COR Expands Western U.S. Presence Through HB Workplaces Acquisition

Creative Office Resources (COR), a MillerKnoll Certified Dealer and WBENC-Certified Women’s Business Enterprise, has acquired HB Workplaces, expanding COR’s footprint across the western United States. The transaction became effective January 14, 2026, and represents a significant step in COR’s long-term geographic growth strategy.

 

Founded in 1980, HB Workplaces has built a strong regional presence delivering furniture solutions and interior construction services to clients throughout the West. The firm operates offices in Salt Lake City and St. George, Utah; Boise, Idaho; Las Vegas and Reno, Nevada; and Seattle, Washington, and employs more than 170 professionals. Over four decades, HB Workplaces has developed a reputation for working closely with clients as consultants and design collaborators, creating modern, performance-driven workplaces across a broad range of industries.

 

Denise Horn, CEO and Partner of Creative Office Resources, said the acquisition brings together two organizations with complementary strengths and a long history of collaboration. She noted that HB Workplaces’ regional expertise and established client relationships make it a natural fit for COR as the company continues to scale its national platform.

 

From the manufacturer side, John Michael, President of the Americas at MillerKnoll, said the combination enhances HB Workplaces’ ability to deliver strategic insight and innovative solutions across office, education, and healthcare environments as workplace demands continue to evolve.

 

David Colling, Principal and CEO of HB Workplaces, described the move as a logical next step for the company and its employees. He emphasized that the partnership with COR will provide additional resources and scale while preserving the local relationships and market focus that have defined HB Workplaces’ approach for decades.

 

Following the acquisition, the firm will operate as HB Workplaces, A COR Company, with Creative Office Resources serving as the parent organization. COR will provide strategic and operational support while HB Workplaces continues to serve clients and industry partners with its existing teams and regional expertise.

 

The transaction marks a new chapter for COR in the western U.S., strengthening its ability to pair national resources with local insight. For clients, the combined organization aims to deliver design-driven, client-centered workplace solutions at greater scale while maintaining the service continuity and relationships built by both firms over time.

DIRTT Announces Executive Leadership Changes

DIRTT Environmental Solutions has announced executive leadership changes, effective January 12, 2026. Rich Hunter, the former President and Chief Operating Officer, has left the company, while Aaron Merkin has been appointed as the new Chief Technology Officer. Benjamin Urban, CEO of DIRTT, praised Hunter for his contributions to improving the company's manufacturing processes. Merkin, who brings extensive experience from various technology firms, will focus on advancing DIRTT's technology to enhance business operations and customer value. DIRTT's proprietary ICE software allows for precise project planning and real-time adjustments, contributing to its recognition as a leader in technology-driven manufacturing.

Momentum in Exclusive Alliance with Autex Acoustics

Momentum has formed an exclusive partnership with New Zealand-based Autex Acoustics to enhance its acoustic product offerings. This collaboration aims to expand Momentum's portfolio by integrating Autex's carbon-neutral acoustic solutions, made from 100% recycled PET, into both walls and ceilings. The partnership emphasizes innovation and sustainability, aligning with Momentum's commitment to providing comprehensive design solutions. Autex’s products have been successfully implemented in notable projects for companies like Google, Apple, and universities such as Harvard and UCLA. Momentum will make Autex's product library available across North America, further enhancing its range of integrated interior solutions and supporting designers in creating acoustically optimized spaces.

Demetrio Apolloni, CEO of B&B Italia Group, has announced his departure, marking a significant leadership change for the renowned Italian furniture brand. Since joining in December 2023, Apolloni has navigated the company through increasing international competition and changing consumer trends. His resignation highlights the challenges faced by furniture companies in balancing design, efficiency, and digital transformation.

 

The global furniture industry is witnessing numerous executive transitions, with various brands appointing new leaders across sales, marketing, and creative roles. These changes underscore the need for adaptable leadership in an era influenced by e-commerce and shifting consumer expectations.

 

Furniture companies, particularly in Poland, are heavily investing in online sales, which now account for 40-45% of total sales. Success in this environment requires strong logistics, compelling product displays, and personalized customer service. For B&B Italia, such leadership changes are crucial for competing globally and seizing digital growth opportunities.

