ofs brands magazine | nd issue | summer a peek into the...
TRANSCRIPT
MEET THREE MAKERSpeople who love what they do so unconditionally that they bring depth to topics that seem flat
Page 08
2016
A CHAT WITH BRIAN GRAHAM
the man behind the design of Aptos - our latest casegood collection for OFS
Page 06
MAKING AN IMPRESSION
Rick Joutras of Whitney Architects on the inspiration behind our refined Chicago showroom
Page 22
AT OUR CORE
the important role wood has played in our history and use of this strong, sustainable material
GET YOUR MOVE ON TOWARDS WORKPLACE WELL-BEING
encouraging healthier choices and changing behaviors for a better work day
INSPIRE FORWARD
the significance of cultivating inspiration to allow creativity to grow
A PEEK INTO THE CULTURE OF OFS BRANDSOFS BRANDS MAGAZINE | �ND ISSUE | SUMMER ����
02OFS BRANDS
03TABLE OF CONTENTS
CONTACT US
OFS Brands
1204 East Sixth Street
Huntingburg, IN 47542
T 800-521-5381
Find your nearest showroom:
http://ofsbrands.com/information/showrooms
Ryan Menke SVP Sales + Marketing
Stan Gray VP Brand Experience
John Phillips VP Design Development
Doug Shapiro Director of Sales -
Workplace | A+D
Jami Brames Creative Director
Nick Blessinger Director Channel
& Communication Strategy
Jarod Brames Director of Sustainability
Lori Schnieders Marketing Support
CREDIT ALSO GOES TO
Brian Graham, pg. 06
Rick Joutras, pg. 22
Visual Magnetics, pg. 32
Linda Porter Bishop, pg. 34
Aimee Blume, pg. 39
CONTENTS04 Welcome A letter from Ryan Menke, SVP Sales + Marketing, OFS Brands.
06 A Chat with Brian Graham Meet Brian Graham, the man behind the
design of Aptos - our latest casegood collection for OFS.
08 Meet Three Makers There are people who love what they do so
unconditionally, that they bring depth to topics that seem flat. They
strike a curiosity in people they meet that opens up an entirely new
world of beauty and perspective...these are three of those people.
13 To Inspire Forward Our new VP of Design Development,
John Phillips, discusses his approach to design and how inspiration
motivates, influences and ultimately moves creativity.
14 Portfolio A collection of our newest product introductions for each of
our brands: OFS, FirstOffice, Carolina, Loewenstein, and Highmark.
19 Preview 5 topics with lighting designer Tom Newhouse.
20 At Our Core Our 3rd generation leader talks about the important role
wood has played in our history and how we have championed the use
of this strong, sustainable material.
22 Making An Impression An interview with Rick Joutras of Whitney
Architects about the inspiration behind our refined Chicago showroom.
24 Success Stories A look back on just a few of our favorite projects
over the past year.
30 The New Musical Chairs 3rd space answers how many seats per
person as the music plays.
31 Get Your Move On Encouraging healthier choices and changing
behaviors for a better work day.
32 A Visual Attraction One company is utilizing the power of
magnetics to revolutionize how we interact with our space.
34 An Interview with Linda Porter Bishop Healthcare overseas, changes
in the healing landscape and confusion in today’s furniture market.
36 New Kids on the Block A peek into our latest and greatest
showrooms including our new space in DTLA.
39 A Forest Feast Chef Aimee Blume shares a recipe she prepared
for a group visiting our Cool Springs property in Southern Indiana.
New Kids on the Block
Page 36
Meet Three Makers
Page 08
At Our Core
Page 20
04OFS BRANDS
05GETTING SOCIAL
@gmbikelly Goodbye #ofsbrands thanks for the hospitality, and wonderful show-room!! #contractfurniture #teambonding
#gmbusinessinteriors #interiordesign
Getting Social With OFS BrandsWant to see your photo featured on our Instagram feed? Post a photo of your experience with one of our brands with the
hashtag #ofsbrands. We’ll pick our favorites and publish them each month.
@beachbum_z what a GREAT trip to #OFSBrands in Indiana! #newfriends #furnituretours #goodfood #ATVS #shotguns #plantedatree #catfish #hushpuppies
#mintjulep #ofsswag #firepit
@rin_hollis #officenvironments field trip to #ofsbrands today! #theoethree on #theedge
@gmbikelly @gmbusinessinteriors takes #LA and the #ofsbrands showroom!!! #contractfurniture
#elevateyourworkplace #teambonding
@jameyberg today’s office.#ofsbrands #perkinswill #indiana
@ofsinteriors @ofsbrands #ofsbrands #retreats #gorgeous
@allisonhruff OFS Brands Healthcare Training! Work hard play hard!
