By the Numbers
Over 50% of employees believe AI will make physical offices obsolete, with 71% stating it enhances flexibility and work-life balance. A significant majority prefer AI-powered remote work, with 62% favoring it over traditional office settings. There is a disconnect between IT leaders and employees regarding AI effectiveness, yet both groups support increased investment in AI solutions. The trend indicates a shift in budget priorities from office perks to AI tools, appealing across all age groups.

Business conditions at architecture firms have remained weak, with the AIA/Deltek Architecture Billings Index (ABI) score recorded at 46.2, indicating a decline in billings for 31 out of the last 34 months. Despite a slight increase in inquiries for new projects, firms continue to struggle with converting these inquiries into signed contracts. Billings have declined across all regions, particularly affecting firms in the Midwest. Employment in architectural services has seen modest growth, adding nearly 1,000 jobs this year, although inflation continues to rise, impacting the overall economy. Firm leaders express concern about compensation issues, with many offering remote work flexibility and training to attract and retain staff. The majority believe that charging higher fees is crucial to improving compensation levels in the profession.

The latest AIA/Deltek Architecture Billings Index (ABI) indicates a continued decline in architectural firm billings, with a score of 46.2 in July, down from 46.8 in June. This marks nearly three years of downturn, revealing a significant disconnect between client interest and signed contracts. Despite a steady rise in inquiries for new projects, particularly in the commercial and institutional sectors, the multifamily residential sector continues to struggle. The regional breakdown shows declines across all areas, and while project inquiries indicate growing client interest, the design contracts index has dropped to 47.9, highlighting firms' challenges in securing commitments. The ongoing negative billing trend raises concerns about the architecture industry's recovery, as mere inquiries are insufficient to sustain practice without translating into actual contracts.

Gary Hierlihy

Dominic Aubry

 

Workrite Ergonomics Appoints Scott McPartlin as President

Workrite Ergonomics has appointed Scott McPartlin as President, where he will oversee strategic direction and business functions. McPartlin, a seasoned industry leader with a 30-year career, has a history of driving growth and innovation, notably expanding dealer channels and enhancing EBITDA margins in previous roles.

Rebalancing the allocation of office space in downtown areas can unlock over $120 billion in value, improving local economies and property values. A study suggests that optimal urban portfolios should have around 42% office space instead of the current average of 70%. Converting low-quality office buildings to residential or mixed-use can create substantial value, while public policy and financial incentives are crucial for facilitating these changes. The goal is to enhance downtown vitality by diversifying uses and attracting more foot traffic, ultimately stabilizing city budgets and fostering sustainable urban environments.

Physical proximity fosters creativity and collaboration, as seen in historical examples like the Bauhaus school and contemporary initiatives in San Francisco and Detroit. Businesses should recognize the importance of place in nurturing ideas, as talent clusters and creative adjacencies enhance innovation. Engaging with local culture and community is vital for relevance, while remote work should not lead to isolation from vibrant environments where ideas thrive. Ultimately, the focus should be on creating spaces that encourage interaction and inspiration.

Furniture plays a crucial role in designing better buildings, particularly in reducing carbon footprints and promoting sustainability. With millions of tons of office furniture ending up in landfills annually, using well-designed, sustainable furniture can significantly enhance health and well-being while empowering communities. Companies like HNI Corp. and Allsteel are focusing on sustainability through responsible manufacturing practices, lifecycle assessments, and innovative product solutions, demonstrating substantial reductions in carbon emissions and waste. Collaborative efforts with clients and suppliers are essential for achieving high sustainability standards, as seen in projects like the Stanley Center.

Hans Knoll founded a furniture company in 1938, pivoting from importing European designs to creating American-made furniture due to WWII. Alongside Florence Schust, they pioneered the mid-century modern aesthetic, emphasizing functionality and clean lines. Their innovative use of materials and collaboration with artists led to iconic designs like the Grasshopper Chair and Model 9 Lamp, shaping a new approach to furniture that catered to the postwar American middle class. Knoll's legacy continues to influence modern design, rooted in the necessity and creativity of the 1940s.

Full-time remote employees are working nearly an hour less per day since the pandemic, but productivity remains stable or even improves when roles align with strengths. While remote work offers flexibility and better work-life balance, it may hinder newcomers and collaborative tasks. Organizations should tailor remote work strategies to support performance and maintain strong leadership to ensure employee engagement and satisfaction.

