structures.
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| www.wsj.com
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President Trump's recent Oval Office redesign, featuring extensive gold decor, has faced significant public backlash, with many labeling it as "tacky" and "wasteful." Critics, including some of his supporters, argue that the opulence is inappropriate given economic challenges, and question the authenticity of the gold elements. Trump defends the changes as a reflection of luxury and claims personal funding for the renovations, which also include controversial updates to other historic areas of the White House.
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| www.interiordaily.com
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The Boston suburbs are experiencing a significant vacancy crisis in life sciences lab spaces, with over one-third of the area’s lab inventory unoccupied. Developers had anticipated strong demand during the pandemic but have faced a downturn, leading to financial distress for many properties. Cities like Somerville and Watertown, once seen as promising for lab development, now struggle with high vacancy rates as demand shifts back to established centers like Cambridge. The slowdown in venture capital funding for biotech companies further exacerbates the situation, with expectations of continued financial challenges in the coming years.
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| www.bisnow.com
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The workforce is undergoing a significant demographic shift, with employees aged 65 and older becoming the fastest-growing segment. This change challenges existing workplace design assumptions and offers organizations the chance to create environments that attract and retain older workers. Key findings from a recent survey reveal that older workers perform best in high-performing workplaces, report the highest job satisfaction, exhibit strong loyalty, and prefer open environments over private ones. To adapt, organizations should prioritize designing inclusive, high-performance spaces that support all career stages, recognize the engagement of older workers, and rethink stereotypes about their preferences. By doing so, organizations can leverage the strengths of a multigenerational workforce, enhancing overall productivity and employee satisfaction.
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| www.gensler.com
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Real estate metrics are evolving from traditional measures like occupancy rates to focus on human connection and experience. Key indicators now include user sentiment, amenity engagement, and tenant well-being, emphasizing the importance of emotional resonance in buildings. Successful properties foster a sense of belonging and adapt to changing demands, while cities thrive on cultural identity and community impact. The design of spaces should prioritize trust and participation, capturing how people feel and interact, ultimately leading to better performance and retention.
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| www.gensler.com
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The MoMA Store has evolved into a significant brand, enhancing its role as an ambassador for the museum through a recent renovation that emphasizes its connection to the institution. The store now features a gallery-like layout, promotes exclusive products, and reduces clutter to improve the shopping experience. With a strategy shift from merely generating revenue to engaging visitors, the store aims to strengthen ties to the museum's mission and exhibitions, reflecting changing consumer values and preferences in shopping.
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| www.fastcompany.com
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In a recent discussion, host Bob Fox interviews Jeremy Reding, a Global Workplace Leader at DLR Group, focusing on the intersection of workplace design and AI. Reding emphasizes the importance of user experience and cultural alignment in office spaces, advocating for a design approach that prioritizes people over technology. He outlines how AI is transforming workplace planning by introducing smaller collaborative spaces for teams while highlighting the role of experienced professionals in guiding output. The conversation also touches on the emergence of low-tech environments that promote authenticity alongside advanced technologies. Reding argues for creating adaptive workplaces that enhance employee wellbeing and foster real connections, ultimately shaping the future of work environments in a post-pandemic world.
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| www.workdesign.com
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Collaboration in workplaces has evolved from informal lounges to purpose-driven environments that focus on performance. Teknion emphasizes the need for adaptable, technology-enabled spaces that balance structured and informal work. The Aarea collection, designed for both individual focus and group collaboration, illustrates this shift with its ergonomic features and modular design. Additionally, the Routes Collection offers mobile furniture that allows quick transitions between different work modes, while the Figure Table serves as a formal centerpiece for decision-making. High-performing spaces must also be human-centered, addressing acoustics and integrating technology. Recent product launches, including the Tek Booth and sustainable performance textiles from Luum, reinforce this vision for meaningful, interactive workspaces that prioritize comfort, flexibility, and strategic outcomes.
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| emag.archiexpo.com
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Maharam has opened a new multibrand showroom at 257 Park Avenue South in New York’s Gramercy Park, featuring products from Edelman, Knoll Textiles, and Maharam. This 3,500 square-foot space is Maharam's first multibrand showroom in New York, located in the historic Eagle Building designed in 1911 by architects Warren & Wetmore. The showroom is designed by architect Neil Logan, offering a gallery-like setting to display a wide range of textiles and leather. Key design elements include solid fir and marine plywood furnishings, recessed wooden shelving, and partitioned tabletops that showcase products in vibrant colors and textures. The decor recalls Beaux-Arts classicism, preserving historic details while integrating modern design features. Expansive windows and granite slabs create a connection between the interior and exterior, while the showroom pays homage to Maharam's New York roots established in 1902.
