In December 2025, the Architecture Billings Index (ABI) remained below the neutral threshold at 48.5, indicating a continued decline in architecture firm billings throughout the year. Although fewer firms reported a decrease in billings compared to previous months, inquiries for new work remained weak, and the value of newly signed contracts continued to drop, indicating no near-term recovery.

 

Despite this, firms maintained solid backlogs, averaging 6.3 months, with some larger firms reporting backlogs as long as 8.6 months. Notably, firms in the Midwest experienced an increase in billings for the fourth consecutive month, while conditions remained soft in other regions. The most significant billing declines were observed in firms specializing in multifamily residential projects.

 

The broader economy faced challenges, with only 50,000 new jobs added in December and a notable decrease in federal government employment. However, architectural services employment grew modestly. Projects were significantly delayed, stalled, or canceled, with 90% of firms reporting delays and 84% indicating projects on hold. Client indecision, budget insufficiencies, and changing market conditions were major contributors to these issues.

 

Looking ahead, a third of firm leaders anticipate fewer delayed or canceled projects in the first half of 2026, while 12% in the Northeast expect an increase in such trends. Overall, while current business conditions are challenging, there is a slight optimism about future project trends.

Humanscale Brings Human-Centered Design to San Francisco with New Showroom

Humanscale has opened a new ground-floor showroom in San Francisco, expanding its retail-forward strategy in one of North America’s most influential design markets. The space was designed in collaboration with architect Suchi Reddy, founder of Reddymade, and is intended to function both as a retail environment and a working showroom for the brand’s performance-driven products.

 

The San Francisco location reflects Humanscale’s emphasis on comfort, simplicity, sustainability, and movement, while bringing the brand closer to the local design community. Reddy approached the project with a focus on how the space feels and flows, creating an environment that is calm and intuitive, with products remaining the primary visual and experiential focus.

 

The showroom is organized into layered, open-yet-intimate zones that showcase Humanscale’s seating, sit-stand solutions, and accessories without overwhelming visitors. Flexible configurations—including curved and half-circle forms—can be reworked to demonstrate adaptability and to highlight how the products support the body in motion throughout the day.

 

Sustainability guided key design decisions. The original concrete floors were preserved, existing glass was renovated rather than replaced, and modular wall systems were used to create functional office moments while maintaining visual continuity. In a nod to the local design ecosystem, the showroom features modular wall systems from a San Francisco startup, reinforcing Humanscale’s investment in community-driven innovation. Color and texture are introduced through textiles from Kvadrat, including a dedicated area within the showroom that highlights the relationship between furniture and textile design.

 

“We aimed to create a calm, intuitive space where the products remain the focus, using subtle, sustainable interventions that reflect Humanscale’s philosophy,” said Rhys Jones, associate creative director at Humanscale. 

 

The opening continues an ongoing collaboration between Humanscale and Reddy, who has previously designed showrooms for the brand in Chicago, Paris, Sydney, and Shanghai. The San Francisco space is shaped by the city’s culture of sustainability, innovation, and well-being, positioning it as both a brand statement and a community touchpoint.

 

A defining aspect of Reddy’s work with Humanscale has been the consistent use of female-led design and construction teams across projects worldwide. In San Francisco, project management was led by Ashley Hart of Cushman & Wakefield, continuing a pattern that Reddy describes as a deliberate model for inclusive leadership in design and construction.

 

The Humanscale showroom is located at 10 Jackson Street, San Francisco, and is now open to the design community and the public.

DIRTT Environmental Solutions, a leader in industrialized construction, reported strong commercial activity in December 2025, indicating a shift from planning to execution among customers. The company engaged in various sectors, including healthcare and public services, and noted improvements in planning indicators, with the Dodge Momentum Index rising 7.0%. Significant projects included a $7 million engagement with U-Haul and collaborations with clients such as Google Toronto and the Texas Department of Public Safety. DIRTT's CEO emphasized the growing clarity in customer project approaches as market conditions evolve, focusing on efficient execution. The company is headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, and trades on the Toronto Stock Exchange.

Adeline Mabilat

Kylie Vincelette

Groupe Lacasse has appointed Adeline Mabilat as Director of Brand & Marketing. She brings more than 19 years of B2B and B2C experience, with a track record in brand equity development, innovation, portfolio management, trade marketing, and integrated media campaigns. An MBA in Marketing, Mabilat offers a global perspective shaped by leading cross-functional teams, launching campaigns across multiple markets, expanding product lines internationally, and implementing data-driven strategies that improved market share and customer engagement.

