The The HON Company last week announced plans to open a new 12,000+-square-foot showroom in the city’s increasingly vibrant Fulton Market district, located at 320 North Sangamon St.. The showroom will occupy space in the recently completed 13-story tower developed by Tishman Speyer (with Chicago-based Mark Goodman & Associates) and designed by Chicago’s own Solomon Cordwell Buenz. The 270,000 sq ft building, which opened in 2021, boasts largely column-free floor plates, 13-foot ceilings, and LEED Gold and FitWel certifications, including Chicago’s first office building ventilation system that is 100 percent water-based.

 

The HON showroom is slated to open in June 2026, to coincide with Fulton Market Design Days (and NeoCon). With this move, HON is signalling a major strategic investment and a re-introduction of the brand into Chicago’s architecture and design community — positioning the showroom as a destination for customers, dealer partners and designers to engage with the full breadth of the HON offering.

 

“Creating and bringing to market this new space is a pivotal moment for HON and a declaration of our commitment to the future of work, learning, and the entire Chicago design community,” said Jason Hagedorn, President – HNI Workplace Furnishings. “We feel energized by the fresh direction of the space and look forward to reintroducing HON as part of Fulton Market Design Days.”

The relocation comes at a time when the Fulton Market district is emerging as a major hub for workplace- and design-oriented showrooms. Firms that once anchored themselves in the landmark Merchandise Mart (THE MART) are increasingly migrating to Fulton Market — drawn by the area’s loft-style spaces, tech-friendly atmosphere and design-centric community.

 

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This exodus is seen by many observers as a signal of a broader shift in the Chicago commercial-design ecosystem away from the Mart’s legacy showroom model and toward the more flexible, vibrant, mixed-use backdrop of Fulton Market. 

Landscape Forms Announces Marjorie K. Simmons as Chairman of the Board

Marjorie K. Simmons has been appointed as the Chairman of the Board of Landscape Forms, effective November 1, 2025, after serving as CEO and President for over six years. During her leadership, the company nearly doubled its annual revenue and expanded its manufacturing capacity. She succeeds Brian Walker, who will transition to the Board as Chair of the Nomination & Governance Committee. Simmons has a strong background in architecture and business, previously serving as CEO of SHW Group and co-founding DSA Architects. Landscape Forms, established in 1969, is a leader in high-design site furniture and has a reputation for quality and exceptional service, partnering with renowned designers and serving notable clients globally.

MillerKnoll has recently established a formal legal presence in Saudi Arabia, hosting an exclusive event in Riyadh to showcase its operational capabilities. This strategic move aligns with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 initiatives, aiming to meet the growing demand for innovative, human-centered spaces across various sectors, including workplace, hospitality, education, and healthcare. The company’s international expansion is seen as essential for capturing new business opportunities, although it continues to face challenges such as margin pressures due to macroeconomic volatility and tariffs. Despite a return to profitability and increased sales in its Q1 earnings report, future revenue stability remains uncertain. MillerKnoll projects achieving $4.0 billion in revenue and $293 million in earnings by 2028, necessitating consistent revenue growth and recovery from current losses.

MuteBox, a Danish manufacturer of soundproof office pods and meeting rooms, has exited the UK market after incurring significant losses. Entering the UK in 2023 with a showroom in London, the company reported an 8.1 million DKK loss for the fiscal year 2024/25, more than double the previous year's losses, alongside a revenue decline of over 30%. CEO Thomas Stephansen stated that while the UK is an exciting market, the setup was expensive, leading to the decision to withdraw. The company will now concentrate on growth in Denmark and expansion across Scandinavia, having invested approximately 5 million DKK in the UK.

CEKA, an office furniture manufacturer that filed for preliminary insolvency in July 2025, is entering a new phase under the partnership of a strong investor from the industry. As of November 1, 2025, the company will be known as CEKA PRO GmbH, signaling both continuity and growth. The Polish furniture manufacturer .mdd has joined forces with CEKA PRO to assist in strategic realignment, market expansion, and innovation. Management has confirmed that most employees will remain with the company, ensuring the continuity of expertise and service. CEKA PRO will prioritize workplace solutions, acoustics, sustainability, and uphold high-quality "Made in Germany" standards.

