ergoCentric has completed the acquisition of Belair Office Products, bringing together two established Canadian manufacturers with complementary product portfolios and aligned cultures.

 

Belair has built a strong reputation within the Canadian contract furniture industry for quality, service, and craftsmanship, particularly in case goods and office acoustic systems. ergoCentric pointed to that legacy, along with cultural alignment and a shared long-term growth strategy, as key drivers behind the transaction. Both companies emphasized continuity for customers, suppliers, and employees as the integration moves forward.

 

“We are excited to welcome Belair into the ergoCentric family,” said Terry Cassaday, CEO of ergoCentric. “Belair’s dedication to designing and manufacturing high-quality case goods and office acoustic systems complement our high-performance office seating and ergonomic accessories. This acquisition supports our long-term strategy to expand both our capabilities and our product offering.”

 

Following completion of the transaction, Belair will continue to operate under its own brand while benefiting from ergoCentric’s broader operational scale, resources, and market reach.

 

“Joining ergoCentric marks a new chapter for Belair,” said Scott Vanderform, CEO of Belair Office Products. “We are proud of our heritage and excited for the opportunities this creates for our employees, customers, and future growth.”

 

Both organizations said they are committed to a smooth and transparent transition that prioritizes the needs of customers and partners while positioning the combined businesses for future growth.

Actiu, a manufacturer of office and public space furniture based in Alicante, has achieved over €100 million in turnover for the first time, ending 2025 with €100.18 million, marking an 11.2% increase from the previous year. CEO Joaquín Berbegal attributes this growth to efficient operations, long-term investments, and a strong emphasis on innovation and digitalization, with €6.8 million invested in product development and industrial capacity, a 70% increase from 2024.

 

The company has focused on strategic sectors such as healthcare and education, designing spaces that enhance the well-being of patients and staff in hospitals, and creating learning environments tailored to the needs of students and teachers in schools.

 

Looking forward, Actiu plans to launch Actiu RED in Madrid to strengthen its international presence and expand its design product catalogue in collaboration with renowned architects. The strategy aims to consolidate existing markets while pursuing growth in new regions, reinforcing Actiu's position as an industrial benchmark in office and collective space solutions. Berbegal emphasizes that exceeding €100 million confirms the effectiveness of Actiu's focus on digitalization, sustainability, and its industrial model, positioning the company for continued growth and influence across Europe and beyond.

Hybrid work is transforming commercial real estate (CRE) strategies, emphasizing efficiency, cost management, and data-driven decisions. In 2025, office building utilization reached 53%, a significant increase from previous years, with peak utilization averaging 80%. This shift indicates that hybrid strategies and return-to-office policies are successfully increasing in-office activity, although peak days may lead to capacity pressures.

 

Global occupancy has surpassed physical seating capacity at 111%, necessitating rotating schedules and flexible arrangements. Design density has decreased to 190 square feet per seat, while people density is now 158 square feet per person. Desk sharing is prevalent, with 69% of organizations reporting over 40% of employees sharing desks, targeting an average of 1.01–1.49 people per seat. Sharing ratios are increasingly guided by job function, space utilization, and supply-demand data.

A resurgence in venture capital funding, particularly in the tech and AI sectors, is generating optimism for office demand and hiring in 2026. According to Avison Young's latest U.S. Office Market Report, the current market resembles the tech boom from 2014 to 2018, with San Francisco and Manhattan showing early signs of recovery. In 2025, venture capital investment increased by 27% year-over-year, prompting renewed leasing activity, although national totals remain below historic levels. Approximately 278 million square feet of office space were leased across the U.S. in 2025, marking a 9.6% decline from 2024. Key markets like San Francisco and Manhattan reported significant leasing increases of 40% and 7.7%, respectively, while Boston experienced a 20% year-over-year gain. Additionally, office loan originations reached $45.8 billion in 2025, a 92% increase from the previous year, with a focus on trophy and Class A assets.

