MillerKnoll has been recognized by Fast Company as one of the Best Workplaces for Innovators in its seventh annual list, ranking 60th. The company’s Team Carbon, which focuses on sustainability, was highlighted for its innovative approaches to reducing embodied carbon while maintaining product quality. CEO Andi Owen emphasized the importance of design and innovation in driving the company’s progress. The list includes 100 companies from various industries, showcasing those that foster a culture of creativity and risk-taking. The full list will be available in print on September 23.

Two leading Danish furniture companies have merged to create a unified platform for buying and selling used office furniture, aimed at simplifying sustainable solutions for both private and public customers while expanding internationally. Be2Green, founded in late 2023, generated DKK 2.8 million (US$440,000) in its first financial year and focuses on recycling all types of furniture. The merger with Circular Furniture consolidates expertise, increases product availability, and strengthens the company's niche market presence. The new entity operates on an open partner network connecting manufacturers, architects, and retailers, with plans to develop an international marketplace independent of specific brands. Initial expansion targets include Norway, Sweden, Germany, the Netherlands, and Belgium, with partners in countries as far as Australia. CEO Joakim Grue pointed out the increasing market demand driven by sustainability regulations, noting the merger's role in positioning the company as a scalable player in the circular furniture sector.

CBRE has hired former Facebook executive Annie Dean to lead the new CBRE x Industrious Building Experiences Lab, aimed at transforming commercial spaces into more human-focused environments. The lab will develop data-driven solutions in collaboration with Industrious and CBRE's workplace strategy team, addressing the need for better understanding of worker habits. Dean, who previously directed remote work at Facebook and led workplace experience at Atlassian, emphasizes the importance of real-world experiences in the evolving workplace landscape.

Shares of MillerKnoll fell 3.13% Friday after peer company RH reported weaker-than-expected quarterly results, leading to concerns about the entire furniture sector. RH’s disappointing earnings and lowered guidance were attributed to tariff uncertainty and a struggling housing market. As a result, MillerKnoll’s stock closed at $20.43, down 3.13% from the previous close. Despite market volatility, this news is seen as significant but not likely to fundamentally alter perceptions of MillerKnoll’s business. The stock has decreased 8.8% since the beginning of the year and is trading 26.2% below its 52-week high.

The Modular Office Furniture Market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.9% from 2025 to 2033, driven by the demand for flexible and sustainable workplace solutions amidst the rise of hybrid work models. The market is projected to increase from approximately USD 12.8 billion in 2024 to about USD 19.7 billion by 2033. Key growth factors include the need for space optimization, employee wellness, sustainability, and technology integration. North America and Europe are leading in demand, while Asia-Pacific is the fastest-growing region. Major companies in the market include Steelcase, Herman Miller, and Haworth, with innovations focusing on ergonomic, customizable, and eco-friendly designs. The market outlook remains positive as businesses transition to more adaptable office environments that emphasize collaboration and employee satisfaction.

The UK leads global cross-border real estate investment, particularly in the office sector, amidst a cautious market. In the first half of 2025, the UK was the top destination for such capital, with office assets driving this trend. While Spain and Italy performed well, the Netherlands lagged. Global fundraising reached $111B, with a focus on office and industrial sectors, and data centers saw significant growth. Despite recent rate cuts, yield spreads in the UK remain attractive compared to the U.S., indicating selective repositioning rather than a broad recovery.

Developers and builders are facing unprecedented challenges due to volatile trade policies, labor shortages, and rising material costs driven by tariffs. To navigate these issues, they are collaborating more closely, negotiating contracts to mitigate financial risks, and reverting to strategies from the pandemic, such as buying materials early. The financial strain has led to increased defaults among subcontractors, prompting construction managers to prepare for potential bankruptcies and nonperformance issues.

