HNI Delivers Strong Start to 2025 / DIRTT Revenue inches up 1% / Furniture startup Branch launches SF Retail Store / Manhattan Office Leasing Shows Signs of Cooling After Strong Start to 2025 / Class A Office Values Down 40% Since 2020—Yet Investors Eye a Market Bottom / Amazon Is Gobbling Up Midtown / Standard Reporting Underestimates the Value of Office Furniture Reuse / How Summer FOMO Is Shaping the Canadian Workplace / Is the Furniture Industry Failing to Connect the Dots? / HSBC faces desks shortage after ordering staff back to the office / AI At The Front Desk: Are Bots The Future Of Reception In Coworking Spaces? / Maximizing Magnets and Minimizing Barriers to Improve Office Life / and much more…

HNI Delivers Strong Start to 2025 with Growth in Both Workplace and Residential Segments, Maintains Confident Outlook Through 2026

HNI Corporation delivered a solid first quarter for 2025, with total net sales increasing 2% year-over-year to $599.8 million and non-GAAP earnings per share growing 19%. The company reaffirmed its full-year earnings outlook and expressed confidence in its performance through 2026, driven by ongoing productivity initiatives, synergy gains from the Kimball International acquisition, and the ramp-up of its Mexico operations. However, a closer look at its two main business segments reveals a tale of two trajectories—one still finding its footing, and the other riding stronger momentum.

2025-Q1 to Q2 Market Outlook Report Released: Steady Optimism, Slower Growth

The Solomon Coyle 2025-Q1 to Q2 Dealer Market Outlook Report indicates a mix of cautious optimism and slower growth within the market. Despite Q1 results falling slightly short of expectations, distributors are optimistic for Q2 and Q3, with strong backlogs and positive pipeline activity. Key highlights include a 2.8% growth in Q1 bookings and an expected 4% growth in Q2. However, there are signs of caution, such as a 5.1% decline in billings and a decrease in the Pipeline Activity Index. Overall, a significant majority of distributors report stable or improving pipelines across various sectors.

DIRTT Reports First Quarter 2025 Financial Results

DIRTT Environmental Solutions Ltd. announced its financial results for the first quarter of 2025, reporting a revenue of $41.3 million, which reflects a 1% increase compared to the same period last year. However, the gross profit margin decreased to 35.2%, impacted by tariff-related costs amounting to 1.4% of revenue. The company experienced a net loss of $0.7 million, contrasting with a net income of $3.0 million in the prior year. Adjusted EBITDA was $2.1 million, down from $2.7 million in the same quarter of 2024. As of March 31, 2025, liquidity stood at $36.0 million. Recent legal developments include a redirected lawsuit against Falkbuilt Ltd. and the company’s share repurchase agreement with NGEN III, LP. Additionally, DIRTT extended its credit facility with the Royal Bank of Canada.

Furniture startup Branch picks Jackson Square for first retail store

Branch, a direct-to-consumer office furniture startup from New York, has opened its first retail store in San Francisco’s Jackson Square neighborhood. The store occupies a 1,500-square-foot space and comes as the demand for office space in San Francisco is rebounding. The CEO, Greg Hayes, noted that San Francisco is now one of their fastest-growing markets, alongside New York.

Single and Multi-Tenant Office Sales Decline Across Most U.S. Regions as Cap Rates Rise

The recent analysis indicates a decline in both single and multi-tenant office sales across most U.S. regions, accompanied by rising capitalization rates. Despite some improvement in transaction volumes due to increased office distress sales, challenges like higher interest rates and the ongoing prevalence of hybrid work have contributed to rising vacancy rates.

Manhattan Office Leasing Shows Signs of Cooling After Strong Start to 2025

Manhattan's office leasing shows signs of cooling, with April leasing volume at 3.38 million square feet, a 26.2% increase from March but down in both Downtown and Midtown. Despite a year-over-year increase, average rents slightly decreased to $74.37 per square foot. Positive trends include a drop in availability to 15.7% and consistent net absorption over ten months.

