MillerKnoll announced a slate of senior leadership changes designed to position the company for its next phase of growth, innovation, and global reach.

 

Jenny Olsen has been appointed Chief Marketing Officer, where she will oversee global brand strategy and marketing for MillerKnoll’s portfolio. Olsen brings more than 25 years of experience building and transforming consumer brands across apparel, footwear, home, media, and technology. She most recently served as CMO of Caleres, where she modernized marketing and analytics for the $3B footwear portfolio. Earlier, she led marketing efforts at UNTUCKit and Gap Inc.’s Piperlime. At MillerKnoll, Olsen will focus on strengthening consumer engagement, expanding digital capabilities, and extending the reach of the company’s iconic brands.

 

Alongside Olsen’s arrival, the company announced two additional leadership transitions. John Hoke has been named Board Chair, effective October 13, 2025, succeeding longtime Chair Mike Volkema, who is retiring after 25 years of service. Hoke, who has served on the MillerKnoll Board since 2005, is widely recognized for his three decades at Nike Inc., where he most recently served as Chief Innovation Officer. Known for championing sustainability and “quantum creativity,” Hoke is expected to bring design-forward leadership to MillerKnoll’s board.

 

In addition, Jeff Stutz, formerly Chief Financial Officer, has been appointed Chief Operating Officer, effective September 8, 2025. Stutz, a 25-year veteran of the company, played a central role in Herman Miller’s 2020 acquisition of Knoll and has led both corporate finance and subsidiary operations. As COO, he will oversee MillerKnoll’s international contract business, global manufacturing, and distribution operations, including Europe-based brands such as HAY, Muuto, Colebrook Bosson Saunders, and NaughtOne.

 

“MillerKnoll is entering an exciting chapter,” said Andi Owen, President and CEO. “With Jenny driving global marketing, Jeff leading our operations, and John stepping into the role of Board Chair, we are strengthening our leadership team with proven innovators who understand both design and scale. Together, they will help us advance our mission to design for the good of humankind while unlocking new opportunities for growth.”

 

Kevin Veltman, Senior Vice President of Finance, will serve as interim CFO while the company conducts a search for a permanent replacement.

 

From marketing and consumer engagement to operational execution and design-driven governance, the leadership transitions reflect MillerKnoll’s focus on building a more agile, globally connected organization prepared to shape the future of design and customer experience.

Institutional furniture maker Virco Mfg. Corporation reported strong profitability for its second quarter and first half of fiscal 2025, even as shipments declined amid weaker demand for school furniture and the absence of last year’s large disaster-recovery order.

 

Second-quarter shipments fell to $92.1 million from $108.4 million a year ago, with operating income at $15.4 million versus $21.9 million. For the first six months, shipments totaled $125.8 million, down 18.9% year-over-year, while net income dropped to $10.9 million from $19.0 million. Still, margins remained steady, with gross profit holding at 45.2% compared to 45.5% last year.

 

CEO Robert Virtue said the company’s domestic manufacturing base and liquidity position it well for future opportunities, likening today’s conditions to 2021 when Virco leveraged supply chain disruptions to gain share. At July 31, shipments plus backlog stood at $165.9 million, down 25.8% from last year, prompting management to remain cautious for the rest of the year.

 

The board declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.025 per share, payable October 10, 2025.

The global office furniture market is projected to grow from USD 65.62 billion in 2024 to USD 88.58 billion by 2033, driven by trends towards flexible, ergonomic, and sustainable designs. Key developments include the rise of modular furnishings for hybrid workspaces, a focus on employee well-being, and the integration of technology in furniture. Regional dynamics show mature markets prioritizing premium products, while emerging markets present growth opportunities for affordable options. The industry is adapting to economic pressures with innovative pricing strategies and bundled services for easier deployment across locations.

The global furniture market faces uncertainty due to potential U.S. tariffs on imported furniture, with President Trump citing "national security" as justification. Proposed tariffs could raise prices for consumers, impacting both imported and domestically produced furniture. Germany's furniture industry, which has seen a rise in exports to the U.S., is particularly vulnerable, with many companies expecting declining business. Analysts predict higher prices for consumers, although the full impact of the tariffs remains uncertain.

Lifestyle office markets are emerging as preferred destinations for tenants and investors, outperforming traditional office sectors with lower vacancy rates and higher rents. These markets, now representing 4% of the U.S. office inventory, have absorbed over 33 million square feet since 2020, with average rents at $67.94 per square foot, significantly higher than the broader market. A diverse tenant base, including legal and banking sectors, is driving demand, with lease rates 32% above conventional Class A buildings and faster leasing velocities.

