The wave of mergers and acquisitions in the contract furnishings industry shows no sign of slowing, as Momentum, a leading U.S. provider of design-forward commercial interior solutions, announced its acquisition of B+N Industries, the California-based manufacturer known for its modular systems, architectural panels, and custom shelving. The deal reflects a growing trend among top design brands seeking to expand capabilities and streamline integrated offerings across product categories.

 

The acquisition unites two companies with deep design DNA and shared commitments to sustainability, innovation, and storytelling through space. Momentum, the nation’s largest distributor of contract textiles and wallcoverings, adds B+N’s 40-year legacy of engineered systems — including its System 1224, Iconic Panels, Fortina, and Sorbetti 2.0 lines — to its expanding portfolio of wallcoverings, textiles, acoustics, and architectural products. The move strengthens Momentum’s position as a one-stop resource for designers seeking cohesive, cross-category solutions.

 

“At Momentum, we’ve built our reputation on leading with design and partnering with companies that share that same core value,” said Paul Cleary, President and CEO of Momentum. “B+N’s design-forward systems and client-centric approach perfectly complement our product solutions and passion for innovation.”

 

B+N President Joel Katterhagen said the move enables the company to scale its reach across commercial, retail, hospitality, and institutional markets while retaining its existing team and brand identity. “We’re excited to join a company that shares our values and vision,” he said.

 

Outgoing B+N CEO Brad Somberg added that the partnership builds on the company’s founding philosophy: “Design is a powerful tool for storytelling, connection, and transformation. Momentum and B+N are building a bold future aligned in purpose and vision.”

 

Momentum confirmed that B+N will continue operating under its own brand and leadership, ensuring continuity for existing clients, partnerships, and service models. Both companies are moving quickly to align their offerings and introduce combined benefits to market.

 

The acquisition underscores the steady pace of consolidation across the contract furnishings sector, as companies seek greater vertical integration, expanded product ecosystems, and enhanced design agility. From textiles to architectural systems, the industry’s leading players are increasingly turning to strategic partnerships to deliver holistic, design-driven solutions for today’s evolving workplaces.

Humanscale has announced a global partnership with WORKTECH Academy, making it the Global Furniture Partner starting in last month. This collaboration aims to promote healthier, smarter, and more sustainable workplaces by combining Humanscale's ergonomic design and sustainability expertise with WORKTECH Academy's network of academics, designers, and corporate users. The partnership will focus on key areas such as sustainability, hybrid work, ergonomics, and human-centered design, aiming to generate actionable insights for workplace strategies. Both organizations share a commitment to creating positive impacts in work environments for organizations and employees worldwide.

National office vacancy rates have declined for the first time since 2019, dropping to 22.5% in Q3, while leasing activity is at 82% of pre-pandemic levels. New construction is significantly down, with less than 6M SF in the pipeline. Large transactions increased by over 50% from Q2, with significant leasing growth in gateway markets led by technology and finance sectors. Net absorption reached 6.1M SF, nearly doubling the previous post-pandemic high, while rents remained flat overall but increased in Tier 2 buildings due to limited availability in top-tier spaces.

The global shift towards hybrid and flexible work models is reshaping real estate strategies, with 74% of companies now adopting these approaches. Employees in flexible workspaces report improved mental health and higher productivity, prompting a move away from traditional office setups. Demand for flexible spaces has surged, particularly in small towns, with a 164% increase in areas with populations under 5,000. Large enterprises are significantly contributing to this trend, and there is a growing preference for premium, amenity-rich workspaces. As hybrid work becomes standard, the integration of flexible options into real estate decisions is essential for maximizing returns and tenant satisfaction.

Boston's office market shows signs of recovery with a leasing velocity of 1.9M SF in the last quarter, the highest since 2019. Major deals include Hasbro's 265K SF sublease and KKR's relocation, contributing to a decrease in sublease availability. Despite a rising vacancy rate of 20.4%, momentum is building, particularly in trophy buildings, as demand shifts across various sectors. The market is expected to continue evolving as significant spaces come back online and companies like JPMorgan consider consolidating their operations.

Donahue Douglas is nearing $1 billion in commitments for a fund aimed at converting vacant office buildings into residential properties, with a target of raising $1.5 billion. Investors include family offices, university endowments, and large institutions, many pledging between $100 million and $200 million. The focus is on distressed markets, particularly Washington D.C. and San Francisco, with additional interest in South Florida, Boston, Dallas, and Austin.