Class A Office Values Down 40% Since 2020-Yet Investors Eye a Market Bottom

Class A office values have decreased by 40% since 2020, but there are signs that the market may be stabilizing. Analysts suggest that the office sector has reached its post-pandemic bottom, particularly for high-quality properties in key markets. New York City has shown significant leasing activity, exceeding pre-pandemic occupancy levels. Despite recovery signs, challenges such as economic slowdowns and potential trade wars pose risks to the sector. The market is increasingly divided, with Class A properties gaining demand while lower-tier assets struggle. Transaction activity has slowed, but investor interest remains in distressed opportunities, indicating cautious optimism for recovery.

NYU Secures Manhattan's Largest Office Lease Since Pandemic with 770 Broadway Deal

NYU has secured Manhattan's largest office lease since the pandemic, a 70-year deal at 770 Broadway for $9.3 million annually, aimed at creating a technology hub with $200 million in donations. The move is expected to save $800 million in rent over 30 years and consolidate faculty and research efforts.

Standard Reporting Underestimates the Value of Office Furniture Reuse 

New research conducted by Installnet and Bard College reveals that diverting office furniture from landfills, specifically task, desk, and stack chairs, avoids significantly more greenhouse gas emissions than current industry methodologies suggest. The study indicates that the standard measurement tool, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Waste Reduction Model (WARM), underestimates the environmental benefits of furniture reuse, resale, repurposing, and recycling. The research highlights the urgent need for the industry to adopt Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs) to accurately assess the impact of sustainable decommissioning practices. Installnet’s Ecoserv program has successfully diverted over 55 million pounds of waste from landfills since 2012, benefiting local communities and reducing harmful emissions. The findings call for increased transparency and better practices in assessing the environmental impact of office furniture throughout its lifecycle.

How Summer FOMO Is Shaping the Canadian Workplace

Canadian workers prefer 60% office attendance for productivity, seek variety in workplace experiences, and favor informal conversations over traditional conference rooms, reflecting a desire for flexibility and seasonal adaptability during summer.

Is the Furniture Industry Failing to Connect the Dots?

The furniture industry is facing significant challenges in connecting the various impacts of its activities on social, environmental, and health fronts. Despite the presence of innovative solutions, there is a lack of comprehensive understanding of how these factors are intertwined. Key issues include significant information gaps due to outdated and unreliable data, opaque supply chains that obscure the origins and conditions of raw materials, and a linear production model that neglects the broader lifecycle impacts of furniture.

Work Has Seismically Shifted, But the Workplace Has Not Kept Pace

The workplace has undergone significant changes over the past two decades, transitioning from traditional office environments to more flexible and agile settings. Despite some improvements post-pandemic, many employees still feel that their workspaces do not meet their current needs, with persistent challenges such as meeting room availability and noise levels. A majority of the global workforce prefers non-traditional work environments that are nature-connected and creative. Research indicates that a positive workplace experience is crucial for employee engagement, motivation, and talent retention. Moving forward, workplaces must adapt to evolving expectations, providing employees with a sense of purpose and agency to enhance their overall work experience.

Your ultimate guide to Bauhaus architecture

Bauhaus architecture, founded post-WWI, emphasizes functional design and modernism, evolving from diverse artistic roots to a minimalist style characterized by white walls and open spaces, aiming for social good and communal living, yet often criticized for its elitism and aesthetic compromises.

AI At The Front Desk: Are Bots The Future Of Reception In Coworking Spaces?

The integration of AI in coworking spaces is becoming increasingly plausible, with AI robots already demonstrating capabilities in various settings, including educational environments. The potential use of AI receptionists in coworking centers presents opportunities for efficiency and cost savings, but it also raises concerns about human interaction and the quality of service. While AI can manage administrative tasks, maintaining a human touch is essential in hospitality. Additionally, deploying AI in these roles introduces ethical and legal questions regarding liability, trust, and the future of human jobs. As advancements continue, the race to implement AI-powered receptionists in coworking spaces is on, with various potential formats for these systems.

