Kokuyo to Acquire HNI India / Interface Reports First Quarter Sales Gain / How Will the Trade War Affect Commercial Construction? / Office Sector Logs Fourth Straight Quarter of Positive Absorption / Universities Put Developments On Ice As Trump Cuts Billions In Research Funding / Prime office rents around the world continue to rise / Future of Work 2025: WEF report sets out the unsurprising but profound changes ahead / The United State of Work: Julia Hobsbawm on the Global Transformation of Work / The Convergence of Tech and the Financial Workplace / 'Tell Me The Rules': Builders, Manufacturers Sit On Hands Awaiting Trump Administration Clarity / How Law Firms in Mid-Tier Markets Are Leading Workplace Innovation / Agency Is the New Workplace Amenity / Everyone wants to work in a fancy building these days. WeWork got the memo / and much more…

Japan’s Kokuyo Co., Ltd., best known globally for its office furniture and stationery products, has acquired the India operations of HNI Corporation in a strategic deal aimed at accelerating its growth across Asia’s booming office furniture market. The acquisition is a key component of Kokuyo’s “CCC 2030 Strategy,” which targets USD 3.5 billion in global sales by the end of the decade.
 
Kokuyo already has a significant presence in India through its subsidiary Kokuyo Camlin, but this latest move marks a decisive leap into the commercial interiors sector of the Indian subcontinent. By bringing HNI India into its fold, Kokuyo gains not only a respected brand and customer base, but also access to a 350,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Nagpur that services a diverse client base across banking, tech, and consulting sectors. As of March 2025, HNI India reported annual revenues exceeding ₹200 crore.
 
“This acquisition is a strategic step to accelerate our growth in India and strengthen our position in Asia,” said Karan Sachdev, Managing Director of HNI India. “Our local manufacturing expertise, combined with Kokuyo’s global experience, will allow us to offer even more innovative solutions to meet the growing demand for flexible and hybrid workspaces.”
 
This deal comes on the heels of Kokuyo’s 2022 acquisition of HNI’s Greater China business, Lamex, indicating a clear and methodical approach to regional consolidation in Asia. With this acquisition, Kokuyo not only strengthens its physical manufacturing footprint in India but also deepens its operational capabilities in one of the fastest-growing economies in the world.
 
“India is key to our growth story in Asia,” said Masahiro Fukui, Managing Officer at Kokuyo. “By welcoming HNI India into the Kokuyo Group, we are not only investing in infrastructure—we are investing in people, innovation, and the future of work in one of the world’s most dynamic economies.”
 
Though the financial terms of the deal were not disclosed, Kokuyo confirmed that it will retain HNI India’s current leadership and staff, ensuring continuity as it prepares to rebrand the business under the Kokuyo name in the coming months.
 
The transaction reflects a broader trend of Japanese companies expanding deeper into emerging markets, especially where workplace modernization and hybrid work culture are reshaping demand. With India’s office furniture sector growing rapidly in tandem with commercial real estate and startup ecosystems, Kokuyo’s acquisition positions it to become a leading player in the region’s evolving workplace landscape.

Interface, Inc. reported its first-quarter results for 2025, highlighting a 2.6% increase in net sales year-over-year, totaling $297 million. The company's GAAP earnings per diluted share were $0.22, while adjusted earnings were $0.25. The One Interface strategy continues to drive growth, particularly in the Americas, where net sales grew by 6%. CEO Laurel Hurd emphasized the success of this strategy in diversifying and strengthening the business, while CFO Bruce Hausmann noted that the results exceeded expectations despite a challenging macroeconomic environment. Looking ahead, Interface anticipates a strong second quarter, supported by order momentum and a healthy backlog.

The U.S. office market experienced its fourth consecutive quarter of positive net absorption, with 2.3 million square feet absorbed in the first quarter. Despite this positive trend, the figure is significantly lower than the previous quarter's 10 million square feet, largely due to a high number of lease renewals among large companies. Leasing activity rose to 54 million square feet, an 18% increase from the previous year, although it remains slightly below pre-pandemic levels.