The trend of companies relocating to Miami has slowed, but those that have moved are expanding their operations and hiring more staff, leading to increased demand for office space. New tenants, such as Citadel and Amazon, have significantly increased their leased space, with some companies looking to expand their footprints substantially in 2026. The lack of income taxes in Florida is attracting further corporate migration from states like California and New York. While new-to-market leasing activity has decreased, existing tenants are growing, driving up demand for office space. However, long-established firms are facing challenges due to rising rents and are downsizing in some cases. The overall outlook suggests continued growth and interest in Miami's commercial real estate market.

Deloitte signed the most expensive lease in NYC since the pandemic, committing over $2.6B for a 22-year lease at 70 Hudson Yards. This deal surpasses previous high-value leases, reflecting a strong office market. Other notable leases include Starr Cos. at 343 Madison Ave for nearly $1.3B and Salesforce at 1095 Sixth Ave for $776M. Manhattan's office market shows increased leasing activity, with a vacancy rate below 13% and rising rents, particularly in competitive areas like Midtown and Hudson Yards.

The vacancy rate for U.S. life sciences space decreased for the first time in three years, ending 2025 at 23.4%. Despite 2.5M SF of leases signed, only 156K SF was absorbed due to move-outs. Asking rents fell to around $70 per SF, and the sector faces challenges from reduced federal funding and sluggish leasing activity. However, modest increases in venture capital funding and AI advancements may provide growth opportunities. Some owners are struggling, with Alexandria Real Estate Equities reporting a significant loss and planning to sell assets to adapt to market conditions.

Brexit has significantly hindered UK design brands' ability to sell products in the EU, turning the "made in Britain" label into a financial burden. Since leaving the EU in January 2020, British brands face severe administrative hurdles, leading to a decline in EU customer confidence. Companies like Vitsœ and Ercol report drastic drops in sales, with Ercol experiencing an 88% decrease since 2019. Businesses have also incurred substantial costs due to customs charges and bureaucracy, prompting some to refocus on the UK market or establish EU operations to mitigate these challenges. Overall, Brexit has not only complicated trade with the EU but has also negatively impacted relations and perceptions in markets like the US.

The BIFMA 360° Leadership Conference, held last week at The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club in St. Petersburg, Florida, once again demonstrated that its real value lies less in formal programming and far more in who is in the room. While a major snowstorm complicated travel for some attendees, those who made it reinforced a long-standing truth about BIFMA 360°: this is not a trade show, and it is not a recruiting fair. It is a relationship-driven executive forum where ownership-level conversations happen naturally—and often quietly.

 

From the Welcome Reception through the signature Speed Dining Dinner, the phrase “connection is key” felt less like a theme and more like a working business model. The rotating-table format, limited attendance, and absence of booth-driven agendas create space for conversations that rarely happen at NeoCon or Design Days. As longtime attendee Stephen Viscusi noted, BIFMA 360° is fundamentally not a recruiting forum. Most attendees are owners or CEOs, many of whom are already well known within the industry, which changes the tone and purpose of the conversations entirely. What stood out again this year was that executives increasingly sought Viscusi out in his role as president of Viscusi Advisors, his consulting practice focused on advising manufacturers and private equity groups considering acquisitions or exits. The firm is not a business broker or investment bank; instead, it facilitates high-level introductions among company owners and leaders—precisely the kind of discreet, trust-based interaction that BIFMA 360° uniquely supports.

 

That dynamic helps explain why networking consistently outweighs the educational sessions in perceived value. For executives contemplating leadership transitions, succession planning, or M&A activity, the informal conversations over meals and between sessions often went deeper than anything that could be achieved on stage. Valuation expectations, timing, capital availability, and strategic alignment surfaced organically because the room was filled with peers rather than prospects.

 

Among the formal programming, the most relevant session for the contract furniture industry was the economic outlook delivered by Bernard Baumohl, Chief Global Economist at The Economic Outlook Group. Baumohl framed today’s environment as one of sustained uncertainty, shaped by geopolitical tension, tariff risk, currency pressure, and evolving political and legal norms. While forecasting has become more difficult, his central takeaway was cautiously reassuring: he expects the U.S. economy to perform reasonably well in 2026 and does not anticipate a recession, even as volatility remains elevated.