The European office furniture market is undergoing significant transformation, projected to grow from $11.92 billion in 2024 to $25.63 billion by 2033, driven by hybrid work adoption, ergonomic priorities, and sustainability. Companies are redesigning offices for collaboration rather than full-time occupancy, leading to demand for modular workstations and ergonomic furniture. Employee wellness has become crucial, making ergonomic solutions standard rather than luxury. Sustainability plays a key role, with preferences for recycled materials and eco-friendly manufacturing. The market faces challenges like demand fluctuations and intense competition, with various segments categorized by material type and product type. Countries like Germany, France, Italy, and the UK are leading the way in office design trends, while top companies are innovating in ergonomic seating and smart workplace solutions. By 2033, office furniture will enhance productivity, adapt to hybrid schedules, and reflect brand identity.

MillerKnoll has released its 2025 Better World Report, showcasing how design can create positive change for people, communities, and the planet. The report highlights the company’s achievements, including achieving 100% renewable energy across all manufacturing facilities and diverting 4.2 million pounds of furniture from landfills. MillerKnoll emphasizes its commitment to community engagement, with employees volunteering over 13,000 hours in various global events, and fostering a culture of inclusion and belonging. The report reflects measurable progress against environmental, social, and governance initiatives, reinforcing the belief that good design contributes to a better future.

 

The Michigan West Coast Chamber of Commerce announces Haworth and LG Energy Solution as lead investors in its capital campaign, supporting the development of a new facility. The Career Center powered by Haworth will connect students with career resources, while the Innovation Center powered by LG will host Chamber programs and community events. Both companies emphasize their commitment to local talent and innovation, with LG also launching a donation match program to further support the initiative.

Major business districts are recovering post-Covid-19, with two-thirds of stakeholders finding them more attractive. While North American cities face high vacancy rates, Asian districts are strengthening. European hubs lag in Fortune 500 headquarters but excel in environmental initiatives. Key trends include talent attraction, real estate value, start-up growth, and sustainability. Future competitiveness will depend on evolving into mixed-use areas that integrate work, living, and culture, with a focus on resilience and collaboration.

The construction industry is experiencing a bifurcation, with firms involved in data centers and advanced manufacturing enjoying longer backlogs (10.9 months) compared to those in traditional sectors (8 months). While some sectors thrive, others face declining demand and uncertainty due to interest-rate pressures and cost inflation, indicating a varied landscape in non-residential construction.

Office leasing activity in Manhattan has surged by 38% year-to-date, reaching 26.03 million square feet, with significant renewals accounting for 5.79 million square feet. October alone saw 2.79 million square feet in signings, marking a 48% increase from the five-year monthly median. Notable leases included Stripe at 139,497 square feet and Robinhood at 125,392 square feet. Meanwhile, office availability has tightened to 16.4%, with sublease space dropping to 11.8 million square feet, nearly a 50% decline since Q1 2023. Despite flat asking rents at $77.22 per square foot, demand remains strong, totaling 9.88 million square feet year-to-date. Core industries are driving this recovery, with potential future developments such as Fed rate cuts and return-to-office mandates on the horizon.

The Sun Belt office markets are experiencing a surge in leasing activity as companies relocate from high-tax, high-regulation areas to growth hubs like Dallas, Tampa, Charlotte, and Raleigh. Cousins Properties reported a significant rebound in leasing, with a 65% increase in volume compared to the previous quarter. This trend is driven by the migration of technology and financial services firms seeking dynamic markets with educated workforces, benefiting companies like Highwoods Properties as well.

Major office markets in the U.S. are improving post-pandemic, but Los Angeles struggles with high vacancy rates and sluggish demand, showing over 24% vacancy and 679K SF of negative absorption. The tech sector's decline has impacted leasing, with unemployment at 6.3%. While sublease space is decreasing, significant market recovery will require new demand drivers or conversions of existing office spaces. Optimism for improvement exists, but LA remains a laggard in the office market compared to other regions.