Rents in U.S. gateway markets are rising, indicating improved office sector fundamentals, with over half of midmarkets showing rent growth potential. Job openings have increased slightly, while new supply is limited. Class A and Class B/C rents vary regionally, with notable recoveries in New York and Dallas-Fort Worth. Landlords are offering incentives, including free rent, to attract tenants amid rising construction costs and tariffs.

Office construction in Dallas/Fort Worth is at a 13-year low, with strong demand for Class A properties leading to positive net absorption of 130,000 square feet. Class B assets have seen negative absorption of 1.4 million square feet. Overall leasing increased to 2.6 million square feet, with significant activity in Dallas CBD, Far North Dallas, and Las Colinas. Asking rents for higher quality assets rose to $25.39 per square foot, with Class A properties experiencing notable year-over-year growth.

The production team for the Apple TV+ show The Studio, led by art director Brian Grego, created a convincing Frank Lloyd Wright-style building from scratch, aiming to reflect the architectural style of the 1920s and '30s. They conducted extensive research to design a unique structure inspired by Wright's work, incorporating his signature textile blocks and furniture style. The set was built on a Warner Bros lot, emphasizing the historical significance of Continental Studios while maintaining a high-quality aesthetic to enhance the show's critique of Hollywood.

The shift to hybrid work has highlighted the need for effective collaboration tools and office designs that accommodate both remote and in-person attendees. High-quality audio and video technology, such as multi-camera systems with intelligent video, can enhance participation and engagement in meetings. Additionally, rethinking office layouts, incorporating connectivity in various spaces, and ensuring sound quality are essential for creating productive hybrid work environments.

The roundtable discussion explores the evolving concept of the workplace, emphasizing a shift from traditional office setups to spaces that foster collaboration, creativity, and well-being. Experts highlight the need for workplaces to prioritize human connection and experience over mere productivity, advocating for adaptable designs that accommodate diverse working styles and promote social interaction. The role of designers is crucial in driving this change, as they guide clients towards innovative solutions that meet real needs in a rapidly changing work environment.

Hybrid workers face the challenge of maintaining visibility and work-life balance in an 'always on' environment, using both physical presence and digital engagement to demonstrate value. Organizations must adapt by supporting employee wellbeing, fostering meaningful connections, and redefining productivity measures to focus on outcomes rather than mere presence. The shift in work priorities necessitates a reevaluation of workplace culture and strategies to accommodate diverse needs and promote sustainable performance.

The return of corporate chic at Fashion Week reflects a cultural shift in work identity, merging officewear with personal expression as the lines between work and life blur. This evolution in fashion indicates a change in status from wealth to individuality and cultural literacy, driven by the realities of remote work and economic uncertainty. The revival of structured officewear symbolizes a collective craving for order amidst chaos, highlighting our changing relationship with work and identity.

The demand for traditional office space is declining as workers shift towards remote and flexible work options, leading to a smaller total addressable market for legacy leases. However, the flexible workspace sector is growing significantly, projected to reach $14.9 billion in North America by 2025. Landlords can recapture demand by adapting to this trend and integrating flexible office solutions, which can convert latent demand into active demand, expanding the overall market. The key is to embrace agility and rethink the office's role in the modern work environment.

In Washington, D.C., the demand for spec suites—fully designed and furnished office spaces—has surged post-pandemic, accounting for 76% of small lease relocations despite representing only 6% of office availability. However, rising construction costs and market saturation pose challenges for landlords, making it difficult to justify new projects. Spec suites remain popular for their flexibility and speed, but the economic advantages are diminishing as costs increase and investor caution grows.

Innovation hubs, once seen as crucial for corporate strategy, are facing challenges as many fail to deliver results and some have closed. The future lies in fostering innovation communities that connect people across organizations rather than investing in physical hubs. Companies should focus on cultivating relationships and leveraging existing resources to create networks for collaboration, while aligning innovation efforts with sustainability to drive meaningful change.

Nearly 40% of global office workers are experiencing "quiet cracking," feeling overwhelmed and burned out due to AI anxiety, work-life imbalance, and stagnation in career development. While companies invest heavily in AI, human capital development is neglected, leading to low employee engagement and high turnover intentions. Successful companies, like Standard Chartered, are addressing these issues by creating internal talent marketplaces that enhance employee growth and engagement, emphasizing the need for a balanced investment in human potential alongside technology.

To create a smarter, tech-enabled office, organizations should focus on five essentials: smart meeting room technology for seamless collaboration, efficient visitor and room management systems, dynamic digital signage for real-time information, accurate occupancy data and analytics for informed decision-making, and workplace feedback tools to capture employee input. These elements enhance the workplace experience by removing friction, fostering connection, and adapting to employee needs, ultimately enabling a more productive environment.