The discussion around Trump's tariffs on furniture imports presents a mixed picture for domestic manufacturers. While some manufacturers are experiencing increased interest from buyers seeking reliable U.S. production due to tariff volatility, many are also facing rising input costs that cut into profit margins. The tariffs have prompted conversations about shifting production domestically, but these discussions have not yet translated into significant new orders. Some companies have added jobs in response to tariff-related business, but overall employment in the furniture sector has declined. The situation remains uncertain, with the potential for future gains tempered by the challenges of higher costs and a labor market affected by past disruptions. Stability in tariff policies is crucial for manufacturers to assess the long-term impact on their operations.

Hybrid work has become the global standard, with structured policies embraced by many employees, though satisfaction hinges on the quality of the office experience. Successful hybrid models align business goals with employee wellbeing, while poor office conditions lead to dissatisfaction and burnout. Compliance with attendance varies by region, with younger professionals favoring flexibility. To enhance the hybrid work experience, offices must offer high-quality environments, flexible designs, and support for employee wellbeing, including mental health and tailored policies.

Industrial designer Bruce Hannah was interviewed by Dezeen, in which he emphasizes the importance of relocating manufacturing back to major cities in the US and updating furniture designs with new materials. He reflects on the decline of local manufacturers since his early career, advocating for small to medium-sized factories to produce items that require minimal handling. Hannah highlights the need for design students to gain hands-on experience and stresses the role of storytelling and entrepreneurship in modern industrial design. He notes that while young designers face challenges in a crowded market, he remains optimistic about their ability to generate innovative ideas. The conversation also touches on the recent revamp of Hannah's Morrison Hannah Task Chair for Knoll, which incorporates better materials and sustainable design principles.

"The Office" is a popular mockumentary sitcom that follows the eccentric boss Michael Scott and his staff at Dunder Mifflin in Scranton, Pennsylvania. Its spinoff, "The Paper," set in Toledo, Ohio, features Oscar Martinez, now working at a local newspaper under new boss Ned Sampson, as they navigate challenges to revive the publication. While both shows share a documentary style and universe, they focus on different characters and settings, with "The Paper" highlighting the struggles of a dying newspaper in a modern context.

Workplace wellness is evolving as companies address deeper issues affecting employee well-being, moving beyond superficial benefits. Experts emphasize the need for a culture that prioritizes people over productivity, recognizing burnout as a diagnosable condition, and exploring tools like microdosing to enhance mental wellness and performance. A shift towards partnership and empathy in leadership is essential for creating healthier work environments.

Research indicates that women prefer hybrid work schedules with one or two days in the office, while men favor primarily office-based work at least three days a week. Both genders report benefits from remote work, such as fewer distractions and better work-life balance, but women are more inclined to choose hybrid arrangements. Focus scores are significantly higher for remote work compared to in-office for both genders, with women more likely to work remotely to reduce distractions.

NBCUniversal has mandated employees to work in the office four days a week starting in January, offering severance packages for those who do not comply. The severance includes eight weeks of salary, three months of healthcare, and full bonuses for employees who assist in transitioning their responsibilities. This move aligns with a trend among major companies requiring more in-person attendance to foster collaboration and innovation.

AI is transforming design by enhancing human experiences in spaces like hospitals, airports, and workplaces. It allows for the simulation of emotional and physical interactions, improving comfort and clarity. Tools like generative video and scenario modeling enable faster design iterations and deeper client engagement, fostering a shared vision and accelerating decision-making.

The commercial real estate market is experiencing a significant product-market fit crisis as landlords continue to offer outdated leasing options, such as long-term leases and large floor spaces, while occupiers seek flexibility and downsized spaces in response to the rise of hybrid work. This disconnect has resulted in high vacancy rates, with national office vacancies nearing 19% and some cities like San Francisco reaching 34.8%. Landlords are encouraged to adapt by offering smaller, flexible leasing options and prioritizing services that enhance productivity and collaboration, as the demand for office space has evolved rather than diminished. Without aligning their offerings with occupier needs, landlords risk increased vacancies and financial instability.

