HNI Corporation and Steelcase Inc. Shareholders Approve Proposals in Connection with HNI’s Proposed Acquisition of Steelcase

Shareholders of Steelcase approved the company's acquisition by HNI Corporation for $2.2 billion. Approximately 99.6% of Steelcase shareholders and 96.88% of HNI shareholders voted in favor of the deal. Under the agreement, Steelcase shareholders will receive $7.20 in cash and 0.2192 shares of HNI stock for each share owned, leading to an implied purchase price of $18.30 per share. The acquisition is expected to close on December 10, 2025, and will allow HNI to expand its offerings in healthcare, education, and hospitality, projecting annual net sales of $5.8 billion. HNI's CEO Jeffrey Lorenger will lead the combined companies, while Steelcase's current CEO Sara Armbruster will exit post-acquisition after nearly 20 years with the company.

Steelcase shareholder lawsuit dismissed

A legal challenge to block Steelcase's $2.2 billion acquisition by HNI Corp. has been voluntarily dismissed, allowing shareholders to vote on the deal. The dismissal, filed with prejudice, prevents future re-filing of the claims. The plaintiff, Dean Drulias, alleged questionable economics and conflicts of interest among Steelcase executives. Following the agreement announced in August 2025, Steelcase shareholders are set to receive $7.20 in cash and 0.2192 shares of HNI per Steelcase share, leading to an implied purchase price of $18.30. With the lawsuit dismissed, the acquisition expected to close Wednesday, December 10, 2025, further consolidating the office furniture industry.

MillerKnoll has opened its first showroom in mainland China, located in Shanghai's Bridge 8 district. Spanning 384 square meters, the showroom showcases a collection of brands including Herman Miller and Knoll, designed to meet the evolving needs of modern workplaces. The space integrates areas for focused work, collaboration, and hospitality-inspired experiences, reflecting a commitment to the local design community. With a focus on hybrid work, flexible office solutions, and sustainability, the showroom aims to foster collaboration among architects, designers, and business leaders in China. For more details or to schedule a visit, interested parties can contact Marketing Manager Rebecca Teng.

Danish design company Hay reports a net profit of DKK 112.9 million for 2024/25, up 20.6% from the previous year, marking a rebound after last year's break in a three-year profit streak....

Frank Gehry, the visionary architect whose fluid, sculptural buildings transformed cities and redefined the possibilities of design, died Friday at his home in Santa Monica. He was 96. Over nearly eight decades of practice, Gehry created some of the most celebrated works of the modern era, from the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles to the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, a building so influential it sparked the now-legendary “Bilbao Effect.” Despite global acclaim, he remained disarmingly candid, self-doubting, and devoted to the intuitive, hands-on process that guided his sketches, study models, and ultimately his most daring forms.

 

Born in Canada and raised in Los Angeles, Gehry spent his early career taking creative risks that often baffled neighbors and clients, including his own Santa Monica house—a patchwork of chain-link and corrugated metal that became a landmark of late-20th-century architecture. His rise was marked by both struggle and breakthrough: market downturns nearly derailed his practice, while champions at institutions like MOCA upheld his vision, leading to the concert halls, museums, and cultural centers that reshaped cities from Prague to Paris to Abu Dhabi.

 

Gehry’s restless creativity extended beyond buildings, and his work in furniture design remains a defining part of his legacy. His longstanding collaboration with Knoll resulted in the Bentwood Collection, a series of chairs and tables constructed from interwoven maple strips inspired by the simple bushel baskets of his Toronto childhood. Pieces like the Cross Check, Power Play, and Hat Trick chairs demonstrated his ability to bend wood with the same expressive motion he brought to titanium and steel, earning a place in museum collections and remaining in production decades later.

 

Until the end of his life, Gehry continued to design with the same urgency and curiosity that shaped his earliest works. His buildings lifted spirits, challenged convention, and broadened the imagination of cities around the world. He leaves behind a body of work as exuberant and unpredictable as the man himself—an oeuvre that will continue to ripple outward, changing the way we see form, structure, and possibility.

Robert A.M. Stern, the patrician voice of postmodernism and founder of his eponymous firm, died Thanksgiving day at his Manhattan home. He was 86. For more than half a century, Stern shaped not only skylines but also the workplaces inside them, bringing classical clarity to the everyday environments where people spend their days. Long before “workplace experience” became a buzzword, Stern was designing offices that balanced history with human practicality — open-plan interiors, gracious lobbies, and amenity floors that quietly influenced how the contract furnishings and commercial interiors worlds approached space planning.