D.C. office owners are increasingly building spec suites to attract tenants, despite rising construction costs and market saturation. These prebuilt spaces are popular, accounting for a significant portion of relocation demand, but landlords are finding them financially burdensome. The average build-out cost has risen sharply, complicating investment decisions and leading to a cautious approach in the market.

A 70-year-old professor at Rowan University has filed a federal lawsuit alleging age discrimination and retaliation after her salary was cut by 30% and her office moved to a storage closet following her retirement announcement. The lawsuit claims the university violated discrimination laws and retaliated by assigning her unqualified teaching responsibilities and confiscating her personal belongings, including her ergonomic chair.

JPMorgan Chase's new headquarters at 270 Park Avenue is a modern office tower designed to enhance the work experience, featuring sustainable practices, advanced technology, and a focus on employee wellness. The building incorporates extensive recycling of materials from the previous structure, prioritizes natural light and air quality, and includes amenities like a food hall and wellness facilities. This development aims to reshape Midtown East by creating a cohesive urban campus that meets the evolving demands of modern work environments while setting new standards for efficiency and design.

Six emerging trends in surface materials reflect cultural and emotional shifts: Resilience emphasizes introspection and comfort; Ash and Embers captures urgency and intensity; Golden promotes warmth and emotional well-being; Phygital Future embraces technology with sensory-rich designs; Upcycled Pop combines sustainability with vibrant aesthetics; and Humble Nature seeks a reconnection with the simplicity and beauty of the natural world.

The workplace industry is shifting focus from space and efficiency to prioritizing employee experience and wellbeing. Traditional models like Activity-Based Working (ABW) are evolving into Experience-Based Working (EBW), which emphasizes creating environments that foster purpose, connection, and performance. Key drivers of workplace experience include creating energizing atmospheres, reflecting company culture, and supporting quiet work. Organizations must align governance across departments, integrate design and services, and measure outcomes that matter to enhance employee satisfaction and productivity.

The coworking industry is evolving rapidly, with key trends for 2025 including the integration of coworking by enterprise companies, the necessity for operators to have clarity in their vision and strategy, the rise of hyper-specialized coworking spaces, the importance of genuine member relationships, industry consolidation, evolving operator-landlord relationships, and consistent global trends despite regional differences. Operators must adapt to these shifts to thrive in a competitive landscape.

JPMorgan Chase has abandoned its goal to reduce its carbon footprint by 40% by 2030, opting instead for a strategy that prioritizes impactful projects over specific time-bound targets. The bank reported a 14% reduction in emissions as of 2024 but is behind its original goal. It remains committed to investing $1 trillion in renewable energy and has deployed $309 billion so far. JPMorgan continues to assess its financing activities for both high-carbon and low-carbon projects, maintaining a focus on reducing emissions intensity in key sectors.

Aceray has introduced the Moda collection of chairs, designed by E & P Ciani Design and crafted in Italy. This versatile collection includes six base options, such as a 4-prong steel swivel base and a height-adjustable 5-prong polished chrome cast aluminum swivel base with casters, among others. The chairs feature an upholstered seat and curved back for comfort, with high-density injected foam for durability. The Moda collection's sleek design and variety of base options make it suitable for public spaces, private offices, and hotel guest rooms. For more information, visit www.aceray.com.

Knoll introduces the Biboni Sofa by Johnston Marklee in North America, featuring a sculptural design that balances formal elegance with a welcoming feel. The sofa's anthropomorphic form is designed to embrace the sitter, enhancing its relationship with surrounding spaces. Available in various sizes, the collection includes two-seater, three-seater, and sectional options. Knoll, established in 1938, is known for its collaborations with influential designers and architects, offering a comprehensive approach to interior design.

Hightower has partnered with Varier to launch the Social® Collection, designed to enhance movement, productivity, and connection in commercial environments. The collection features two models, Tilt and Turn, which promote ergonomic comfort and adaptability. Built with sustainability in mind, the seating solutions are made from recycled materials and certified for durability. The Social Collection aims to create inclusive designs that support various ways of working and interacting, now available for specification in North America.

Enwork is previewing its new Zori Lecture Hall tables at EDspaces 2025, designed specifically for tiered classrooms and auditoriums. The tables feature a tamper-resistant wiring system and a design that complements modern aesthetics. Enwork will also showcase other innovative products like the Quantum flip table and customizable lockers, emphasizing its commitment to enhancing the learning experience through functional and stylish furniture solutions.

