MillerKnoll to close Muskegon plant, affecting 250 workers / Stinson Acquires Arc-Com / Howard Miller Announces Plans to Wind Down Operations / Trump says U.S. to impose 30% tariffs on E.U., Mexico next month / US furniture industry faces uncertainty as orders decline and confidence drops / KI celebrates 30 years with opening of new London showroom / Nowy Styl strengthens international presence with visionary showroom expansion / Furniture giants fall as closures and liquidations sweep US market / Office CMBS Delinquencies Reach Record High in June / Law Firms in Office-Leasing Mode as Broader Sector Remains Muted / U.S. Office Sales Jump Nearly 70% As Investors Focus On Trophy Assets / Debunking 3 Myths About Generational Differences in the Workplace / The Indoor Default: Why We Stopped Working Outside – And How to Start Again / Is A 4-Day Workweek The Inevitable Future Of Work? / Midwest Cities Dominate As Best U.S. Places For Work-Life Balance In 2025 / Luxurious Champagne Metals are the Newest from Chemetal / and much more…

MillerKnoll, a prominent office furniture manufacturer based in Zeeland, is closing its Muskegon plant, which employs approximately 250 workers. The decision, communicated to employees on July 8, involves consolidating operations into two facilities in Spring Lake and one in East Greenville, Pennsylvania. The consolidation process is expected to start this summer and be completed within two years, with most Muskegon employees being offered the opportunity to relocate to the Spring Lake facilities. This closure comes as MillerKnoll is recovering from a decline in sales, reporting net sales of $961.8 million for fiscal year 2025, though still down from previous years. The company, which rebranded from Herman Miller after acquiring Knoll in 2021, has invested in the Muskegon facility over the past few years but determined that consolidation is necessary for long-term business success.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Howard Miller, a third-generation family-owned business renowned for its handcrafted clocks and home furnishings, has announced plans to wind down its manufacturing operations after nearly a century in business. The company, which employs approximately 195 people across its Michigan and North Carolina facilities, will continue production into the fourth quarter of 2025 and remain open into 2026 to sell off its remaining inventory.

 

In addition to its reputation in residential furnishings, Howard Miller has long had a presence in the commercial interiors arena through its Hekman Furniture and Hekman Contract divisions, supplying products to healthcare, hospitality, and corporate environments.

 

Leadership shared the decision with employees, who will receive severance packages and job placement support. The company will also maintain its charitable work through the Howard Miller Foundation.

 

President and CEO Howard J. “Buzz” Miller expressed disappointment about the closure, attributing it to a perfect storm of adverse market forces, including a weakened housing market, inflation, rising interest rates, and tariffs that disrupted supply chains. Despite enlisting the help of an investment banker in hopes of finding a buyer, no deal has materialized—though the company remains open to offers.

 

Founded in 1926, Howard Miller has built a rich legacy over nearly 100 years, earning numerous design awards and a place of prominence in both residential and commercial furnishings.

The U.S. furniture industry is experiencing challenges as new orders, backlogs, and consumer confidence decline due to macroeconomic pressures and policy uncertainty. Recent data shows a 9% decrease in new orders in April 2025 compared to the previous year, with a 4% year-to-date drop. Shipments have also declined, and backlogs are down by 10% year-over-year. Consumer confidence has weakened significantly, impacting perceptions of business conditions and job availability.

 

Some segments of the industry are reportedly in a "mini-recession," reflecting the sector's sensitivity to economic changes. Ongoing tariff impacts, particularly a new 20% tariff on Vietnam, have led 72% of small to medium home furnishings companies to report decreased sales. Despite these challenges, there are signs of improvement in housing inventories and resilience in the stock market. However, uncertainty surrounding tariffs, interest rates, and inflation suggests a cautious outlook for the industry moving forward.

Several major US furniture manufacturers are shutting down operations due to financial pressures, with many not filing for bankruptcy. Economic challenges such as rising labor and product costs, high interest rates, and declining customer foot traffic have contributed to this crisis.

 

Progressive Furniture, based in North Carolina, will cease operations by the year's end, affecting 30 employees, following the closure of its main Mexican supplier. Elk Home, a Pennsylvania furniture and lighting company, is liquidating its assets after over 40 years in business. Other affected companies include Kith Furniture from Alabama and Worthy's Run Furniture from Maryland, the latter of which filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in May.