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Workers are willing to accept a pay cut of about 25% for jobs that offer remote work instead of being required to work in the office full-time. A study from Harvard, Brown, and UCLA highlights this trend, showing that many employees prioritize flexibility over salary. While some are open to sacrificing income for remote work, others express concerns about the fairness of pay cuts when companies save on operational costs by allowing remote work.
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| allwork.space
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Billionaire yacht owners, like Jimmy John Liautaud, are increasingly working from their yachts, equipped with high-speed internet and office spaces. The rise of Starlink satellite internet has made it feasible for executives to conduct business from anywhere at sea. Yacht designs now often include dedicated offices and meeting rooms, reflecting a shift towards remote work flexibility. This trend has led to prolonged stays on yachts, with owners needing reliable connectivity to manage their work effectively while enjoying luxury surroundings.
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| www.wsj.com
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Flexible workspaces are rapidly growing due to remote work trends, cost efficiency, and the desire for community. Effective management requires addressing challenges like space utilization, member engagement, technology integration, and security. Successful operators use advanced management software, community-building initiatives, flexible membership models, and data-driven decision-making to enhance member experience and operational efficiency. The future will see increased reliance on technology while maintaining a focus on community and personalized service.
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| allwork.space
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The fracturing of traditional concepts of time and place in the workplace raises philosophical questions about productivity and the human experience. Historical perspectives from philosophers like Seneca and writers like Arnold Bennett emphasize the importance of using time wisely, advocating for a balanced approach to work that avoids overcommitment and prioritizes self-improvement and meaningful activities.
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| workplaceinsight.net
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By 2030, global digital jobs are expected to increase by 25%, driven by employee demand for flexibility and work-life balance. Companies are navigating tensions between remote work preferences and the push for in-office collaboration, with many workers willing to seek new jobs if remote options are eliminated. While remote work boosts productivity, challenges like isolation and communication gaps persist, prompting organizations to enhance their digital infrastructure and inclusive policies. Future trends may include personalized work arrangements and the need to manage digital overload while ensuring equity among remote and in-office employees.
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| allwork.space
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Google is imposing new restrictions on its "Work from Anywhere" policy, which allows employees to work remotely for up to four weeks a year. Now, any remote work day will count as a full week against this allowance. Employees cannot use WFA weeks to work from home, and those in different states or countries must align with local business hours. Violations may lead to disciplinary action. This change reflects a broader trend among tech companies to increase in-office work post-pandemic.
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| stocks.apple.com
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A survey indicates that 30% of companies plan to eliminate remote work entirely by 2026, increasing in-office attendance requirements. Currently, most companies utilize hybrid schedules, but the trend is shifting towards more in-office days. Reasons for this shift include improving productivity and company culture, although few companies offer incentives to encourage office attendance. Balancing leadership's push for office presence with employees' desire for flexibility will be crucial for future workplace dynamics.
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| allwork.space
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Organizations must define their purpose to shape their workplace strategy effectively. The role of the office should align with the organization's goals, whether it's for collaboration, focused work, or cultural significance. Visioning sessions can help clarify this purpose, allowing teams to imagine the future impact they want to create. Ultimately, the focus should be on why work is done and the kind of world being built together, rather than just policies or office layouts.
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| workplaceinsight.net
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Miami's office visitation rate reached 75.8%, surpassing major cities like Manhattan and Dallas, driven by demand for newer, amenity-rich spaces. Average rents are $63.75 per square foot, with Brickell commanding nearly $100 per square foot due to strong tenant interest, allowing landlords to increase asking rents.
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| www.globest.com
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Return-to-office mandates from major companies are largely ineffective, with many employees continuing to work remotely and managers reluctant to enforce attendance policies. A compliance gap exists as workers interpret requirements loosely, often attending the office less than mandated. Some companies may be using these mandates to reduce headcount indirectly, risking the loss of valuable employees. Despite stricter rules, there remains a significant demand for flexible work arrangements, with many employers still hiring for remote and hybrid roles.
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| allwork.space
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Workers are increasingly choosing remote work, with 22.8% of the U.S. workforce working remotely at least part of the week. The decision to commute hinges on the value the office offers, with collaboration and connection being key motivators for returning. Companies that redesign office spaces to enhance collaboration and well-being see better utilization, while empty desks represent significant financial losses for both tenants and landlords. The future of office real estate will depend on aligning the needs of workers with the offerings of landlords, emphasizing flexibility and productivity.