 

As the sector evolves, executives who combine visionary thinking with operational and digital skills will shape the future of the furniture industry, influencing consumer expectations and bolstering the global standing of iconic brands like B&B Italia.

Nonresidential building construction spending is projected to decline, with a modest 1.0% gain expected this year and 2.2% in 2027, failing to keep up with inflation. Economic uncertainty, influenced by tariffs and immigration policies, hampers decision-making in construction. While data centers are experiencing significant growth, traditional office and manufacturing sectors are seeing declines. Consumer confidence is low, particularly among lower-income households, affecting retail and educational construction. Overall, the construction sector is facing uneven growth, with some areas stalling or declining.

The U.S. office market is experiencing a notable rebalancing as prime office vacancies decrease, driven by a scarcity of high-quality spaces. In 2025, the removal of inventory, including demolitions and conversions, outpaced new construction for the first time since 1988, leading to a year-over-year decline in overall vacancy rates. Demand for top-tier office spaces has surged, with downtown prime vacancies dropping significantly compared to suburban areas. Major urban markets are regaining popularity, with downtown leasing increasing from 30% to 40% of activity. Companies are focusing on purpose-driven offices that enhance employee attraction and retention, integrating technology and design. The outlook for 2026 suggests leasing activity will surpass 2019 levels, particularly in finance and technology sectors, while prime vacancies are expected to return to pre-pandemic levels by the end of 2027.

Leasing activity in Silicon Valley is expected to improve, driven by expansion plans from AI and tech companies, with significant demand for large office spaces. Despite a drop in Q4 2025 leasing activity, the full-year volume reached seven million square feet, indicating a recovery in tenant confidence. Vacancy rates are gradually declining, and asking rents for Class A assets are rising, reflecting a selective demand for high-quality spaces. Major tech firms are seeking substantial office space, contributing to a tightening market and increased pressure on Class A asset availability.

Atlanta's office investment sales reached $1.4 billion in 2025, a 56.3% increase from the previous year, marking the highest total since 2022. The largest acquisition was CP Group's $200 million purchase of the Piedmont Center Portfolio. Despite strong demand for high-quality spaces, overall absorption was negative, with a total of -475,265 square feet for the year.

Northern Virginia experienced its first office occupancy gain since 2019, with 480K SF of positive net absorption in the past year. The market's recovery was led by the Rosslyn-Ballston and Toll Road submarkets, while Tysons faced significant losses. Key sectors driving growth included technology and professional services, though government space reductions were notable. Vacancy rates decreased slightly to 22.4%, and there is a strong leasing momentum heading into 2026, indicating increased confidence among tenants.

The Boston office market had significant leasing activity in 2025, totaling 1.9 million square feet, making it the second-highest in 15 years. Despite this, vacancy rates remain high at 18.9%, the highest among major Northeastern cities. Major leases primarily involved renewals and consolidations, reflecting tenant uncertainty. Notable leases included Wayfair's 337,000 square feet renewal and expansion, and DraftKings' 117,000 square feet relocation. While urban migration to Downtown Boston reached a five-year high, the overall vacancy rate is affected by a surplus of available space and slow job growth, with unemployment steady at 4.7%. Additionally, venture capital funding has decreased, impacting the creation of new companies in key industries. Experts believe that increased job creation and venture capital investment are crucial for improving vacancy rates in the future.

Office Revolution, a Chicago-based contract furniture dealer, is opening a new showroom in Kansas City's Grand Place, a historic redevelopment site. The decision was influenced by Kansas City's growing appeal, including its vibrant professional sports scene and the influx of Gen Z talent. The showroom will feature a blend of modern design and historical elements, aiming to create inviting, amenity-rich workspaces. The company has notable past projects, including the Chicago Cubs and McDonald's headquarters, and is focused on helping clients design spaces that enhance employee productivity.

PMC Commercial Interiors, a Haworth dealer, has leased 45,000 square feet of warehouse space in Deepwater Industrial Park, Richmond, VA to serve as a new distribution center and showroom. This move follows PMC's recent entry into the Richmond market and will replace its current warehouse, doubling its storage capacity. The location is strategically positioned near Interstate 95, enhancing logistical advantages for inventory management and distribution. PMC plans to relocate its local office staff to a new space in the Sauer Center around the same time as the warehouse move.