 

This trend indicates growing instability in the US home furnishings sector, which has been significantly impacted by inflation and weakening consumer confidence.

KI has celebrated its 30th anniversary in the UK by opening a new flagship showroom in Clerkenwell, London. This showroom represents a commitment to innovation and design excellence, showcasing a wide range of furniture solutions for various sectors, including workplace and education. The space is designed for intuitive navigation, featuring products like the Sutton chairs and Logon task chair, along with specialized areas for collaboration and presentations. The showroom was developed in partnership with architects and contractors, maintaining key design elements while promoting a mission focused on creating healthy and high-performing environments.

Steelcase Inc. held its annual shareholder meeting where shareholders approved several proposals, including the election of ten board directors and a new incentive compensation plan. The approved plan allows for the issuance of various equity and cash-based awards to eligible individuals and includes up to 3,025,286 shares of Class A Common Stock. Notable votes included Sara E. Armbruster receiving approximately 248.1 million votes in favor. Shareholders also endorsed the compensation of named executive officers and ratified the appointment of Deloitte & Touche LLP as the independent registered public accounting firm for fiscal 2026.

 

Steelcase reported strong first-quarter results for fiscal year 2026, surpassing earnings expectations and achieving significant revenue growth, particularly in the Americas region. The company maintained its revenue guidance for the second quarter and received a positive Buy rating from Benchmark, reflecting optimism about its workplace transformation strategies and the return-to-office trend. Additionally, Steelcase is focused on improving profitability in its international segment by laying off employees.

Nowy Styl, a prominent provider of office and public space furniture, is enhancing its international presence through the expansion and renovation of showrooms in Europe and the Middle East. The company has recently opened updated locations in Dubai and Dornbirn, as well as new showrooms in Frankfurt, Nyon, and plans for Manchester and Amersfoort.

 

With a total of 28 showrooms worldwide, including six in Poland, Germany remains Nowy Styl's largest market, contributing significantly to sales. Each showroom features a unique design approach, showcasing ergonomic concepts and flexible interiors. The Vice President of the Management Board emphasized that these developments signify progress and a commitment to global expansion through innovative retail environments.

Office sales in the U.S. have surged nearly 70% over the past year, driven by a growing interest in trophy assets. A significant portion of the transactions, approximately 71%, involved high-end Class-A properties. The fourth quarter saw notable activity, with over $15 billion in sales. California markets, particularly Los Angeles and San Francisco, experienced remarkable increases in office sales, with gains of 147% and 140% respectively. Trophy assets accounted for a growing share of transactions, rising from 22.7% last year to 35.3% in the first half of this year. Private investors are leading the acquisitions, while international buyers have decreased their presence in the market.

Law firms have leased 4.6 million square feet of office space in the first quarter, marking a 25% increase year-over-year and the strongest start to a year on record. This activity represents 8.4% of the total leasing volume in major U.S. legal markets. Law firms are reimagining their office spaces to enhance talent retention, client engagement, and accommodate the tech-driven nature of legal work. Legal leasing volumes have exceeded pre-pandemic levels by 35% over the last five quarters, with firms expecting attorneys to work in the office three days a week. The primary purpose of office spaces is to foster collaboration, meet clients, and enhance productivity. There is a trend towards top-tier buildings with flexible design and amenities, but future supply constraints may affect availability. Additionally, investments in technology are increasing, with tech budgets expected to rise from 4% to 5.5% of revenue as firms adapt their strategies and space designs accordingly.

The office market is currently facing significant distress, with the delinquency rate rising to a record high of 10.83% in June, up from 7.55% a year ago. Retail properties and lodging properties are also experiencing increased delinquency rates of 7.06% and 6.81%, respectively. In contrast, industrial properties maintain the lowest delinquency rate at 0.51%. Overall, the CMBS delinquency rate increased slightly to 7.13% in June due to a decline in the total loan balance rather than a substantial rise in delinquent loans. Despite some loans being cured, the office sector saw a net deterioration in loan performance.

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WeWork signed a 60K SF lease at 250 Broadway in NYC, marking its first coworking deal since 2019 and signaling a return to growth after bankruptcy. The company plans to invest $80M-$100M globally this year, with increasing demand in NYC reflected in a 10% rise in memberships.