 

While the public knew him best for limestone landmarks like 15 Central Park West and 220 Central Park South, Stern’s broader legacy runs through the office towers, university buildings, presidential centers, and cultural institutions that all bore his unmistakable commitment to contextual design. He believed a building must “engage with the larger whole,” and that conviction shaped countless corporate workplaces that sought dignity without flash, coherence without coldness. Even as he dismissed sleek futurism and glass-for-glass’s-sake architecture, his own interiors embraced the modern needs of employees and organizations — a blend the industry still chases.

 

As Dean of the Yale School of Architecture for nearly two decades, Stern mentored generations of architects who now design the offices and campuses of the 21st century. Many of the people sketching tomorrow’s workplaces learned directly from his hand-drawn rigor and his belief that architecture becomes meaningful only when it is connected to memory, place, and purpose.

 

Stern’s passing came just a week before the death of another legendary architect, Frank Gehry, marking a poignant and symbolic close to an era defined by two giants who reshaped how we think about buildings and the lives lived within them. Gehry bent metal into sculptural movement; Stern coaxed tradition into the modern world. Their approaches could not have been more different, yet together they expanded the vocabulary of contemporary design.

 

Stern once wrote that architecture is “a conversation across time.” With his death, that conversation loses one of its clearest voices — but the workplaces, campuses, and neighborhoods he shaped will continue speaking for him, quietly and confidently, long after his final hand-drawn line.

Furniture makers, both residential and commercial, are experiencing significant challenges due to new tariffs imposed on imported upholstered furniture, which have disrupted previously stable sales channels. British designer Fred Rigby, who initially thrived in the U.S. market, reported a sharp decline in projects as tariffs increased from 25% to a planned 30%. This situation has also impacted domestic brands, exemplified by American Signature's bankruptcy filing due to tariff-related economic strains.

 

The tariffs primarily affect lower-cost furniture imported from China and Vietnam, while high-end pieces from Europe are also impacted. Designers are now shifting their focus toward U.S. production, although this presents challenges such as higher labor costs and a need for skilled workers. Smaller brands, like Soft Witness, are absorbing tariff costs to maintain competitive pricing, while larger companies may have more resources to manage these financial burdens.

 

The interconnectedness of furniture producers and interior designers means that the complexities introduced by tariffs have altered daily business operations, forcing designers to adapt their sourcing strategies. Many still prioritize international pieces for their unique qualities, but the increasing costs and limited availability threaten the accessibility of rare and significant design artifacts.

U.S. furniture manufacturing experienced a decline for the ninth consecutive month in November 2025, primarily due to rising tariffs and material costs that pressured profit margins. The Institute for Supply Management (ISM) Manufacturing PMI reported a drop to 48.2%, indicating slower supplier deliveries, lower new orders, and reduced employment, despite overall economic growth. Weaker employment, inventories, and imports in the furniture and wood products sector highlighted decreased domestic and international demand. Logistical challenges and increased costs for steel and aluminum constrained production. The ISM Prices Index rose to 58.5%, indicating ongoing cost pressures. New orders for furniture fell for the third consecutive month, and employment dropped to 44%, marking ten months of contraction. Order backlogs decreased sharply, while inventory reductions continued. Although supplier deliveries improved slightly, the sector remained slow, with any recovery in production dependent on potential increases in consumer or housing demand amid ongoing uncertainty.

The U.S. office sector is gradually recovering post-pandemic, with office attendance increasing and national vacancy rates decreasing from 17.2% to 16.4%. Demand is shifting towards newer, smaller suburban offices and high-amenity Class A buildings in major markets. Office utilization rebounded to about 70% of 2019 levels by October 2025, with New York and Miami leading the recovery, while cities like Denver and San Francisco lag behind. A tight labor market is influencing companies' efforts to bring employees back to the office.

U.S. office markets are showing resilience despite post-pandemic challenges, with modest construction activity and a slight decline in national vacancy rates to 18.6%. Key markets like Boston, Manhattan, and Dallas are leading in new office space development, while the national average listing rate remains stable at $32.81 per square foot. Seattle has the highest vacancy rate at 27.4%, contrasting with lower rates in Manhattan and Miami at around 13%.