 

In the end, BIFMA 360° once again distinguished itself not by spectacle or scale, but by access. For those looking to hire—or be hired—buy, sell, or simply understand where the industry’s leadership is headed next, the conference’s greatest return came not from the stage, but from the conversations happening just off it.

Technology should strategically introduce friction to enhance human connection in workplace design. Spaces like cafés and lounges foster interaction and reflection, while ambient technology streamlines tasks without distraction, promoting a more immersive work experience. Voice-activated systems and subtle displays will become standard, supporting productivity in a natural way.

In 2026, architects face significant challenges, including a crisis in affordable housing and the need for community-supporting resources. Projects that provide access to public transportation and cultural amenities will be crucial. Collaboration with communities and other stakeholders is essential to ensure buildings serve their broader context. Architects must also navigate pressures to deliver quality work faster, understand high-performance building standards, and streamline public agency approvals, potentially with the aid of AI. Furthermore, resilience in design will become standard practice, focusing on low-carbon solutions without additional costs, as clients increasingly demand sustainable options without a financial burden.

Wellness design, often characterized by minimalist aesthetics, is critiqued for prioritizing comfort over actual health benefits. It tends to alienate individuals with chronic illnesses by neglecting accessibility and promoting consumerism under the guise of wellness. The focus on luxury and aesthetics distracts from the essential needs of diverse bodies, suggesting that true wellness should be rooted in inclusivity and genuine care rather than exclusive design trends.

Over the past four decades, China has significantly impacted U.S. residential furniture manufacturing through three phases: initially offshoring production to China for cost savings, then transitioning to Chinese firms acquiring U.S. brands, and now investing directly in U.S. manufacturing to navigate tariffs and leverage market opportunities. This third phase suggests potential for increased mergers and acquisitions as Chinese and Asian companies consolidate their presence in the U.S. furniture industry.

U.S. office attendance rose 5.6% in 2025, reaching its highest level since the pandemic, yet remains 32% below pre-COVID levels. The recovery is shifting from rapid to gradual growth, influenced more by convenience and timing than mandates. Attendance patterns have become seasonal, peaking in late spring and summer, while midweek days like Tuesdays and Wednesdays see the highest attendance. Commute conditions and proximity to the office are critical factors affecting attendance, with shorter commutes leading to more consistent in-person visits. Future growth in office attendance will depend on reducing friction and enhancing the work environment.

Office amenities are often treated as an afterthought, responding to trends instead of driving them strategically. A new tool called Amenity Intelligence aims to change this by providing tailored amenity strategies based on the specific context of each location. It assesses existing amenities within a five-minute walk to avoid unnecessary duplication and identify genuine gaps where on-site amenities can add value. This approach ensures that each building's offerings are complementary to the neighborhood, enhancing both efficiency and identity.

The slow food ethos promotes a healthier work ecosystem by emphasizing reconnection with process, place, and purpose. This movement, termed "Intentional Slow Work," seeks to restore meaning and human rhythm in the workplace, advocating for designs that support focus and collaboration. Future workplaces will prioritize intention, creativity, and natural cycles, fostering environments that encourage deep thinking and connection among employees. Key strategies include designing for various work seasons, localizing rituals, protecting creative spaces, and enhancing sensory experiences to promote engagement and presence.

Coworking spaces are experiencing a revival as companies reassess long-term office leases in the post-pandemic landscape. Major corporations like Amazon are turning to coworking solutions to meet their need for flexible office space amid uncertainties about workforce returns. The coworking industry is evolving, focusing on private office spaces with modern designs, contrasting with the more communal spaces of the past. Currently, coworking accounts for over 158 million square feet of office space in the U.S., showing a significant growth of 51.7% in recent years. As companies finalize their in-person work schedules, coworking offers a flexible alternative without long-term commitments. The shift to coworking is seen as a response to high office vacancy rates and changing corporate strategies. Companies like WeWork are adapting by providing flexible leasing options, allowing businesses to avoid the financial burdens of traditional leases. The demand for coworking is driven by the need for quality office experiences across various locations, catering to employee preferences for in-person interactions while maintaining flexibility for organizations.