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| allwork.space
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Workplace design is shifting from space efficiency to experience-based effectiveness, focusing on creating environments that enhance employee engagement and satisfaction. This involves redefining design processes to prioritize user needs, fostering collaboration, and integrating feedback. Success metrics should include qualitative insights alongside traditional quantitative measures, aiming to create workplaces that draw employees in through meaningful experiences and a strong organizational culture.
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| www.workdesign.com
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The design of flexible workplaces is evolving to prioritize people, place, and purpose. Adaptable furniture and modular walls are becoming essential in various industries, allowing spaces to be dynamic and intentional. Employees seek environments that go beyond traditional corporate settings, craving experiences that connect them to nature and foster creativity. Successful designs incorporate multi-functional areas that support collaboration and individual work, reflecting the changing needs of organizations. The integration of neighborhood amenities enhances the workplace experience, making it a destination rather than just a job site. Engaging employees in the design process leads to personal, flexible spaces that enhance job satisfaction and loyalty.
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| www.workdesign.com
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Creating inclusive workspaces for neurodivergent individuals involves understanding their unique sensory needs and providing flexible environments that reduce stress and enhance productivity. Key strategies include offering diverse workspace options, empowering employees with control over their surroundings, implementing equitable policies, and fostering a supportive culture that promotes open communication. By addressing these factors, organizations can unlock the potential of a neurodiverse workforce, leading to greater innovation and success.
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| www.haworth.com
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Future workplaces must reflect values, inclusivity, and sustainability, prioritizing employee wellbeing and connection over superficial perks. Gen Z expects transparency and authenticity from organizations, emphasizing the need for spaces that support diverse work styles and foster community. Effective design should balance collaborative and focused work environments, utilizing data to optimize space and enhance productivity. Sustainability practices are essential, requiring organizations to integrate eco-friendly choices into their design processes. Leaders should embrace feedback and be willing to adapt, fostering a culture of involvement and continuous improvement.
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| www.workdesign.com
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The Portman Estate has launched Portman WorkWell, a flexible workspace brand, at 29 Gloucester Place in Marylebone, featuring 8,000 square feet of office space in restored Georgian buildings. The initiative aims to meet the growing demand for flexible office solutions, offering a blend of autonomy and amenities. The estate, with a 500-year history, spans 110 acres and includes various properties, residential units, and commercial spaces.
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| www.bisnow.com
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Jane Abernethy, Chief Sustainability Officer at Humanscale, leads innovative sustainability efforts in the commercial furniture industry, focusing on creating net positive products and transforming business practices. Under her leadership, Humanscale ranks highly in sustainability metrics, emphasizing the importance of measuring both negative and positive impacts. Jane's design philosophy prioritizes purpose over product, advocating for durable, repairable furniture and challenging the industry to adopt circularity. She promotes collaboration and transparency, aiming to inspire broader change in sustainability practices across the sector.
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| www.designinsiderlive.com
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Carbon offsets, a $2 billion voluntary market used by many companies to reduce emissions, have not significantly curbed global greenhouse gas emissions, which continue to rise. A comprehensive review of 25 years of carbon offset research reveals that offsets are plagued by fundamental issues such as overestimating climate benefits, lack of permanence (e.g., trees used for offsets can burn in wildfires), and double counting. Critics argue that offsets allow wealthy polluters to finance emission reductions elsewhere while continuing to pollute. The review emphasizes that the voluntary carbon market is filled with ineffective offsets, which distract from the urgent need to reduce fossil fuel consumption. True solutions lie in reducing emissions directly rather than relying on offsets.
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| www.fastcompany.com
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Henricksen, a contract furniture dealer based in Itasca, Illinois, has relocated its Milwaukee office from Brookfield to a newly renovated 16,600-square-foot space in the Walker’s Point neighborhood. The company provides contract furniture and architectural solutions for various sectors, including corporate, health care, and education, and operates multiple offices across the country.