Maximizing Magnets and Minimizing Barriers to Improve Office Life

Organizations can enhance office life by reducing barriers like connection, flexibility, and convenience while maximizing magnets such as wellness-focused amenities, acoustic design, and hospitality-driven environments to create a compelling workplace that fosters collaboration and employee satisfaction.

HSBC faces desks shortage after ordering staff back to the office

HSBC is anticipating a significant desk shortage at its new headquarters in the City of London after requiring employees to return to the office three days a week. Senior managers estimate a shortfall of up to 7,700 desks when the bank moves into its new offices near St Paul’s Cathedral in 2027. The relocation involves downsizing from 1.1 million square feet at its current Canary Wharf location to just 556,000 square feet, limiting capacity to around 4,400 workers. As part of its hybrid working policy, HSBC mandates that most of its 40,000 British staff work in the office for at least three days weekly. The situation reflects similar challenges faced by other banks, including JP Morgan, regarding desk availability after enforcing return-to-office policies.

Uber staff revolts over return-to-office mandate

Uber is experiencing internal unrest as it implements a mandate requiring employees to return to the office three days a week, alongside stricter eligibility for sabbaticals. An all-hands meeting revealed significant dissatisfaction among staff, with many questioning the rationale behind the mandate and expressing concerns about burnout and tenure recognition. Chief people officer Nikki Krishnamurthy addressed the situation, stating that some employee behavior during the meeting crossed acceptable lines. The overall morale within the company has reportedly declined, with employees voicing complaints about performance evaluations and unfair treatment. The return-to-office discussion sparked a rapid flow of negative feedback during the meeting, highlighting widespread discontent among Uber's workforce.

Visit Allsteel at Fulton Market DesignDays

The Allsteel Experience Center will showcase innovative workplace solutions during the upcoming Design Days event from June 9-11, 2025. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with designers and industry professionals, exploring forward-thinking designs that promote collaboration and productivity. Highlights of the event include a preview of the enhanced Evo™ seating line and collaborations with global brands focused on workplace design and sustainability. The event will take place daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Empowering Tomorrow’s Dealers: Enrollment Opens for Dealer Management Development by Solomon Coyle

Solomon Coyle has launched the Dealer Management Development Program, a three-month course aimed at supporting commercial furniture dealer principals and senior leaders. This program addresses the challenges of dealership consolidation and generational shifts in leadership. It focuses on enhancing financial, operational, and strategic capabilities, thereby preparing businesses for future success. The curriculum includes eight core areas essential for dealership growth and sustainability: strategy, finance, sales and marketing, talent management, quote-to-invoice processes, project management, design, and delivery and installation optimization. Each area is linked to the key success factors of top-performing dealerships. Registration for the program is now open, with orientation starting on July 15. Interested parties can visit the Solomon Coyle website for more information and to register.

Local office furniture firm JMJ acquired by N.C. competitor

PMC Commercial Interiors, a North Carolina-based company, has acquired JMJ Workplace Interiors, a local office furniture and design firm in Virginia. The acquisition, which closed in late March, marks PMC’s entry into the Virginia market and adds JMJ's 45 employees to PMC's existing workforce of 160. JMJ, founded over 40 years ago by the Massad family, has transitioned ownership as John Massad sought a buyer without family successors interested in taking over. PMC, which offers similar services to JMJ, aims to integrate the company into its growth strategy while maintaining JMJ's existing office locations. The JMJ brand will continue for about a year before being phased out under PMC's management.