The post-pandemic recovery in commercial real estate (CRE) is facing challenges, with a potential decrease in annual transaction volume and a pessimistic outlook for 2026. Despite some positive signs, uncertainty in the macroeconomic environment, including employment concerns and inflation, has led to a more conservative approach in the market. The office sector is particularly affected by firms' indecision regarding space needs, while some large companies are beginning to purchase office properties. Overall, the market is characterized by a "flight to quality," with larger deals dominating amidst lingering capitalization issues and a cautious outlook for the future.

In 2026, workplaces are shifting towards bold, human-centered designs, moving away from traditional metrics and stereotypes. Key trends include collaboration with AI as team members, prioritizing human connection over occupancy rates, and transforming data into actionable insights. The focus will be on career stages rather than generational stereotypes, promoting inclusivity through thoughtful space design. Mocktails will replace cocktails, fostering wellness in social interactions. The integration of physical and digital experiences will streamline technology use, while purposeful abundance will provide diverse workspaces. Inconvenience may enhance productivity, and workplaces will support a global, 24/7 ecosystem. Finally, designing for mindsets rather than rigid personas will create dynamic environments that cater to various work styles.

Impact Acoustic, founded by Sven Erni and Jeffrey Ibañez, is a Swiss brand focused on sustainable manufacturing and innovation in acoustic solutions. The company emphasizes a circular economy, using recycled materials like PET plastic bottles, and aims to challenge industry norms by rejecting partnerships with major polluters. They prioritize storytelling, bespoke design, and knowledge sharing, fostering a collaborative environment. Recent expansions include a new prototyping lab in Zurich and a factory in San Diego, supporting their mission to combine Swiss craftsmanship with global sustainability efforts.

We are entering a transformative era where AI, robotics, and quantum computing redefine work dynamics. Key shifts include managing human-AI collaboration, evolving interfaces from screens to ambient computing, and integrating robotics into workflows. Companies must adapt to these changes by focusing on human judgment, designing effective workflows, and ensuring privacy and accessibility. The future of work relies on making intelligence a core infrastructure, emphasizing meaningful work over mere efficiency, and preparing for a workforce that collaborates with AI and robots. Leaders must act decisively to shape this new landscape.

The concept of "Intentional Slow Work" draws parallels from the slow food movement, emphasizing a deeper connection to work processes and human interaction. As technology accelerates output, there is a growing desire for meaningful work experiences that prioritize intention and collaboration. Workplace design should support human pace, incorporating natural elements and flexible spaces that foster focus and creativity. The future of work will focus on regenerative environments that enhance employee engagement and well-being, encouraging a return to intentionality in how work is approached and executed.

Polyworking, where employees juggle multiple jobs to meet financial needs, is expected to persist into 2026 due to stagnant wages. Nearly half of U.S. workers engage in this practice, with many citing essential extra income for basic expenses. Employers are urged to adjust pay to market values and consider flexible compensation strategies to mitigate burnout and disengagement risks associated with polyworking. Senior professionals are less likely to polywork, while entry-level workers are more inclined to seek side hustles, reflecting a shift in work culture towards flexibility and financial independence.

The shift towards talent density emphasizes the importance of physical proximity in enhancing collaboration and innovation within organizations. Research indicates that knowledge spillovers are most effective within close distances, leading influential companies like Amazon, Tesla, and JPMorgan Chase to mandate in-office work to foster teamwork and skill development. This trend suggests that the future of work may prioritize proximity as a strategic advantage, impacting how organizations operate and learn over time.

Economic uncertainty and rapid technological change are reshaping workplace expectations, with flexible working becoming a central theme. A report indicates that male employees increasingly prioritize flexibility, leading to a rise in satisfaction regarding working hours. Global employee engagement remains steady at 75%, with young workers showing a high intent to leave their jobs. Hybrid work positively influences employee sentiment, and those working from home report higher productivity. There are persistent gaps in experiences between disabled and non-disabled employees, with technology contributing to job anxiety. Additionally, younger workers exhibit a trend toward career minimalism, emphasizing flexibility over progression, while sector engagement varies, with technology leading at 81% and retail lagging at 66%.