Leasing performance varied across major markets, with increases in cities like Manhattan and Boston, while other areas like Dallas and Seattle saw declines. The average lease size was 21% smaller than pre-pandemic, reflecting ongoing impacts from hybrid work. Renewals made up a larger portion of leasing at 40%, as companies sought to minimize relocation costs.

Overall vacancy rates increased to 19%, influenced by the delivery of 3.3 million square feet of new office space. Prime office buildings outperformed the market with a decrease in vacancy rates, showcasing strong demand despite limited new construction. Available sublease space also saw a decline, but remained higher than pre-pandemic levels. Only 22 million square feet of office space is currently under construction, with notable activity in cities like Cleveland and Austin. Tenants retained negotiating power, especially in Class B and C buildings, as landlords offered incentives to attract renters.

The World Economic Forum's report predicts significant changes in the workplace by 2030, driven by generative AI, demographic shifts, and the green transition. While 170 million new jobs are expected, 92 million will vanish, leading to a net gain of 78 million jobs. Skills in AI and big data will be in high demand, necessitating reskilling for nearly 60% of the workforce. Workplace design will need to adapt to hybrid work and prioritize employee wellbeing.

The financial workplace is increasingly adopting practices from the tech industry, moving towards a flexible and evolving environment. As technology roles within financial services expand, there is a growing need for workplace design that supports both individual focus and collaboration.

Both tech and finance employees prioritize access to technology and the ability to work in teams, but their motivations for being in the office differ. Financial institutions are enhancing their workspaces by incorporating hospitality-inspired amenities and creating environments that promote well-being, such as biophilic designs and ergonomic features.

Additionally, there is a renewed emphasis on in-person learning and mentorship, fostering a culture of continuous professional development. The goal is to create vibrant, energetic workplaces that not only facilitate productivity but also enhance employee satisfaction and retention. By integrating creative design with functional flexibility, financial firms aim to thrive in a rapidly changing landscape.

In a recent discussion, host Bob Fox engages with Julia Hobsbawm, a prominent figure in the discourse on the future of work and workplace culture. Julia reflects on her unconventional career journey and the significant transformations in work dynamics following the global lockdowns. Key topics include the emergence of hybrid work models, shifts in traditional workplace norms, and advancements in various regions, particularly the UAE. They highlight the importance of rethinking leadership and employee wellbeing for enhanced productivity and explore Julia's vision for establishing a World Work Organization. The conversation provides valuable insights for professionals in corporate real estate, HR, and workplace strategy, focusing on the evolving landscape of work.

The discussion highlights the challenges posed by oversimplified metrics in the flex space market, particularly regarding pricing and segmentation. As managed offices gain popularity, there is a growing need for clearer distinctions between different types of flex spaces and their pricing structures. Current metrics often fail to accurately represent the complexities of costs associated with varying team sizes and office densities. To improve decision-making, it is essential to adopt a more nuanced approach to data, recognizing factors like office density, team size pricing tiers, and market-specific insights. By providing true cost visibility tailored to business needs, stakeholders can navigate the evolving flex space landscape more effectively and make informed choices in a complex market.

Builders and manufacturers are experiencing uncertainty as they await clarity on the Trump administration's tariff and economic policies, which are hindering investment decisions. Key figures from the industry express frustration over the lack of defined rules for operating in the current environment. While some companies, like Toshiba, are adapting their supply chains in response to these changes, others are postponing projects due to concerns about costs and the economic outlook. The impact of tariffs on construction projects is perceived as manageable, but broader economic uncertainties are causing delays and affecting employment rates within the sector. The need for high-quality and affordable U.S. products remains, but businesses emphasize the importance of a stable transition to domestic manufacturing.