 

At the same time, Groupe Lacasse promoted Kylie Vincelette to Director, Partner Engagement and Corporate Communications. With nearly a decade at the company, Vincelette brings deep knowledge of Groupe Lacasse’s organization and product portfolio, combining analytical rigor with creativity and a collaborative, solutions-oriented approach. In her new role, she will focus on strengthening engagement across sales channels and overseeing corporate communications to ensure alignment and consistency.

 

“These appointments reflect our commitment to strengthening our sales and marketing leadership, and deepening our relationships with our highly valued partners,” said Gary Hierlihy, Vice President of Sales and Marketing. “We are excited to have Adeline and Kylie assume these critical roles in supporting our growth and long-term success across all markets.”

Billionaire landlord Charles Cohen is engaged in a legal battle with Fortress Investment Group over his real estate portfolio, which includes significant (mostly residential) design centers. After defaulting on a mortgage, Cohen lost ownership of the Decorative Center Houston and faces the possibility of his properties being placed into receivership. Despite selling assets and reducing his debt, Fortress is pushing for a court ruling to allow them to sell Cohen's properties to recover the loan. Cohen argues that losing the Pacific Design Center could lead to the collapse of his company, while Fortress claims that selling this asset is crucial for efficient repayment. The court has delayed a decision on the receivership to allow Cohen to present evidence of potential refinancing, but time is running out for him.

Steelcase Recognized as One of the World’s Most Admired Companies for the 20th Year

Steelcase has been recognized as one of the world's most admired companies for the 20th consecutive year, ranking third in the Home Equipment and Furnishings category on Fortune's 2026 list. This recognition reflects Steelcase's commitment to research and innovation in creating solutions for various work environments. The company emphasizes its dedication to improving well-being for people and the planet through its global community and partnerships.

MillerKnoll has been named to the Fortune World's Most Admired Companies™ 2026 list, recognizing its commitment to design innovation and corporate values. The company, formed from the merger of Herman Miller and Knoll, aims to expand its retail presence and focus on sustainable design. This marks MillerKnoll's first appearance on the list, following other accolades for workplace innovation and environmental responsibility.

The office market in Manhattan is entering a new phase characterized by significant changes and adaptations. Key trends are shaping the future of workspace design and functionality, reflecting the evolving needs of businesses and employees. As companies reassess their office requirements post-pandemic, innovations and strategic developments are becoming essential in creating effective working environments. The focus is on flexibility, sustainability, and technology integration to enhance productivity and employee well-being.

The nonresidential construction sector is facing a prolonged slump despite a seemingly healthy economy, with spending expected to rise only 1.0% in 2026 and 2.2% in 2027, not adjusted for inflation. Commercial construction may see slight growth, while manufacturing is forecasted to decline. The industry is characterized by uncertainty due to shifting tariffs and immigration policies, compounded by significant federal spending cuts. Architects are experiencing weak demand, with the Architecture Billings Index remaining low and project delays becoming more common. Overall, the construction landscape is split, with data centers and health care showing some resilience, while education, retail, and manufacturing face challenges. This situation necessitates adaptation from architecture firms as they navigate a market with fewer projects and longer timelines, all while managing increased competition and economic pressures.

The national office vacancy rate decreased to 18.4% by December 2025, with significant drops in major metros due to coworking and hybrid models. Co-working's market share rose to 2.2%, providing flexible options for companies. However, vacancy rates remain above historical norms, and the construction of new office spaces has declined significantly. Despite adding 42,000 jobs in the office sector, there were losses in December, particularly in professional services and IT. Lower interest rates may facilitate conversions of office buildings, with a notable portion of existing properties being candidates for such changes.

Denver's office vacancy rate has declined for the first time since the pandemic, dropping to 28.3%, though it remains up 1.5% year-over-year. Class-A offices are seeing lower vacancy rates, particularly in Cherry Creek at 12.6%. The flight-to-quality trend is influencing leasing, with tenants seeking modern amenities and new constructions. Despite challenges from a slowing population and older buildings, there is optimism for improvement in the market, with a slowdown in construction and plans for office conversions expected to stabilize vacancy rates.