Hybrid work has become the standard for most U.S. firms, with a decline in remote work since 2021 but not returning to pre-pandemic levels. National office listing rates average $32.81 per square foot, with varying vacancy rates across major metros. Manhattan has the highest listing rate at $67.96, while Detroit remains the most affordable at $21.57. The report highlights mixed vacancy data, with Manhattan showing the lowest vacancy at 13.0%. Development is concentrated in a few markets, with Boston leading in new office space under construction.

Commute times are approaching pre-pandemic levels, with the average commute rising to 27.2 minutes in 2024. This reflects a gradual return to physical workplaces as remote work options decline. Major cities like New York and Chicago still have the longest commutes, while cities like Tulsa and Omaha have the shortest. Despite the increase, the overall change in commute times since 2021 has been minimal, raising questions about the importance of commute costs in the current job market.

Nearly 47% of U.S. workers are engaged in polyworking, often driven by financial necessity. Many combine full-time jobs with part-time roles to meet living expenses, seek financial independence, or pay down debt. While some report increased productivity, others experience declines, and opinions on the long-term sustainability of polyworking vary. As this trend grows, employers may need to adapt by offering competitive compensation and flexible benefits to retain talent.

Crandall Office Furniture, a growing business in Greenville, has recently completed a $1.4 million expansion, adding a 15,000-square-foot warehouse to its existing operations. The company, which started in a garage and has since moved to a larger facility, now employs over 30 people and plans to hire more due to its growth rate exceeding 25% annually. The city council approved a 12-year, 50% tax abatement to support this investment, highlighting the importance of retaining local manufacturers. Crandall's operations focus on remanufacturing office chairs, adapting to market changes since the COVID-19 pandemic, and emphasizing environmental sustainability in their practices. Community leaders express gratitude for Crandall's commitment to local development and job creation.

The U.S. coworking market has grown 23% recently, driven by shifts in workforce migration and remote work adoption. Cities like Gilbert and Chandler in Arizona saw significant increases in coworking spaces due to rising remote worker numbers. Newark, Richmond, and Buffalo also expanded their coworking inventories substantially. Established markets like Boston and Charlotte continued to grow, while some mature markets like Miami and Washington, D.C. experienced slower growth or saturation. Overall, the trend reflects a shift towards flexible workspaces in response to changing employment patterns.

The global flexible workspace market is projected to grow from $20.96 billion today to over $58 billion by 2033, with 42,000 coworking spaces worldwide. Key trends include increased corporate adoption (55% of companies), a shift towards hybrid work models, and a focus on member experience and sustainability. The Asia-Pacific region is the fastest-growing market, while the U.S. remains the largest flex market with significant expansion opportunities, especially in secondary cities. Profitability among operators is improving, with 58% reporting profits, and the industry is evolving towards deeper integration with corporate real estate strategies.

Pantone has made a historic break from its own playbook for 2026, naming—after two decades of chromatic experimentation across browns, yellows, purples, blues, turquoises, and a full quartet of oranges—a color that is, essentially, not a color at all. The newly crowned Color of the Year, Pantone 11-4201 Cloud Dancer, is a soft, grey-inflected white that the company describes as both a cultural reset button and a blank canvas for an era defined by AI, overstimulation, and the collective craving for something real.

 

Since the Color of the Year program began in 1999, Pantone has built its annual selections on a mash-up of trend forecasting, social sentiment, and psychological pulse-taking across art, design, film, technology, fashion, and the broader global mood. In 2026, that mood, according to Pantone Colour Institute vice president Laurie Pressman, is one of exhaustion with the “24/7 hustle culture,” a sense of being “overcommitted and overstimulated,” and a yearning for a world “that’s balanced, kind, and deeply human.” Cloud Dancer, she says, “reads like a breath of fresh air.”

 

Pantone’s reasoning aligns across both its official statements and the cultural commentary surrounding the choice. Cloud Dancer is positioned as a liminal space—a moment of pause amid the relentless acceleration of the AI era. Its resemblance to the white of a sheet of paper rather than the neon glow of a prompt box is no accident. Pantone is deliberately steering the conversation toward physicality, slowness, and unfiltered experiences, encouraging people to savor “the value of moments” and “joy in life’s simple pleasures.” In Pressman’s words, it conveys an aspiration for “a future free from toxicity and excess.”