Leased office spaces often appear occupied on paper but feel empty in practice due to a disconnect between commitment and actual presence. As work becomes more portable, employees choose environments that enhance productivity, leading to quieter offices even in high-occupancy buildings. Many office designs prioritize amenities over functionality, resulting in disengagement. For spaces to earn consistent attendance, they must improve work outcomes and foster collaboration, rather than merely serving as a physical location. The relevance of office spaces is now conditional, and without meaningful enhancements, they risk becoming underutilized despite being leased.

U.S. employees lose an average of 91 business days annually to low-value tasks like data entry and scheduling, with on-site workers affected more than remote ones. Poor work management leads to stress and turnover, with many employees working outside scheduled hours. Fragmented tools and unclear priorities hinder productivity, suggesting that structural changes, rather than just faster work, are needed for improvements.

In 2025, expansions accounted for 55% of the largest U.S. office leases, indicating renewed growth among major companies. Manhattan led with 36% of total square footage leased, followed by Silicon Valley and Washington, D.C. Finance and tech sectors dominated leasing activity, with nearly two-thirds of transactions being expansions. Limited availability of high-quality space may lead to an increase in renewals rather than new leases in 2026.

A significant portion of the workforce is experiencing a sense of "languishing," characterized by feelings of being stuck and disengaged rather than flourishing. Recent research shows that 61% of surveyed workers report languishing, an increase from the previous year, with nearly 18% indicating severe levels. This phenomenon is linked to high rates of burnout and lacks significant demographic variation. The findings suggest a need for organizations to recognize this issue and consider interventions to improve employee well-being and engagement in the workplace.

Workplace wellbeing is crucial for organizational performance, emphasizing that joy, trust, and belonging enhance productivity. Leaders should create environments where employees feel energized and valued, focusing on meaningful interactions and intentional choices. Effective leadership fosters confidence and inclusion through everyday practices, showing that how people feel at work significantly impacts outcomes.

Workplace phrases often carry hidden meanings; for example, "circling back" indicates impatience, while "just flagging this" means a previous message was ignored. Understanding this corporate jargon helps in navigating office communication effectively, revealing the subtext behind common expressions like "let's sync" and "we need to align." Newer phrases also reflect evolving workplace dynamics, such as "low-key concerned" meaning very concerned, and "let's not boil the ocean" suggesting someone is overextending themselves.

Industrious Reserve is a luxury coworking space in Midtown Manhattan designed for CEOs and business leaders. It offers a high-end experience with personalized services, such as tailored coffee and on-site grooming, in an opulent environment featuring travertine and green marble. Membership starts at $7,000 per month, providing access to private offices and exclusive amenities. The space is intended to facilitate collaboration and quick decision-making among executives, replacing traditional corner offices with a more open and functional layout. Interest in memberships has come from private equity firms and high-end retailers, with plans for expansion into major cities worldwide.

The coworking industry has evolved over the past decade, transitioning from a perceived trend to a global movement. Key insights reveal that flexibility in coworking spaces has changed demand patterns, with members opting for shorter commitments without reducing usage. Occupancy rates have become less predictable, showing greater volatility rather than a decline. Operator maturity plays a crucial role in stabilizing member tenure, emphasizing the importance of clear business models. As the industry moves into 2026, flexibility and volatility are now baseline expectations, requiring operators to adapt to this new context.

2026 Design Trends Outlook: Focus on Nature, Comfort, and Returning to Play

The 2026 Design Trends Outlook from Wilsonart emphasizes a shift towards personal and emotionally intelligent interiors, with a strong focus on connecting with nature. Breakthrough surface technologies allow designers to create environments that not only look authentic but also perform well in high-traffic areas. The integration of natural materials, like wood and stone patterns, contributes to emotional well-being and stress reduction. Playful expressions through vibrant colors and patterns are gaining traction, while comfort remains a key design value. Elements such as natural light and warm organic materials enhance emotional comfort and support mental wellness, reflecting a deeper understanding of how built environments impact stress and cognitive performance. Wilsonart's engineered surfaces exemplify these trends, offering durability without compromising aesthetics or emotional connection.