Atlanta's office market is struggling with a 45% drop in leasing activity amid economic uncertainty and federal spending cuts, leading to significant declines in office space occupancy. While some areas like Central Perimeter see increased activity, overall leasing remains low, and companies are seeking more flexible lease terms. The sales market, however, has surged, with a notable increase in property transactions.

Generational differences in the workplace are narrowing, with consistent reasons for in-office work across age groups. Workers seek environments that foster creativity and well-being, and cultural context plays a significant role in shaping preferences, highlighting the need for inclusive workplace design.

Discover how redefining the office to include outdoor workspaces can boost productivity, well-being, and creativity.

After wildfires threatened the Eames House, the family announced the creation of the Charles & Ray Eames Foundation to preserve their legacy. The foundation aims to educate future generations about the Eameses' holistic design philosophy and will support community rebuilding efforts while reopening the house for visitors this month.

The trend towards a four-day workweek is gaining momentum as full-time employees in the United States are working fewer hours, with younger workers leading this shift. Employees are increasingly valuing their time and well-being, prioritizing work-life balance over traditional metrics like compensation. Technology is enhancing productivity, enabling discussions about restructuring the workweek. However, employee engagement is declining, and burnout is rising, particularly among younger professionals. Organizations are responding by experimenting with condensed schedules and flexible arrangements that prioritize outcomes over hours worked. This shift reflects a broader recognition that productivity thrives in supportive environments that foster well-being and autonomy.

The British Council for Offices (BCO) has released a report revealing that office utilisation rates have stabilized but fundamentally changed in usage. The traditional benchmark of 80 percent office utilisation is now deemed inadequate, with post-pandemic data suggesting a more realistic figure of 66 percent, which translates to 15 sq. m per occupant. This adjustment aligns with a flexible working model, allowing organizations to optimize their space and enhance employee experience.

 

The report highlights significant implications for office design and infrastructure, recommending adjustments in service provision based on actual occupancy. It notes that mid-week occupancy peaks are predominant, with corporate occupiers showing higher desk utilisation than the public sector. Additionally, regional offices are performing better than those in London. 

Coworking spaces in apartment buildings are becoming essential for tenant retention, enhancing resident satisfaction through thoughtful design and strategic integration, while also serving as a competitive advantage in the multifamily market.

Midwestern cities are emerging as leaders in work-life balance by offering affordable living, remote work options, and strong mental health resources. Cities like Minneapolis and St. Paul excel due to their combination of social infrastructure and manageable work hours, with over 23% of Minneapolis workers operating remotely. Additionally, places like Madison, Wisconsin, and Lincoln, Nebraska, are noted for their mental health support. Southern and Western cities are also improving, with Raleigh and Boise City gaining attention for their favorable work-life dynamics. Workers increasingly prioritize balance over salary, pushing cities to create flexible, health-focused environments.

Companies are exploring no-meeting policies to boost productivity and reduce fatigue, with varying approaches like dedicated deep work days, AI tools to minimize unnecessary meetings, and the importance of leadership buy-in for success. While some employees appreciate the focus, others miss social interactions and informal collaboration.

Target mandates that employees in its commercial division return to the office three days a week starting in September, consolidating previous smaller return-to-office efforts amid a trend of stricter hybrid work policies among large employers.

Business travelers are integrating personal rituals into their routines, such as drawing, video calls, and fitness, to maintain a sense of home while on the road. This trend reflects a shift towards work-life integration, where personal habits help ground individuals amidst their travels. Hospitality services are adapting to meet these evolving needs, offering flexible arrangements that cater to the unique demands of modern business travel.

The report explores five visions for the future workplace, emphasizing the need for adaptability and a focus on human needs. It highlights the changing landscape of office design due to hybrid work models, evolving employee expectations, and a greater emphasis on health and sustainability. Key concepts include the adaptive office with flexible layouts, the hybrid office that integrates remote and in-person work, the healthy office prioritizing well-being, the circular office aimed at reducing waste, and the social office designed as a cultural hub. The report underscores that the future office should be a dynamic system that evolves to meet the needs of its users.