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| biztimes.com
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Artcobell has introduced the Soft Rocker, a new seating solution aimed at enhancing student experiences in learning environments. This product builds on Artcobell's previous offerings and addresses research indicating that activity-friendly spaces can reduce student fatigue and enhance engagement. According to Patricia Cadigan, Chief Development Officer, the Soft Rocker is designed to support optimal learning by allowing safe, purposeful movement, which can either calm or stimulate students as needed. Its design prevents excessive rocking while maintaining freedom of movement, and the all-foam construction makes it easy to rearrange. The Soft Rocker comes in three sizes (14”, 16”, and 18” seat heights) and offers design flexibility with single or dual-tone vinyl options. This adaptability allows educators to create functional and inspiring classroom environments that cater to diverse student needs. For more information, visit www.artcobell.com.
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| www.officing.com
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Knoll introduces the Perron Pillo Lounge Chair by Willo Perron, available in fixed or swivel options, designed for comfort and relaxation. The chair features a unique aesthetic resembling oversized pillows and allows for personalization with various textiles. It complements other pieces in the Pillo collection and reflects contemporary lifestyles focused on leisure. Knoll continues its tradition of collaborating with innovative designers to create functional and aesthetically pleasing furniture.
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| www.officing.com
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Integra Seating expands its Odyssey Collection with the introduction of the Odyssey Table, designed to complement the existing seating line. Available in various sizes and heights, including an ortho-height option for accessibility, the tables feature a sleek design and durable materials suitable for high-use environments. The collection emphasizes strength, cleanability, and design sophistication, continuing Integra's commitment to innovative commercial furniture solutions.
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| www.officing.com
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KFI Studios has expanded the Dotti lounge collection with new lounge chair options featuring an upholstered back, enhancing comfort and versatility for collaborative spaces. The collection, designed by Union Design, includes various configurations, such as a low back chair with optional wood surrounds, and emphasizes both casual and refined aesthetics. Additional pieces like ottomans and poufs complement the collection, which aims to provide flexible seating solutions.
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| www.officing.com
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Herman Miller Gaming introduces two new colors for the Embody Gaming Chair: Ignite, featuring a "Dark Mineral" grey with orange accents, and Nova, with "Nightfall" navy and purple accents. These designs aim to enhance personalization for gamers, combining style with ergonomic support. The Embody Gaming Chair, developed in partnership with Logitech G, focuses on promoting health and comfort during gameplay, utilizing cooling foam and pixelated support for optimal posture and weight distribution.
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| www.officing.com
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The Planar table, designed by Rodolfo Dordoni for Andreu World, features a robust and elegant design with rounded edges and a chunky lower layer. It includes a central beam for structural support, is available in various materials such as wood, glass, and marble, and offers functionality with cable management. The table aims to enhance creativity and collaboration in meeting spaces.
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| www.officing.com
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Plantable is a new collection from SurfaceWorks that integrates plants into office tables to enhance well-being and air quality. Designed with bangdesign, it features versatile tables in various heights and sizes, freestanding planters, and modular accessories that promote collaboration and personalization. The collection emphasizes functionality and nature, aiming to connect the benefits of greenery with work environments.
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| www.officing.com
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Poltrona Frau introduces Re-Saddle, a regenerated leather made from production offcuts, emphasizing sustainability and reduced environmental impact. This innovative material combines second-generation leather fibers with recycled polyester, significantly lowering water consumption and carbon footprint. Available in a range of colors, Re-Saddle maintains the aesthetic and performance qualities of traditional leather, making it suitable for various applications, including luxury automotive interiors. The product reflects Poltrona Frau's commitment to conscious design and sustainable practices.
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| www.officing.com
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Luum Textiles has introduced Confluence, a new direct glue wall covering featuring a large-scale tonal pattern that offers a subtle yet tactile presence. Part of the Five Elements collection, it is designed for durability and ease of installation, making it suitable for various environments such as workplaces, wellness spaces, and hospitality settings.
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| www.officing.com
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The Mitchell Group introduces two new patterns, Patina and Nubuck, in its Sta-Kleen® Polycarbonate collection, combining durability with refined aesthetics. Patina features a distressed faux leather look, while Nubuck offers a soft, suede-like texture. Both patterns are engineered for demanding commercial environments, boasting stain resistance and compliance with health standards. They provide designers with options that balance beauty and performance, suitable for various applications in hospitality, healthcare, and workplaces.
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| www.officing.com
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Koroseal introduces six new Arbor Wood Wallcoverings, offering over 100 combinations of species, colors, and cuts. The collection features high-quality, sustainable wood veneers suitable for various applications, with new options available in standard sizes and FSC certification. The innovative design allows for easy application and increased yield, making it a cost-effective choice compared to traditional millwork.