Post-pandemic workplaces are seeing a shift in attendance patterns, with employees leaving earlier but still arriving at traditional times. Many feel less pressure to stay at their desks for long hours, often compensating by working from home later. A study shows that workers in major cities are clocking out earlier than in 2019, while morning routines remain unchanged. However, perceptions of productivity and managerial behavior heavily influence attendance, with employees often feeling guilty for arriving late despite having worked earlier. Optimizing visibility in the office is seen as a strategy to gain recognition for contributions.

The concept of "office spouses," traditionally providing emotional support and camaraderie in the workplace, is evolving with the rise of AI companionship. Employees increasingly turn to AI chatbots for support, which can enhance confidence and reduce interpersonal disputes. However, this shift may erode essential workplace skills, such as reading social cues and handling difficult conversations. Managers face challenges in maintaining trust and communication as employees may rely more on AI than human interactions. Organizations may need to adapt policies to address AI companionship and ensure a balance between technology use and human connection.

Big Tech's aggressive investment in AI, driven by global competition, raises concerns about societal impacts, including an employment crisis due to a shortage of skilled workers and increased carbon emissions from data centers. While AI has potential benefits, such as improving climate predictions and healthcare, there is a pressing need for responsible use and regulation to prevent catastrophic outcomes.

A study reveals that AI is transforming not just tasks but the entire workplace, with many employees believing physical offices will become obsolete. AI enhances flexibility, productivity, and support, often replacing traditional managerial roles. There is a generational shift towards AI as a preferred resource for guidance and communication, yet a disconnect exists between IT leaders and employees regarding AI effectiveness. This raises concerns about the future of human connection in a workplace increasingly reliant on AI.

Creating an optimal office environment in the hybrid work era requires balancing employee experience with financial goals. Companies must assess their data ecosystem, redefine optimization goals, and implement hybrid strategies. Key trends include a shift towards portfolio optimization, increased focus on space utilization data, and a move from assigned spaces to open workstations. Accurate data combined with intentional strategies can transform real estate into a value driver, supporting talent development and fostering a productive workplace culture.

Ford has transformed a historic engineering lab from 1924 into a modern office that reflects its vision for a human-centric workplace. The redesign emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and employee well-being, incorporating natural light and flexible workspaces. This initiative aims to attract a younger workforce and foster a culture of community and creativity, with plans for similar transformations across Ford's global offices.

In today's competitive job market, particularly in rapidly growing economies like India, hiring centers and interview suites play a crucial role in attracting top talent. A well-designed hiring center can significantly enhance the candidate experience, making it more welcoming and effective. Key considerations for creating such spaces include understanding the candidate's mindset and mapping their journey through the hiring process. By reimagining interview suites as amenity ecosystems, companies can provide multifunctional spaces that enhance comfort and reflect their culture. For example, Gensler's project for ADP in Hyderabad included a central lounge, coffee shop, and digital media wall, all designed to make candidates feel at ease and excited about the opportunity to join the company. Overall, investing in thoughtful design for hiring centers can communicate an organization’s brand values and foster a positive impression on potential hires.

Technology transforms workplaces into inclusive and dynamic environments by empowering employees with real-time data for better decision-making, adapting spaces to user needs, and creating customized experiences. It enhances collaboration through advanced AV systems and immersive technologies, ensuring equal participation in hybrid meetings. Additionally, multisensory experiences foster creativity and well-being, making technology a vital partner in shaping meaningful workplace experiences.

Employee involvement in workplace design is crucial for creating effective and engaging environments. A significant gap exists, as only 21% of global office workers felt included in recent redesigns, leading to dissatisfaction and underutilized spaces. Involving employees enhances access to critical workspaces and empowers them to use the environment more effectively. Higher feelings of inclusion are linked to improved workplace performance and experience scores, particularly for non-leadership roles. Organizations can foster inclusion through surveys, focus groups, and workshops, making the design process more collaborative. Ultimately, designing workplaces with employee input is essential for creating spaces that truly support their needs and enhance overall productivity.

As AI transforms workplaces, designers must create flexible infrastructures that accommodate on-premise and hybrid AI solutions. Key considerations include secure data management, high-performance computing, and sustainability. Future-proof designs should allow for scalability and adaptability, integrating AI technologies that enhance user experience and operational efficiency while prioritizing ethical and regulatory standards.

Heywood-Wakefield, an American furniture company known for its mid-20th-century solid wood pieces, has a dedicated community of collectors who share tips and refinishing techniques in various Facebook groups. Despite the company's bankruptcy in the late '70s, its legacy persists through revived production and a strong online presence, where enthusiasts connect over their passion for the furniture's design and history. The community values the longevity and familial connections associated with the pieces, fostering a culture of sharing and preserving the brand's legacy.