Brightline just turned its trains and stations into coworking spaces

Brightline, a Florida-based high-speed rail service, has partnered with Industrious to transform parts of its stations and train cars into coworking spaces. This initiative allows remote workers to utilize these spaces for productivity while traveling. With coworking spaces now available in several Brightline stations and a bookable train car for meetings, the partnership aims to enhance the travel experience for business professionals. The addition of these formal workspaces recognizes the reality that many people work while waiting for their trains or during travel. The goal is to provide comfortable and dedicated environments for work, improving productivity on the go.

7 Legal Workplace Trends: The Evolving Landscape of Law Firm Design

The legal industry is undergoing significant changes due to advancements in technology and evolving workplace dynamics. Law firms are increasingly adopting an office-first approach to enhance collaboration and reinforce firm culture, which is crucial for professional growth. The integration of artificial intelligence is transforming legal work by automating routine tasks and allowing attorneys to focus on strategic analysis, although it also presents challenges in data security and ethics. A well-designed workplace is essential for promoting employee well-being and productivity, accommodating diverse roles beyond traditional legal positions, such as cybersecurity experts and data analysts.

Designing for Connection: How Modern Workplaces Nurture Collaboration and Community

Modern workplaces are evolving to foster collaboration and community, recognizing the importance of physical spaces in shaping how teams connect. Effective office designs create environments that promote both productivity and genuine relationships among employees. Three notable projects illustrate different approaches to enhancing workplace connection: SpaceInvader's Manchester office emphasizes adaptability and human experience; Miro’s Berlin office celebrates local culture while offering diverse collaborative settings; and Creative Debuts transforms corporate spaces into galleries that encourage artistic expression and dialogue among staff. These initiatives highlight that successful workplace design must address both functional needs and emotional well-being, especially in the context of shifting work patterns post-pandemic.

Office design and the office market are not what you might be led to believe

The current trends in office design suggest a shift towards creating upscale environments that resemble hotels, complete with amenities like gyms and lounges to attract employees back to the workplace. However, feedback from organizations indicates that the fundamental structure of offices remains largely unchanged, with traditional desks and chairs still being prevalent. The market for office furniture tends to be conservative and price-sensitive, with many firms hesitant to adopt the latest design trends. While some companies are beginning to integrate modern features, the idea of transforming offices into hotel-like spaces may not suit every organization's culture or employee needs. It's essential to recognize that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to office design; the best approach is tailored to the specific circumstances and requirements of each workplace.

Convening and Gathering: Keys to "Hosting" an Outstanding Workspace Experience

Transform office spaces into engaging environments by defining clear purposes for gatherings, thoughtfully selecting attendees, choosing appropriate venues, and establishing explicit ground rules to enhance the overall experience and foster meaningful connections among employees.

Fusion Center Models: The Future of 24/7 Banking Support Hubs

Banks are adopting Fusion Centers to enhance cybersecurity and operational response, integrating physical security, cybersecurity, and emergency operations in a single space to improve collaboration and resilience against threats and fraud. These centers can also serve as profit centers by sharing secure data facilities with trusted partners.

How the AI Gold Rush Is Influencing Data Center Design Trends

The AI boom is driving unprecedented demand for data centers, leading to significant investments and a shift towards liquid cooling systems to manage increased power density. Sustainability measures are being prioritized, with operators exploring on-site energy solutions like small modular reactors, while new hotspots for data center growth are emerging beyond traditional markets.

Humanscale Sets a New Standard for Renewable Energy in Manufacturing

Humanscale has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first company in the manufacturing industry to power all its factories with solar energy. This initiative reflects the company's commitment to sustainable practices, as every manufacturing site, including the newly solar-equipped facility in Nogales, Mexico, now contributes to reducing fossil fuel reliance and lowering the carbon footprint. The collective renewable energy produced by Humanscale's factories is comparable to powering 149 homes for a year. This advancement exemplifies responsible manufacturing and aligns with the values of Humanscale's stakeholders, showcasing the brand's leadership in sustainability through various initiatives, including the first Living Product Certified designs.