Dieter Rams has been awarded the 2025 World Design Medal by the World Design Organisation (WDO) for his significant contributions to industrial design, particularly during his 34 years at Braun and his co-founding of Vitsoe. The award was presented on September 9, 2025, in London. Rams' 'Ten Principles of Good Design' emphasize innovation, usefulness, and environmental responsibility, influencing generations of designers across various fields. At 93, he advocates for international collaboration in design. WDO president Thomas Garvey praised Rams for his lasting impact on the design profession. The World Design Medal honors individuals who have advanced industrial design since its establishment in 2017, with past recipients including Hartmut Esslinger and Dr. Patricia Moore.

Susan Chang discusses the importance of "vibrancy mapping" and seamless technology integration in modern office design, emphasizing that spaces should enhance human connection and cater to diverse work styles. Key strategies include creating high and low vibrancy spaces to match team energy levels, future-proofing designs with adaptable infrastructure, and embedding technology in aesthetically pleasing ways. Successful workplace design is measured by behavioral changes and user engagement, with a focus on data-driven decisions to optimize the workplace experience.

Digital materials enhance sustainable design by allowing for the creation and customization of textures that reflect real-world materials. Adobe Substance offers tools for scanning physical surfaces and building materials digitally, enabling designers to visualize and modify properties like color and glossiness. This flexibility supports innovation in various industries, including fashion and healthcare, while promoting sustainability through reduced waste and improved design processes.

Kirei Joins Global Community of Certified B Corporations

Kirei has achieved Certified B Corporation™ status, recognizing its commitment to social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. This certification reflects Kirei's dedication to sustainability and innovation in acoustic design materials. Kirei joins over 10,000 B Corps globally, reinforcing its role as a trusted partner for architects and designers in creating sustainable spaces. The company, part of Carnegie, emphasizes the use of recycled materials and aims to inspire a beautiful world through its products.

Sustainability is a priority in workspace design, extending to packaging, which is crucial for reducing waste. Traditional packaging often creates unnecessary waste and challenges for green building certifications. Haworth focuses on sustainable packaging solutions that are recyclable, compostable, or biodegradable, aligning with evolving regulations and building standards. Recent improvements include redesigning packaging to minimize waste and enhance efficiency, such as switching to biodegradable materials and reducing the use of expanded polystyrene. The company's smart packaging philosophy emphasizes intelligent, connected, and sustainable designs to support customers' sustainability goals.

Able is a product from Scandinavian Spaces that embodies a design philosophy focused on sustainability, durability, versatility, and serviceability. Created by designer Johan Lindau in collaboration with Stefan Borselius and Thomas Bernstrand, Able redefines conventional design constraints rather than escaping them. The collection features an exposed steel frame and natural materials such as solid wood, leather, or canvas, offering a sophisticated aesthetic. Its innovative circular design allows for complete recyclability, with components designed for disassembly, repair, and reuse. Able is available in various heights and styles, customizable with multiple steel finishes and arm detailing options. This design proves that originality can thrive within environmental regulations and industry standards, making it a timeless and responsible choice for commercial interiors. Learn more>

The HON Company has launched Etch, a versatile multi-purpose seating collection designed by Nils Koehn, emphasizing both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Featuring a sleek silhouette and distinctive perforated shell, Etch enhances comfort while being visually impactful. It includes stackable frames, multiple base options, and a breathable design, making it suitable for both educational and office settings. The collection offers customizable colors and finishes, allowing users to personalize their seating to match any environment. With a focus on ergonomic comfort and user-friendly features, Etch aims to adapt to various work styles and needs.

Allseating has launched Equation™, an ergonomic task chair designed to enhance user health and productivity in various work environments. It features patented back technology, customizable adjustments, and a modern design, addressing the negative effects of prolonged sitting. Developed with ergonomics expert Joy Boese, Equation offers tailored support and integrates easily into flexible workspaces. The chair is available in multiple configurations and finishes, emphasizing comfort, performance, and aesthetic appeal.