David Poston, owner of Ideal Office Worx, announced plans to build a new facility in Hickory City, NC, after purchasing land in the area. His company specializes in selling and installing contract office furniture and office supplies, employing six staff members and outsourcing installation work. The expansion aims to establish a solid foundation for growth and increase employment.

Indoff Office Interiors has relocated its Lafayette, Indiana office to a new downtown address at 17 S 6th St. This move aims to enhance accessibility for local clients seeking office furniture solutions and to foster collaboration with businesses in the area. 

Louisiana State Senator Patrick McMath (R), who owns the dealership Southern Interior Solutions (SIS), is accused of exploiting ethical loopholes to gain government and hospital contracts, causing established furniture businesses to lose significant deals. Competitors allege that McMath’s political influence has led to unfair advantages, as multiple agencies shifted contracts to SIS in his district. McMath defends his actions, claiming he adheres to legal standards, and asserts that his company offers competitive pricing and quality. Despite public records showing SIS's growth coinciding with McMath’s legislative role, he maintains that no laws have been broken, although critics highlight the potential for conflicts of interest in his dual roles as a politician and business owner.

TurboTax has opened its first physical retail space in SoHo, designed to alleviate the stress associated with tax filing. The inviting atmosphere features calming elements and aims to improve customer experiences. Despite efforts to create a positive environment, the company faces criticism for contributing to the complexities of tax filing in the U.S., where the process is often frustrating and costly compared to other countries. Intuit has been accused of misleading practices regarding free filing options, leading to a loss of customers after the introduction of a government-backed free e-file service.

In 2026, architecture is expected to evolve significantly, focusing on integrated design that emphasizes experience and usefulness rather than mere aesthetic spectacle. There is a call for buildings to fulfill diverse community needs, fostering inclusivity and safety while challenging traditional perceptions. The trend towards organic forms will see the use of low-carbon materials, and architecture will increasingly aim to rebuild societal trust amidst fragmentation. Multipurpose and adaptive designs will prioritize sustainability and joy, addressing complex social dynamics and enhancing community engagement. The future of architecture will thus be marked by its intent and ability to act as a civic anchor, reinforcing shared values and optimism.

Philip Tidd of Gensler, discusses the evolution of workplaces in Germany, emphasizing a shift towards designs that enhance collaboration and well-being post-pandemic. Projects like Synopsys Munich showcase hospitality-influenced designs that boost attendance, while Fish & Richardson reflects a move towards transparency in traditional legal settings. Gensler's approach integrates cultural and regulatory factors into design, prioritizing user well-being and natural elements. Munich and Berlin are highlighted as attractive cities for talent due to their quality of life and economic opportunities, with a growing demand for high-quality, centrally located workplaces that support a vibrant urban environment.

The design industry faces significant challenges, including a historically weak housing market and rising tariffs, yet shows resilience. AI usage among designers is rapidly increasing, with projections suggesting widespread adoption by 2027. RH's new design studio generates $1 million monthly, while luxury real estate transactions are rising despite a stagnant middle market. However, furniture manufacturing jobs continue to decline, and recovery from recent wildfires in Los Angeles is slow, with fewer than a dozen homes rebuilt. The landscape is marked by both adversity and opportunity.

Elon Musk predicts significant changes in the future of work, including the rise of robots capable of performing medical surgeries, potentially outnumbering human doctors by 2030. He believes that as robots take over various jobs, the concept of saving for retirement will become irrelevant since robots will provide goods and services at minimal costs. Musk also suggests that advancements in AI could lead to increased human lifespans, even approaching immortality, by altering the human aging process. Lastly, he foresees AI surpassing human intelligence by 2030, fundamentally changing the workforce dynamics and the nature of work itself.

A new report identifies key trends reshaping the workplace in 2026, emphasizing a shift from productivity to performance, with a focus on human capabilities and ergonomic design. It highlights the rise of hybrid work models and AI as an integrated infrastructure. Employees are expected to value stability and service quality over high-cost perks, while organizations are encouraged to adopt a gradual approach to transformation rather than rapid changes.

Microshifting is emerging as a flexible work model that divides the workday into short, non-continuous bursts, allowing workers to balance personal responsibilities with professional demands. While it offers benefits like improved mental health and productivity, there are concerns about it fostering an "always on" culture. Interest in microshifting is particularly high among younger workers and those with caregiving or side job responsibilities, as it aligns work with natural energy peaks. However, some employers remain cautious about its implications for accountability and coordination.