Creating a comfortable and functional outdoor workspace can enhance productivity and well-being. Simple upgrades, such as laptop shades, ergonomic seating, and portable chargers, can significantly improve the outdoor work experience. Incorporating elements like privacy screens, portable monitors, and Wi-Fi extenders can further facilitate effective working conditions. Additionally, using ergonomic cushions and lap desks can provide comfort during extended periods of work outside. These upgrades allow individuals to blend nature with their work routine, promoting a healthier and more balanced lifestyle.

The concept of workplace design is evolving to resemble hospitality environments, where offices are increasingly adopting features typical of hotels and cafes. This shift aims to enhance employee experience by fostering community, connection, and well-being. Key elements include the integration of diverse workspaces such as coworking hubs and café-style seating, alongside biophilic design and accessibility-focused amenities.

 

Design strategies emphasize thoughtful lighting, ergonomic furniture, and abundant access to power, ensuring that spaces are inviting and functional. The incorporation of technology and a willingness to experiment with different space types are crucial for adapting to the needs of a modern workforce. Overall, these changes aim to create vibrant, engaging workplaces that inspire collaboration and a sense of belonging among employees.

Jonathan Hindle reflects on KI's 30-year journey in Europe, emphasizing sustainable innovation, the launch of a new showroom, and the development of products like the Sebel chair made from 100% post-consumer waste, showcasing a commitment to wellbeing and adaptability across various sectors.

The discussion highlights five human-centered strategies for improving healthcare design, emphasizing the importance of creating environments that support all users, including patients, families, staff, and researchers. It advocates for hospitals to serve as community centers that foster connection and collaboration. Key strategies include designing spaces that facilitate communication, incorporating community elements and cultural references, and ensuring that technology enhances rather than detracts from human interaction. The overall goal is to create healthcare environments that prioritize empathy and community engagement, ultimately leading to better health outcomes for patients.

As the world marks the tenth anniversary of the Paris Agreement, companies are assessed on their progress toward net-zero emissions by 2030. Many are falling short, with only 16% of the largest companies on track to meet their targets, highlighting the urgent need for actionable insights to accelerate climate goals.

Chemetal has expanded its champagne collection by introducing two new colors: Chemetal 945 Champagne Stainless Aluminum and Chemetal 946 Champagne Satin Aluminum. These additions bring the total to nearly 20 products inspired by brass and champagne tones. The new designs meet the growing demand for satin finishes and lighter brass colors, produced on durable and affordable anodized aluminum. Available in standard sizes of 4’ x 8’ and 4’ x 10’, as well as custom options, these solid aluminum designs can also be specified as Waterworld, which features an embossed water effect. The lighter champagne color tone is described as less yellow and more desaturated than traditional brass, making it a versatile choice for various color palettes.

NaughtOne introduces Mimo, a versatile modular seating and table collection by Keiji Takeuchi, and Fin, a sustainable lounge chair by Daniel Schofield, both emphasizing simplicity, comfort, and design innovation for modern spaces.

KI launches the Sebel chair, made entirely from 100% post-consumer waste, preventing 4.5kg of plastic waste per chair. It features ergonomic design, durability, and a 25-year warranty, making it ideal for sustainable educational environments.

Carnegie introduces six new sustainable Xorel designs, celebrating 75 years of innovation with features like intricate embroideries and eco-friendly materials, suitable for various interior applications. The collection emphasizes artistry and performance while maintaining high sustainability standards.

The upcoming exhibit "Past as Prologue: The Last Decade of Furniture Design by Ray and Charles Eames (1968-1978)" will be held at the Transamerica Pyramid in San Francisco. It will showcase around 100 artifacts, including furniture and memorabilia, highlighting the Eames' contributions to office furniture design during a transformative period. The exhibit emphasizes modularity and ergonomics, reflecting the changes in the workforce and technology of that era. Additionally, there will be two retail shops featuring vintage furniture, art books, and Eames-themed gifts. The exhibit is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is free to the public.

Il progetto unisce branding, architettura e cultura del viaggio e ridefinisce il tempo in aeroporto, trasformandolo in momento di accoglienza

Ekho Studio has designed a new workspace for WorkWell in Harrogate, which is characterized by elegance, flexibility, and sophistication. The building, located at Copthall Bridge, is WorkWell’s third location and reflects the upscale ambitions of the brand. The design incorporates elements that pay homage to Harrogate’s history and community while providing a high-quality, people-centered workspace aimed at professionals seeking a premium experience. Key features include a spacious welcome area, business lounge, members' lounge, and co-working spaces, all designed to foster collaboration and support well-being. The interiors utilize high-quality materials and finishes, ensuring a warm and inviting atmosphere that aligns with WorkWell’s commitment to health and wellness.

