Editor’s Top Picks: NeoCon 2023 Winners

NeoCon 2023 Winners Senator Enwork Koncept

As NeoCon 2023 wraps up, we’re seeing the frontlines of the future emerge with cutting edge products from over 400 companies that attended the event. As the single most significant show in the commercial design industry, NeoCon attracted over 50,000 attendees over the course of three days, and named this year’s Best of NeoCon 2023 winners from more than 54 product categories.

NeoCon 2023 Winners

There are 6 available awards: the Gold Award, Silver Award, Innovation Award, Sustainability Award, Best of Competition Award and the new Business Impact Award. Each entry can be given one Gold Award and one Silver Award, defined by the top winner and second-highest performer of its category. The Innovation Award is given to products that offer a fresh solution through either the introduction of new goods or an improvement of an existing product while the Sustainability Award ensures the product has an environmentally-friendly manufacturing process. The Business Impact Award was just introduced this year to recognize impressive solutions that contribute to business productivity.

Every year NeoCon sets higher and higher standards. Every year there are an exceptional few who meet them.

So what are the latest outstanding designs in the world of furniture?  Here our our favorites!

Cayman by Enwork

GOLD WINNER / FURNITURE SYSTEMS – Enwork earns the Gold Award for the furniture systems category with their Cayman case-goods collection that redefines conference and private office landscapes. Cayman offers top-of-the-line aesthetics with a soft touch to revolutionizing the user experience in private offices and conference settings. Most notable, Enwork brings the comforts of home to the workplace, while elevating traditional design, with Cayman’s striking and iconic cantilevered work surface – along with a height-adjustable return, storage spaces and other customizable features.

NeoCon 2023 Winners Enwork Cayman Private Office and Conference Casegoods
Photo: Enwork Cayman Private Office and Conference Casegoods Collection

CoLab by Senator

SILVER WINNER / COLLABORATION – A leading company all on its own, Senator achieves greatness once again with their latest product: CoLab Modular Workspaces. CoLab is a result of 2 years of research into global pedagogy trends. With a focus on higher education models and changing approaches to work, Senator created CoLab to be an adaptable, durable, and recyclable working and learning environment that can support every mode of work. Learning plays a crucial role in shaping who we are and by recognizing that, Senator has been awarded the Silver Award in the collaboration category.

NeoCon 2023 Winners Senator CoLab Workspace
Photo: Senator CoLab Modular Workspaces

Dove by DARRAN

SILVER & INNOVATION AWARD WINNER / LOUNGE SEATING – DARRAN won the Silver and Innovation Award in the lounge category with their Dove Lounge Seating. Dove is designed to be soft and inviting, merging natural and recycled materials for sustainable means. Its hardwood frame and recycled PET ergonomic shell creates a chair that allows people to sit for hours without discomfort. Visually distinctive, Dove sparks a connection between natural and built environments.

NeoCon 2023 Winners DARRAN Dove Lounge Seating
Photo: DARRAN Dove Lounge Seating

Luna by Stylex

GOLD WINNER / MODULAR SEATING – Stylex stole the show with their Luna Banquette Lounge Seating collection. Luna is designed for collaborative use, equipped with rounded edges and ergonomic support. It’s innovative, modern design is available in high or low back models and with optional planters. Luna pairs well with Still screens, Stylex’s acoustical privacy walls, and allows further freedom to create separate workspaces within a larger space. With a clean, streamlined look and premium luxe materials that surpass others, it’s no wonder that Stylex won the Gold Award for the modular seating category.

NeoCon 2023 Winners Stylex Luna Lounge Seating
Photo: Stylex Luna Banquette Lounge Seating

Elara by OFS

GOLD WINNER / SOFA SEATING – OFS is a longtime contestant at NeoCon. With many awards under their belt, the Elara Lounge Seating is just the latest of their achievements. Derived from the Greek word for moon, Elara’s soft curves and wide frame is crafted as the perfect solution for the workplace and healthcare environments. The frame is made of durable powder-coated steel, while the seats and back are upholstered in customizable fabric and leathers. OFS designed this product to offer comfort, durability, and easy cleanability, winning the Gold Award for the sofa category.

NeoCon 2023 Winners OFS Elara Lounge Seating
Photo: OFS Elara Lounge Seating

4-UP by Via Seating

BUSINESS IMPACT AWARD WINNER / ERGONOMIC DESK & TASK – Via Seating has one goal: to make the world greener with the 4-UP Ergonomic Task Chair series. 4-UP is designed to add ambiance and sophistication to any environment it inhabits. With its range of backs and two seat options, 4-UP embodies great design, function and comfort. It’s also made of Via Seating’s signature comfort foam: a proprietary blend of high-density, injection-molded comfort foam so durable that Via Seating swears by a 12 year warranty. This attention to detail earned Via Seating the Business Impact Award for the ergonomic desk/task category.