Softpod by Global

Softpod™ from Global is designed to adapt to modern workplace and educational needs, offering spaces for both focus and collaboration. The product includes features like meeting pods and height-adjustable surfaces, including a new compact 2-divider pod with lockable casters for easy movement. Additionally, a 3-divider pod with a height-adjustable table allows users to transition between sitting and standing. Various configurations are available to create meeting or lounge areas, with options for power support and privacy enhancements. The design accommodates small groups and includes features such as shelves and hooks for convenience.

The PolarisGo Limited-Edition Chair Is Out of This World

The PolarisGo Limited-Edition Chair, designed by Ross Lovegrove for Bernhardt Design, is an innovative reinterpretation of the original Go Chair from 2001. Utilizing advanced injected magnesium technology, the chair features a futuristic design inspired by the 2024 Polaris Dawn mission. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. With only 210 pieces available worldwide, the chair represents a blend of art, science, and philanthropy. The design incorporates aerospace-grade aluminum and translates data from rocket launches into its structure, symbolizing the fusion of humanity and space exploration.

Discover the Luxury of Ethnicraft's New Unda Dining Chair

The Unda Dining Chair, designed by Studio Segers for Ethnicraft, features a gentle wing-backed silhouette and is available in Salt or Charcoal fabric. Its minimalistic design is complemented by finely crafted piping along the seams, highlighting the chair's quality and durability. Ethnicraft will showcase this chair at ICFF, Booth #735.

Source International Announces the Introduction of Meets, designed by Thijs Smeets

Source International launches Meets, a versatile seating collection designed by Thijs Smeets, featuring customizable finishes and a robust design suitable for various environments including workplaces, healthcare, and education.

Ghent to Debut Flyte Duo at NeoCon 2025: A New Standard in Sustainable, Frameless Whiteboards

Ghent unveils Flyte Duo, a frameless, double-sided dry-erase board, at NeoCon 2025, emphasizing sustainability, durability, and ease of use with a magnetic design and customizable features. The product aims to enhance collaboration in modern workspaces and is backed by a 50-year warranty.

Unmatched Versatility, Timeless Style - Meet the Libro Collection by Aceray

The Libro collection by Aceray features versatile, Italian-crafted seating options including side chairs, bar stools, and counter stools, customizable in various finishes. Its lightweight, stackable design and modern aesthetic make it ideal for cafés, offices, and hospitality venues.

Herman Miller to release the New Mexico Collection during NYCxDESIGN

Herman Miller will launch the New Mexico Collection on May 20, 2025, featuring two limited-run designs inspired by Georgia O'Keeffe and mid-century modern designers. The collection includes the Girard Snake Table and a special Eames Wire Chair, both reflecting the creative legacy of their collaborations in New Mexico.

Exceptional Acoustic Solutions To Elevate Your Space

Altispace Acoustic Ceiling Fins enhance acoustics and aesthetics with customizable designs, superior sound absorption (NRC 0.8), and eco-friendly materials. Easy to install and available in various sizes and colors, they are ideal for diverse environments like offices and educational facilities.

Ultrafabrics Refreshes Tottori Collection With Ten New Colors

Ultrafabrics has introduced ten new colors to its Tottori collection, inspired by the Tottori Sand Dunes in Japan. These colors reflect the Japandi design philosophy, which combines Japanese and Scandinavian aesthetics to create a sense of harmony and simplicity. The collection is designed for both aesthetic appeal and high performance, making it suitable for various applications, including high-traffic environments. Ultrafabrics emphasizes sustainability by incorporating rapidly renewable and recycled materials, and the Tottori collection is certified for its eco-friendly attributes. 

The Kaleido Collection by Concertex Redefines Performance Fabrics

The Kaleido Collection features high-performance upholstery fabrics that blend sustainability with durability, using innovative materials like bio-attributed silicone hybrids and recycled olefins, showcasing a commitment to responsible design and modern aesthetics.