 

Cloud Dancer’s mix of warm and cool undertones lends the hue what Pantone calls a “natural and human quality,” furthering the idea that it can serve as a gentle bridge between the present and an uncertain near future. The Pantone Colour Institute’s year-round research considered not just aesthetics but the ways in which AI, political polarization, and social fragmentation are reshaping how people orient themselves in the world. While these forces may complicate the cultural landscape, Pressman insists they don’t make the selection process harder—only more layered.

 

The choice also represents a subtle shift from 2025’s Mocha Mousse, a chocolatey brown tied to “little treat culture” and comfort. Cloud Dancer carries that soothing impulse forward but strips it of indulgence, offering instead a reset, a clean slate. It is, in Pantone’s framing, both every color and no color, a quiet counterpoint to the sensory overload of modern life and a symbolic space in which something new—perhaps more humane, less frantic—might begin to take shape.

Coalesse & Tom Dixon Unveil a One-of-a-Kind Artistic Collaboration for Miami Art Week

Coalesse and British designer Tom Dixon have launched a unique artistic collaboration for Miami Art Week, featuring a sculptural installation at Steelcase’s pop-up in Wynwood. Debuting on December 3, 2025, the installation showcases a custom textile pattern designed by Dixon, which mimics the look of crumpled metallic foil, applied to Coalesse’s Jean Nouvel Seating Collection. This combination of angular graphics and rounded forms creates an engaging interplay between art and design. Dixon described the fabric's design as a camouflage solution for the challenging upholstery of the seating. Additionally, he introduced his first outdoor furniture collection, Groove, set against a backdrop inspired by art deco. The event included discussions about creativity and collaboration among architects, designers, and art enthusiasts. Coalesse is recognized for its modern furnishings that facilitate connection, while Tom Dixon is celebrated for his innovative approach to design and materials.

A new workplace model focuses on supporting parents, particularly mothers, by integrating wellness rooms, play zones, and flexible layouts to reduce daily stress. The design emphasizes community, inclusivity, and the coexistence of caregiving and productivity. Key features include therapy rooms, nursing spaces, and areas for children, fostering a supportive environment that acknowledges the challenges parents face while balancing work and family responsibilities. This approach suggests that workplaces can evolve to better accommodate the holistic needs of employees.

Nature-inspired office design can enhance creativity and well-being by incorporating elements that promote restorative experiences. Utilizing natural materials, soft fascination, and varied lighting can create environments that support focus and social interaction. Thoughtful design can transform workspaces into inspiring destinations, fostering joy and collaboration while countering cognitive fatigue from modern distractions.

Poufs enhance workplace dynamics by fostering equality in conversations, enabling spontaneous interactions, providing comfort for feet, adapting to changing needs, and adding visual warmth and personality to spaces. They support emotional, physical, and cognitive affordances, making environments more welcoming and human-centered.

Vitra's 'Vitra Circle' programme refurbishes and resells used furniture, focusing on sustainability by offering refurbished items that are 15–25% cheaper than new ones and save up to 90% in CO₂ emissions. Each piece is restored with original parts and undergoes quality checks, allowing for customization. The initiative supports various clients, including offices and restaurants, while promoting sustainable consumption and reducing storage costs.

Scandinavian Spaces has launched the Oasis, a highly adaptable modular sofa system designed to transform traditional office environments. In collaboration with Materia, this customizable system features flexible curves that encourage creativity and can be rearranged for various spaces, including breakout zones and lounges. Each module is fully upholstered, allowing for on-site reconfiguration, and includes user-friendly ganging mechanisms. The series offers straight and curved modules, side tables, planters, and tables, all designed with sustainability in mind, using eco-friendly materials like PurFlex® Biomass Balance foam and ash veneer. Oasis aims to create a comfortable and inviting workplace oasis.

 

EF Contract has updated its modular Artisan Collection, celebrating the art of hand-weaving with new designs. The collection features seven new colors for the original Artisan pattern and enhanced versions for Artisan Accent, incorporating vibrant accent colors inspired by artistic weaving techniques. Crafted from 100% Encore® SD Ultima® Nylon, both patterns are available in a 24” x 24” size and can be ordered through the Quickship program, ensuring delivery within 10 business days for up to 1,500 square yards. The collection seamlessly integrates with various EF Contract product platforms, offering designers flexibility in creating unique and expressive spaces. For more information, visit www.EFContract.com.