Bangalore is evolving into a strategic hub for global workplace expansion, attracting young, tech-savvy professionals amid challenges like aging infrastructure and traffic. Companies can differentiate themselves by creating emotionally intelligent workplaces that resonate with the city's cultural identity. Surveys indicate a desire for workspaces that foster emotional connections and offer rejuvenating experiences. Successful designs, such as those at Intuit and 7-Eleven, incorporate local elements and employee-centric features, aiming to create human-centric environments that enhance community and connection.

The workplace design metric is shifting from efficiency to experience, emphasizing how employees feel at work. Traditional models focused on space and cost, often neglecting employee engagement and wellbeing. Experience-Based Working (EBW) prioritizes creating environments that foster connection, purpose, and performance, integrating various workplace disciplines. Key drivers of workplace experience include creating energizing atmospheres, reflecting company culture, and providing quiet spaces. Organizations must adopt new metrics and collaborative strategies to enhance employee satisfaction and productivity, moving beyond mere attendance and utilization metrics.

Ikea's new CEO, Juvencio Maeztu, discusses the company's flat revenue of €41.5 billion amid inflation and tariffs. He emphasizes growth in various markets, cost transformation, and simplifying operations. Despite a slight revenue dip, store traffic and online sales are up. Maeztu highlights the importance of maintaining low prices and the company's commitment to providing affordable home furnishings, while navigating challenges in the global supply chain and retail landscape.

Oval Office | History, Evolution, Presidents, Layout, Resolute Desk, & Memorable Moments

The Oval Office, established in its current form during Franklin D. Roosevelt's presidency, reflects the evolution of the U.S. presidency. Its oval shape is inspired by George Washington's design preferences, and it has been personalized by various presidents through decor and traditions, such as leaving letters for successors. Historic moments in the Oval Office include significant addresses by presidents during crises and personal interactions that highlight the human side of leadership.

Glassdoor data reveals rising worker frustration in the U.S., with significant declines in trust and engagement, particularly in technology and consulting sectors. Smaller, frequent layoffs are replacing mass layoffs, creating anxiety among employees. Remote workers report lower career growth opportunities, while concerns about AI's impact on job security persist. Despite a soft hiring market, early-career wages are rebounding, highlighting the need for organizations to bridge the gap between leadership and staff to avoid disengagement and retention issues.

The flex industry is evolving as hybrid work becomes the norm, prompting a reevaluation of what constitutes successful growth. Key insights include the importance of sustainable growth, understanding market fit, maintaining company culture during expansion, measuring broader success metrics beyond revenue, and ensuring agility within a strategic framework. The industry's future influence hinges on intentional growth rather than rapid expansion, emphasizing the need for reflection and commitment to quality development.

Generative AI portals are emerging as essential tools in the workplace, helping employees adapt to AI technologies by providing educational resources, addressing misconceptions, and fostering a culture of innovation. A case study showed that a nonprofit organization increased employee confidence in using AI tools by 80% and reduced administrative task time by 35% through a tailored internal portal. Such initiatives not only ease the transition to AI but also enhance employee engagement and retention by promoting transparency and continuous learning.

A House of Lords committee emphasizes the need for a coherent national approach to remote and hybrid work, highlighting issues like unclear responsibilities and inconsistent data. Key findings include the embedding of hybrid work in the UK labor market, mixed wellbeing effects, uncertain productivity impacts, and concerns about early-career learning. The report calls for equitable access to home working, clear employer obligations, improved digital infrastructure, and AI's potential impact on job availability. Recommendations include coordinated policy responsibility, enhanced employer guidance, and targeted research funding.

Journey mapping is a crucial tool that visualizes user movements through systems, spaces, and services, capturing their actions, feelings, expectations, and experiences of friction or delight. Early-stage journey mapping is especially beneficial, as it helps teams understand user experiences from the outset, guiding design decisions and uncovering needs and challenges before programming begins. This practice aids organizations in engaging users throughout their entire journey, ensuring seamless and memorable experiences.