NeoCon 2023 Winners Via Seating 4-UP Chair
Photo: Via Seating 4-UP Ergonomic Task Chair

Ooty by Allermuir

GOLD WINNER / STOOLS SEATING – Allermuir is a veteran at NeoCon, submitting many award-winning entries over the past few years. Their latest product, Ooty, won the Gold Award for the stool category. Allermuir’s objective was to create a stool with one component to eliminate waste and prove a sustainable solution. The result was Ooty: a multi-use product that could double as a stool or side table. This piece is lightweight and stackable, allowing for the ultimate ease of movement. Ooty is a functional, versatile and fun piece to add to commercial and residential settings.

NeoCon 2023 Winners Allermuir Ooty Stools
Photo: Allermuir Ooty Stools

Yurei by KONCEPT INC.

GOLD WINNER / TASK LIGHTING – Koncept has always focused on bringing the best creative lighting solutions to the industry. The Yurei Co-Working Light can fit in with any unique decor decisions you make with its sleek and modern design. The table lamp version is multifunctional, featuring a built-in USB-C charging port and warm white light with up to 3000K light color and 60,000 hour lifespan that allows users to stay connected. Koncept’s Gold Award for task lighting category is well-deserved.

NeoCon 2023 Winners Koncept Yurei Work Lamp
Photo: Koncept Yurei Work Lamps

Susu by DARRAN

SILVER WINNER / OCCASIONAL TABLES – DARRAN Furniture has many stand-out designs and the Susu Occasional Table series is one of them with its beautiful simplicity, embodying the idea of “Beauty in Small Things.” With sleek design lines, elegant architecture, sustainable materials and beautiful finishes, Susu is sure to fit right in with the future of furniture. This table is made with pressed PET shells to create a two-tone visual, and support the table surfaces with robust metal bases for commercial use. The Susu collection incorporates an unexpected softness and hybrid texture that differentiates this collection from the rest in the occasional category, winning DARRAN the Silver Award.

NeoCon 2023 Winners DARRAN Susu Tables
Photo: DARRAN Susu Occasional Tables

Tibo by Allermuir

GOLD WINNER / OUTDOOR SEATING: Allermuir’s Tibo Bench and Table System follows the latest trend in multi-use furniture. Capable of seating people indoors and outdoors with its combined bench and table system, Tibo’s objective was to allow natural interaction and spur collaboration between people. Tibo comes in 3 sizes and is engineered around an aluminum frame for strength and lightness. Encourage creative collaboration and interaction with one of Allermuir’s latest innovation, the Gold Award Winner of the outdoor seating category.

NeoCon 2023 Winners Allermuir Tibo Bench
Photo: Allermuir Tibo Indoor/Outdoor Bench and Table System

All NeoCon 2023 Winners

For a complete list of Best of NeoCon 2023 winners, please visit the official NeoCon website here.

Interested More in NeoCon 2023?

Looking for more info or inspiration?  Explore all the latest office furniture possibilities with the specialists at 2010 Office Furniture. Our team has nearly 50 years of combined experience working with Southern California’s most distinguished corporations, universities, and small business from Los Angeles and Orange Counties to the Inland Empire.

Contact us and let us know about your potential project needs.  We can help you create the modern office that fits perfectly for you and your employees.

Read Also: NeoCon 2023 Trends: Lighting the Way to a Better Workspace
Main Photo: NeoCon 2023 Winners – Senator CoLab Workspaces, Enwork Cayman Desk & Koncept Yurei Lamps
Resources & Special Thanks to Respective Product Manufacturers: Allermuir, DARRAN, Enwork, Koncept, OFS, Senator, Stylex Seating and Via Seating 

Your Guide to Modern Reception Desks to Impress Your Guests and Clients

Modern Reception Desks Gravity Reception Desk

Convey your company’s brand and create positive first impressions using modern reception desks. Welcome and engage your guests in your surroundings. The furniture you use in your lobby and reception area sets the tone for your office and influences how clients and vendors will think about doing business with you.

Here’s a brief and useful guide to help you plan your reception area and select the modern reception desks that are going to serve you well and make office visitors feel comfortable.

Brand Your Office with Reception Desks

Customers and vendors may have different perceptions about your company, but one thing is certain: people notice the reception desk and the receptionist immediately when they walk into your workplace.

It’s your opportunity to brand your company and reinforce your mission.

Some Southern California companies get quite creative in their reception areas. Several years ago in Santa Monica, the car rating company, Edmunds, held an open house for its new offices and a Corvette was suspended above the receptionist desk.

Clever.

But let’s consider the significance of modern reception desks. Do they act as barriers or are they welcoming?

You can see the creative ways that the hospitality industry uses desks where guests check-in. In Old Town Pasadena, the Courtyard by Marriot has installed individual podiums that hold laptops versus the traditional long counter with clerks standing behind it.

The design creates an open and sleek look and all sensitive customer and corporate information is kept online or in a separate office.

How about you? What qualities do you want your reception desk to convey?

Think it through.

Expertise in your industry and caring about customers are two ideas for possibilities.

Impressions matter. A summary in the Harvard Business Review refers to personal interactions, but it also reminds us that we want guests and clients to have a positive experience when they step foot inside the office.

It’s possible for your environment to exude confidence while placing others at ease.

Modern receptionist desks play a role in creating an atmosphere of confidence while helping visitors feel engaged—and not blocked out.

Styles of Reception Desks

Modern reception desks come in a variety of styles to fit any office.