Mentorship is crucial for the flexible workspace industry, with 83% of Gen Z employees valuing it, yet only 37% having a mentor. To foster growth, experienced leaders should share knowledge, while younger professionals need to proactively seek mentorship. The industry must normalize mentorship discussions and challenge stereotypes about Gen Z work ethic. Collaboration among all stakeholders is essential to create accessible mentorship opportunities, ensuring a supportive culture that benefits everyone.

Corporate real estate is often inflexible, locking businesses into long-term commitments that hinder adaptability in a rapidly changing environment. This misalignment creates risks as companies face constant shifts in workforce and market demands. To address this, businesses should adopt a portfolio approach to real estate, blending long-term assets with flexible options to support evolving work needs. By treating real estate as a strategic asset rather than a fixed cost, organizations can enhance performance, reduce waste, and foster collaboration, ultimately aligning space with business objectives.

With nearly a third of British workers hybrid working, companies are rethinking office relocations. UK office occupancy is rising, but spaces are being redesigned for collaboration rather than fixed desks. Businesses are opting for smaller, high-quality spaces and transitioning in stages to minimize disruption. Sustainability is influencing decisions, with a focus on reusing and recycling office assets. The shift to hybrid working is now a continuous process, making workspace strategy a core business priority.

Fashion and interior design are increasingly intertwined, reflecting societal changes such as relaxed corporate dress codes during the Covid-19 pandemic. Mid-century design influences are being reimagined in commercial spaces, utilizing innovative materials that promote wellness and productivity. Aesthetics play a crucial role in brand identity, with organizations adapting their environments to enhance employee well-being. As work-life boundaries blur, the importance of thoughtful design in flooring and decor becomes essential for creating inspiring and efficient workplaces.

A major London office developer is utilizing behavioral psychology principles in designing the 2 Finsbury Avenue skyscraper to enhance tenant appeal. The design focuses on creating communal spaces that cater to various personality types, aiming to foster interaction while minimizing the need for private breakout areas. The lobby will feature accessible navigation and areas for both extroverted and introverted individuals, alongside biophilic elements like indoor gardens. The developers plan to use virtual reality for marketing, emphasizing the importance of observing actual usage to refine the design post-completion.

Knoll has launched the Dividends Skyline, a versatile system designed for modern workplaces, combining privacy, focus, and collaboration. Created by Jeffrey Bernett and Nicholas Dodziuk, this system features new workstation boundaries and a refined material palette, allowing for various privacy options. It includes Skyline Lounge, which facilitates informal collaboration within tight spaces. The collection caters to all organizational levels, offering a range of workstations and seating. New finishes and upholstery options enhance aesthetic cohesion, while thoughtful design details aim to reduce visual noise. Dividends Skyline is available through MillerKnoll dealers for contract customers.

HON has enhanced its Flock™ seating collection by introducing 34 new paint finishes for guest chairs and stools, available in café and counter heights. This updated collection maintains its reputation as a versatile and stylish option for commercial spaces and offices. The expanded color palette includes bold and neutral shades, enabling companies to create energized and cohesive environments that reflect their character and design preferences. Key features of Flock include its modular design for flexible seating arrangements, seamless adaptability for various needs, and comfort provided by plush cushions, promoting a distraction-free workday.

Humanscale has introduced the NexPoint™ kiosk, an ergonomic point-of-sale system designed for retail and hospitality. It enhances employee comfort and customer experience through adjustable features and ADA compliance. The modular design allows for various installations, and it integrates seamlessly with existing POS hardware.

Ligne Roset's Sandra sofa, originally launched in 1975 by designer Annie Hiéronimus, is being reintroduced after 50 years. Known for its soft curves and comfort, it reflects a shift from geometric designs to more inviting forms. The updated version maintains Hiéronimus' vision while incorporating modern all-foam seating technology for enhanced support and portability.

Landscape Forms introduces the redesigned Candela by urbidermis, enhancing its performance, adaptability, and sustainability while retaining its iconic design. The new features include refined engineering, expanded LED options, and various pole configurations, making it suitable for diverse urban environments. The collaboration aims to improve public spaces through beautiful and environmentally conscious design.