Koroseal has launched four new Flex wallcoverings designed for high-traffic areas, featuring enhanced abrasion and stain resistance. The new patterns—Vega Veil, Timber Vista, Stellify, and Frayed Canvas—combine aesthetic appeal with durability, available in 32 shades suitable for various environments such as healthcare and corporate settings. These wallcoverings are woven-backed with a protective coating, emphasizing both protection and style.

Designtex introduces Flora + Form, a collection of textiles and wallcoverings inspired by nature, featuring products like Blossom and Press, which celebrate biophilic design with floral patterns and natural textures. Borealis and Hibiscus offer immersive, customizable designs that promote wellbeing and connection to nature, suitable for various environments including wellness and corporate spaces.

Shaw Contract has launched two new tile and stone collections, Coexist and Aria, which emphasize craftsmanship and modern design. Coexist is inspired by Japanese ceramics, featuring three styles suitable for various applications, while Aria offers a contemporary take on Carrara marble with a variety of finishes. Both collections reflect the brand's commitment to sustainability and versatility in commercial environments, celebrating 40 years of design leadership.

Great Minds collaborated with Gwen Grossman Lighting Design to utilize USAI Lighting's LittleOnes fixtures for their new office in Washington, D.C. The design aimed to reflect the organization's innovative spirit while providing versatile lighting solutions for various spaces, including circulation areas, conference rooms, and collaborative spaces. The LittleOnes fixtures offered both general illumination and accent lighting, accommodating the dynamic needs of the office environment while maintaining a minimalist aesthetic.

A new meditation pod designed by Yves Béhar aims to help employees de-stress at work by providing a private space for guided meditation and breath work. Developed by OpenSeed, the pod features sound isolation, soothing lighting, and aromatherapy, with sessions lasting around 10 minutes. It is designed for easy assembly and can be used in various settings, including offices and healthcare facilities. Despite its high price of $22,500, it is positioned as an accessible wellness solution for workplaces.

The Pepe is a unique leather chair designed by Italian architect Raffaella Mangiarotti, featuring a distinctive saddle-inspired design. It combines vegetable-tanned leather stretched over a steel frame, creating a visually striking piece that stands out in furniture design. Although the comfort level is uncertain for those without an equestrian background, the chair's aesthetics are highly desirable. It is currently in production by the Italian furniture manufacturer Opinion Ciatti.

Kunstmuseen Krefeld is hosting an exhibition dedicated to the work of renowned designer Charlotte Perriand. The exhibition showcases her contributions alongside those of Pierre Jeanneret and Le Corbusier, highlighting their collaborative efforts and influence on modern design. The event is set to run starting October 20, 2025.

Branch is a new private members’ club at the Park Terrace Hotel in New York, designed by Holloway Li. It features a versatile layout with tailored seating arrangements that promote productivity and privacy. The design incorporates a European mid-century style, utilizing furniture from Aram Trade, and aims to create a vibrant atmosphere that transitions from a work environment to a social space. The club's decor and location near Bryant Park enhance its appeal as a refuge for professionals and hotel guests alike.

Michele De Lucchi's AMDL CIRCLE has renovated Azimut Yachts' historic headquarters in Avigliana, Turin, transforming it into a modern architectural space that reflects the company's identity. The project, part of a €50 million investment, includes a new multifunctional pavilion and extensive renovations to existing structures, enhancing employee workspaces and showcasing the brand's history through innovative design elements and materials.

Symbolplus renovated its Tokyo office using natural materials like earthen plaster and Tosa Washi paper, preserving the original timber structure and emphasizing quiet integration with the building's history. The design features a communal desk, sliding screens, and movable partitions, all aimed at creating a modest yet functional workspace. The project is shortlisted for the sustainable interior category of the Dezeen Awards.

Lebel & Bouliane transformed a 50,000 sq ft campus in Toronto into a hybrid creative hub for Plus Company, consolidating 15 agencies to foster collaboration and adaptability. The design emphasizes flexible workspaces, communal areas, and advanced technology to enhance employee engagement, resulting in a 55% in-office attendance rate. Key features include the Forum for events, Plus Co Park for informal gatherings, and a focus on natural light and acoustic performance, creating a vibrant environment that supports both individual agency identities and collective creativity.

Marijana Pavlinić is a designer and illustrator from Croatia, currently working at LiveKit, focusing on branding and web design. She co-runs Buka Studio, helping startups with design and code. Her workspace includes a MacBook Pro, various design tools, and coffee gear. She finds inspiration through collaboration with her partner and collects ideas using Notion and other platforms. Her typical workday is flexible, allowing her to balance deep focus work with breaks and side projects.