Bright idea: Mater has shown how to produce elegant pieces with sustainability and circularity at their core 

Mater's Terra lighting collection, designed with sustainability in mind, utilizes the innovative Matek™ material made from recycled e-waste and coffee shells, resulting in elegant, low-footprint products that are easy to disassemble and upcycle. The design focuses on optimal lighting and unique tactile qualities, enhancing both domestic and work environments.

The history of the Monobloc: the world's best-selling chair

The Monobloc chair, made from a single block of plastic, is recognized for its durability, ease of cleaning, and affordability. Although it typically appears in white, it can be found in various colors worldwide, often associated with leisure and public spaces. Despite facing criticism for its environmental impact, the Monobloc remains popular due to its accessibility and longevity.

The Spherene Side Table, by Peter Donders

Belgian designer Peter Donders has created the Spherene Side Table, an experimental furniture piece that showcases advanced computational design and material optimization. The table, which measures 450mm in all dimensions and weighs 3.8kg, was produced using SLA 3D printing technology with a durable, flame-retardant resin. This project emphasizes the innovative potential of computational modeling in the design process, rather than focusing solely on production.

Designing for Humans: Jonathan Puleio on 20 Years of Ergonomics at Humanscale

Jonathan Puleio, the Global Vice President at Humanscale, reflects on his 20-year career in ergonomics, highlighting the evolution of the field and its impact on workplace design. Initially pursuing a career in acoustical engineering, he discovered ergonomics through a human factors course and has since dedicated his career to improving the fit between people and their work environments. Under his leadership, Humanscale's ergonomics consultancy has transformed from in-person assessments to a global digital service, emphasizing the importance of adapting environments to promote comfort and efficiency.

S-CAB: Interview with Zaven Design about "Koala"

Zaven Design, represented by Enrica Cavarzan and Marco Zavagno, discusses their collaboration with S-CAB to create the "Koala" seating furniture, emphasizing comfort and adaptability for the contract market. The design process involved developing two versions of the chair that feature contrasts in materials, suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. The designers highlight their approach to selecting colors and materials, aiming for a warm, tactile experience while maintaining a balance between artistic expression and simplicity. Their multidisciplinary background influences their work, allowing them to draw from various fields and perspectives. They also share insights from their teaching experiences, emphasizing the importance of supporting students in their individual design journeys and encouraging them to embrace their own ideas.

Dorik by Actiu wins a Red Dot Award for product design

The Dorik collection by Actiu has won a Red Dot Award for Product Design, recognized for its elegant design inspired by Doric columns. It features versatile tables crafted with attention to detail, merging indoor and outdoor spaces, and reflects a sustainable approach to design through collaboration with Odosdesign.

Loll Designs Awarded TRUE GOLD Certification For Zero Waste Effort

Loll Designs has achieved TRUE GOLD certification for its commitment to zero waste efforts, recognizing its innovative waste reduction programs and sustainable practices. The company diverts 97.4% of its total facility waste from landfills, focusing on responsible design and the reuse of materials. Loll offers various initiatives, such as providing replacement parts for furniture, using recyclable materials, and implementing community engagement programs. Their mission emphasizes inspiring outdoor appreciation while promoting a circular economy. Loll Designs aims for continuous improvement in waste management, tracking diversion data, and committing to a 1% annual increase in waste diversion until reaching 100%.

Inspiring Creativity at the Center of the Running Universe, Brooks Running HQ

Brooks Running expands its Seattle HQ with a new building designed by NBBJ to foster creativity and connection, featuring sustainable practices, collaborative spaces, and amenities like a gym and café, supporting its growing workforce and commitment to environmental goals.

The 'super-prime' offices designed to lure WFH staff back in

London's new "super-prime" office spaces, like the £1 billion 40 Leadenhall, are designed to attract workers back post-Covid, featuring high-end amenities such as cinemas and wellness facilities. Demand for prime office space is rising, with companies willing to pay more for better locations and facilities, amidst a reported shortfall in available office space in the City.