In 2025, the U.S. witnessed a staggering 1.2 million job cuts, a figure reminiscent of the 2008 financial crisis. This represented a 58% increase from the previous year's layoffs. The tech industry was particularly hard-hit, with around 154,000 jobs lost due to rapid AI implementation and corrections from pandemic-era overhiring. Federal workers also faced significant layoffs, amounting to about 308,000 positions. Entry-level employees, especially Gen Z workers, were disproportionately affected, with their representation in tech companies dropping alarmingly. Despite promises that AI would create new jobs, the reality has been a significant loss of employment in various sectors.

Creating a workplace that remains relevant over time involves investing in adaptability. This includes embracing modularity, using movable furniture, and incorporating flexible elements like demountable partitions in areas likely to change. It's essential to evaluate the mix of office types, collaborative spaces, and support areas, recognizing that some spaces are more static. AI-enhanced workflows are influencing collaboration and should guide decisions on which areas to prioritize. Evaluating the cost and performance trade-offs between fixed and flexible elements will be crucial for a future-forward workplace, which now has access to innovative products designed for adaptability.

Frontline workers report lower satisfaction than office workers despite purpose-built facilities. Key issues include a lack of support for well-being and social connections, with 45% feeling their company isn't a great place to work. Schedule flexibility is crucial, yet many lack access to it. Burnout is prevalent, with 44% of frontline workers experiencing it, highlighting the need for improved HR policies and workplace design. Employers should focus on flexible scheduling, enhancing physical environments, integrating well-being resources, and providing AI training to address these challenges effectively.

As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to integrate into architecture, its role is expected to evolve significantly by 2026. AI tools are increasingly being used to streamline design processes, optimize floor plans, and accelerate the creation of construction documents. Architects anticipate a shift towards using AI to enhance creativity, collaboration, and decision-making rather than replacing human input.

 

Key changes expected include a more rigorous and transparent design process, where firms will be accountable for their AI usage. AI will facilitate rapid test-fitting rather than generating images, and it will support exploration while ensuring safety in creative practices. The integration of AI is also expected to enhance communication and persuasion in design, making architects and engineers more effective. Rather than replacing professionals, AI will augment their capabilities, allowing for a richer collaboration between human designers and AI systems. This partnership will focus on leveraging both human creativity and technological advancements to create sustainable, livable, and impactful spaces. The challenge lies in developing effective workflows and ethical frameworks for human-AI collaboration, ensuring that the creative control remains firmly with human designers.

Bisley, traditionally known for steel filing cabinets, is adapting to the digital age by diversifying its product range to include wood and mixed-material furniture. The company is responding to the demand for flexible, home-like office environments by incorporating design elements that enhance employee wellbeing. Future plans involve expanding into new materials and strengthening online sales channels to better meet customer needs in the evolving workplace landscape.

Remote work has declined in major U.S. cities, dropping from 15.7% in 2023 to 13.45% in 2024, while some smaller towns are experiencing growth. Analysis of 357 cities reveals that Texas and California lead in remote work adoption, with cities like Frisco, TX, and Berkeley, CA, having the highest percentages of remote workers. Conversely, cities such as Salinas, CA, and Santa Maria, CA, show low remote work rates, indicating a reliance on in-person employment. The data suggests that while remote work offers flexibility, larger cities are seeing a shift back to office mandates and hybrid models.

Mark Dixon, CEO of International Workplace Group (IWG), argues that a four-day workweek is unrealistic, contrary to predictions by prominent figures like Bill Gates and Elon Musk. He highlights the current cost-of-living crises in the U.S. and U.K., emphasizing that companies cannot afford to pay the same wages for fewer hours, leading to expectations of increased productivity instead. Dixon believes that automation will not reduce work but instead create new tasks, as seen in historical shifts like the Industrial Revolution. He advises young workers to focus on acquiring skills in technology and AI to adapt to the evolving job market, stating, “It’s impossible to stop progress.”

Tayco Introduces Bridgeway™: Adaptable Power and Purposeful Privacy for Evolving Workspaces

Tayco Office Furnishings Inc. (Tayco), a Canadian manufacturer known for thoughtfully designed workplace solutions, kicks off its 50th anniversary with the launch of Bridgeway™, a flexible power beam created to support adaptable layouts, purposeful privacy, and the evolving needs of modern work environments.