By 2040, 86% of Generation Alpha expects significant changes in their work lives compared to their parents, favoring shorter commutes and flexible work options like hybrid and remote arrangements. Research indicates that 75% prioritize shorter commutes for personal wellbeing, while 81% anticipate splitting time between home and various workspaces. The integration of AI, robotics, and smart assistants is expected to be standard, with 88% of teens foreseeing regular use of these technologies. As organizations adapt to these expectations, failure to embrace flexibility and technology may hinder their ability to attract younger talent in the future.

As we enter 2026, focus on cultivating joy, optimism, and trust within the design community. Joy enhances well-being and should be actively sought and shared. Optimism is crucial for envisioning a positive future through design. Trust, essential for building relationships, should be nurtured both with others and oneself. This year emphasizes kinship, fostering deeper connections and a sense of belonging through design. Engage with others on how to promote these values for a transformative year ahead.

In today's rapidly evolving landscape, uncertainty has become a fundamental aspect of organizational operations. Instead of resisting change brought by artificial intelligence and new workforce models, successful companies are embracing uncertainty by designing adaptable environments. Key themes from a recent Economic Club forum highlight that AI is reshaping leadership and culture, influencing workflows and decision-making processes. Leaders are balancing the excitement of innovation with concerns about job security and trust. The generational divide complicates this further, as older leaders struggle to integrate AI while younger employees may overly rely on technology. To navigate these challenges, future leadership models and workspaces must emphasize emotional intelligence, mentorship, and collaboration, fostering environments that prioritize human connection alongside productivity.

The HOK 2026 Design Annual showcases recent projects from global studios, addressing complex client challenges related to climate resilience, equity, and community improvement. Featured projects include a neuroinclusive workplace in Birmingham, a modernized arena in Stockholm, a revitalized waterfront in Florida, a reimagined jail in Brooklyn, a net-zero school in Riyadh, a coastal-inspired airport terminal in California, and a transparent civic center in Detroit.

Collective intelligence is crucial in the workplace for several reasons. Firstly, it fosters a shared culture built on collective memories and experiences, shaping values and identity. Secondly, it enhances creativity by allowing team members to contribute ideas and knowledge, fostering innovation. Lastly, it leads to better decision-making, exemplified by the case of the U.S. submarine Scorpion, where diverse expert estimates were synthesized to locate the submarine effectively. In an era facing complex challenges, harnessing collective intelligence within workplaces is increasingly vital.

Hybrid work challenges stem from poorly designed workplaces rather than the concept itself. Employees prioritize functional spaces that support their well-being and productivity over trendy designs. Effective workplace design should cater to diverse needs, offering a mix of quiet and social areas while addressing issues like noise and comfort. Listening to employees and understanding their work preferences is crucial for creating environments that enhance focus and collaboration.

The evolving workplace design prioritizes adaptability and connection, moving away from static layouts to dynamic environments that support collaboration and employee engagement. Key trends include the use of adaptable furniture, shared spaces, and technology investments to enhance hybrid interactions. Employees seek experiential workplaces that foster a sense of belonging and community, emphasizing the importance of human connection over mere occupancy metrics. Future strategies should focus on flexibility, autonomy, and measuring performance by impact rather than presence, ultimately enhancing productivity and organizational success.

Chemetal has introduced three new designs and five new colors to its Carve collection, which features thicker CNC-cut metal panels. These new designs—#556 Time Lapse, #557 Rivet, and #558 Mallorca—offer unique visual effects while being mechanically fastened to walls without the need for a substrate. The collection now includes a range of metallic tones, such as Clear, Black, Brass, Bronze, and Dark Bronze, enhancing the existing industrial black finish. Carve panels are available in standard and custom sizes, with a sheet thickness of .090” aluminum, weighing about 35lbs. Chemetal offers design and fabrication assistance for various applications, including an optional frame system.

 

To see all the Transparency designs, go to chemetal.com.