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| www.officing.com
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Eureka has launched the Jarry luminaire, featuring a classic ball and seamless tube design available in various configurations. The luminaires range from 1’ to 8’ and can be installed in multiple styles, with options for up to twelve silicone globes per unit. Offered in 16 metal finishes and three faux wood finishes, Jarry provides up to 515 lumens with dim-to-warm and static white output options, suitable for shared spaces like lobbies and offices. More details can be found on their website.
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| www.officing.com
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The Splash Lab has launched the Lumashelf, an innovative handwashing system designed for high-traffic public restrooms. It features a sleek, pre-assembled design with integrated components for easy installation and maintenance. The system enhances the restroom experience with soft lighting and user-friendly icons, while also offering design flexibility and sustainability through LEED-compliant materials. The Lumashelf is available in various configurations and finishes, ensuring ADA compliance and improved user experience.
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| www.officing.com
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Flos has reissued Tobia Scarpa's 1963 ‘Seki-Han’ lamp, enhancing its design with modern technology while preserving its original aesthetic. The new version features a longer light source, adjustable wooden blades for light modulation, and a base redesign to eliminate outdated components. The lamp is now made from ash wood and incorporates a dimmable LED tube, showcasing Flos's commitment to innovation while honoring its design heritage.
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| www.wallpaper.com
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The Portable AeroTrack Workstation System by Tether Tools is designed for creatives who need a mobile desk when working in furniture-free environments. Made from aluminum extrusions, it folds down to a compact size of 8.5" x 11" and is only ¾" thick. When unfolded, it creates a stable worksurface that can be secured to a tripod using a threaded insert. The system includes tech clamps to hold a laptop securely, allowing for portability. Additional accessories help manage cables and attach other devices. Priced at $300, the AeroTrack offers a versatile solution for on-the-go professionals.
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| www.core77.com
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NeoCon 2026 / DesignDays 2026 June 7-10, 2026 | Chicago, IL
NeoCon has served as the world’s leading platform and most important event of the year for the commercial design industry since 1969. A launch pad for innovation—NeoCon offers ideas and introductions that shape the built environment today and into the future. For 2026 NeoCon is introducing a special preview day on Sunday, June 7th, from 12-4 PM. All NeoCon attendees and exhibitors are invited to visit on Sunday.
Joining at the same time, in Fulton Market is DesignDays, a compatible show that now hosts more than half of the largest office furniture manufacturers. Hint: See both.
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The Museum of Wisconsin Art is hosting an exhibition titled "Frank Lloyd Wright: Modern Chair Design," showcasing over thirty chair designs by the architect, including historical pieces and new recreations. The exhibition highlights the evolution of Wright's chair designs from the early 1900s to the late 1950s, reflecting changes in his design philosophy and American domestic life. Curators collaborated with woodworkers to recreate lost designs, emphasizing the significance of chairs in Wright's overall architectural vision. The exhibition runs from October 4, 2025, to January 26, 2026.
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| www.dezeen.com
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Trends in Commercial Projects
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Where Ergonomics Meet Hospitality: Humanscale x Mangrove
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As hospitality design evolves to accommodate new guest expectations, the collaboration between Humanscale and Mangrove Work&Stay in Jeju City, South Korea, showcases an innovative approach. They have created an Ergonomic Work Lounge that merges hotel comfort with professional-level ergonomics, tailored specifically for digital nomads and long-term guests. Key features include ergonomic furniture like Humanscale’s Liberty Ocean chairs and height-adjustable desks, which support health and posture. The project emphasizes sustainability by using materials such as upcycled ocean plastic and aims to set a new standard in eco-conscious hospitality design. This initiative reflects a broader trend where co-living, hospitality, and workplace design intersect, catering to guests who seek environments that enhance both wellness and productivity.
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Meadow, a co-working space designed by A-nrd, has opened in Westbourne Park, London, within a transformed boutique guesthouse. Spanning over 900 sq m, it features various work zones, private booths, and communal areas crafted from sapele wood, promoting both focus and sociability. The space includes a communal kitchen, custom day beds, and hosts weekly events, fostering a creative and relaxed environment for its members.
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| www.onofficemagazine.com
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Ekho Studio has designed a new workplace at Copthall Bridge in Harrogate, emphasizing wellness and flexibility. The space includes private offices, coworking areas, and health facilities, all within a historic building. Key features include a marble front desk, a business lounge, various workstations, and areas for fitness and relaxation, promoting a health-focused work environment.