 

Designed with the evolving office in mind, Bridgeway delivers accessible power without reliance on walls, ceilings, or fixed infrastructure—making it an ideal solution for open-plan offices, height-adjustable benching, collaborative zones, and non-traditional workspaces such as lounges, reception areas, and waiting spaces. Its modular design supports straight, 90°, and 120° configurations, allowing designers to respond easily to shifting program requirements.

 

“Designers are being asked to create spaces that are more agile, more efficient, and more human,” says Josh Bradbard, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Tayco. “Bridgeway was developed to support that shift, offering adaptable power and visual separation in a clean, architectural form that integrates seamlessly into a variety of workplace settings.”

 

Bridgeway offers multiple fencing heights and optional privacy screens, enabling designers to balance openness with focus and acoustic comfort. With 22 metal finish options, the system can be tailored to complement a wide range of design palettes while maintaining visual consistency across open environments.

 

Built on Tayco’s proven Cosmo structural platform, Bridgeway leverages shared components to reduce material waste and extend product life. Recyclable PET screen options, from Tayco’s Echo line, further support sustainability goals, aligning with the growing demand for responsible, long-term workplace solutions.

 

“As we celebrate 50 years of Tayco, Bridgeway represents the way we continue to design—thoughtfully, responsibly, and with the future in mind,” says Bill Melnik, Chief Executive Officer and owner of Tayco. “It reflects our commitment to creating flexible systems that evolve with the workplace, support sustainable design decisions, and deliver lasting value for our partners and their clients.”

 

Bridgeway reflects Tayco’s design philosophy of creating systems that are not only flexible and durable, but also capable of evolving alongside the spaces they serve—supporting reconfiguration, growth, and change over time.

 

Bridgeway is now available through Tayco’s authorized dealer network across North America. For additional information or to request a demonstration, visit tayco.com/products/office-furniture-systems/bridgeway-power-beam-system.

KFI Studios has launched Canopy, a freestanding workstation designed in collaboration with Gensler, aimed at creating flexible and focused workspaces in open-plan environments. Canopy features a privacy hood, integrated lighting, and customizable options, promoting comfort and productivity while addressing the need for personal space. Built with sustainability in mind, it uses locally sourced materials and meets high-quality standards, making it suitable for modern offices, coworking spaces, and educational settings.

Andreu World has introduced the Brandy Stool, designed by Lievore Altherr Molina, enhancing its seating portfolio. The stool features a comfortable upholstered shell made from flexible foams and offers various base options in wood or aluminum. Its versatile design suits both contract and residential settings, reflecting modern needs for dynamic environments while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic.

Arcadia introduces the Ravelle occasional table series, designed by Chris and Jon Panichella, featuring adaptable round and triangular forms that can nest and rearrange for modern interiors. Available in various heights and sizes, the tables emphasize tactility with materials like wood, ash veneer, and laminate, promoting dynamic groupings in diverse settings. Sustainability is a focus, as the tables are primarily made from renewable wood and can be disassembled for responsible recycling, making them functional and flexible for evolving spaces.

Peter Pepper Products Introduces Chamfer: Sculptural Waste Receptacles with Architectural Detail

Peter Pepper Products has launched Chamfer, a collection of sculptural waste receptacles designed by Ramsey Madsen, featuring crisp angled edges and a distinctive front seam. Crafted in brushed stainless steel or a selection of powder-coat colors, Chamfer combines modern design with functionality, available in four sizes for various environments. The collection emphasizes restraint, clarity, and flexibility, reflecting the company's commitment to thoughtful design and craftsmanship.

Landscape Forms has introduced the Link System with modular rails, enhancing outdoor environments. Founded in 1969 and headquartered in Kalamazoo, Michigan, the company collaborates with renowned designers and architects to create products that connect people to nature. They have a global presence and a diverse client base, including notable brands and institutions. Sorelstudio, based in the Denver Metro area, offers product design and creative direction, focusing on the interplay of culture and technology in design. Jess Sorel’s work has received international recognition and has been featured in various prestigious publications.

Sabin has launched LAYER, a series of planar acoustic fixtures designed to enhance space organization, manage acoustics, and create visual hierarchy. The series features four customizable shapes—DISC, OBROUND, TRIANGLE, and RECTANGLE—available with various lighting options. Built from layered PET felt, these fixtures offer flexibility in design and installation, catering to diverse environments. With an NRC rating of 0.85+, they provide effective acoustic performance suitable for commercial interiors, and are engineered to simplify installation in complex ceiling conditions.