SpaceInvader embodies connection at the new Overbury Manchester HQ

SpaceInvader designed Overbury's new Manchester HQ with a focus on connection to the city and nature, featuring modern workspaces, collaborative areas, and design elements inspired by the nautilus shell, while accommodating diverse work styles and promoting a social culture.

Inspiration and Flexibility at Wave's Toronto Office Space

Bartlett & Associates redesigned Wave Financial's Toronto office to create a flexible, inspiring environment with unique spaces like a park, communal bleachers, and a whimsical half-plane, promoting creativity and employee well-being post-COVID. Sustainability and adaptability were key design priorities.

Thiago Costa - Workspaces

Thiago Costa, a designer and co-founder of Fey.com and Narative, shares insights on his workspace, creative process, and the flexibility of working from home, emphasizing inspiration from art and nature, and a consistent daily routine. His workspace features high-end tech like a Mac Studio and Pro Display XDR.

Swatt + Partners tucks home office into woodsy site in California

Swatt + Partners has designed a home office called Moss Rock, located on a nine-acre property in Healdsburg, California. The structure consists of a wood-framed glass box supported by two vertical concrete slabs, allowing it to float over the landscape. The design aims to minimize the impact on the surrounding dense forest of Douglas fir, madrone, and oak trees. The home office, separated from the main house, features expansive glazed walls that offer views of the natural setting. The project also includes enhancements to the property, such as an infinity-edge pool and terraces, creating an idyllic environment in California's wine country.

Amazon Is Gobbling Up Midtown

Amazon has expanded its office space in Midtown Manhattan, acquiring 522 Fifth Avenue and signing leases for nearly one million square feet since November. The company is committed to a full return to office policy, mandating employees to work five days a week, and aims to create a de facto campus in the area, which is experiencing a resurgence post-pandemic.

Carnival To Build Massive New Headquarters Near Miami Airport

Carnival Corp is building a new global headquarters in the Waterford Business District near Miami Airport, consolidating over 2,000 employees from various cruise brands into a 600K-700K SF campus, set to open by 2028. This expansion reinforces Miami's status as the cruise capital of the world.

AIS Welcomes Brian Trego as Senior Vice President of Product Line Management to its Leadership Team

AIS has appointed Brian Trego as the new senior vice president of product line management. In this role, he will lead the expansion of the company's product portfolio by utilizing its design, innovation, and manufacturing strengths. Trego, who has over 25 years of experience in the commercial furniture industry, previously served as a senior vice president at Vari and spent 22 years at HON and Allsteel. Nick Haritos, president and CEO of AIS, expressed confidence in Trego's ability to bring fresh ideas and enhance the product portfolio with innovative and market-relevant offerings. Trego will oversee a team of product line managers and specialists, focusing on developing products that foster creativity, longevity, and efficiency in workspaces. He expressed excitement about joining AIS and contributing to its growth and the office furniture market's evolution. Haritos emphasized that Trego is well-suited to help AIS expand and refine its product offerings for dealers and end users.

Arper Appoints Enrico Colzani as CEO of the Americas

Enrico Colzani has been appointed as the Chief Executive Officer of Arper for the Americas. With over 25 years of experience in the design industry, he aims to enhance the company’s evolution by championing design as a catalyst for innovation. Colzani has a strong background in Italian business and design, particularly in the contract sector. He is committed to fostering meaningful experiences and supporting architects and designers in shaping environments. In his role, he will focus on Arper's growth in the Americas while emphasizing sustainability and collaboration with dealer partners and the design community. Colzani's career includes leadership positions at Knoll and MillerKnoll, where he contributed to innovative interior solutions. He expresses enthusiasm for expanding Arper's legacy and supporting the creative community.