Balance the look and feel that you’re trying to achieve with what you need to accomplish in your office. If you’re in a professional health or legal firm then you certainly want a sophisticated but friendly look. And you may need to protect sensitive data.

An article in Inc. Magazine offers a wise piece of advice: “Consider a lower desk surface, even if the desk itself is wide and imposing. This hides your receptionist less from incoming customers and gives a sense of openness. Yes, you’re keeping sensitive information secure beyond the desk, but you’re available to help those who seek you out.”

Photo: Friant Willow Reception Desk

Look into the Friant Willow Reception Desk with a couple of dozen different finish options.

Another option that fits well in a variety of contemporary offices is the Global Zira Reception Desk.

Photo: Global Zira Reception Desk

Compare the various reception desks that 2010 Office Furniture showcases with the many office designs on the Inspirations page. Minimalist designs to industrial and resimercial styles show how you can create an atmosphere that’s conducive to employee well-being while at the same time placing your guests and clients at ease.

Photo: Source International Lore Lounge

An effective office design can certainly begin with the reception desk.

Using the Best Reception Desk for Your Office Space

Planning your office space is essential and it’s a service that the team at 2010 Office Furniture offers.

Photo: Cherryman Amber Reception Desk

If your reception area is large then a product like the Cherryman Amber Reception Desk can be just the look and fit you need.

Compact desks with stylish storage options are an alternative to make a space look welcoming without appearing cramped. Look into the HON 10700 Series Reception Desk. It integrates easily with other desks and workstations in the same product line.

Photo: HON 10700 Series Reception Desk

Reception Area Furniture For Comfort

Round out the reception area with comfortable seating options. Use multi-purpose chairs that support various body types or get fun and creative with modular lounge furnishings.

Choose from a variety of tables, too, for maximum comfort.

Trust Experience and Customer Satisfaction

Rely on the team at 2010 Office Furniture to care for your office space planning and furnishings.

Photo: Krug Avatar Lounge Chair

2010 Office has a combined 50 years of experience serving clients who are among Southern California’s most distinguished corporations, nonprofits, and small businesses.

Contact them and get input for your projects and office furnishing needs.

Read Also: Modern Office Evolution: Office Furniture Through the Years
Main Photo: Maverick Gravity Reception Desk
Resources & Special Thanks to Respective Product Manufacturers: Cherryman, Friant, Global, HON, Krug, Maverick Desk & Source International

Reasons to Buy Quality Used Office Furniture in Orange County

Orange County Used Furniture HON Ignition Chair

Buying used office furniture can prove to be a smart money move for startup companies, established businesses, and nonprofits in Orange County. Remember, quality always counts whether you’re buying new or used.

Quality office furnishings are designed to support workers so they can be productive and remain healthy day after day. Companies on a budget and those who are re-branding can benefit from purchasing used office furniture if it’s properly selected.

Refer to these guidelines in choosing what you need.


Photo: 9 to 5 Seating Cydia Chairs

Used Furniture for Startups in Orange County

A 2021 survey published in the Orange County Register says Irvine is the best city in California to start a business. The findings from Wallethub.com cited the overall business environment in Irvine as a major plus along with supportive resources.

Whether you’re starting out of a space in Irvine or any of Orange County’s 34 incorporated cities, buying used furniture can:

  • Let you purchase brand names at lower prices
  • Give you flexibility
  • Test the types of furnishings you think you might like
  • Afford quality brands that will last

Start with quality used furniture. As your business grows and if you need to relocate, bring the used furnishings that you like with you or choose new styles that fit your overall office design.


Photo: Friant Interra Workstations

Used Furniture for Established Businesses and Nonprofits in Orange County

The top industries in Orange County are healthcare, life sciences, information technology, and digital media. Renewable energy and advanced transportation round out the top industries, according to the Orange County Business Council.

If you’re an established brand in one of these or other industries, then you might find that buying specific types of used furniture is the smartest move for you. Specific departments may have a need to fill a space for a new hire or create a space for a freelance worker.

Breakrooms and reception areas are other places where pre-owned chairs, tables, and desks that are in excellent condition can be smart purchases.


Photo: AMQ Tizu Chair

What to Know About Buying Used Office Furniture

Know the purpose for each item and know the value to your team.

Filing cabinets keep the office neat. A durable and attractive filing cabinet is the Maxon Used Lateral File Cabinet with three drawers. Expect this filing cabinet to serve well for years to come. Both laminate and metal finishes are available.

Filing cabinets are a much more static piece of equipment compared to office chairs. We sit for hours at a time and how we sit affects our bodies.

All office chairs aren’t manufactured to the same standards.

Sitting stresses the body. Ergonomic chairs that are easy to adjust will distribute a person’s weight to reduce the risk of strain on the lower back, knees, and elbows.


Photo: 9 to 5 Seating Core Chairs

Promote employee well-being with a pre-owned seating solution like the Herman Miller Aeron Chair. This is a durable chair with lumbar support that’s designed to keep the user cool and comfortable.

Executive desk sets offer a substantial surface area for spreading out. Traditional sitting desks, height-adjustable desks, and workstations in various configurations are available.