 

Key benefits of early-stage journey mapping include forming an insight-rich foundation by capturing unfiltered user behaviors, creating an adaptable framework that can evolve with new data, and laying the groundwork for innovation by identifying unmet needs. Methodologies used in journey mapping encompass user journey maps that highlight key moments, experience blueprints that align operational flows with user experiences, and personas that tailor experience strategies to specific user types and contexts.

Personalized workspace design enhances comfort, focus, and well-being in modern offices. Key strategies include customizing spaces with plants, ensuring privacy through dividers, managing auditory distractions with noise-cancelling headphones, utilizing strategic lighting, and organizing workspaces for navigability. These design choices foster a sense of identity, control, and emotional connection, ultimately improving employee satisfaction and engagement.

Who's got this furniture contract? Ford is revamping its 9,000 dealerships globally to create a more welcoming and convenient environment, inspired by hospitality concepts. The Signature 2.0 design will feature bright windows, lounging areas, and immersive car displays, while still accommodating traditional purchase rooms. Approximately 250 dealership owners are expected to adopt this new layout, with costs varying based on the extent of renovations needed. The first Signature 2.0 store has opened in Lewes, Delaware, but participation will not be mandatory for all dealerships.

Healthcare organizations are shifting from fixed design strategies to flexible, data-informed approaches, testing multiple care models before construction to optimize space and improve patient outcomes. Key strategies include using simulation tools, prioritizing flow analysis, and incorporating human factors to avoid common planning pitfalls. Successful projects align physical resources with organizational goals, emphasizing continuous adaptation to changing needs rather than striving for perfect optimization.

Humanscale and Kvadrat Really Partner to Bring Textile Waste Innovation to the Office

Humanscale has partnered with Danish textile manufacturer Kvadrat to introduce Kvadrat Really, a line of circular tabletops made from textile waste, to the US market. The Kvadrat Really Textile Tabletop™ consists of 70% discarded textiles and 30% waste binder, sourced from the fashion industry and laundries. This innovative product is manufactured through a renewable energy-powered mechanical process, resulting in durable, recyclable tabletops that reduce carbon emissions by 30% compared to traditional options. In 2024 alone, Kvadrat Really repurposed 550 tonnes of textile waste into new tabletops.

 

This collaboration underscores Humanscale's commitment to sustainable design and environmental responsibility, focusing on healthy materials and transparency. The Kvadrat Really Textile Tabletop™ is set to be available with Humanscale's desk ranges, including eFloat Go 2.0 and eFloat Next, and aims to address the growing textile waste problem as production is projected to reach 145 million tons by 2030. The collection will be accessible globally through Humanscale showrooms and online.

Circularity is becoming a core business strategy in corporate real estate, emphasizing the reuse, donation, resale, and recycling of surplus assets. Key benefits include cost recoupment through resale, community engagement via donations, alignment with corporate values, measurable impact, and scalable systems. Companies like Indeed and Georgia-Pacific exemplify successful circular practices, demonstrating that sustainability can enhance both community ties and business performance. The future of corporate real estate is circular, focusing on smarter systems that maximize the value of workplace assets.

J+J Flooring has launched the Infusion collection, its first full collection of rigid core luxury vinyl tile (LVT), featuring two patterns—Blend and Stir—with nine colorways each. Designed for cost-sensitive volume projects such as multifamily living units and senior living spaces, the collection combines performance and aesthetics. Blend mimics seasoned oak, while Stir takes inspiration from maple and birch, both available in 7” x 48” planks. The collection utilizes PureGrain High-Definition digital printing for enhanced color clarity and Evertuff Clearcoat Technology® for protection against scuffs. Domestically produced, the Infusion collection is designed to coordinate with other J+J Flooring products.