Source International has launched the Charm lounge chair, designed by Gemma Bernal, featuring a sculptural design that emphasizes warmth and comfort. It meets BIFMA standards for durability, supports users up to 400 lbs, and offers five versatile base options. The chair is suitable for various environments, merging elegance with functionality, and is designed to adapt beautifully to modern spaces.

HBF has evolved the Costa modular table collection designed by Mario Ruiz, now featuring five adaptable tabletop shapes and enhanced finishes with integrated power components. The collection is designed for flexibility in various environments, including cafés and conference spaces, and emphasizes modular intelligence and functionality. Its nesting flip-top design caters to dynamic, technology-rich settings, offering a reliable and elegant solution for modern, agile spaces.

Memo introduces Candy, a modular seating collection designed by Carole Baijings, featuring flexible configurations and a pastel color palette that enhances well-being. The fully upholstered units can be arranged in various ways, combining functionality with a playful aesthetic, making them suitable for high-traffic areas while adding a delightful touch to spaces.

Knoll Textiles introduces Altiplano, a reissue of Sheila Hicks' 1966 design, celebrating the legacy of textile design. Hicks, known for her exploration of color and Andean weaving techniques, collaborated with Knoll to bring her artistic vision to upholstery. The updated design features a mid-scale checker pattern and environmentally conscious production methods, reflecting the natural colors of the Andes. Hicks, an influential artist, continues to impact the contemporary art world, while Knoll Textiles remains committed to innovative textile design since its founding in 1947.

Kasthall introduces two new rug collections, Ines Reed and Ingrid Icon, featuring textured patterns and color contrasts. Ines Reed is a tufted rug that combines structure with softness, available in eight new colorways inspired by paper folding. Ingrid Icon, a woven rug, reflects Scandinavian textile traditions with a balanced design and earthy tones, also offered in eight colorways. Both collections emphasize craftsmanship and invite innovative approaches to texture and design in various interior settings.

The Camouflage Collection features ten high-performance upholstery patterns inspired by optical illusions, blending art and innovative textile technology. It utilizes bio-attributed silicone hybrids and other advanced materials to create designs that challenge perception and transform interior spaces, celebrating the interplay of presence and absence.

Treefrog, celebrating 20 years of European quality, has revamped its collection of prefinished real wood veneers. The new offerings include seven Designer Veneers, six of which are designed by renowned Italian architect Piero Lissoni, known for their natural aesthetics and authentic wood tones. Notably, the Sottsass Grey veneer, originally designed by Ettore Sottsass, has been reintroduced in muted tones, combining bold design with subtlety. The collection now features a flexible, eco-friendly wood backer that enhances design while maintaining sustainability, as all veneers are FSC certified. Treefrog's production in Italy adheres to high environmental and manufacturing standards, promoting responsible sourcing and workplace safety. Free samples of the collection are available at treefrogveneer.com.

Birgit Hoffmann and Christoph Kahleyss have enhanced the Marie chair family for Freifrau, focusing on comfort and sustainability. The original design aimed for a cushion-like backrest to provide maximum seating comfort. The development included requests for a wooden frame version and a swivel-return function, along with the introduction of bar stools and armchairs in various designs. The chair features wide-opening armrests for relaxed sitting, and its upholstery retains shape thanks to a complex structure with an ergonomic plywood shell covered in resilient synthetic down. Customization options are available for fabric, leather, and frame materials. The designers emphasize the inviting nature of soft, organic shapes and the feminine appeal reflected in the chair's name. Freifrau has evolved from a small company to a medium-sized enterprise with a comprehensive product range, while sustainability practices include regional production and easy disassembly of parts. The designers express a desire to create a complementary sofa for the Marie collection. 