Photo: Maverick Apex Desk

Inspect your used furniture like the team does at 2010 Office Furniture:

  • Look at the seams and fabrics of items like guest chairs to make sure the appearance will last
  • Gears on height-adjustable desks should move effortlessly
  • Ensure there are no dents or missing pieces in modular workstations you purchase

Durability is key.

2010 Office Furniture only sells quality products—new and used. Used furnishings can last for years to come.

Check out current supplies under our Used Furniture page and our Liquidation Sale page. It’s updated when we need to make room for new inventory.


Photo: ODS X-Bench Conference Table

Used office furniture that’s designed well can meet your needs, more than pay for itself in a short time, and last for many decades on end.

2010 Office Furniture also offers space planning services as another way to help you plan your office space as a new company and to help established businesses work more efficiently.

We’re Here to Help

Rely on the more than 50 years of experience that the 2010 Office Furniture team has. Our clients are among Southern California’s most distinguished corporations, universities, and small businesses.

Contact us and let us know your needs.

Read Also: Choosing the Best Benching or Desking Workstations in Los Angeles
Main Photo: HON Ignition Task Chair
Resources & Special Thanks to Respective Product Manufacturers: 9to5 Seating, AMQ, Friant, HON, Maverick & ODS

The Best Office Spaces are Responsive to Employee Needs

Best Office Spaces ERG International Connos, Newport and Tango Collection

Office spaces that are responsive to a changing marketplace and the circumstances impacting society have a competitive advantage. Employees should be able to focus even when change swirls around them, and they can use different spaces that give them the freedom to work as effectively as possible.

Keeping your team healthy and well is a high priority due to Covid-19 and ailments from colds and the seasonal flu. Sick employees, upticks in sales that create demand for more workers, or economic downturns affect how many permanent and temporary staff occupy the floor space.

Best Office Spaces Friant My-Hite
Photo: Friant My-Hite Tables

A strategic office design and space plan charts the regular workflow through the workspaces and environmentsneeded to meet your goals. Each space contributes to employee productivity and achieving the results you want for your organization.

Assigned Spaces

The responsibilities that you have as an employee often begin at your assigned workstation or desk. Whether you’re the CEO, Vice President, a mid-level manager, or just starting out with a new company this is where you’re expected to perform at a maximum level.

Strategic space planning will allow for an effective workflow between individuals and departments.

Workspaces that are responsive to the needs of employees are considered ergonomic and make use of flexible furnishings like the Friant My-Hite Height Adjustable Workstation or the Hon Accelerate Workstation. Multiple configurations are possible to safely accommodate individual workers side by side or in small groups.

Best Office Spaces HON Accelerate
Photo: HON Accelerate Collection

Remote Spaces

When stay-at-home orders were issued during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, remote spaces became a necessity and not just a cool option. Employees who were accustomed to the layout of a corporate office were suddenly asked to work from home, competing with personal needs like children taking online classes in the living room or their bedrooms.

In today’s world, if a team member has a bad cold, but is still well enough to work, then staying at a home office or other remote space is a smart option.

Best Office Spaces Friant Collection
Photo: Friant Work From Home Collection

Looking ahead, one-third of full-time employees in the U.S. are expected to work remotely in the coming decade as noted in TechRepublic.

What makes an effective remote space?

Uncluttered space is important, one where an employee can step out of their personal life and into their professional role. An adequate surface, an ergonomic chair, and an Internet service that has satisfactory transmission rates all help to make a productive work area.

And just like in a corporate office setting, have access to natural light and move often to change the body’s position and posture.

Collaborative Spaces

Getting together to lay out challenges and find solutions is an important part of any business. It’s possible in an open office environment to create collaborative spaces that don’t interfere with the work of individuals who need to focus.

Look at what you can use to define the space:

Best Office Spaces OFS Obeya Architectural Structure
Photo: Obeya Architectural Structures

These products create flexible, or responsive, environments. You can move different pieces to fit the needs of the moment, keep the furnishings and accessories in one place or rearrange them to create a new area.

Add personality with the OFS Obeya Architectural Structure. You can add audio-visual equipment, curtains, additional panels, planters, and other accessories.

A collaborative space can also double as personal areas for employees when a group isn’t meeting.

Restful Spaces

Don’t confuse restfulness with a lack of productivity.

Whether it’s legend, fact, or a combination of both, it’s widely reported that Albert Einstein slept for about 10 hours every night and, in addition, he’d take regular naps during the day. He’d let his sub-conscious tackle problems and then come up with solutions while he dozed.

The lesson for us today is that an office that’s all work and no personal reflection is draining. We can thrive on fast-paced excitement, but many times we also need to withdraw and quiet down.

We can’t live non-stop in a fight-or-flight response, as noted in Understanding the Stress Response on HarvardHealth.com. Chronic stress “contributes to high blood pressure, promotes the formation of artery-clogging deposits, and causes brain changes that may contribute to anxiety, depression, and addiction.”

What does a restful place look like?

Define the space by creating a boundary that’s similar to collaborative spaces. If possible, allow for a flow of natural lighting and use plenty of indoor plants to bring in nature. Plants help the air remain fresh, they boost moods, ease stress and deflect sound waves for a quieter area.