Co-working spaces have evolved significantly, especially in the context of changing work practices post-COVID. They provide flexibility and enhance workers' well-being by fostering a sense of community, trust, and new friendships, while also encouraging continuous learning. Research indicates that these spaces help address societal challenges by supporting workers with family responsibilities and improving digital connectivity in underserved areas. Co-working environments are associated with higher job satisfaction and well-being compared to traditional work settings. They facilitate knowledge exchange, reduce commute times, and can integrate additional services such as childcare. These spaces also offer opportunities for skill development and networking, particularly beneficial for young people and those not currently in education or employment. Furthermore, co-working spaces are emerging in rural areas, supported by government initiatives aimed at revitalizing communities and reducing the urban-rural divide. However, their effectiveness is enhanced when accompanied by public investments in infrastructure and skills training. Overall, co-working spaces contribute to creating a better work environment that prioritizes human connection and well-being.

Perkins&Will, a Chicago-based architecture and design firm, is set to premiere "Currents of Chicago," a new digital artwork, as part of ART on THE MART, the world's largest digital art project. This initiative will debut on June 5, 2025, just before NeoCon 2025, a significant event for the commercial design industry. The artwork will honor the various forces shaping Chicago, such as water, wind, and infrastructure, and will transform THE MART’s facade into a cinematic tribute to the city. The piece, accompanied by Chicago house music from producer Aniko Thomas, is designed to take viewers on a journey through the city’s design heritage while celebrating its resilience and beauty. It will be projected nightly from June 5 to July 6, allowing the public to experience this vibrant celebration of Chicago's culture and innovation along the Chicago Riverwalk. The project reflects the intersection of design, technology, and nature, aiming to foster a dialogue about the future of urban living.

NeoCon, the leading event for the commercial design industry, has announced the jury for the 2025 Best of NeoCon Awards. This year's competition will feature a panel of distinguished architects, designers, and facility managers who will evaluate new products across various categories on June 6 and 7 at THE MART in Chicago. Winners will be revealed during a ceremony on June 9. The jury, comprising professionals from well-known organizations, will assess each entry based on its potential impact on real-world applications and design innovation. Categories for awards include Gold, Silver, Innovation, and Sustainability, along with a Business Impact Award recognizing products that enhance organizational performance. In 2025, attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in the People's Choice Awards by voting for their favorite winning products. Eligible products must have entered the U.S. market since June 2024 and be displayed at NeoCon 2025. Submission details, including deadlines and fees, are provided for exhibitors interested in competing. Registration for NeoCon 2025 is free for industry professionals.

Interiors from Spain will participate in the Fulton Market Design Days 2025, scheduled for June 9 to 11 in Chicago. The event celebrates creativity and design, featuring 10 Spanish brands showcasing innovative products. Carlos Galtier, Director at Interiors of Spain, expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity to present groundbreaking designs in a collaborative environment. The installations will be located at 950 W Fulton Street, 2nd floor.

Highlights from Salone del Mobile 2025 include innovative designs from Magis, such as the eclectic Twain chair and Tacito storage cabinets, Kartell's new TRAYs and UNCLE JACK couch, and Flos's impressive lighting exhibits like Nocturne and Linked. Time management is crucial for navigating the vast event.

The landscape of law firm workplaces is undergoing significant transformation, particularly in mid-tier markets like Charlotte, North Carolina. These firms are moving away from traditional hierarchies and are embracing flexibility, collaboration, and hospitality-focused designs. As law firms aim to do more with less, many are reducing their office footprints while increasing headcount, fostering a more efficient and collaborative environment. This shift is evident in the design of spaces, with an emphasis on creating inviting areas that feel more like hospitality venues than traditional offices. The focus on community and connection is driving firms to rethink their layouts, with many opting for shared spaces that encourage interaction among attorneys and staff. This new approach not only enhances employee satisfaction but also improves the overall client experience. Mid-tier markets are proving that innovative workplace strategies can thrive outside major cities, setting new standards in the legal industry by prioritizing culture, connection, and a modernized work environment.

The piece discusses the importance of providing employees with a variety of workspace options to enhance their productivity and satisfaction. It highlights the shift in workplace dynamics, particularly post-pandemic, where the majority of employees now have the freedom to choose their work settings. The findings reveal that while availability of spaces often dictates where employees work, comfort and ergonomics become significant factors when choices are not constrained by availability. Employers are encouraged to design workplaces that cater to diverse needs by creating an abundance of the right types of spaces, monitoring usage, and adapting to the evolving requirements of their workforce. Ultimately, the goal is to empower employees to select environments that best support their work activities.