Shaw Contract has launched Coexist, a carbon-neutral carpet tile collection inspired by Japanese culture, emphasizing balance between heritage and innovation. The collection features various styles that reflect themes of tradition, simplicity, movement, and intentionality, complemented by raku-inspired surfaces. Made with recycled materials and designed for sustainability, Coexist aims to enhance well-being while minimizing environmental impact, aligning with Shaw Contract's commitment to positive environmental practices.

Seletti has launched the ‘Bic Lamp’ to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Bic Cristal, the world’s best-selling ballpoint pen. The lamp, designed in the iconic shape of the Bic pen, is available in floor, pendant, and wall versions, replicating the pen at a 12:1 scale and featuring its recognizable colors: black, red, and blue. The project reflects Seletti's commitment to memory-driven design, transforming a universally recognized object into a new lighting solution. This innovative approach showcases the brand’s pop spirit and its ability to blend familiar shapes with modern concepts in home decor.

First announced last June, Rimowa and Vitra have collaborated to create the Aluminum Stool, a unique piece of furniture designed for storage rather than luggage, with only 1,000 units produced. The design reportedly combines the aesthetics of Rimowa's luggage with functionality for home use. It features a cube format that is practical for sitting and storage, lacking handles to avoid resembling a trolley. The stool includes a padded seat cushion and is designed to store various items like laptops, papers, and magazines. The integration of wheels emphasizes mobility, making it adaptable for different spaces in the home, such as the living room or bathroom. Its intriguing design hints at hidden storage, adding an element of mystery.

Carl Hansen & Søn has launched a collection of children's furniture featuring iconic designs by Nanna & Jørgen Ditzel and Hans J. Wegner. Key pieces include the CH24 Children's Wishbone Chair, crafted with 14 solid oak components, the ND54 High Chair designed to grow with children, and Peter's Chair and Table, which doubles as a puzzle. The collection emphasizes quality design and functionality, aiming to inspire a love for well-crafted furniture in young generations. Available through selected dealers and the brand's website.

Hendrick Continues its HQ Design of OneDigital into a Cultural Hub for Employees and the Clients They Serve

Hendrick has completed the second phase of OneDigital's headquarters in Atlanta, enhancing social engagement and workplace experience. The design includes flexible workspaces, a central café on the 11th floor for internal and client interactions, and features like a digital reception screen and acoustic considerations. The layout fosters a sense of community while allowing for individual workspace autonomy, all while maintaining elements of the existing furniture. The overall design supports OneDigital's philosophy of enabling employees and clients to thrive.

Fyra's renovation of the century-old Konelabra building in Helsinki transformed it into a modern workspace while preserving its historical elements. The design maintains original features and integrates new amenities, attracting various companies and enhancing the building's functionality. Key additions include a rooftop terrace, sauna, and a Mediterranean restaurant, ensuring the space serves the business community effectively.

Spaces and Design has created a tactile 1,000 sq ft headquarters for Seamless Realty in Kolkata, emphasizing minimalism and sustainability. The design features exposed Ferrocrete, organic materials, and fluid shapes that enhance the workspace's functionality and aesthetic. Elements like salvaged oak tables and colorful glass blocks foster a connection to nature while promoting productivity, showcasing that rich interiors can be achieved through playful minimalism and thoughtful design choices.

KOKUYO's new Tokyo office combines work and learning in a 5,317-square-foot space designed to inspire creativity. Influenced by family restaurants, it features shared and private areas, flexible furniture arrangements, and natural elements like plants. The layout encourages collaboration and seamless movement, aligning with KOKUYO's ethos of curiosity and purposeful activity.

Artyum Grebenyuk is a web designer specializing in Framer, running AGR Studio and AGR Blocks. His workspace includes essential hardware like a Mac Mini and Apple Studio Display, and software such as Framer and Figma. He recently added a Framer Creator Micro 2 to enhance his workflow and plans to upgrade his desk for better functionality. His morning routine involves checking emails and seeking design inspiration, while he manages productivity through time-blocking tasks.

The LiberNovo Omni has received an upgrade that enhances its appearance significantly. However, the key question remains: does this new look translate to improved functionality? The review aims to explore both the aesthetic changes and the practical performance of the upgraded chair.