 

Three H has launched Harris, a refined locker system designed for modern work environments, recognized with a Silver Best of NeoCon award. Developed by Lee Fletcher and the Three H team, Harris offers thoughtful design for transitional areas, featuring flexible storage options, integrated shelves, and seating extensions. Its architectural cohesion and elevated bases enhance functionality, making it suitable for various settings. Named after a township in Northern Ontario, Harris embodies the values of being grounded, thoughtful, and human, and is now available for order.

Sabin, a Chicago-based manufacturer founded in 2021, specializes in acoustic lighting with a unique sewn construction approach. Their new LINEAR series features modular designs that integrate light and sound, offering customizable options for designers. The products achieve GREENGUARD Gold certification through sustainable materials and construction methods, promoting durability and repairability while enhancing sensory environments.

Aaron Preyer's Blooming Furniture project features transformative furniture that responds to touch and weight, allowing pieces to shift between forms, such as from a pouf to a lounge chair. The designs celebrate their mechanical elements, inspired by natural growth and movement, and aim to create a recognizable collection that includes various functional objects like coffee tables and wall shelves.

George & Willy, a New Zealand-based design studio, has created a wall-mounted café table that can be easily removed for flexibility in outdoor and indoor settings. The tables are made from aluminum and zinc-coated steel, available in two sizes, and feature customizable leg orientation and pre-drilled mountings for convenience. User feedback highlights concerns about stability and security against theft.

Dutch design studio Luis Marie has created the first all-textile room divider, named Plissade, using recycled materials. The innovative design features a pleating technique that allows the divider to stand independently without adhesives, making it fully recyclable. It is lightweight, modular, and available in various colors, suitable for both residential and professional environments. The project emphasizes sustainability by minimizing water and chemical use during production.

The Table Perriand from Hévéa House combines modernist design with Eastern philosophy, promoting dialogue and reflection through its biophilic principles. Its structure features three solid oak legs and a top divided into flowing sections, balancing collaboration and individual focus. The table's materials enhance tactile connection to nature, making it suitable for various environments while encouraging interaction and learning among users.

The Joker Throne, a collaborative design by Stellantis Design Studio and Formitalia, won the 2025 Archiproducts Design Award at the ADA Night ceremony in Milan. Unveiled at Salone del Mobile 2025, this sculptural armchair features a hand-crafted fiberglass shell and embodies the chaotic essence of The Joker, merging art with functionality. The award highlights its innovative design and craftsmanship, establishing it as a new icon in contemporary luxury furniture.

Coworking spaces are evolving into hubs for continuous learning, integrating job-relevant training and education. These environments foster informal knowledge exchange and structured programs like workshops and mentoring, enhancing professional development. Proximity to universities is increasing, providing students with affordable access to professional settings. The design of coworking spaces plays a crucial role in facilitating collaboration and learning, while emerging technologies promise to further enhance educational opportunities within these spaces.

Banda Agency's new office in Kyiv, designed by ater.architects, features a flexible layout that encourages creativity and collaboration. The space includes communal areas, a workshop for experimentation, and modern elements integrated with historic architecture. Unique features like a cloud lounge and upholstered Zoom rooms enhance comfort, while aluminum pegboards in the workshop facilitate prototyping and model-making.

Universal Design Studio has integrated local craftspeople into the design of the Norton Folgate offices in London's Spitalfields, celebrating the area's rich textile history. Key features include bespoke woven curtains by textile artist Lara Pain, red oak joinery by Benchmark, and a unique meeting table by AJ Wells. The design emphasizes craftsmanship, sustainability, and the importance of shared spaces, with large kitchen tables crafted by Lewis Kemmenoe. Norton Folgate is nominated for a Dezeen Award in the large workplace interior category.

Nubelson Fernandes, a content creator and software engineer, shares his minimal desk setup, which includes an Asus ProArt monitor, Mac Mini, MacBook Air, and various peripherals. He emphasizes the importance of tools like Notion and DaVinci Resolve in his workflow. His latest addition is a MacBook Air M4, enhancing mobility for creative tasks. He seeks to upgrade to a more ergonomic chair for comfort during long work sessions and finds inspiration through reading and weight training. Working from home allows him flexibility in managing his time and energy.