Houston leads the nation in discounted office sales, with 69% of properties sold since 2023 at lower values than previous sales. The market is seeing a surge in acquisitions by owner-occupiers and private capital, driven by lower valuations despite population growth and corporate relocations. Office investment dollar volume in 2025 has already reached $1.2 billion, nearly double last year's total, with a significant portion of transactions occurring at reduced prices. The market is attracting both private and institutional investors, with many buyers looking to take advantage of the discounted environment.

In July, U.S. commercial real estate prices increased for the first time in five months, driven by the return of institutional investors such as REITs and pension funds. The CoStar Commercial Repeat-Sale Indices indicated a 1.3% rise in the value-weighted U.S. composite index, although prices remain over 1% lower than a year ago and more than 21% below their peak three years prior. Secondary and tertiary markets also experienced modest price increases, with a 0.3% rise in the equal-weighted composite index. The total sales volume for July was $10.7 billion from 1,482 transactions, reflecting a decrease from June but a significant increase compared to July 2024. The year-over-year transaction total reached $133 billion, a 27% increase, largely due to a 33% rise in investment-grade properties. The percentage of properties removed from the market continued to rise, indicating that sellers are optimistic about future price increases, while the overall investment sales market showed improvement in the first half of the year, with a notable surge in transactions in Dallas-Fort Worth.

New York City's office market experienced a strong August, with leasing volumes reaching 3.7 million square feet, a 36% increase from the previous year. The availability rate fell to 15%, the lowest since January 2021, as companies signed 27.3 million square feet of leases in the first eight months of the year, positioning Manhattan to exceed 40 million square feet for the first time since 2019. Major leases included Deloitte's 807K square feet at Hudson Yards and Piper Sandler's 140K square feet at 1301 Sixth Ave. The market is being driven by tech and creative tenants, with landlords responding by launching new developments amid declining availability and returning office foot traffic.

San Francisco's office market is showing signs of recovery, highlighted by Hines's proposal for a 1,225-foot office tower, which has received positive feedback from city officials. In the first half of 2025, over 5 million square feet were leased, driven largely by demand from artificial intelligence companies, marking the strongest activity since before the pandemic. However, vacancy rates remain high at over 22%, and the market is still recovering from the impacts of COVID-19. Despite challenges, the trend indicates a shift towards new commitments, suggesting the start of a new cycle in the office market.

Andi Owen, CEO of MillerKnoll, discusses the company's recovery from significant revenue losses due to COVID-19, highlighting the importance of innovation and brand identity following the merger of Herman Miller and Knoll. She expresses enthusiasm for the appointment of new Board Chair John Hoke, emphasizing the need for a mindset shift away from a "perma-crisis" mentality towards proactive business strategies. Owen acknowledges ongoing challenges like supply chain issues and the evolving nature of office spaces, advocating for compelling work environments to facilitate human connection. She also addresses the company's growth plans in both commercial and residential sectors, emphasizing the potential for international expansion and the importance of retail presence. Owen is optimistic about the future, predicting profitability and a focus on sustainability while continuing to honor the brand's legacy.

Nick Bloom, a Stanford economist, discusses the stability of remote work levels since 2023, highlighting that hybrid work has become the norm for many organizations. Hybrid work is financially beneficial, valued by employees like an 8% pay raise, and can reduce turnover significantly. Successful hybrid arrangements require coordinated attendance and fair policy enforcement. Contrary to the belief that remote work stifles innovation, hybrid teams often outperform others in problem-solving. Companies are also rethinking office space needs, favoring flexibility over long-term leases, and adapting to the evolving landscape of work driven by AI and changing business priorities.

In China, rising youth unemployment has led to the emergence of "pretend offices," where young adults pay to work in mock office environments. These spaces provide a sense of structure and community, reminiscent of early coworking spaces in the U.S. They serve as hubs for freelancers and job seekers, fostering creativity and collaboration amidst economic uncertainty. This trend may signal the beginning of a new wave of entrepreneurship, as individuals seek self-determination and innovation in the face of traditional employment challenges.

A recent survey reveals that nearly one in three employees are undermining their organization's generative AI efforts, with 31% admitting to behaviors that could be considered sabotage. This includes using unauthorized tools, entering sensitive information into unapproved platforms, and not reporting security breaches. Younger workers, particularly Millennials and Generation Z, are more likely to resist AI initiatives compared to older employees. Concerns include the perception that AI diminishes the creativity and value of their work, fears of job replacement, and criticism of the tools' quality and security. The findings highlight a significant cultural challenge for employers as they integrate AI into their operations, indicating that trust-building and involving employees in the implementation process are critical for successful adoption.