Grendene’s new headquarters in Wynwood, Miami, designed by Nar Design Studio, transforms a basic industrial space into a vibrant, culture-rich environment that reflects the company's Brazilian roots and fashion-forward identity. The 3,000 sq.ft. office features a flexible layout with unassigned desks, collaborative zones, and themed huddle rooms, enhancing creativity and teamwork. Key design elements include visual storytelling through color and materials, natural elements like moss walls, and acoustic features to improve comfort. The transformation has received positive feedback from employees, who appreciate the balance between collaboration and individual workspaces, as well as the incorporation of brand identity throughout the office. This thoughtful design approach has fostered a sense of pride and connection among staff, ultimately creating a space that supports creativity and productivity.

Gannon Nordberg helps DTC brands convert website visitors into customers through effective popups. His workspace features a Jarvis standing desk, HÅG Capisco chair, and various tech tools, including an Apple MacBook Pro and Bose QuietComfort headphones, enhancing productivity and creativity in a quiet home environment.

 

 

Herman Miller's Bay Work Pod has won the Red Dot Award for Product Design, recognized for its ergonomic features and aesthetic appeal, optimized for hybrid work environments. It includes ADA accessibility and customizable options for personal styling.

Snap Inc. has taken over a 156K SF lease for the former 23andMe headquarters in Sunnyvale, California, reviving a property that struggled to find a tenant since 2019. This move expands Snap's presence in the Bay Area, following 23andMe's bankruptcy and the previous sublease to CoreWeave.

Fritz Hansen celebrates the 70th anniversary of the Series 7™ chair, designed by Arne Jacobsen in 1955. This chair is noted for its timeless elegance and adaptability, making it a favored choice in various public spaces such as museums, theatres, and airports. Its slender silhouette and organic shape create visual harmony, enhancing the aesthetics of any environment without overpowering it. The chair's enduring appeal is attributed to its perfect proportions, reflecting Jacobsen's minimalist design philosophy. As it reaches this milestone, Fritz Hansen emphasizes the chair's legacy as not only a functional piece but also a representation of design purity and craftsmanship.

Configura Announces the 2025 Configura Awards Celebrating Excellence in Design Innovation 

Configura has launched the 2025 Configura Awards to recognize outstanding achievements in design innovation, with entries open until August 15, 2025. Categories include People's Choice Renderings, Success Stories, and more, with winners announced at the CET Experience in Orlando on October 8, 2025. Public voting will occur from September 10-17, 2025.

Istituto Marangoni Miami and Pininfarina Launch Pininfarina Scholarship for Interior Design Students

Istituto Marangoni Miami has launched the Pininfarina Scholarship in partnership with the renowned Italian design house Pininfarina. This scholarship aims to support talented individuals pursuing a Master of Fine Arts in Interior Design. Annually, three exceptional applicants will be awarded the scholarship, with one recipient receiving a full tuition scholarship valued at $107,340 and an apprenticeship at Pininfarina's Miami offices, while two others will receive 50% scholarships. The initiative reflects a commitment to fostering creative leadership in interior design, with a focus on design innovation and academic excellence. Eligible applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree and demonstrate leadership potential. The inaugural application cycle is open, with submissions due in early September, and winners will be announced on September 10, 2025. This scholarship also provides students with direct industry access through the apprenticeship experience, enhancing their global design perspective.

Shaw Contract Introduces Two Digital AI Tools to Streamline Design and Elevate Creative Vision

Shaw Contract has launched two AI tools, Inspiration Curator and View In My Space, to enhance flooring selection for designers and users. Inspiration Curator allows users to upload images for personalized flooring palettes, while View In My Space provides real-time visualizations of flooring in actual spaces, promoting efficient and sustainable design choices.

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.

OFS is seeking a dynamic and experienced Market Resource Manager who will be responsible for the overall performance and operations of the showroom, ensuring a high level of customer satisfaction, optimizing sales, and maintaining the visual standard of our product displays.