Photo: Nevins Climb Seating Series

A modular arrangement like the kind available with the Nevins Climb Multi-Level Seating solution allows the furniture to be used for individuals or group meetings.

You can make a rest area look more like a living room and less like an airport lounge for the most personal touch possible.

Patios are a bonus. Install sliding glass doors to connect an indoor space with the outdoors where team members can retreat to for quiet moments. You may choose to have one space like a lounge for phone calls, and another space for reading, writing and reflective thinking.


Photo: Nevins Synk2 and Climb Seating Series

Resource Spaces

No industry is immune from some sort of change today, whether that due’s to a worldwide phenomenon like the Covid-19 virus or technology changing how business is done.

Staying up to date is essential. Dedicate a small space as a learning center. You can have books and magazines on a shelf, a computer dedicated to research, and a bulletin board where you encourage employees to post an article they’ve read that lead to an aha! moment or breakthrough.


Photo: Global Linking Panels

Defining spaces shows that you expect more than people showing up, putting in their time, clocking out and then going home. You’re investing in them and you see them as the company’s most valuable assets.

Different spaces have specific purposes. Put them together and you’re working to create community and a shared experience. The team stays engaged with their work and with each other.

Get Professional Guidance on Creating the Best Office Spaces

An effective office layout takes deliberate planning around your corporate goals.

2010 Office Furniture can help to maximize productivity and create the best office spaces possible for your company. Share your space planning and office furniture needs to get the input you need.

The team at 2010 Office has nearly a half-century of combined experience advising and supplying the most distinguished companies in Southern California.

Read Also: Office of the Future: Plan an Office that Meets Your Company Goals and Personal Needs
Main Photo: ERG International
Resources & Special Thanks to Respective Product Manufacturers: ERG International, Friant, HON, OFS, Nevins, and Global Furniture Group

 

Using Open Plan Workstations in Orange County

Using Open Plan Workstations in Orange County

The Orange County Mentality

Think of innovative Orange County and California companies, and gaming firms, tech or financial start-ups like Acorn may come to mind. Add automotive companies to the list of innovators. Karma Automotive got its start in the OC and manufactures environmentally friendly vehicles.  No doubt, there’s a lot of talent in Southern California with entrepreneurs who find a unique need in the marketplace and then work hard to provide a solution and capture their niche in the marketplace. However, keeping daily operations humming along doesn’t just happen.  A well-designed office space is key along with the right furnishings, like those in open plan workstations. Open office floor plans and workstations have been known to have key benefits and play a direct role in a company’s success.

Open Plan Flexibility

Open office floor plans have become standard because workspace configurations are easy to manage. But don’t just set up the workstations in just any pattern. The most effective offices are arranged with thorough planning and space design strategies. Know how the team functions and relates with their different responsibilities. Then plan work areas accordingly.

Be creative. Why not put the administrative team in the center of the room instead of in a distant corner? This way, it’s clear that they set the tone for communicating with everyone.  Sales and marketing can be near the front door and the project managers, developers or creatives can be positioned in an area that’s quieter and focused. Setting up and taking down workstations is easy.

Flexibility isn’t just in the layout but also includes workstations with height-adjustable surfaces like the Hover Height Adjustable Table by DeskMakers. It also offers easy power distribution and cable management when the height changes.

Open Plan Approachability

Using open plan workstations can create a friendly, business casual environment. Open plan workstations allow for approachability since people aren’t cloistered behind solid walls. This makes personal communication and collaboration easier than having to knock on doors or send emails.  Focus time is important so chairs can be arranged around small tables in a break type area or meeting pods used so others aren’t distracted.

Open Plan Durability

Easy to assemble furniture is durable. Veneer surfaces and premium materials make for a clean look and performance that can withstand rugged work habits. All mechanisms including brackets are manufactured well for maximum use over many years.

NeoCon 2019 Winners

NeoCon 2019 Winners

CONTRACT MAGAZINE ANNOUNCES NEOCON  2019 WINNERS

Every year, Contract Magazine hosts the Best of NeoCon Competition which surveys the latest and greatest in commercial product design and highlights standout entries in various design categories.  The 2019 winners were announced during an awards breakfast on June 10 at the Renaissance Hotel in Chicago, Illinois, where eighty-three awards and recognitions   were given, including six Editor’s Choice awards, eight Innovation awards, and a Best of Competition prize.  Below are all winners from this year’s competition. Drumroll and envelopes please!—Here are the Best of NeoCon 2019 winners:

Acoustic Panels & Solutions

Gold: Snowsound: FLAT
Silver: Luxxbox: Linea Acoustic LED Lighting System

Acoustic Privacy & Modular Solutions

Gold: OFS: Leant To
Silver: Framery Acoustics: Framery 2Q


(Image Source – OFS: Leant To)

Architectural & Decorative Glass

Silver: Skyline Design: Oblique & Chevron

Architectural Products

Gold and Best of Competition: OFS: Obeya
Silver: Connectrac: Flex


(Image Source – OFS: Obeya)