The office market is shifting towards high-quality spaces as workers seek appealing environments post-pandemic. WeWork is responding by investing $90 million in refurbishing top locations and increasing prices for its services, reflecting a growing demand for premium coworking spaces in major cities like San Francisco, New York, and London.

Embracing circular design in workplaces enhances sustainability by reusing existing materials, reducing waste, and fostering innovation. This approach aligns with corporate goals for resilience and carbon neutrality, while digitization and collaboration can further optimize resource use and efficiency.

Humanscale has been recognized by the CDP as the top company in the contract furniture industry for its environmental impact and transparency. The CDP evaluates organizations on their climate, forest, and water data, and Humanscale has excelled in these areas. This recognition highlights the company's ongoing efforts to combat climate change, protect forests, and minimize water waste. Jane Abernethy, the Chief Sustainability Officer at Humanscale, expressed pride in the team's dedication to addressing climate impacts. The acknowledgment also emphasizes the company's focus on sustainable practices both within and outside its manufacturing facilities.

Zilenzio has introduced the Focus Spaces furniture, designed to enhance collaboration in corporate environments. Developed in partnership with Note Design Studio, this furniture line includes modular seating and tables that provide privacy while encouraging interaction among colleagues. The Focus Spaces are tailored for the modern hybrid office, addressing the need for both individual focus and group connectivity. With a focus on comfort and functionality, the system consists of 17 seating modules and various table options, allowing for flexible arrangements without the need for advance booking. The design emphasizes warmth and inviting spaces, making it a versatile solution for diverse workplace interactions.

Trove by Encore is a line of nesting chairs designed by David Ritch and Mark Saffell that combines modern aesthetics with practical utility. The chairs feature passive-nesting capabilities for effortless organization and a sculpted design that enhances comfort. Available in various styles and colors, Trove includes multiple base options, such as metal and wood frames, as well as swivel models. Its compact footprint makes it ideal for spaces with limited floor area, making it suitable for environments like meeting rooms and conference centers. The design aims to blend seamlessly into any setting while providing the functionality of nesting chairs.

Kartell has unveiled the "Aaland Collection," designed by Patricia Urquiola. This new collection features upholstered furniture, including sofas, armchairs, and ottomans characterized by soft, inviting shapes that allow for flexible arrangements. Additionally, the collection includes Corteza coffee tables and planters, crafted from recycled materials and inspired by organic forms. These pieces are designed to blend seamlessly into both indoor and outdoor environments, promoting comfort and a sense of togetherness.

Thinkspace has launched its complete hushFree acoustic pod line in North America, offering eight models that are ready to ship within seven days. The new line includes two small-footprint models, hushFree.XS for private phone calls and hushFree.S.Hybrid for video conferencing. Designed for various professional needs, these pods feature class A acoustics and intelligent Hush Assistant technology, which adjusts lighting and ventilation for enhanced comfort. The pods cater to individual and group use and are certified for quality and accessibility. Thinkspace, a woman-owned company, emphasizes innovative design and rapid delivery from its U.S. inventory locations.

Cassina and Kiton have collaborated to launch a limited edition of the 3 Fauteuil Grand Confort armchair, originally designed in 1928 by Le Corbusier, Charlotte Perriand, and Pierre Jeanneret. The chair features upholstery in blue and burgundy cashmere, resting on a low glossy frame that reflects Le Corbusier’s understanding of color and spatial perception. Kiton, known for its luxurious textiles sourced from Mongolia and milled in Biella, provides the soft yet durable fabric. Only 120 pieces of this revived model will be available.

MARCO launches the CUE™, a versatile pneumatic desk and mobile podium designed for K-12 environments, featuring ergonomic height adjustments, locking casters for mobility, and eco-friendly materials, available in various colors and backed by a 10-year warranty.