Humanscale has launched its Lab & Healthcare Collection, which includes ergonomic chairs and stools designed specifically for clinical and laboratory environments. This collection emphasizes hygiene, durability, and comfort, featuring cleanable materials that resist contamination and support long hours of work. Each product supports healthy posture and movement, catering to the needs of medical professionals and researchers. The collection is made from recycled and responsibly sourced materials, aligning with Humanscale’s commitment to sustainability. Key features include adjustable solutions for diverse users, naturally antimicrobial materials, and designs that are free from harmful chemicals. The collection is now available through Humanscale showrooms and online.

Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 features a crossover with Herman Miller Gaming, introducing the Embody Gaming Chair in the multiplayer mode Prop Hunt. Players can disguise themselves as the chair, enhancing gameplay creativity. Herman Miller will also release custom chairs inspired by the game and offer exclusive giveaways. The brand, established in 2020, focuses on ergonomic gaming products, while Call of Duty continues to deliver thrilling gaming experiences to a global audience.

Designtex has launched Adorn and Flutter, two luxury performance textiles combining couture aesthetics with contract-grade durability. Adorn features intricate tapestry-inspired designs with a watercolor effect, while Flutter showcases a bold basket weave with graphic lines. Both textiles are made from 100% polyester, available in three colorways, and certified for sustainability with low VOCs and no harmful chemicals.

Kasthall introduces Malm, a new color variation of the Ålegræs rug designed by Cecilie Manz. This deeper blue-grey hue features earthy undertones, enhancing the rug's layered surface created by varying pile heights and yarn types. The design aims to provide an enveloping atmosphere, making it ideal for darker interiors and sturdy floors, while the unique construction invites visual movement and adds depth to the collection.

A Swedish design company, Cords, has introduced the Cylindric UX1, a 165W USB-C charger capable of charging four devices simultaneously at 100W per port. It features a durable braided cord and is designed to be aesthetically pleasing for desk use, available in five colors at around $100. User comments express mixed opinions about its design, with some noting it resembles a security camera and critiquing the visibility of the cable in promotional images.

A Dutch furniture company, DM Living, has developed a custom machine called the tafeldraaier (table turner) that allows one worker to efficiently flip large dining and conference tables, enhancing productivity and ensuring consistent quality in finishing. This innovation reduces labor and improves the overall production process by allowing for better access to all sides of the table during finishing.

Tim Schütze, an industrial design student at the Berlin University of Arts, modernized a design classic, the Eiermann desk, originally created by Egon Eiermann in 1953. The original desk was minimalist and used by architecture students. While it gained commercial success in the 1990s under the name Eiermann 1, Schütze's upgrade transforms it into a height-adjustable sit-stand desk without compromising its aesthetic. He developed a belt-drive mechanism for height adjustment, allowing users to manually change the desk's height without bulky motors. After graduation, Schütze collaborated with the furniture manufacturer Richard Lampert to bring the updated design, called Eiermann M, into production.

Hogai's Flow Set transforms desk organization into an artful experience, featuring four powder-coated steel pieces designed to inspire creativity while balancing chaos and control. The collection includes a document tray, pen tray, notebook tray, and phone stand, all characterized by soft curves and a matte finish. Available in various colors, the Flow Set enhances any workspace, making it both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Häfele has introduced adjustable cabinet feet designed to help tradespeople easily level cabinets on uneven floors by simply turning threaded spindles. While the front feet are accessible, the rear feet can be challenging to reach. To address this issue, Häfele offers the Axilo tool, which can be used with a hand driver or drill, making it easier to adjust the back feet. This system not only reduces strain on the installer’s back but also claims to save 50% on installation time.

Smosh has unveiled a new 32,000-square-foot office and studio space designed to enhance creativity and collaboration among its team members. The facility boasts modern amenities and versatile areas that cater to various production needs, reflecting the brand's evolution and commitment to innovation. The design incorporates spaces for filming, editing, and relaxation, aiming to foster a dynamic working environment that aligns with the creators' vision.

Sheldon Interiors has unveiled a new Sydney headquarters designed with sustainability and employee well-being in mind, achieving 5 Star Green Star and Gold WELL certifications. The office features a thoughtful layout divided into collaborative and focus zones, incorporating biophilic design elements, advanced lighting systems, and acoustic treatments. The project emphasizes cultural integration and neurodiversity, showcasing Sheldon’s design capabilities while fostering a vibrant workplace environment that enhances employee satisfaction and productivity.