SGA Appoints Reza Rahimpour as Principal to Lead NYC Architecture Team

SGA has appointed Reza Rahimpour as Principal to lead its New York Architectural Department, bringing two decades of experience in multifamily and commercial sectors. His expertise will enhance client relationships and design strategies, reinforcing SGA's commitment to innovative architecture.

The Mitchell Group EVP Brunett Challenges Tariffs in Nationally Recognized Op-Ed

Ann Brunett, Executive Vice President and COO of The Mitchell Group, critiques the federal government's tariff policy in a recent opinion piece, highlighting its negative impact on the American textile industry. She responds to comments made by Secretary Scott Bessent regarding the lack of interest in reviving the textile manufacturing sector. Brunett argues that the imposition of high tariffs on textile imports, despite the absence of domestic production alternatives, penalizes businesses that rely on international supply chains. She emphasizes the need for policymakers to reconsider their approach to tariffs, particularly for small and mid-sized companies, and advocates for a more nuanced trade policy that acknowledges the realities of modern manufacturing.

Henricksen Appoints Gosia Humes as General Manager of the Washington D.C. Office

Henricksen has appointed Gosia Humes as the new general manager of its Washington D.C. office. Humes, who has over 30 years of experience in the furniture industry, will focus on developing client relationships and enhancing the brand's presence in the region. Joan Waters, Henricksen’s Divisional Manager, praised Humes for her strategic vision and commitment to collaboration. Humes previously held leadership roles at Price Modern and burkeMICHAEL+, emphasizing a customer-centric approach in her work. She is also actively involved in professional organizations and volunteer work. Henricksen is a leading contract furniture dealer, offering a wide range of products and services across various sectors.

EDmarket Announces the Retirement of President & CEO Jim McGarry

The Education Market Association (EDmarket) announced the retirement of President & CEO Jim McGarry, effective November 2025. After 14 years of leadership, Jim has significantly influenced the strategic direction of the organization, fostering partnerships and championing initiatives that have enhanced its impact. He played a key role in the rebranding from NSSEA to EDmarket and has navigated the organization through challenges, including the COVID pandemic. A special event will be held to honor his contributions, and the Board of Directors is beginning the search for a new President & CEO.

Artopex Recognized as one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies

Artopex has been recognized as one of Canada's Best Managed Companies for the 18th consecutive year and is a member of the Platinum Club, highlighting its commitment to excellence in management and innovation in the office furniture industry. CEO Daniel Pelletier emphasizes the importance of this recognition in today's economic climate.

Sedia Systems Announces Graded-in Program with Kvadrat Textiles

Sedia Systems has announced a new graded-in program in collaboration with Kvadrat Textiles. This initiative aims to enhance the offerings of Sedia Systems by integrating high-quality materials from Kvadrat. The program is expected to provide innovative design solutions and improve the overall user experience.

Baresque Group Deepens US Commitment with Permanent Chicago Showroom at NeoCon 2025

Baresque Group is opening a permanent showroom at The Mart in Chicago in 2025, enhancing its US market presence after a decade of temporary exhibits at NeoCon. The showroom will feature brands focused on acoustic solutions, durable furniture, and customizable space creation, reflecting the company's commitment to innovation and sustainability in commercial design.

Ask Stephen: Got a Better Job Offer—But Nervous to Make the Move?

Consider taking the new job offer despite concerns about tariffs and job security; opportunities for career growth are rare, and moving up is essential for advancement. Current hiring trends remain strong, so don't hesitate to elevate your career.

District Sales Manager @ OFS

OFS is seeking a Sales Representative to join our team in Southern California. 

Independent Sales Representative @ RT London

RT London, a leader in residence hall furniture solutions, is seeking independent rep firms to represent the following territories: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, and Tennessee.

Regional Sales Manager - Furniture @ SP Richards

Under the direction of the Director of Sales–Furniture and in total alignment with the Vice President of Furniture and the Vice President of Sales, the FRSM’s function is to drive the Furniture to new heights.