A directive to revert to traditional office hours has led to significant costs for companies as employees are leaving work earlier to accommodate childcare and other obligations. A study by JLL found that in 2025, employees in New York were leaving work 13 to 30 minutes earlier than in 2019, resulting in substantial productivity losses. The trend is notable in suburban areas, where the peak transportation hour has shifted from 6 PM in 2019 to 4 PM in 2025. Other cities, such as Chicago, Dallas, and San Francisco, have seen even greater reductions in departure times. JLL indicates that understanding these changes is crucial for evaluating market conditions.

Paramount Skydance is requiring employees to return to the office five days a week starting January 2026, with a deadline of September 15 for workers to agree or opt for severance. This decision follows a merger aimed at cutting costs by $2 billion, and potential layoffs of up to 3,000 employees are anticipated. CEO David Ellison emphasized the importance of in-person collaboration for business engagement and team support.

The U.S. federal government is facing a technology talent shortage due to mass layoffs and downsizing, which have hindered modernization efforts. Recruitment is challenging, particularly for left-leaning tech candidates deterred by political vetting processes. Agencies like the FDA are reorganizing to adapt to workforce losses, but leaders agree that successful modernization hinges on attracting and retaining skilled technologists.

Hybrid working remains resilient in the US, with 51% of remote-capable employees in hybrid arrangements. While fully remote and fully on-site work increased slightly, the overall balance has stabilized since 2022. Variations exist across sectors, with technology favoring remote work and federal government employees seeing a significant drop in hybrid work due to new mandates. Employee autonomy in setting hybrid schedules is declining, and perceptions of fairness vary based on decision-making processes. Trust issues persist between managers and employees, but effective communication and accountability can enhance trust in hybrid environments.

AI is reshaping the workforce, with companies like Salesforce reducing customer support roles due to AI deployment. While some organizations may keep human agents, automation threatens many entry-level jobs, particularly in software engineering. A study predicts 45 million U.S. jobs could be at risk by 2028. Reskilling is a challenge, as many professionals feel overwhelmed by AI tools. Additionally, activists are using AI to identify ICE agents involved in raids, highlighting privacy concerns and government accountability.

The workplace is evolving to enhance sensory experiences, similar to high-end hotels, by incorporating distinctive scents, soundscapes, and immersive design elements. This approach aims to create emotional connections and memorable environments, emphasizing the importance of flexibility in sensory engagement to accommodate diverse preferences. Key features include signature scents, curated playlists, personalized greetings, and thoughtful design that prioritizes feelings over mere functionality.

Arne Jacobsen, a Danish architect and designer, significantly influenced modern living through his holistic design philosophy that integrated architecture, furniture, and interiors. His notable works include the SAS Royal Hotel, Aarhus City Hall, and various iconic furniture pieces like the Egg and Swan chairs. Jacobsen's legacy continues to shape contemporary design, emphasizing simplicity, functionality, and a harmonious relationship with nature.

Hybrid work necessitates a balance between collaboration, focus, and flexibility in office design. Companies should assess current space utilization and employee needs to optimize layouts, creating environments that support both comfort and productivity. Key design considerations include dynamic connections, alignment with company culture, prioritizing human-centric elements, and ensuring flexible, multi-functional spaces to adapt to evolving workforce needs. Small adjustments can lead to significant improvements in workspace effectiveness.

Justin Shubow, head of the National Civic Art Society, has influenced President Trump's executive orders favoring classical architecture for federal buildings, arguing that modernist styles undermine American democratic traditions. Despite opposition from the architectural community, Shubow's advocacy has gained traction, aligning classical architecture with populist sentiments. Concerns arise about the potential politicization of architectural styles and the implications for architectural diversity and expression.

Humanscale is advancing sustainability by shifting from a linear to a circular model in furniture design, focusing on product ownership, repair, and take-back programs. The company is exploring leasing options to retain ownership of products, facilitating refurbishment and reuse. Their take-back initiative reuses over 80% of materials from returned chairs, promoting accessibility and sustainability in contrast to fast furniture. The conversation emphasizes the challenges and innovative solutions necessary for implementing a circular economy in the industry.

New workplace furniture and flooring for 2025 emphasize ergonomic design, versatility, and sustainability, drawing inspiration from nature and iconic styles. Key products include updated task seating, lounge chairs, and carpet tiles that enhance comfort and foster connections among occupants while utilizing environmentally responsible materials.