A new office in Kyiv, designed by Between the Walls, blends residential comfort with functionality to enhance productivity. The space features distinct work areas, artistic elements inspired by mythology, and a soothing color palette. Emphasizing sustainability, the design incorporates reused materials while creating an inviting and professional atmosphere that fosters employee well-being.

Talon's new headquarters in Soho, designed by Gensler, reflects the company's entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to sustainability. The space features a clubhouse-style environment with diverse work settings, promoting collaboration and creativity while catering to neurodiverse needs. Key design elements include reused furniture, locally sourced materials, and energy-efficient lighting. The office aims to attract top talent and enhance client engagement, embodying Talon's identity as a leader in out-of-home advertising.

Ivor Jian is a self-taught multidisciplinary web designer inspired by Swiss design and modernism. He previously worked at R/GA and enjoys creating immersive websites. His workspace features a custom keyboard, Logitech mouse, and a 34-inch monitor. He values the flexibility of working from home, starting his day with an oat latte and taking breaks throughout. He seeks to replace his monitor due to dead pixels and finds creativity through exposure to great designs.

Kibler Fowler & Cave LLP has expanded its Los Angeles headquarters with a new 16,811-square-foot lease at 11100 Santa Monica Boulevard, increasing from 5,630 square feet. This move reflects the firm's sustained growth and commitment to investing in talent, as noted by Managing Partner Mike Kibler and JLL's Senior Managing Director Jim Schoolfield.

Marco’s Cue Wins 2025 Interiors + Sources Product Innovation Award

Marco's CUE™ height-adjustable desk and mobile podium system won the 2025 interiors + sources Product Innovation Award for its innovative design, ergonomic functionality, and contribution to high-performance learning environments. The product features a silent pneumatic lift mechanism, locking casters, and extensive customization options, making it versatile for various educational settings. Marco, a family-owned manufacturer, emphasizes durability and modern aesthetics in its furniture solutions.

Integra Seating Welcomes Tracie Watkins as Marketing & Sales Operations Manager 

Integra Seating has appointed Tracie Watkins as the new Marketing & Sales Operations Manager. With over 20 years of experience in the commercial furniture sector, she will lead marketing strategy and sales operations while enhancing internal alignment. Watkins previously worked at Fellowes Brands and ESI, and is also a co-owner of a business supporting firefighter charities. Her expertise is expected to strengthen operational efficiency and customer experience at Integra.

Arcadis Welcomes Alec Zaballero as Principal in Retail Design Practice

Arcadis has appointed Alec Zaballero as Principal in its New York Retail Design Studio, bringing extensive experience in retail and luxury environments. He will focus on design leadership, client relations, and business development, aiming to enhance the firm's retail practice and global influence. Zaballero previously led retail and hospitality practices at TPG Architecture and is committed to creating strategic and creatively inspired spaces for luxury brands.

Arcadia and Encore Partner with The Kontract Group to Represent New England Region

Arcadia and Encore have appointed The Kontract Group, led by Shawn Gargiulo and Matt Scimone, as their independent sales representatives for New England. The Kontract Group will enhance relationships with dealers and designers from a centrally located showroom in Boston, which will also host events and educational sessions. Both representatives have strong ties to the design community and extensive experience, making them well-suited for this role. Arcadia and Encore focus on high-quality furniture solutions and sustainable practices, serving various sectors since 1979.

Nevers Launches New Product Configurator to Enhance Project Planning and Specification

Nevers has launched a new Product Configurator, an interactive tool for commercial furniture specification, now available on their website without a CET license. It supports various collections and allows users to explore options, dimensions, and pricing with real-time visualization, enhancing decision-making and project communication. The configurator will expand in 2026, aligning with Nevers' commitment to digital tools that support designers and dealers.

Ghent Awarded National Purchasing Contract with TIPS

Ghent has been awarded a national purchasing contract with The Interlocal Purchasing System (TIPS), allowing public education institutions and local government agencies to access its visual communication products. The contract, effective until October 31, 2028, ensures compliance with procurement regulations and offers competitive pricing. This milestone enhances Ghent's long-standing support for educational and institutional markets, providing greater value and flexibility to organizations in need of communication and collaboration solutions.

District Sales Manager Southern California