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| www.mixinteriors.com
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Giuseppe Di Rienzo is a Content Creator and Product Photographer from Italy, known for his clean design and functional tech setups. He shares inspiration on platforms like YouTube and Instagram, focusing on minimal tech and creative design. His workspace features a variety of equipment, including an LG UltraGear monitor, Autonomous SmartDesk, and ergonomic chair. He values flexibility in his work-from-home lifestyle, balancing long and short workdays while maintaining a passion for content creation.
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| www.workspaces.xyz
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Detroit has unveiled a new $1.4 billion skyscraper, Hudson's, marking a significant addition to its skyline after decades. The project includes residential, office, hotel, and retail spaces, aiming to revitalize the city and attract residents and businesses. Designed by SHoP Architects, the development features a 49-story tower and a 12-story mixed-use building, with General Motors planning to relocate its global headquarters there. This initiative symbolizes hope for Detroit's future, reflecting a commitment to economic growth and community revitalization.
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| www.fastcompany.com
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MidOcean Partners Selects Spectorgroup to Envision Manhattan Workplace
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Spectorgroup has been chosen to design MidOcean Partners' new 26,000-square-foot office in Manhattan, aiming to enhance the building's architectural character while creating a warm and inviting interior. The design will focus on balancing client-facing and collaborative spaces to foster teamwork and creativity, reflecting MidOcean's culture and growth. Spectorgroup, with 60 years of experience, emphasizes research-driven design to create meaningful environments that improve interactions.
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George Kyriakakos Joins Fluidconcepts as Vice President of Sales, North America
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Fluidconcepts has appointed George Kyriakakos as Vice President of Sales for North America. He brings over ten years of leadership experience in the commercial furniture industry, where he has a proven track record of driving growth, enhancing partnerships, and providing innovative solutions for clients.
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Karen Michalakos Joins Fluidconcepts as Territory Manager
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Karen Michalakos has been appointed as Territory Manager at Fluidconcepts, bringing over 25 years of experience in business development and sales. She will focus on expanding the dealer channel across Canada, enhancing dealer acquisition and relationship management. Her background includes significant roles at Kenaidan Contracting and Interface Flooring, where she built strong client relationships and drove sales. Fluidconcepts aims to leverage her expertise to strengthen market reach and showcase their customizable office furniture solutions.
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Welcome Julie Moran to Pioneer Contract Services
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Pioneer Contract Services has announced the addition of Julie Moran to their team. Based in Houston, TX, Julie brings extensive experience in the Office Furniture Industry and is a licensed Interior Designer. Her expertise in furniture design is expected to be a valuable asset to the team. The company expresses its enthusiasm in welcoming her and encourages others to do the same.
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DeskMakers Appoints Kinari & Company as Tri-State Sales Representatives
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DeskMakers has appointed Kinari & Company as independent sales representatives for the Tri-State area, covering New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. Kinari & Company is known for its relationship-driven approach and has a team with extensive experience in the contract furniture industry. The partnership aims to enhance DeskMakers' presence in the market, focusing on high design and functional standards while maintaining accessibility in cost.
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Momentum Brings Full Textile Collection to Configura’s Platform
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Momentum has integrated its full textile portfolio into Configura’s Materials Database, becoming the largest textile manufacturer on the platform. This allows designers and manufacturers to access over 600 SKUs of textiles directly within Configura, enhancing the specification process with high-quality visuals and reducing redundancy. The collection includes a variety of styles and sustainable options, streamlining workflows for design professionals.
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A Dezeen talk held at King Living's showroom in Chicago highlighted the city's role as a hub for architecture and design, emphasizing its supportive network for young designers. Panelists discussed the evolution of consumer preferences towards more expressive furniture, the importance of inclusive design, and the influence of technology on the industry, while stressing the need to maintain a human touch in design practices.
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| www.dezeen.com
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Ask Stephen - Looking to Hire a Rockstar?
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Recruiting is a complex and time-consuming process that involves influencing candidates who are often already employed. The delay in hiring may stem from executives waiting too long to replace non-performers or not anticipating vacancies. Effective recruitment requires starting the search early, as finding top talent is not quick. A good candidate takes time to identify and engage, similar to waiting for a high-quality product like a Ferrari. The advice is to hire slowly and fire quickly to ensure the best outcomes.
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| contract.careers
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The Senior Accountant is responsible for managing key components of the financial reporting process on behalf of client accounts, ensuring the timely and accurate preparation of financial statements in accordance with US GAAP.
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| contract.careers
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