Humanscale has launched the M/Class monitor arm lineup, enhancing ergonomic performance and minimalist design. Released on January 26, M/Class features an internal redesign that increases weight capacity and improves durability. The monitor arms allow users to adjust screen positions easily, promoting natural posture and freeing up desk space. They include integrated connectivity options via M/Connect® Split Dock Technology, which organizes cables and enhances usability. The new design supports various monitor sizes and weights, making it suitable for hybrid workplaces. Built for longevity, M/Class exemplifies Humanscale's commitment to sustainability and user-centric design.

9to5 Seating has launched Cira, a refined lounge collection designed for modern work and hospitality environments. The collection features a sleek silhouette, clean lines, and distinctive stitching, making it suitable for various applications like lobbies, cafés, and meeting rooms. Cira offers a relaxed sit with options for both mid-back and high-back designs, allowing users to comfortably switch between postures for work and relaxation. Personalization is available through multiple base styles and upholstery selections. Additional features include an ottoman and a cantilevered base that provides a gentle rocking motion, enhancing comfort. This collection reflects 9to5 Seating’s commitment to versatile and stylish seating solutions for contemporary interiors.

Parador's Flecto flooring collection combines European craftsmanship with modern design, featuring elongated planks that enhance commercial interiors with warmth and authenticity. Developed for architects and designers, Flecto offers a versatile, low-contrast aesthetic and is built for high-traffic environments with a durable core and advanced SurfaceONE™ technology. Sustainably produced in Austria, it promotes a healthy indoor climate and supports biophilic design principles.

Verner Panton, a renowned Danish designer, is celebrated with a revival of his iconic Panton Chair, originally launched by Vitra in 1967. As part of the centenary of his birth, Vitra invites the public to choose a new color for the chair from options like bold orange, flash red, deep magenta, ultra violet, strong purple, electric blue, and bright turquoise. This limited edition will feature 2,000 pieces and is part of a series of initiatives honoring Panton, including a major retrospective exhibition at the Vitra Design Museum. The chosen colors reflect Panton's vibrant design philosophy, which marked a significant departure from traditional forms in industrial design.

HD Hyundai has introduced a unique welcome kit for new employees, designed by STUDIO OKGO, which comes in a modular steel vessel rather than traditional swag bags. This kit serves multiple functions, including a toolbox and pegboard, and reflects the company's brand identity. It aims to integrate HD Hyundai's values into daily work life while ensuring durability and utility.

Non-traditional office furniture seating designs are gaining popularity in China, with the Beite Kylinc system drawing inspiration from various innovative concepts in furniture design. The Kylinc system features a mobile design with wheels, enhancing flexibility in office spaces. However, the inclusion of power cords raises concerns about usability and mobility, as users may be hesitant to unplug and move the pieces. Despite this, the Kylinc system received recognition by winning a 2025 iF Design Award.

Anglepoise lamps, designed by George Carwardine in 1932, revolutionized task lighting with their adjustable spring mechanism. The Original 1227 model, introduced in 1935, remains iconic for its minimal design and functionality. Celebrating its 90th anniversary, Anglepoise has collaborated with Penguin Books and released limited-edition lamps, emphasizing sustainability and customer connection through a Guarantee for Life program. The brand continues to innovate, focusing on materials that enhance product longevity and inspire creativity.

The Mysa Chair by Studio Kohlhass embodies comfort and coziness, featuring a sculptural wooden shell and slender metal legs that create a buoyant presence. Its bent plywood backpiece cradles the sitter, promoting relaxation and a sense of embrace. The chair's design allows for variability in color and context, reflecting the owner's personality while maintaining its core character. It combines traditional craft with contemporary aesthetics, inviting users to lean back and enjoy its modern classic appeal.

The Eames Lounge Chair, an iconic design introduced in 1956, has a new look thanks to a heathered wool upholstery option called Luce. This fabric is sustainable, made from over 75% post-consumer recycled wool garments, and features a rich texture and various color options. The new upholstery is both stylish and more affordable than traditional leather, with prices starting at $5,495. The chair remains a classic piece of furniture while offering a fresh, eco-friendly alternative.