Allsteel Launches Season 4 of Tell Me More Podcast with New Episode: Designing for the Future of Work: 2026 Look Ahead

Allsteel has launched the fourth season of its podcast Tell Me More, focusing on the theme "Designing for the Future of Work: 2026 Look Ahead." The season explores how organizations can adapt their workspaces to enhance focus, productivity, and well-being. Key discussions include the diversity of focus methods, the need for both collaborative and individual workspaces, and the importance of providing areas for mental resets. The first episode, hosted by Andrea Gauss, features insights from Allsteel’s Workplace Advisory Team and emphasizes the significance of intentional design in a distracted world. Listeners can expect monthly episodes featuring industry leaders sharing insights on workplace design innovations and trends. Link >

Season 9 of Design Nerds Anonymous Is Here, With CEU Credit for Listeners

Season 9 of the Design Nerds Anonymous podcast launches with the opportunity for listeners to earn CEU credit through a quiz included in each episode. The four-part season explores decision-making in corporate, healthcare, hospitality, and education sectors, featuring live audio from ThinkLab's hackathons and practical insights for professionals. Upcoming episodes will be released weekly starting January 15, 2026. Link >

PayPal has signed a 10-year lease for 261,000 square feet at 345 Hudson St. in Hudson Square, establishing a new flagship office. This move may involve either trading its existing NYC space or expanding. The complex, which includes 345 Hudson and 555 Greenwich St., targets tech and media tenants. 

Transwestern Real Estate Services is relocating its Chicago headquarters to 123 N. Wacker Drive, signing a 35,000 SF lease for the penthouse suite, set to move in fall 2026. This move follows similar upgrades by competitors and reflects the company's growth strategy. The building, recently taken over by Mesa West Capital, aims to increase occupancy, with Transwestern's move indicating a positive trend in downtown office space demand.

NeoCon Taps Holly Cronin as New Sales Executive

Holly Cronin has been appointed as the new Sales Executive at NeoCon. She brings a strategic and consultative approach, informed by her diverse experience collaborating with manufacturers, designers, brokers, and end-users. With her background in industrial-organizational psychology from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Holly focuses on enhancing the built environment through a people-centered perspective that emphasizes performance, culture, and innovation. In her new role, she will collaborate with both established exhibitors and emerging brands to foster growth, expand categories, and create meaningful brand experiences that contribute to the evolution of the show.

Troy Busch

Lara Busch

Julie Bouillon

Allseating Announces Partnerships with FinelinesNW and True North Spaces

Allseating has partnered with FinelinesNW (Troy Busch & Lara Busch) and True North Spaces (Julie Bouillon) to enhance its presence in the Greater Pacific Northwest and Northern Ontario. FinelinesNW, with over 35 years of experience, will showcase Allseating's products in Seattle and Portland, while True North Spaces focuses on connecting Canadian manufacturers with Northern communities, offering a range of commercial furniture solutions. Both partnerships emphasize a commitment to quality and exceptional service in various sectors including healthcare and education.

Groupe Lacasse | New Rep Firm for Southern California and Southern Nevada

Groupe Lacasse has announced Sculptural Spaces as its new independent representative firm for Southern California and Southern Nevada, focusing on commercial and healthcare products. Led by Ron Frantz, who has over 35 years of industry experience, Sculptural Spaces aims to enhance Groupe Lacasse’s market presence in these key growth areas. Frantz's background includes senior sales leadership roles with major manufacturers in Southern California before establishing Sculptural Spaces in 2020. The collaboration is expected to significantly contribute to expanding Groupe Lacasse’s reach in the region.

Courtney Fisher

Stacy Molnar

Samantha Ramirez

Jennessa Durrani

Ideation Design Group Charts New Course Under Sole Owner & CEO Jennifer Reynolds

Ideation Design Group (IDG), a global architecture and design firm, has appointed Jennifer Reynolds as the sole owner and CEO, leading to several leadership promotions aimed at fostering growth and innovation. Key team members, including Courtney Fisher, Stacy Molnar, and Samantha Ramirez, have been elevated to new roles, alongside the hiring of Jennessa Durrani as Director of People, Culture & Strategy. The firm is focused on enhancing its presence in various sectors, including hospitality and retail, and has completed projects such as Heritage Kitchen + Cocktails and Cowboy Seafood. IDG is also renovating its Phoenix headquarters to improve productivity and collaboration, while continuing to onboard new talent. With over two decades in the industry, IDG specializes in creating unique environments for the hospitality and retail sectors, and has a strong presence in airport design, partnering with notable brands like Eataly and Guy Fieri.