CoreWeave has expanded its office space in Washington D.C. by 79%, leasing 22,590 square feet at Nuveen's 1001 Pennsylvania Ave. The company, a leader in AI services, has recently secured significant contracts, including a $14.2 billion deal with Meta and a $22.4 billion agreement with OpenAI. The D.C. office market shows a direct vacancy rate of 20.4%, with many tenants increasing their footprints despite overall occupancy losses.

Remembering Lynda M. Dehn: A Guiding Light for Humanscale and the Design Community

Humanscale and the global design community are mourning the loss of Lynda M. Dehn, a key figure whose career spanned 27 years at the company. As the first product manager, she led the development of the iconic Freedom Chair, establishing Humanscale's reputation in ergonomic design. Lynda was also pivotal in creating the Architecture & Design and Global Programs, enhancing the company's ties to the design community. Known for her honesty, humor, and fairness, she was a mentor who inspired confidence and creativity in those around her. Lynda was deeply respected across the design world for her intelligence and kindness, leaving a lasting legacy through her work and the relationships she fostered. Her compassionate and generous spirit will be remembered by all who knew her.

Wyatt Seating Names New Rep

Wyatt Seating has announced that Katie Escovedo from The Esco Group will be the new representative for Arkansas. With her extensive industry experience and knowledge of the local market, she will enhance the company's commitment to providing excellent service to dealers throughout the state.

Kasthall Strengthens its Organization and Presence - Appoints First Ever Managing Director for the Americas

Kasthall has appointed Danielle Zinn as its first Managing Director for the Americas, aiming to strengthen its presence in the region. With over 30 years of experience in high-end design, Zinn will lead the team in expanding the brand's influence and building relationships within the architecture and design community. The company is focusing on growth in both the Contract and Home segments, emphasizing craftsmanship, sustainability, and innovation in the rapidly growing market for high-quality rugs.

Discover. Connect. Delve In.

My Resource Library hosted the Delve Series: Workplace event in Chicago, connecting 32 interior designers and brand partners for immersive learning and networking. The event featured keynote speakers, small-group discussions, and a Progressive Networking Dinner, fostering collaboration and creativity. The Delve Series aims to create intimate gatherings that enhance dialogue among design professionals, with the next event focused on Healthcare & Senior Living scheduled for February 2026 in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Integra Partners With Inside Evolutions as South Texas Representatives 

Integra Seating has partnered with Inside Evolutions to represent their high-performance furniture in South Texas. Inside Evolutions, based in Houston and founded by Shannon Meek, is known for its excellent client service and product selection in commercial environments such as education and healthcare. The partnership enhances offerings in the region by introducing Integra's durable and customizable furniture solutions, which can support dynamic weight capacities of up to 1,000 lbs—unmatched in the industry. This collaboration aims to provide architects, designers, and facility managers in South Texas with easier access to Integra’s extensive product lineup, backed by a lifetime warranty and a commitment to sustainability. Integra, a family-owned and operated company since 1982, emphasizes durability and flexibility in its designs, making it a leader in the industry.

Ghent Elevates Patient Experience During Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Beyond 

Ghent is enhancing patient experiences during Breast Cancer Awareness Month by providing healthcare solutions that improve communication and satisfaction. With breast cancer affecting many women, the company emphasizes the importance of effective communication tools in healthcare settings, which can significantly enhance patient care. Susan Claus, Ghent's Director of Marketing and a breast cancer patient, highlights the impact of thoughtful design in healthcare environments. Ghent is also supporting The Common Thread for the Cure's mission and encouraging industry contributions to its fundraising efforts.

Configura Announces 2025 Award Winners

Configura announced the winners of the 2025 Configura Awards, recognizing excellence in design and visualization. First place winners include Carl Jason Sy for 360 Panorama, Ireland Nathan for Student Rendering, and Nabeeha Hussain for Innovative Extension, among others. The awards highlight creativity, technical skill, and community collaboration in spatial design, with winners selected from a competitive field and People's Choice awards determined by public voting.

A professional expresses concern over their colleagues' sudden increase in LinkedIn activity following news of an impending acquisition. They question the authenticity of this behavior, suspecting that coworkers are trying to appear busy and relevant to the new owners. In response, it is noted that this trend is common among those wanting to maintain visibility, especially in uncertain job situations. The importance of balancing social media presence with actual work performance is emphasized, suggesting that genuine accomplishments should be shared rather than curated content. Ultimately, it's advised that hard work and results are more valuable than an online persona, and maintaining a balanced approach to personal branding is essential.

The Senior Accountant is responsible for managing key components of the financial reporting process on behalf of client accounts, ensuring the timely and accurate preparation of financial statements in accordance with US GAAP.