Lumi, a restored office building in Uppsala, Sweden, exemplifies circular design by preserving 80% of its original structure, significantly reducing carbon emissions. The project repurposed materials, improved energy efficiency with solar panels, and enhanced accessibility, transforming a previously inflexible building into a vibrant community space. This restoration serves as a benchmark for sustainable architecture, demonstrating the potential for reusing existing structures to meet climate goals.

Health is emerging as the primary driver for sustainable behavior change, according to recent research. The findings indicate that while many consumers express a desire to live sustainably, the overwhelming majority (65 percent) are motivated by the promise of improved health. Only 7 percent are interested in sustainability alone, highlighting that for most, the pursuit of a healthier lifestyle is intertwined with their environmental choices. Brands, NGOs, and governments can capitalize on this insight by framing sustainability initiatives around the tangible benefits to physical and mental health, thereby engaging a broader audience and fostering meaningful behavior changes in sustainability.

KI has achieved the enhanced FISP (S) certification, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability and circular practices in the furniture industry. This certification requires organizations to integrate environmental, social, and economic sustainability across operations, with annual audits ensuring accountability. The FISP (S) standard emphasizes product-specific sustainability and eco-design, supporting a circular economy. KI's early adoption of this certification highlights its leadership in sustainable innovation and commitment to responsible practices within the industry.

OMA to lead Salone del Mobile’s bold new venture

In a recent press conference, Salone del Mobile announced plans for its 64th edition, introducing a new initiative called Salone Contract 2027, led by Rem Koolhaas and David Gianotten of OMA. This initiative aims to explore the contract furniture market, transitioning the fair into a market-oriented infrastructure to meet contemporary design demands. Koolhaas emphasized the importance of the contract segment, which focuses on integrated systems rather than individual products. The 2026 fair, taking place from April 21-26, will feature a dedicated lecture, an international forum, and a pathway tailored for contract furniture.

The 64th Salone del Mobile in 2026 showcases its fully booked program, featuring 915 brands, including 139 newcomers. Key highlights include EuroCucina with 106 brands focusing on technologically integrated kitchens, and the International Bathroom Exhibition with 163 brands emphasizing 'home spa' concepts. A new contract area will include curated tours and a lecture by architect Rem Koolhaas. Salone Raritas will present unique design pieces, while SaloneSatellite will host 700 young designers. Additionally, the event will incorporate a new signage system for better navigation and will continue to promote sustainable practices through ISO 20121 certification. The overarching goal is to emphasize a design approach that integrates systems, materials, and processes, fostering cultural and economic impact.

The Seattle headquarters expansion for Brooks Running features a five-story mass-timber building designed by NBBJ, emphasizing the rhythm and joy of running. The ground floor serves as a social hub with a café and interactive product displays, while upper floors include collaborative spaces and a central atrium that fosters connectivity. The design incorporates local running inspirations and sustainable materials, reflecting the company's energetic culture and commitment to environmental responsibility.

Pinsent Masons has relocated its Manchester office to a new headquarters designed by SpaceInvader, focusing on a modern work environment. The design emphasizes collaboration with flexible workspaces, sit-stand furniture, and inclusivity features. Extensive employee consultations shaped the layout, which includes a welcoming lounge and discreet storage for sensitive materials, enhancing both functionality and aesthetic appeal.

The office designed for GN Group in Warsaw blends Scandinavian aesthetics with acoustic performance, featuring diverse work zones, natural materials like oak and brick, and soundproofing elements. It includes a casual dining area, relaxation room, and showcases sonic design, emphasizing functionality and visual appeal. The color palette incorporates gray tones with vibrant accents, creating an inviting and innovative workspace.

Anomaly designed the Apex co-working space in London's King's Cross to feature textured materials like leather and rammed earth, creating a welcoming environment that contrasts with traditional office settings. The design emphasizes comfort and a homely feel, with communal tables and soft seating, aiming to enhance workers' wellbeing and encourage repeated use of the space.