Artek and Marimekko have collaborated to create a limited collection of furniture that combines Artek's iconic designs with Marimekko's bold prints, celebrating Finnish design excellence. This partnership aims to attract new customers and younger design enthusiasts, showcasing their shared values and creative visions. The collection features three pieces, each transformed into art canvases through the use of Marimekko's prints, highlighting a blend of minimalism and vibrant aesthetics.

Roman Modzelewski, a pioneering Polish designer, created the RM58 chair in 1958 using fiberglass, but it remained a prototype due to political restrictions. The chair was rediscovered in the 2000s, leading to a revival by Jakub Sobiepanek and Dr. Krystyna Luczak-Surówka through their brand VZOR, which now offers the RM58 in three versions: Classic, Matte, and Soft. The Classic version replicates Modzelewski's original design, while the other two utilize modern materials. The chair is available for purchase at the MoMA Design Store for $2,000.

Belgian designer Peter Donders created a unique handcrafted chair called the Walnut Shelly, made from walnut wood, following a process that involved 3D printing and mold casting for a previous bronze version. This handcrafted version is not intended for production.

tp bennett has transformed Reed Smith's London headquarters into a modern workspace, shifting from 30% open plan to 70% open plan design to foster collaboration and flexibility. The new design aims to reflect a more contemporary and stylish approach, challenging the traditional cautiousness of the legal sector in workplace design.

M Moser and Wipro have collaborated to create a hospitality-inspired office in London, designed to enhance productivity and employee experience. The 24,500 sq ft space features flexible workstations, a concierge-style reception, and a Club Lounge for client engagement. The location in Blackfriars provides excellent accessibility and aligns with sustainability goals. The design promotes collaboration and innovation, with areas for informal interactions and a focus on adapting to the evolving needs of Wipro's workforce.

Three innovative office designs demonstrate how to achieve low carbon footprints while enhancing aesthetics and employee well-being. United Airlines HQ emphasizes circular economy strategies, reusing materials to significantly reduce carbon emissions. The Austin Office by Page incorporates diverse sustainable materials and prioritizes reuse, achieving substantial waste diversion and energy savings. Lord Abbett HQ focuses on biophilic design, utilizing natural materials and maximizing natural light, resulting in significant reductions in embodied carbon and improved employee comfort.

Dottir, a progressive law firm in Helsinki, collaborated with design studio KOKO3 to create an unconventional office space that resembles a contemporary cultural institution. The design features bold colors, modular furniture, and integrated art, aiming to spark creativity rather than conform to traditional legal aesthetics. This innovative approach has attracted interest from other firms, demonstrating that creativity and credibility can coexist in a professional environment.

Jasper Vermeulen, founder of Studio Billy, emphasizes strategy-driven design and custom development for impactful websites. His workspace features a Macbook Pro M1 and includes a recent addition of an air quality meter. He finds inspiration in art books from local second-hand stores and plans to integrate his collection into a visible bookcase wall. Working from home allows him flexibility and deep focus, enhancing his productivity.

Hasbro will relocate its headquarters to a 265,000 square foot space at WS Development's 400 Summer St. in Boston's Seaport, bringing at least 700 jobs by the end of 2026. The move is seen as a boost for Boston's recovering office sector. 

Momentum Appoints Elise Ozawaon as Director of Western Sales

Momentum has promoted Elise Ozawaon to Director of Western Sales, recognizing her extensive experience and commitment to the design community. In her new role, she will lead the Western Region, focusing on growth and success. Momentum is known for its innovative textiles and wallcoverings, having received multiple industry awards.

Wyatt Seating Announces Addition of Rep Groups Across the U.S.