Carpet: Broadloom

Gold: Tarkett: Tatami System
Silver: Mohawk Group: Textural Effects

Carpet: Contract Area Rugs

Innovation: Mohawk Group: Connecting Neurons Definity

Carpet: Modular

Gold: Patcraft: Deconstructed Felt
Silver: Shaw Contract: Suited

Case Goods

Gold: HALCON: HALO Office
Silver: Herman Miller: Geiger One Casegoods

Conference Room Furniture

Gold: Nucraft: Alev
Innovation: Tuohy Furniture Corp.: Meich Tables
Silver: Andreu World: Reverse Wood

Education Solutions

Gold: VS America: JUMPER
Silver: Keilhauer: Buncha

Flooring: Hard Surface LVT & Planks

Gold: Patcraft: Handloom
Innovation: Metroflor Corp.: Metroforms with Attraxion Magnetic Attachment Technology
Silver: Milliken & Co.: Change Agent LVT

Furniture Collections for Collaboration

Gold: Steelcase: Flex Collection
Innovation: Teknion: Bene Box
Silver: STYLEX: Free Address


(Image Source – STYLEX: Free Address)

Furniture Systems & Enhancements

Gold: Watson Furniture Group: Cloud 9 Rail
Silver: HALCON: HALO Office

Furniture: Benching

Gold: Innovant: Cross Benching

Healthcare Fabrics & Textiles

Gold: Designtex: Biophilia 2.0
Silver: CF Stinson: Chiaroscuro Collection

Healthcare Flooring

Gold: Teknoflor: Coordination Collection
Silver: Mohawk Group: True Hues

Healthcare Guest & Lounge Seating

Gold: Kwalu: Prizzi Lounge
Healthcare Patient Seating
Silver: Spec Furniture: Tailor HD

Lighting: Decorative & Hospitality

Gold: Eaton: Shaper Sense Acoustic LED Luminaires
Silver: LightArt: Acoustic Wing

Lounge Furniture Collections

Gold: Haworth Inc.: Cabana Lounge
Silver: Andreu World: Rap Sofa

Movable Walls

Gold: Teknion: Tek Vue
Silver: Allsteel: Beyond Pavilion

Office Accessories

Gold: Allsteel: Radii
Silver: Watson Furniture Group: Cloud 9 Cart and Garage

Seating: Bar Stools

Editors’ Choice: Martin Brattrud: Cumbia
Gold: Davis Furniture Industries: Muse Barstool

Seating: Benches

Editors’ Choice: Nienkämper: Heartbeat
Gold: Green Furniture Concept: Nova C Perch
Silver: Allermuir: Axyl Bench


(Image Source – Allermuir: Axyl Bench)

Seating: Conference

Gold: OFS: Kasura
Silver: Davis Furniture Industries: M75

Seating: Ergonomic Desk/Task

Gold: via seating: Younique
Silver: Nightingale Corp.: NLC


(Image Source – Via Seating: Younique)

Seating: Guest

Gold: Allermuir: Kin
Silver: Andreu World: Gala

Seating: Outdoor Contract & Hospitality

Silver: Andreu World: Nuez Outdoor

Seating: Sofas & Lounge

Gold: Andreu World: Rap sofa
Silver: Green Furniture Concept: Nova C Recliner

Seating: Stacking

Gold: Sandler Seating: HDS 1.1
Silver: SitOnIt Seating | IDEON: Mika


(Image Source – SitOnIt Seating: Mika)

Signage & Wayfinding

Gold: Takeform: Lucid Refined Interior Signage
Silver: 2/90 Sign Systems: SafeCare Signs

Space Dividers/Partitions/Screens

Gold: Clarus Glassboards: Flex Wall
Silver: Naava: Naava Flow

Tables: Communal & Task

Gold: Nucraft: Epono
Silver: Davis Furniture Industries: Inform


(Image Source – Nucraft: Epono)

Tables: Height-Adjustable/Training/Work

Editors’ Choice: Versteel: Sky
Gold: Watson Furniture Group: Cloud 9 Desk
Silver: Senator International: Array


(Image Source – Senator International: Array)

Tables: Occasional

Editors’ Choice: Studio TK: Freehand Occasional Tables
Gold: Nucraft: Alev
Innovation: Davis Furniture Industries: Lift

Technology-Integrated Solutions

Gold: Steelcase: Roam
Innovation: Connectrac: Flex
Silver: National Lighting: Revive

Textiles: Upholstery

Editors’ Choice: Wolf Gordon: VEER
Editors’ Choice: Luum Textiles: Future Tense Collection
Gold: HBF: Lost & Found
Innovation: Haworth Inc.: Haworth Knits
Silver: Momentum Group: Architectural Textures Collection

Wall Treatments

Innovation: Momentum Group: Woven Silica
Silver: Designtex: Metallic Wallcoverings

Workplace Technologies

Gold: CF Stinson: designMix with colorAI
Silver: FreeAxez: Gridd Mobile

See NeoCon 2018 Winners
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Choosing the Best Benching or Desking Workstations in Los Angeles

Choosing the Best Benching or Desking Workstations in Los Angeles

Benching / Desking in Los Angeles Digital Media

Digital media is a major force in Los Angeles’ entertainment industry and desking workstations are helping media companies equip their offices. Beyond the big studio names are a myriad of a smaller businesses providing services like visual effects and developing the next distribution technology. Change is a constant.  The workstations make it easy in an open office setting to expand with new hires and re-arrange departments without having to knock out walls.  Take a closer look at the benching or desking options and their benefits.