London studio Pearson Lloyd has designed the Veleta, a modular soft-seating system for esPattio, a contemporary furniture brand in southern Spain. The design responds to evolving work habits, accommodating various postures for comfort without mechanical adjustments. Veleta features modular blocks of differing heights and depths, offering options for upright work or relaxed lounging. It bridges the gap between work and leisure, catering to hybrid environments like co-working lounges and hotel lobbies. The system's modularity allows for flexible layouts, complemented by a durable plywood frame for longevity and easy repairs. Circularity and sustainability are key considerations in its design.

Italian industrial designers Alberto and Francisco Meda have created pendant lamps from recycled volcanic stone, utilizing surplus chips from stone processing. The lamps, named Alicudi, Filicudi, and Panarea, feature unique textures due to the handcrafted production process, which varies with each piece while maintaining a consistent shape.

Increased transparency in corporate climate actions is pushing companies to provide empirical data on their decarbonization efforts. Many companies are exceeding the minimum climate transition budget (CTB) of $15 per tonne of GHG emissions, with median funding equaling just 0.3% of revenues. A significant portion of funding is directed toward value chain projects rather than carbon credits, indicating a shift toward deeper emissions reductions. Low-carbon materials are prioritized for their quicker implementation, though cost-effectiveness varies widely. There is a need for more project-level data to enhance decision-making in climate initiatives.

The Mitchell Group Introduces NetZERO® BIO: Highlighting Engineering, Environmental Sustainability

The Mitchell Group has launched NetZERO® BIO, a sustainable coated fabric platform made with 94% bio-attributed polyurethane and a proprietary water-based, solvent-free process. This material offers durability and cleanability while supporting healthier indoor environments, being PVC-free and compliant with key regulatory standards. NetZERO BIO is designed for commercial interiors and is available in various patterns, showcasing the company's commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility.

SOM has unveiled the interiors of the trading floors located in the new JPMorganChase skyscraper at 270 Park Avenue, designed by Foster & Partners. This advanced trading environment features eight trading floors spanning 500,000 square feet, accommodating 4,000 traders. The design includes a double-height atrium, interconnected two-storey suites, and shared amenities like cafes and conferencing areas, all aimed at facilitating collaboration and focus. Natural materials and live plants enhance the welcoming atmosphere, while large glass facades maximize daylight. The building integrates modern digital infrastructure, promoting human connection and operational excellence in a sustainable and adaptable environment.

Bean Buro designed a three-story office in Hong Kong inspired by the mangrove tree, focusing on well-being and collaboration. The 54,000-square-foot space features tropical flora, bespoke lighting, and sustainable materials, creating a vibrant and interconnected environment. The design incorporates a spectrum of colors and local artwork, enhancing the workplace's aesthetic and cultural spirit while promoting sustainability and employee comfort.

Faizur Rehman, a designer with over 14 years of experience, works as a solopreneur focusing on app, website, and product design. His workspace includes essential tools like Evernote for note-taking and a standing desk to enhance productivity. He divides his day into building, creating, and managing, and draws inspiration from deep thinking, writing, and walks. Recently, he added an Apple Pro Display XDR for precise work and emphasizes the importance of showing up for creativity, even when motivation is low.

The Trend Report Podcast Returns February 2 with Season 7 

The Trend Report Podcast returns for Season 7 on February 2, focusing on contract furniture and workplace design. Hosted by Sid Meadows, the season features a structured weekly format with industry interviews, hot takes, and actionable professional development episodes. It introduces a new tool for listener interaction and launches The Trend Report Insider Community for deeper engagement. The season premiere includes a conversation with Bryce Stuckenschneider, CEO of Loftwall, and offers insights into the evolving world of commercial interiors.  Info >

A-Light Wins Three GOOD DESIGN® Awards

A-Light has won three GOOD DESIGN® Awards for its Aloft 3D, Angle, and Mira luminaires in the Lighting Category. The awards, presented by The Chicago Athenaeum, recognize innovative design and manufacturing. The Aloft series features customizable lighting arrangements, while Angle is designed for high-ceiling spaces, and Mira provides even illumination to minimize hotspots. All award-winning products will be featured in the GOOD DESIGN Yearbook and celebrated at the 2025 GOOD DESIGN Show in Athens, Greece.