Scout Motors has chosen Charlotte for its new corporate headquarters, investing $206M in a 300K SF facility that will create approximately 1,200 jobs. The headquarters will house various company teams and is set to begin staffing in 2026. The state of North Carolina may provide up to $46.5M in job development grants based on hiring and investment goals. Additionally, Scout Motors is developing a manufacturing center in Blythewood, South Carolina, expected to open in 2027, with significant state funding support.

Lauren Wilson

Silvana Ramirez

Raul Garcia-Moncada

BR Design Associates Announces Key Leadership Promotions and New Hire

BR Design Associates, a New York City-based architecture and design firm, has announced the promotion of Lauren Wilson to Director of Operations and Silvana Ramirez to Director of Production, as well as the hiring of Raul Garcia-Moncada as Director of Design. These changes come as the firm celebrates its 40th anniversary and aims to enhance its commitment to talent development and innovative design. Lauren Wilson will oversee the integration of design and execution in commercial projects, while Silvana Ramirez will lead technical project delivery. Raul Garcia-Moncada brings a narrative-driven design approach, emphasizing flexibility and technology. The firm is also developing an AI Design Initiative to optimize workflows and enhance creativity. Guided by founder Michael Rait, BR Design Associates continues to focus on creating functional and beautiful interiors that reflect client needs.

Arcadis Appoints Robyn Kaiser as Principal in Workplace Design Studio

Arcadis has appointed Robyn Kaiser as Principal in its Workplace Architecture Studio, bringing over 25 years of experience in workplace strategy and real estate innovation. Her expertise includes modern workplace solutions that have generated significant savings and improved employee engagement. Kaiser aims to enhance workplace experiences through sustainable design and technology, aligning with Arcadis' commitment to impactful workplace transformation.

Winners Announced for NanaAwards Project and Design Competition 2025

NanaWall announced the winners of the 2025 NanaAwards Project and Design Competition, celebrating outstanding achievements in design across 13 categories. This year's competition received a record number of entries, with Gold winners including projects like Bedford Barn Renovation and Lumenhaus. Each winning project will be showcased on NanaWall's platforms, highlighting the versatility and design excellence of operable glass walls.

IIDA NY Presents Fifth Annual Hazel Siegel Scholarship

The International Interior Design Association’s New York Chapter (IIDA NY) has announced the fifth annual Hazel Siegel Student Scholarship, honoring the legacy of textile designer Hazel Siegel. Following her passing in 2020, the scholarship aims to support and inspire the next generation of designers. Sponsored by Momentum Textiles, the scholarship offers three winners an all-expenses-paid trip to the IIDA SHIFT Conference in Dallas, TX, scheduled for February 11-13, 2026. The scholarship is open to undergraduate and graduate interior design students in New York State, with applications due by December 5, 2025. Winners will also receive a one-year membership to IIDA NY, enhancing their professional growth and networking opportunities.

The Collaborative Network Launches the Marketing Leadership Collaborative to Drive Innovation in Contract Interiors Marketing

The Collaborative Network has launched the Marketing Leadership Collaborative, a new professional community for marketing leaders in the commercial interiors industry. This initiative aims to facilitate idea sharing, insights, and learning among marketing professionals facing challenges such as shrinking budgets and evolving AI tools. The group will meet bi-monthly and provide expert-led discussions, guest speakers, collaborative problem-solving, and a private communication hub. Founded by industry veterans, this community seeks to support small and mid-sized businesses in enhancing their marketing strategies and brand presence. For more information, upcoming start dates, and membership pricing, contact: erin@thecollaborative.network or sid@thecollaborative.network 

When dressing for an interview, research the company's culture and how current employees dress. Avoid excessive jewelry and casual footwear, and ensure hygiene and grooming are prioritized. If unsure about the dress code, ask the recruiter or HR. Traditional fashion rules still apply, and if the company has casual days, maintain a professional appearance for the interview.