AIS has launched Roya™, a new seating solution designed for modern workplaces, combining elegance, comfort, and ergonomic performance. The chair features a sleek silhouette inspired by the movement of a ribbon, making it suitable for various environments including open plans, collaborative spaces, and conference rooms. Designed by Stefano Sanona and Sabrina Bettini, Roya includes a self-supporting mesh seat and back that contour to the body, a flexible spine for easy reclining, and standard features like pneumatic height adjustment and integrated arms. It offers a lightweight frame in black or white, unique hollow casters, and four mesh color options: black, grey, teal, and white. The designers emphasize that Roya balances aesthetics with performance and comfort. AIS is excited about this contemporary solution, which is available through the AIS Express Program with a quick shipping timeframe of three days.

Snøhetta and Citterio have collaborated on the 'Borealis' modular seating collection, featuring armchairs, sofas, benches, and side tables with a visible oak frame. Inspired by Nordic landscapes and Scandinavian minimalism, the design combines clean lines with soft upholstery, emphasizing functionality and adaptability. The collection will debut at Paris Design Week 2025, showcasing a structural framework that enhances everyday moments.

JSI has received a design patent for the Trans4rm™ system, enhancing the Kindera recliner for safer patient transfers, especially for larger patients. This innovation aims to improve caregiver efficiency and patient comfort, allowing for seamless transfers without bolt-on components. Kindera has already won a Nightingale Award and is recognized for its thoughtful design, including intuitive controls and cleanable surfaces, reflecting JSI's commitment to human-centered healthcare solutions.

Landscape Forms introduces the Illumination and Power Kit, designed to integrate power, mobile charging, and lighting into popular outdoor furniture solutions. It features options for GFCI receptacles, USB ports, and warm lighting, enhancing public spaces and meeting modern outdoor user needs. The kit is available in three configurations and aims to simplify the process of providing integrated charging and lighting solutions, responding to customer demand for such amenities in outdoor environments.

Maharam introduces three new rugs—Bower, Compose, and Linger—designed by Edith van Berkel, emphasizing sustainable materials and traditional weaving techniques from Kathmandu. The rugs feature a blend of nettle, wool, and silk, showcasing intricate designs and a commitment to reducing environmental impact. Van Berkel, an industrial designer, collaborates closely with artisans, while Maharam, a textile leader since 1902, continues to innovate in design for interiors.

Altispace introduces a new Wood Look Acoustic Collection featuring 8 wood grain finishes designed for acoustic products, enhancing interiors with natural aesthetics and advanced sound absorption. The collection supports biophilic design principles, promoting well-being and productivity in various environments. Made from eco-friendly PET felt, these products are lightweight, easy to install, and meet safety and sustainability standards.

Feeney has achieved CCRR certification for its DesignRail Custom line, demonstrating its commitment to safety and innovation in the architectural industry. This certification ensures that the products meet stringent safety and performance standards, providing customers with tailored solutions while streamlining the approval process for building officials. Regular audits maintain the certification's validity, reinforcing Feeney's dedication to quality and compliance with evolving code requirements.

HAY has refreshed the Amanta Sofa by Mario Bellini, originally designed in 1966, introducing a modular system with a modern color palette and sustainable materials, including 99% post-consumer plastic and 94% biomass balance foam. The design emphasizes flexibility, comfort, and a relaxed aesthetic, reflecting the enduring influence of Italian design.

The history of furniture design features Arne Jacobsen's innovative Ant chair and the subsequent No. 7 chair, which became iconic for their design and functionality. The No. 7 chair gained notoriety due to its association with the Profumo Affair, where a knockoff chair was featured in a scandalous photograph. To celebrate the 70th anniversary of the No. 7 chair, Fritz Hansen has released a special Series 7 – Tailored model, showcasing luxurious leather finishes while emphasizing the chair's enduring appeal in both everyday and significant interiors.

USM Haller and Zenith have launched a limited-edition Defy Chronograph USM watch, inspired by the bold spirit of the 1960s and USM's modular furniture design. The watch features an octagonal shape, four vibrant colors, and design elements reminiscent of USM's furniture, including horizontal grooves and a unique chronograph second hand. Limited to 60 pieces per color, it showcases Zenith's El Primero movement and comes in a specially designed colorful timepiece chest.

TikTok's new satellite office in Mexico City, designed by Gensler, features a vibrant layout inspired by local culture, including large murals and traditional masks. The design incorporates locally sourced materials and sustainable practices, reducing energy consumption by 20%. The office's central circulation path mimics a gallery, enhancing collaboration and reflecting the city's artistic spirit.