Interaction

Desking workstations allow for fluid interaction in an open office setting. They can meet a variety of needs.

Let’s say a production company needs dedicated space for handling the details of a shoot in LA or across the country, then a system like the Teamworx Open Plan Desking can work quite well. It creates a private work area while remaining open and accessible.  Need a few writers or programmers developing a web presence sitting together? Then the Hover Height Adjustable Table by Deskmakers can seamlessly fit a small group and provide personal and work storage space.

Efficiency

In an office that moves at the speed of light, communicating quickly with co-workers and then turning back to focus personally on work becomes absolutely necessary. A desking workstation like the Voi Open Plan Workstation by Hon has a sleek design and brings collaboration into the open office environment.

Movement

Many office environments don’t require employees to sit in the same spot throughout the day. Movement can trigger creativity and solutions to challenges. Create options for those who like to stretch or work at another setting for a while.  Benching or desking workstations like the G Series Desk Lounge or the Eleven Workspace Open Plan can accommodate non-assigned seating.  Or create a break area using modular lounge chairs that allow for personal space or are easily pulled together for small group discussions.

Defining Space with Desking

Walls aren’t the only way to define space.  Use whiteboards, office plants, and attractive tables or bookcases with can hold fresh coffee and healthy snacks to define specific work areas based on functions or departments.  Office plants are proven to invigorate workers while refreshing the air and absorbing sound.  Whiteboards can be rolled in place or shared for team meetings. Rather than have one break area, why not have a few smaller areas with fresh coffee, tea, muffins, fruit and vegetables brought in?

Employees like flexibility but they don’t want a feel that something is cheap and temporary. Benching or desking workstations are easily assembled, allow for flexible designs and yet are manufactured to last.

3 Popular Office Layouts to Meet Your Office Culture

3 Popular Office Layouts to Meet Your Office Culture

The Importance of Office Layouts

An office layout that’s set up for maximum functionality and efficiency creates a productive environment. Achieving this optimal arrangement takes planning and accounts for all the necessary accessories and equipment.  Here is an overview of different office layouts, how each can be furnished, and the impact on the personal preferences of employees.

1. Open Office Layouts

A large space without walls is a simple definition of the open office. It’s a highly relational approach to work and fosters communication and collaboration. In practical terms, the layout can also be an easy way to manage people who do a single task like data entry. Tech companies and start-ups often benefit from this layout.  The challenge is that privacy is scarce and there are more distractions than in divided offices.

Seating and Workstation Options:

Adjusting for Personal Needs:

  • Letting employees work from home when they need privacy
  • Creating private areas using comfortable and state-of-the-art lounge chairs like Focal Point and Connection Zone
  • Using Co-op lounges for private, small group discussions and phone conferences

2. Cellular Office Layouts

A large space that’s divided using cubicle style desks offers greater privacy and more personal space than the open office. Benefits include being adaptable in space sizes and design. Sales organizations can benefit from this style where time is split between the office and going out to see clients.  The cubicle usually evokes images of corporate sameness with a dull gray interior and workers slotted into positions. However, today’s options are quite attractive. Instead of industrial grade partitions with desks squeezed in, the desk and cubicle are often one and the same.

Seating and Workstation Options:

Adjusting for Personal Needs:

  • Since cubicles can divide up a room, having an open area for lunches or lounging can offer variety.

3. Private Office Layouts

For an office space that already has hallways and walls, offices ensure the greatest degree of privacy possible. This style is found in top-down organizations and hearkens back to the days when the president of a company had the largest office or prized corner office.  Professional firms and companies where individuals need a high degree of focus in their work can benefit the most from this setup. The downside is that it hinders the relational aspects of work that younger generations enjoy and the layout can seem intimidating and overly formal.

The look of the furniture for private office layouts can reflect the company’s brand and the individual’s brand and personal tastes.

Seating and Workstation Options:

Suggested Innovative Office Layout Ideas

Be a trendsetter or invite employees to design their own office space whether the existing plan is open, made of cells or private rooms.

Shared and Personal Space:

  • Shared spaces can have individual lounge areas nearby. If you use a product like the Mayline – E5 Open Plan Benching that accommodates eight people, then each person could have an individual lounge chair nearby that has a reading lamp and available plug-ins.
  • Encourage the team to decorate according to their hobbies and interests: a library look, sports, or outdoor area.

A Middle of Room Lounge:

  • In an open office space, use modular cubicles or open plan benching around the sides. This is nice if windows let in plenty of natural light. Then in the middle of the room, create an open area for break-time reading, eating and beverage service.
  • Consider an arrangement like the Coact lounge or the Island Modular to bring people together.

Choosing Reception Furniture

The style of office layout will help determine the type of reception desk and guest chairs to use in the entrance of your office.