Tom Hitchins has been creating content since 2015, focusing on tech and productivity through his Byte Review YouTube channel, which has 235k subscribers and over 75 million views. His 2026 workspace features a classic Apple setup with a Mac Studio and Studio Display, designed for efficient video production. The space has evolved from a home office to a dedicated studio, allowing for better filming and workflow, and includes areas for playing guitar and packing orders. His latest addition is the Nothing Headphone (1), which he appreciates for its design and sound quality.

Carrier Johnson + Culture Names New Leadership Team

Carrier Johnson + Culture has appointed David Huchteman as CEO and Marin Gertler as Chief Design Officer, marking a new leadership structure as the firm approaches its 50th anniversary. Founder Gordon Carrier will remain as Executive Chairman. The leadership team emphasizes design innovation and collaboration, aiming to enhance the firm's growth and agility across multiple locations. Jackie Angel continues as Chief Operating Officer, supporting the firm's operational and financial goals.

Renson and Corradi North America Appoint Michael Ackelbein as President ; Additional Promotions

Michael Ackelbein has been appointed as President of Renson and Corradi North America, bringing over 20 years of leadership experience. He will oversee the North American business units, focusing on growth and expansion. Ackelbein's appointment coincides with staff promotions, including Priscilla Olivas as Director of Marketing and Max Sebrechts as A&D Director, as the companies strengthen their market presence.

Turf Appoints Robert MacMeccan as General Manager

Robert MacMeccan has been appointed as the general manager of Turf, where he will lead the company in developing innovative acoustic solutions for the architecture and design industries. With over 18 years of experience at Milliken & Company, MacMeccan aims to strengthen Turf's market position and continue its growth agenda. His leadership will focus on innovation, operational excellence, and collaboration across teams, building on Turf's legacy of customization and sustainability in design.

AMQ Announces Strategic Expansion of Sales Organization With Three Key Appointments

AMQ has expanded its national sales organization by appointing Sara Harper as Regional Sales Manager for the West, Michelle Hundley as Territory Manager for the Mid-Atlantic, and Jordan Gormley as Territory Manager for Eastern Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware. These appointments aim to enhance regional expertise and market coverage, supporting dealers and customers with modern workplace solutions.

NeoCon 2026 Keynotes Announced; Registration to Open Feb. 3

Registration for NeoCon 2026 opens on February 3, with the event taking place from June 8-10 in Chicago. Keynote speakers include Jessica O. Matthews, Nick Foster, and David "Shingy" Shing, who will address themes of innovation, foresight, and design in a rapidly evolving world. A new feature, "Illuminate at NeoCon," will highlight the importance of lighting in design. The event will span seven exhibition floors, showcasing products from over 400 companies and offering a robust educational program. See more at NeoCon.com

ASID Releases Compensation Guide

The American Society of Interior Designers has released the latest Compensation & Benefits Guide, which compiles recent data on salaries, benefits, and labor market trends in the design industry. Employment in the sector rose by 18 percent from October 2019 to March 2025, adding approximately 7,800 jobs in interior design. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates a slower growth rate of 3 percent over the next decade. Median annual salaries in the design industry increased by 2.1 percent between May 2023 and May 2024, with the median salary for all employed interior designers in the U.S. at $71,430, closely aligning with the $75,000 to $99,999 range reported by over 800 designers surveyed for the guide.

Ghent Products Achieves BIFMA LEVEL Recertification, Adds EZ Mobile Glassboard to Certified Product Portfolio

Ghent has achieved recertification of its glassboard portfolio under the BIFMA LEVEL® sustainability standard, adding the EZ Mobile Glassboard to its certified products. This certification reflects Ghent's commitment to sustainable manufacturing and responsible materials sourcing. The EZ Mobile Glassboard features a sleek design and is suitable for various settings, emphasizing durability and aesthetic flexibility while supporting environmental and health goals.

It's important to maintain an up-to-date LinkedIn profile even if you're not job hunting, as it helps showcase your value to current and potential employers. A strong profile can assist during company mergers and promotions, making it easier for leadership to recognize your contributions. For best results, consider hiring a professional to update your profile rather than doing it yourself.

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.