Barr Gazetas has refurbished a 1990s office building in Farringdon, now known as SIX, which incorporates sustainable design by repurposing existing structures and materials. The project features a blend of historical references and modern amenities, including a rooftop terrace and wellness studio, while achieving a 92% reduction in embodied carbon. The design integrates recycled materials throughout, ensuring a future-proof workspace that reflects its medieval textile heritage.

Going back to where the travel company began, BW completes the design and build of Skyscanner’s new Edinburgh headquarters.

Jon Rundle is a Principal Product Designer at Shopify, focusing on the Shop App. His workspace includes a variety of Apple products and ergonomic accessories. He sparks creativity by exploring new apps and prototyping digitally. His typical day involves family time, coffee rituals, and structured work hours to balance professional and personal life.

European coworking firm infinitSpace has entered the North American market with plans for four locations totaling 180,000 square feet. The company has appointed Andrea Pirrotti-Dranchak, a seasoned coworking professional, as the head of real estate for the Americas. The new spaces include a 30,000 square foot site in San Francisco's Financial District, 45,000 square feet in Austin, 35,000 square feet in New York City, and 70,000 square feet in Toronto's financial district. InfinitSpace operates through management agreements rather than traditional leases and has expanded significantly, doubling its size since early 2024. The founders, Wybo and Wilco Wijnbergen, bring extensive experience from WeWork and technology backgrounds, respectively. Despite entering a contracting U.S. coworking market, there are expectations for a rebound as flexible office solutions spread into suburban areas.

Tarkett appoints new senior directors for its soft surface, sales operations teams

Tarkett has appointed Antonio Bucca as senior director of product management for soft surfaces, leveraging his extensive experience to enhance product strategies and customer satisfaction. Melinda Rutledge replaces him as senior director of sales operations, focusing on improving sales productivity and revenue with over 20 years of operational excellence experience.

Rewind and Connect at IIDA NY’s 30th Anniversary Party

The International Interior Design Association’s New York Chapter (IIDA NY) is hosting its 30th Anniversary Party on September 18, 2025, from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM at the Teknion Showroom in New York City. This celebration invites the design and architecture community to reflect on three decades of collaboration and community. Attendees are encouraged to dress in ’90s fashion, with activities including a live DJ, trivia, crafts, and a retro photo booth. IIDA NY, formed by merging several design organizations, boasts over 800 members and focuses on professional development, mentorship, and diversity within the design industry. The event is free for designers and $65 for industry members. RSVP is required for attendance. INFO 

EDmarket Announces 2025 NexGen Rising Stars

The Education Market Association announces the 2025 class of NexGen Rising Stars, recognizing emerging leaders in education under 40 for their dedication and innovative contributions. The recipients will be honored at the EDmarket Leadership Connect Event during EDspaces in November 2025 and will be featured in Essentials Magazine. The initiative aims to foster collaboration and mentorship among the awardees, supported by sponsors like Steelcase and Smith System.

A sales rep in the office furniture industry feels burned out and seeks alternatives to contract sales. Stephen suggests transitioning to residential or luxury furniture sales, which offers a different customer base and potentially better work-life balance. He encourages exploring job opportunities in related fields, emphasizing that many companies value contract sales experience and provide training for new products.

The Regional Vice President (RVP) is responsible for developing and executing sales strategies in alignment with corporate objectives to drive the South East territory and sales performance. This leadership position focuses on building and maintaining strong relationships with dealer principals, key personnel, and end-user customers, ensuring the regional sales teams have the necessary tools, training, and support to achieve their goals.

We’re seeking an experienced Operations and Supply Chain Manager to lead procurement, inventory, and logistics operations for a fast-paced manufacturing environment. You’ll manage global and domestic vendor relationships, build scalable systems for efficiency and cost savings, and collaborate cross-functionally to drive growth. This is a high-impact role for someone who thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, can collaborate cross-functionally, and is passionate about continuous improvement!

We have an outstanding opportunity for motivated sales professionals to embark on a career path that has tremendous growth with earning potential well into the six-figure range. All Ethosource Account Executives are provided with cutting edge technology and expert in-house support. Salesforce CRM is utilized to further support and enhance sales efforts. No industry experience necessary. We will train the right individual!

We are seeking a results-driven Account Executive to join our growing team in the U.S Southeastern region. This role is ideal for a motivated sales professional with experience in the commercial office, furniture, or interiors industry who thrives on building strong client relationships and closing deals.