Keilhauer launches a new collection of 17 vibrant and versatile finishes, developed in collaboration with Gabriel Group, aimed at fostering emotional connections to nature in interior spaces. The collection includes sustainable textiles and encourages designers to create cohesive, calming environments that promote wellness and balance.

3form expands its Varia Artisan Collection with new handcrafted interlayers, Knotted Hemp and Woven Bamboo, integrating artisanal craftsmanship into modern design. These materials enhance durability and aesthetics, while etched glass interpretations offer versatility for various spaces, promoting a connection to nature and cultural heritage.

Coronet introduces STFU Contours, a new collection of acoustic luminaires featuring seven curvy fixtures designed for sound absorption and bold aesthetics. Available in various colors and customizable options, these fixtures combine high efficacy LED technology with eco-friendly materials, catering to modern commercial spaces.

Chemetal has launched two new anodized aluminum designs, #945 Champagne Stainless Aluminum and #946 Champagne Satin Aluminum, offering durable and affordable options in lighter brass tones for interior spaces, ideal for various applications like restaurants and hotels.

The Kangaroo Porter, developed by the South Korean company Carryup, is a versatile utility cart designed for convenience and efficiency. It features a sturdy aluminum frame that supports a spacious 70-liter cubic polyester bag, which can be easily removed for storage. The cart folds neatly, nesting the frame on top of the bag, making it compact for transport. Additionally, it includes a plywood tabletop, transforming it into a mobile worksurface ideal for various settings, including photography studios. Weighing 14 lbs for the frame and 4.8 lbs for the bag, it is designed for use with a vehicle rather than for carrying up stairs. Priced at $200, the Kangaroo Porter has garnered significant interest on Kickstarter, surpassing $125K in pledges.

Landscape Forms has been recognized with five 2025 GREEN GOOD DESIGN® Awards for its innovative and sustainable design solutions. The awards highlight product lines such as Booth, Americana, Harvest, Outline, and Moment, which reflect a commitment to ecological restoration and sustainability. Booth reimagines indoor comfort for outdoor use with sustainable materials, while Americana and Harvest leverage recycled high-density polyethylene to create durable public space furnishings. The lighting families, Outline and Moment, are designed to minimize light pollution with features that ensure low glare and reduced upward illumination. These award-winning designs demonstrate Landscape Forms' dedication to combining aesthetics with sustainability.

SOM and Gensler designed Disney's new 19-story headquarters in New York, featuring green terracotta cladding that harmonizes with local architecture while standing out. The building emphasizes flexibility for content creation, includes ample natural light, and is fully electric, showcasing sustainable design principles.

Civilian designed Amika's Brooklyn headquarters as a serene, open-plan workspace that fosters collaboration and creativity, using soft colors and materials while avoiding the brand's vibrant palette. The design emphasizes comfort and functionality, featuring unique spaces like The Mother’s Room and communal areas for focused work.

Bartlett & Associates redesigned the atrium of a commercial tower in Mississauga, focusing on wellness and sustainability. The project features biophilic elements, flexible furniture, and distinct areas for collaboration, enhancing tenant experience and building identity while minimizing waste through adaptive reuse strategies.

Rumpke has developed North America’s largest and most advanced recycling facility in Columbus, Ohio, designed in collaboration with various firms. This $100 million facility, spanning 223,000 square feet, is dedicated to enhancing recycling processes and community engagement. It features state-of-the-art technology, including AI-integrated equipment and optical scanners, enabling the processing of over 250,000 tons of materials annually. The facility also includes an educational center partnered with COSI, providing interactive exhibits that educate visitors about recycling. The design emphasizes community involvement, particularly in the historic American Addition neighborhood, with input from local leaders ensuring the project benefits the area. The facility incorporates flexible spaces for career development and training, as well as artistic displays from local schools and artists. 

Allsfär's Vault collection combines Roman-inspired design with acoustic innovation, allowing for creative ceiling and wall solutions using sustainable materials. The product features easy installation, customization options, and is made from 60% recycled PET felt, minimizing environmental impact while enhancing interior acoustics.