Professional NBA locker rooms are designed to enhance player experience, featuring bright lighting, luxurious materials, and innovative storage solutions. Teams like the Golden State Warriors use dark materials for a solemn feel, while the Charlotte Hornets incorporate theatrical elements, and the Brooklyn Nets opt for a bright, modern aesthetic with boutique hotel-like lockers. Resources for locker design are available from Shield Lockers.

The White House's recent renovations under Donald Trump, including lavish gold decor and plans for a large ballroom, have sparked debate about taste and the implications of such changes. Critics argue these alterations reflect a monarchical view of the presidency and raise concerns about funding transparency and adherence to historical preservation standards. The renovations are seen as a departure from the traditional public ownership and pride associated with the White House, echoing past controversies over presidential decor.

President Trump is expected to appoint Joe Gebbia, co-founder of Airbnb, as the chief design officer for the US government as part of the "America by Design" initiative. This initiative aims to enhance the design of government interfaces and improve public services. The new National Design Studio will focus on both digital and physical design, aiming to recruit creative talent and streamline design processes across agencies.

Herman Miller is reviving the iconic Eames Molded Plastic Dining Chair, which has not been produced for over 30 years. The new version maintains the same design as the original but is made from 99% recycled plastic. Originally launched in 1970 and discontinued in 1993, the chair's revival is a collaboration with the Eames Office, focusing on sustainability by replacing virgin plastic with post-industrial recycled plastic. The chair starts at $475 and is customizable. Herman Miller has a history of reissuing Eames designs with sustainable materials, reflecting Charles and Ray Eames' philosophy of material experimentation. The development of the chair involved extensive trials to ensure durability and consistency, ultimately using recycled propylene to achieve the desired quality. This initiative embodies the Eames legacy of innovation and sustainability.

The furniture industry is shifting towards circular design to combat climate change by minimizing waste and maximizing resource efficiency. Key principles include using sustainable materials, extending product life through repair and modularity, and ensuring responsible end-of-life practices. Trends driving this change include demand for durable products, closed-loop materials, and technological advancements. Implementing these principles requires collaboration among designers, manufacturers, and consumers to foster a sustainable future.

An employee shared a photo of discarded office chairs in a dumpster, highlighting the wastefulness of companies that do not recycle or donate functional furniture. This contributes to the significant issue of office furniture waste, with millions of tons ending up in landfills annually. Suggestions for better practices include donating, selling, or recycling old furniture, with examples of companies successfully implementing these strategies to reduce waste.

AFD Appoints Dave Scherff as Firm's Presidentr

AFD Contract Furniture has appointed Dave Scherff as President of AFD New York, where he will focus on strategic leadership, internal processes, sales growth, and culture development. Scherff has extensive experience in the commercial furniture industry, including roles at Armstrong World Industries and Steelcase, and has previously collaborated with AFD on projects. He expressed excitement about joining AFD and contributing to its future success.

Herman Miller reintroduces the Eames Molded Plastic Dining Chair with updated sustainable materials, featuring 99% post-industrial recycled plastic. Available in various colors and upholstery options, including a non-upholstered version for high-use environments, the chair maintains the Eameses' legacy of design innovation. The chair can be purchased online and through MillerKnoll dealers, reflecting Herman Miller's commitment to environmentally friendly practices and timeless design.

Unika Vaev has launched Ecoustic® Loft, a new suspended acoustic system developed in collaboration with Instyle. Made from 100% PET with up to 80% recycled content, it features a sculptural design that enhances sound absorption and reduces reverberation, making it suitable for various environments. The product emphasizes sustainability, being low VOC and Red List compliant.

Shaw Contract Launches Stellar and Interact: A Bold Step Forward in Porcelain and Ceramic Design

Shaw Contract has launched two new porcelain and ceramic tile collections, Stellar and Interact, at NeoCon 2025. Stellar features bold, sculptural designs inspired by otherworldly landscapes, while Interact focuses on mindfulness and adaptability with a calming color palette and unique patterns. Both collections emphasize sustainability, with a commitment to reducing carbon footprints and supporting diverse suppliers. These products aim to enhance commercial spaces through innovative design and environmental responsibility.

Jonas Forman has designed the O2 Lounge Chair for Hay, utilizing a material-driven approach that avoids foam. The chair features a fabric shell over a tubular steel frame, providing comfort and support by adapting to the user's posture while minimizing material use. Forman emphasizes studying material properties to inform design decisions.

The Eames Lounge Chair was introduced with an exploded view drawing created by Charles Kratka, featuring lettering by artist Corita Kent, to highlight its design and engineering. Although the drawing is no longer included with the chair, it is available for purchase as a print. Corita Kent, a progressive artist and former nun, is known for her impactful artwork, including the Love postage stamp.