Ghent Announces JSA Design Resource Group as Sales Representation Across Midwest 

Ghent has expanded its partnership with JSA Design Resource Group to represent its products across the Upper Midwest, enhancing connections with architects and designers. This collaboration emphasizes American manufacturing and innovation, aligning with both companies' values. JSA supports small businesses and domestic production, which is crucial for the economy. The partnership aims to strengthen supply chains and promote responsible production in various sectors, including education and healthcare.

MillerKnoll Appoints Former J. Jill CEO Claire Spofford to Board of Directors

MillerKnoll has appointed Claire Spofford, former CEO of J. Jill, to its Board of Directors. Spofford brings over 30 years of retail experience and expertise in omnichannel strategy and brand development. Her addition strengthens the board as the company aims for growth and innovation in the consumer retail and workplace contract segments. MillerKnoll, a collective of design brands, generated net sales of $3.7 billion in fiscal year 2025.

C SUITE Relaunches as: The Ancillary Project - Reimagining Furniture Solutions for Workplace and Hospitality Design

The Ancillary Project, previously known as C SUITE, is relaunching as a dedicated design resource and showroom focused on workplace and hospitality environments. It partners with renowned global brands, including Fritz Hansen and Gubi, to provide innovative furniture solutions for collaborative spaces. A new showroom, set to open in March 2026, will serve as a hub for design exploration and client-led reviews. Co-founders Kedra Cornelske and Perrin Siegel emphasize their commitment to the contract segment, creating an inspiring environment for commercial designers to experiment and discover project solutions. The showroom will be located at 36 E 31st Street, Suite 401, New York, NY, with further updates to be shared in the coming months.

Berco Designs has added its bestselling AnyWay® table line to a new 4-week quick ship program, offering a curated selection of laminate tops and powder coat finishes. Known for its slim, clean base and modern design, AnyWay complements various architectural environments while providing comfort. Brooke Corcoran, VP of Sales Marketing, emphasized that this addition makes it easier for designers and dealers to meet tight schedules without compromising on quality.

Configura Expands Offerings with New Extensions, CI Library Additions to Enter 2026

Configura enhances its position in the commercial interiors industry by introducing new Extensions and CI Library additions, expanding access to over 240 manufacturers. These updates improve design efficiency for A+D professionals by providing accurate product data and tools for collaboration. Notable additions include Borgo Contract Seating, Hightower, HÅG, KJ Studios, Scandinavian Spaces, Calma, FSR, Inc., and Screenflex, each contributing unique products to the library. The new Extensions streamline workflows from design to specification, accessible through the Marketplace on MyConfigura with a CET Commercial Interiors license.

Rosendahl Design Group US Expands Portfolio with New Collaboration with UMAGE

Rosendahl Design Group North America has partnered with Danish design brand UMAGE to expand its portfolio in furniture and lighting, effective January 1, 2026. This collaboration enhances the Danish Design Collective, which includes other iconic brands. UMAGE is known for its sustainable, functional designs that are flat-packed for efficiency. Both companies aim to leverage their strengths to offer a broader range of Scandinavian design products across North America, emphasizing a shared commitment to quality and environmental care.

Inside Sales / Customer Service Rep

Hi5 Furniture is hiring for Inside Sales / Customer Service Rep!

This role is critical to deliver exceptional customer experience by handling written quotes, order entry, and day-to-day support for dealers, sales reps, and customers.

If you’re highly organized, calm under pressure, and a strong written communicator, this is your opportunity to join a fast-growing furniture manufacturer and make a real impact.

Factory Direct Sales Rep

Hi5 Furniture is hiring a Factory Direct Rep for Missouri & Kansas!

This role is for a relationship-builder who thrives on connecting with contract furniture dealers, A&D firms, and end users to drive specifications and close deals.

You’ll own your territory, build strong partnerships, present innovative products, and manage projects from first conversation to installation. If you’re competitive, self-motivated, and know the contract commercial furniture world, this is your chance to make a real impact with a fast-growing brand.