Designing Your Office Layout

Looking to design your own open, cellular or private office?  Let our experts help you!  2010 Office Furniture has more than 45 years of experience working with some of the most prominent companies in Los Angeles and Orange County, including Southern California Edison, Irvine Chamber of Commerce, The Honda Center, UCLA, Bunim Murray Productions, Hollywood Park Casino, Living Spaces, W Hotels, Sony Pictures Studios, Dignity Health and more.  Share your project with us today and talk to us about a complimentary space planning consultation.

Image Source: Hon

8 Best Open Plan Systems for Your Office

8 Open Plan Systems For Your Office

AN OFFICE TREND FOR THE MILLENNIUM

What are the best open plan systems for your office?

Earlier this year, a survey by Forbes revealed that approximately 70% of U.S. professionals are currently working in open plan offices.  In March, Facebook’s 10-acre campus (designed by none other than Frank Gehry) was reported to soon be the largest open plan office in the world, and is expected to house a jaw-dropping staff of 3,400.  While we may not all have the same whopping number of employees, we can still certainly enjoy the benefits that have popularized this ever-growing trend, as we survey some of the best open plan systems and their benefits at the office.

BENEFITS OF AN OPEN PLAN OFFICE

  1. INCREASES OFFICE COLLABORATION:  An open plan office promotes the sharing of ideas among workers and teams of employees.  When employees work in a shared space, they are more likely to ask for the input and opinions of their peers, naturally creating a synergistic flow of interaction and exchange of thoughts and ideas.  This environment, when positively nurtured, can spur inspiration and creativity among fellow empl0yees.
  2. STRENGTHENS EMPLOYEE RELATIONSHIPS:  Increased interaction with peers and colleagues, though not always perfect, allows for a more open and therefore better line of communication.  While a “do not disturb” policy may need to be initiated here and there when concentration is necessary, an open plan office facilitates a sense of camaraderie among those sharing the office space, instead of alienating individuals in traditional cubicles.
  3. EMPLOYEES ARE HEALTHIER AND HAPPIER: Isolated individuals in small enclosed spaces oftentimes are found seated all day hunched over computer screens.  This sedentary position can lead to serious health risks including heart disease and diabetes, as several studies have shown over the years.  Open plan spaces promotes interaction and encourage workers to stand up from time to time to move around more often.  Also, open plan arrangements incorporate more use of more natural light from windows, and allow for better air quality through increased air flow.  Employees are able to enjoy a space that’s more motivating, stimulating and aesthetically pleasing.
  4. LOWERED COSTS:  With an open plan office, there are less rooms, walls and private spaces to build, does reducing construction costs and significantly helping the company save money.  Open plan spaces also allow for more employees to work within one designated space, and are more economical with electricity, air-conditioning and heat.
  5. FUTURE FLEXIBILITY:  Office walls and private office structures get in the way when a company undergoes change.  An open plan space can be configured and re-configured much more easily, time and time again, allowing for a company to evolve more quickly and cost-effectively.

THE BEST OPEN PLAN SYSTEMS

From some of the most trusted brands in the business, and ranging in functionality, versatility, styles, and price points — here are the some of the best open plan systems that may just be the right fit for your office.

OPEN PLAN SYSTEMS XPAND

 

XPAND by Open Plan Systems welcomes you to the modern office, with a robust benching system of height adjustable tables that can be configured to meet your business needs. (More Info/Request a Quote)

MAVERICK DESK APEX

APEX by Maverick Desk adapts to various activities of groups and individuals within your workplace, creating an environment that is conducive to office productivity, efficiency and well-being. (More Info/Request a Quote)

OFS ELEVEN WORKSPACE

 

ELEVEN WORKSPACE by OFS is a Best of NeoCon Gold Award winner by Swiss architect and designer Daniel Korb, who developed ELEVEN around a fundamental concept: “Furniture is Architecture on a Different Scale.” (More Info/Request a Quote)

ODS X-BENCH

X-BENCH by ODS presents an advanced open plan benching solution that’s designed to meet a wide range of office applications – from collaborative open spaces to single private offices. (More Info/Request a Quote)

FRIANT VERITY

VERITY by Friant creates defined spaces to support the various types of work interactions for a coordinated look across the office.  (More Info/Request a Quote)

SCALE: 1:1 G SERIES

G SERIES by Scale 1:1 is a modern shared workstation that’s all about connectivity and collaboration. Designed with flexibility and movement in mind, sharing ideas among workers has never been more dynamic, promoting team learning and productivity.  (More Info/Request a Quote)

HON VOI

 

VOI by HON presents a distinctive blend of style and functionality in a casegoods system that’s architecturally striking as it is soundly built. Combining durable steel with solid and wood grain laminates, along with cutting edge, high quality materials, VOI gives you the freedom to easily select from various shapes, sizes, configurations, storage components, laminates and finish options to design your perfect workspace.  (More Info/Request a Quote)

SENATOR ORB

ORB by Senator breaks all the rules with its innovative 360 degree design, offering a more intuitive way of working.  (More Info/Request a Quote)

Read Also: Open Plan Benching and Design
Main Photo: Senator Group Pailo Open Plan Office
Resources & Special Thanks to Respective Product Manufacturers: Senator, nycofficesuites.com