Danish designers Ernst and Bartholin Jensen have reimagined their stackable Re:Lounge chair for Cozmo, incorporating improved construction and a simplified flat-pack design. The chair features a thin sheet material that folds into a comfortable seat and backrest, complemented by a detachable cushion for customization. It debuted at 3 Days of Design and will be available on myCozmo.com later this year.

Michael K Chen's New York office is a beautifully designed space that reflects the firm's ethos of community and collaboration. The office features a mix of vintage furniture, a well-organized resource library, and areas for social interaction, showcasing the firm's commitment to thoughtful design. Chen emphasizes the importance of making architectural knowledge accessible and has initiated projects to support community needs, alongside publishing a book aimed at promoting responsible practices in architecture.

Foolscap Studio's Forum workspace in Melbourne draws inspiration from ancient Roman architecture, featuring a tiered landscape of marbled cork, traditional colonnades, and a library designed for communal interaction. The interior blends modern materials with historical references, promoting a timeless elegance and encouraging collaboration among users. Artworks by local artists enhance the space, reinforcing its design roots in classical antiquity.

Hannaford's Home Office has been transformed into a vibrant, employee-driven workplace that emphasizes connection, flexibility, and well-being. The redesign features a light-filled atrium, diverse work settings, and wellness-focused design principles, promoting collaboration and inclusivity. Employee feedback was integral to the process, resulting in a space that aligns with the company's culture and enhances productivity through flexible, tech-enabled environments.

Trifle* has designed vibrant, retro-inspired social spaces in Leroy House, a restored 1930s watch factory and cosmetics lab, creating a 'timeline of style' that combines historical elements with contemporary design. The project emphasizes sustainability, achieving net zero carbon status and utilizing local suppliers and recycled materials, while offering unique communal areas for over 100 small businesses.

Leo Keller is a filmmaker and video creator specializing in short-form content for brands like Samsung and Nike Jordan. He enjoys remote work for its flexibility and has a routine that includes gym sessions and creative work blocks. His recent workspace addition is the Apple Studio Display, which has enhanced his workflow.

EY is relocating to Portman Holdings' Ten Twenty Spring office tower in Midtown Atlanta, downsizing from its current space at 55 Allen Plaza. The new office will span 95,000 square feet across three floors, with a construction cost of $20.1 million. The move follows months of searching for a new location and is part of a mixed-use development that includes residential and event spaces. Goldman Sachs provided a $224.2 million construction loan for the project.

Arcadia and Encore Announce Key Personnel Changes to Support Continued Growth

Arcadia and Encore have announced key personnel changes, promoting Brady Journigan to Director of Quality and Design, Brandon Nguyen to Director of Engineering, Hector Zamudio to Manufacturing Engineer Manager, and Ryan Burgess to Director of Manufacturing Operations. These strategic promotions aim to enhance engineering, product development, and operational capabilities, positioning the companies for continued growth and innovation in the furniture industry.

IIDA NY’s Buffalo City Center Unveils Largest Design Showcase in Western New York

The Buffalo City Center of IIDA NY announces the 10th Annual BuffCon, the largest interior design trade show in Western New York, on September 11, 2025, at the Powerhouse. The event will feature designers, architects, and manufacturers showcasing the latest trends and technologies in interior design, fostering creativity and collaboration within the community. Registration is limited to 500 attendees, encouraging early sign-up.

Alcova Miami will take place this December at the Miami River Inn, featuring a central installation by Patricia Urquiola in collaboration with Haworth, marking the company's first involvement as a main partner. This project continues the tradition of site-specific design interventions at the historic venue during Miami Art Week.

We’re seeking an experienced Operations and Supply Chain Manager to lead procurement, inventory, and logistics operations for a fast-paced manufacturing environment. You’ll manage global and domestic vendor relationships, build scalable systems for efficiency and cost savings, and collaborate cross-functionally to drive growth. This is a high-impact role for someone who thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, can collaborate cross-functionally, and is passionate about continuous improvement!

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.

MergeWorks is seeking a Regional Sales Manager for the western US to grow sales and manage Independent Representatives. Responsibilities include developing sales strategies, training reps, collaborating with marketing, and resolving customer service issues. Candidates should have 5-10 years in the contract furniture industry, strong communication skills, and be willing to travel 30% or more.

The Regional Textile Consultant will drive sales, via new business development and account management of existing customers within the assigned territory. This role is responsible for promoting LDI Interiors, providing related consultation, and growing revenue.

As a District Sales Manager, your responsibilities would include business development, promotion, support, and training activities targeted towards designated Dealerships, A & D Firms and End Users in the Dallas market.