Kamil Poturalski is a Measurement Implementations Specialist based in Berlin, Germany, working for Thomann, a leading European music e-commerce company. He has a background as a Digital Tracking Specialist at HelloFresh and is also involved in product design, notably creating the Block Year Planner wall calendar. Kamil shares insights about his workspace, including his favorite items like the Technics SL-3210 record player, which he enjoys using to start his day. He emphasizes the importance of being open to creativity, allowing inspiration to flow naturally without imposing restrictions.

Deloitte has signed a lease for 800,000 square feet at 70 Hudson Yards in New York City, relocating its North American headquarters from Rockefeller Center. This move signals a resurgence in Manhattan's office market as demand for high-end office space increases following the pandemic. The new skyscraper will be the largest ground-up office development in the U.S. since the pandemic began and will be New York City’s first zero-carbon-emission skyscraper. The project comes amid a competitive landscape for top-tier office properties, with limited availability in the area attracting major tenants. The building is expected to include various amenities and is scheduled for completion between 2027 and 2028.

Aneetha McLellan has been appointed as the Executive Director of JSI Health + A+D, effective April 14, 2025. With over twenty years of experience in designing healthcare environments, she has previously worked with organizations such as HDR, Kimball, and DLR Group. McLellan is known for her impactful work in major hospital systems and clinics, emphasizing the relationship between design and wellness. In her new role, she will lead JSI’s Healthcare strategy and collaborate with partners to enhance the company's market presence. McLellan holds a Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and is committed to integrating meaningful design with client-centered strategies.

Turf has appointed Alex Moore as the new Design Studio Director, enhancing collaboration between sales and design teams. Moore, a former Turf team member with over 12 years of experience in the design and architecture industry, aims to drive innovation and strengthen relationships within the architectural community. His role will involve managing project workflows, ensuring custom designs' feasibility, and integrating design expertise early in the process. Under Moore's leadership, Turf is positioned to continue delivering innovative acoustic solutions while maintaining a focus on exceptional service and sustainability.

Andrew Dias has been appointed as the Showroom Manager for Havwoods' New York City location. With 18 years of leadership experience, including seven years in the building materials industry, he aims to enhance showroom operations and strengthen relationships with trade professionals and homeowners. Andrew expressed enthusiasm for contributing to Havwoods’ growth and increasing demand for its products while fostering a motivated team. His role will involve overseeing daily operations, leading a team of Account Executives, and collaborating with industry professionals to meet sales targets. Havwoods is committed to providing exceptional service and expanding its presence in North America.

HNI Corporation released its biennial Corporate Responsibility Report, highlighting a $1.5 million investment in community health, a 79% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, and advancements in sustainable product practices, including eliminating harmful packaging materials. The report emphasizes the company's commitment to responsible innovation and continuous improvement.

LINAK has released its first ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) Report, highlighting its dedication to transparency and accountability. The report details the company's considerations regarding environmental impact and community welfare, as well as its 2030 ambitions, initiatives, and results achieved. Founded as a family-owned business in Denmark, LINAK focuses on transforming rotational movement into linear movement through high-quality electric linear actuator technology, serving various sectors including healthcare, agriculture, industry, offices, and homes.

Loll Designs will lead the 17th annual "Clean Yer Creek" event on May 3, 2025, with up to 500 volunteers cleaning five creeks feeding into Lake Superior, aiming to restore local ecosystems and promote outdoor appreciation. Participants can still sign up for the event, which includes clean-ups and after parties in Duluth.

Ethnicraft is showcasing its new Bulky Modular Sofa at this year's ICFF. The sofa emphasizes comfort with its rounded corners, luxurious upholstery, and detailed stitching. Its subtle sepia tone and modular design allow for versatile arrangements, enabling each piece to function as an independent lounge chair, chaise, or small sofa. Attendees can visit Ethnicraft at Booth #735.

A sales rep in the contract furniture industry seeks new opportunities in related sectors like tile, outdoor furniture, and area rugs. Transitioning is possible by applying directly to companies, leveraging existing skills, and networking with friends in those industries. Competitive compensation and numerous job openings are available due to increased home renovations.

OFS is seeking a Sales Representative to join our team in Southern California.