Renson North America Promotes Max Sebrechts to Architecture & Design Director

Max Sebrechts has been promoted to Architecture & Design Director at Renson North America, effective December 1, 2025. He will lead architectural specification efforts, support architects, and expand accredited continuing education offerings focused on sustainability. His role centralizes the architectural specification process and enhances engagement through Renson's Dallas showroom, aligning with the company's strategy to unify European design with U.S. manufacturing.

MNLA Elevates Four to Principals, Signaling the Next Chapter in Firm Leadership

MNLA, a prominent landscape architecture firm, has elevated Alexis Gagné, Dan Yannaccone, Johanna Phelps, and Martha Desbiens to the role of Principal, marking a key moment in its leadership evolution. Founding Principal Signe Nielsen emphasized that this change represents both continuity and renewal, highlighting the new principals' commitment to the firm's core values of transformation, inclusivity, and advocacy. Each of the new principals has significantly contributed to MNLA's projects and culture, enhancing its mission to create enriching public spaces. The leadership transition aims to ensure stability while empowering teams to deliver transformative, human-centered landscapes. MNLA reaffirms its dedication to advocacy and design principles that have guided its work for over three decades.

Ghent Products Expands Representation in New York, New Jersey with Key Collective

Ghent has partnered with Key Collective to enhance its representation in New York and New Jersey, showcasing its visual communication solutions at the New York Design Center. This collaboration aims to improve accessibility to design professionals and specifiers across various sectors, emphasizing shared values of innovation and client service.

Configura Announces Excelerate 2026

Configura will host its annual Excelerate event for CET stakeholders on March 3–4, 2026, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The event focuses on collaboration, knowledge sharing, and practical application rather than traditional marketing, bringing together customers, manufacturers, and partners to discuss best practices and future developments in the CET platform. The schedule includes advisory board meetings and informative sessions aimed at fostering deeper engagement among participants.

Jamie Stern Furniture, Carpet, Leather, Fabric Announces Woven Resistance

Jamie Stern Furniture, Carpet, Leather, Fabric announces Woven Resistance, a four-city exhibition and online auction featuring 13 unique carpets designed with top interior designers. The event starts in New York on February 5, 2026, and aims to support LGBTQ rights, civil liberties, and climate change initiatives. The auction runs from February 5 to 25, 2026, with a catalog available online.

CONSOLL and Office Partners Announce Strategic Agreement to Expand Contract Furniture Opportunities for Independent Dealers

CONSOLL has entered a strategic agreement with Office Partners to enhance contract furniture opportunities for independent dealers across the nation. This collaboration aims to support over 213 dealer locations by providing access to 44 manufacturing partners, enhancing growth and profitability through shared resources, marketing tools, and national account participation. Both organizations emphasize their commitment to empowering dealers, with CONSOLL leveraging its expertise in commercial furniture and Office Partners focusing on personalized support for independent dealers. Founded in 2018, CONSOLL has expanded significantly, while Office Partners, established in 1998, supports over 500 dealer locations and 280 manufacturers.

IIDA NY Honors Fifth Annual Hazel Siegel Scholarship Recipients 

The International Interior Design Association’s New York Chapter (IIDA NY) has announced the winners of its fifth annual Hazel Siegel Scholarship. The recipients are Rahil Mandalia from Pratt Institute, Syna Saigal from The New School, Parsons School of Design, and Sarah Touri from Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT). Each winner will receive an all-expense-paid trip to the IIDA’s SHIFT Conference in Dallas and a one-year membership to the IIDA NY chapter. The scholarship honors Hazel Siegel, a significant figure in textile design and a long-time IIDA NY member, recognizing her contributions to the design community. The scholarship recipients were chosen for their community engagement, academic performance, and design aspirations. Rahil Mandalia focuses on creating spaces that promote well-being in a technology-driven world. Syna Saigal applies a socially conscious approach to design, emphasizing wellness and inclusion. Sarah Touri aims to foster community through her work, inspired by sustainable urban growth and inclusive public spaces. IIDA NY supports design advocacy, sustainability, and diversity initiatives while providing resources for its members.

Business cards are still relevant for salespeople, especially when dealing with older clients or at trade shows. They serve as a branding tool and a sign of professionalism. While digital connections are important, having a quality business card is essential for making a memorable impression. It's advisable to use business cards strategically and complement them with digital exchanges like LinkedIn.

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.