Wyatt Seating has announced the addition of several independent representative groups across the U.S., enhancing their ability to serve dealers effectively. The new partners include Capital Solutions, Inc. (serving Washington DC, Maryland, Virginia), Southeast Contract Sales (Georgia, Alabama), Glen Jones Associates (Mississippi, Louisiana), SpecRite Interiors (North Texas, Oklahoma), Crane Reps (Arizona, New Mexico, Las Vegas, El Paso), and Lou Reid Associates (Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa, Montana). These partnerships bring significant regional expertise and experience to better meet customer needs nationwide.

Heller Continues to Support Radical Innovation Awards Annual Competition Fueling the Future of Design

Heller's John Edelman will serve as a juror for the Radical Innovation Award Competition, which recognizes excellence in design within the hospitality industry. The competition encourages innovative ideas from both professionals and students. Heller will showcase iconic designs at the event and has launched a Made to Order Program for customizable furniture. The awards dinner is scheduled for October 23, 2025, in New York City. Heller, known for its modern designs, is committed to sustainability and authenticity in its products.

Hightower Now Part of CET Commercial Interiors Library to Streamline Design + Dealer Collaboration

Hightower is now part of CET's Commercial Interiors Library, providing a centralized hub for product information and specification tools for dealers and designers. The CIL catalog includes popular Hightower products and aims to enhance accessibility and efficiency in the commercial interiors community. Hightower emphasizes its commitment to user-friendly tools and sustainability, being a certified Women Owned Business Enterprise and a B Corp.

Configura Expands Commercial Interiors Portfolio with New Extensions and Library Additions

Configura has enhanced its CET Commercial Interiors platform by adding two new Extensions and a variety of manufacturers to its CI Library, providing A+D professionals with more options and streamlined workflows. Notable additions include Hightower, Design Within Reach, and Modsilver, among others, offering a wide range of furniture solutions. The platform supports efficient design and visualization of commercial spaces, enabling real-time collaboration with clients. Access to the expanded library requires a CET Commercial Interiors license.

Landscape Forms Named by Fortune and Great Place to Work as a 2025 Best Workplace in Manufacturing & Production for a Sixth Year in a Row

Landscape Forms, a leading designer and manufacturer of premium site furniture and accessories based in Kalamazoo, MI, has been recognized as one of the 2025 Best Small and Medium Workplaces in Manufacturing & Production by Fortune Magazine and Great Place to Work®. This marks the sixth consecutive year the company has achieved this accolade, based on anonymous employee survey feedback. The Director of Talent and Organizational Development, Natalie Jackson, emphasized the award as a testament to the company's supportive culture where individuals feel valued and encouraged to grow. CEO David Jackson highlighted the recognition as a reflection of their people-first philosophy and the collaborative environment fostered at Landscape Forms. The company has a strong reputation for quality design and service since its founding in 1969 and serves a diverse clientele, including municipalities and well-known brands like Google and Nike.

A manufacturer's rep expresses frustration with dealers who escalate issues by copying senior executives and design firms in complaint emails, which damages relationships. The rep advises against this approach, suggesting that dealers should communicate directly with their sales rep instead. Stephen, responding to the rep, acknowledges both sides of the issue and recommends that dealers avoid copying unnecessary parties to maintain a good relationship with manufacturers and resolve problems more effectively.

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. 

The Regional Vice President (RVP) is responsible for developing and executing sales strategies in alignment with corporate objectives to drive the South East territory and sales performance. This leadership position focuses on building and maintaining strong relationships with dealer principals, key personnel, and end-user customers, ensuring the regional sales teams have the necessary tools, training, and support to achieve their goals.

We have an outstanding opportunity for motivated sales professionals to embark on a career path that has tremendous growth with earning potential well into the six-figure range. All Ethosource Account Executives are provided with cutting edge technology and expert in-house support. Salesforce CRM is utilized to further support and enhance sales efforts. No industry experience necessary. We will train the right individual!

We are seeking a results-driven Account Executive to join our growing team in the U.S Southeastern region. This role is ideal for a motivated sales professional with experience in the commercial office, furniture, or interiors industry who thrives on building strong client relationships and closing deals.