#ofsbrands
@kopardue and we’re out // jet setting to Indiana to visit #OFSbrands
corporate headquarters
@kcmitch19 Hanging out at the Atlanta #ofsbrands showroomtoday. A gal could
get used to this #thenewwaytowork #Edge #ccca_architects #fieldtrip
@nicolecaudell Cool things in #CoolSprings #ofsbrands #Ilovemyjob
#ofsbrands
WELCOMERyan Menke
SVP Sales + Marketing
We live in an age where our lives have become so complex that
we long for a more simple approach to things. As technology
has forced a change in the way we work, so, too, should we
change the way we design cities, buildings and furniture. Today’s
workstyles lean away from linear work styles that Henry Ford
and Fredrick Taylor worked so hard to streamline through
engineering towards a more organic structure that mimics
biology and adapts and responds to the environment around us.
It is inspiring to see human needs take lead in the conversation
while consulting nature along the way to better understand
how to make deeply complex systems simple. Well-being, after
all, is about choosing what elements satisfy our innate need for
community, movement and a closeness to nature.
Look around and you will notice a desire, a comfort sought for
connecting with others with similar interests and values even
if they have a different perspective. The sense of belonging
is strong, motivation in life and in business is about people
connecting with people in our backyards or across the globe.
Options for how you work can be as important as who you work
with. Choosing whatever environment suits you or the particular
work you are doing is critical. Whether that is sitting, standing or
perching in the office, coffee shop or park, movement enables
creativity and a healthier approach to what we are trying to
achieve that day.
Our desire to be near or in nature is just now being understood,
but it is encouraging to see biophilic design finding its way into
our vocabulary. It can have a profound impact on our mental
health as it literally gives us a pause, the opportunity to breathe.
It is antidotal to our constantly connected lives. Nature unplugs
us so we can reflect and then visualize what’s ahead, not just
what’s in front of us.
Our industry sits in a very unique position to design cities, spaces
and products to satisfy these very human needs and make a
difference in individuals’ lives. As Gen. Stanley McChrystal put
it, “today’s leaders need to be less like chess masters and more
like gardeners.” No longer can we be expected to be experts in
all areas and see the entire “board,” but we must have teams of
experts that we nurture and grow so that they can work together
towards a common goal. This change in philosophy requires us
to become much more vulnerable and humble; suggestive rather
than prescriptive; iterative rather than finite.
Let’s put people back at the core of the conversation, be
passionately curious and design something beautifully simple.
06OFS BRANDS
partner Nancy, live and work in San Francisco) there is
clearly a cultural interest in trying to go beyond established
ideas, and to striving to create something new. We love
that about our hometown.”
Very tongue in cheek, Brian elaborates a bit more
on the West Coast...and I know there were waves in
the background.
“I’ve been quoted as saying, with apologies to my East
Coast friends, that ’the wind blows West to East’…but I
truly believe that. To a varying degree, most folks have
their eyes on what’s happening out here. They are going
through an evaluation process, trying to figure out what
they’re seeing, if it makes sense for them and, if so, how to
incorporate it into their businesses. And the workplace and
furnishings are a part of that process.”
The conversation turned to influences, and Brian delivered
vantage points derived from discussions with progressive
companies and the designers behind them.
“It’s been kind of an ongoing experiment, especially here.
There is such an acceptance for quick iterations and rapid
prototyping, for getting things up and running and sort
of working with it in a kind of messy, vital way…and then
quickly measuring the results.”
In the short time I’ve known Brian, his playful banter is easy
on the ears, and his metaphorical timing is impeccable.
“I’m struck by the notion that as an industry, we seem to
be creating an almost collegiate experience with our work
place design. I think that’s fine as a metaphor, as long as
we find a better balance between the student union, the
classrooms and the library. Right now I think we have
too much student union (big chuckle here) and not
enough library.”
The dialogue moves more toward providing visual
and audial privacy among so many different types of
spaces and work styles. Brian utilizes his hindsight and
foresight and his connected network as he approaches
this challenge.
“Spatially, folks said let’s clear everything out, let’s make
it totally open. And, as they live within that context, they
learn the realities of that approach need to be amended, so
they say, okay, maybe everything should not be so open.
It’s an ongoing, iterative existence.”
“Without question there is no one furniture solution that
satisfies every need. Maybe 8 to 10 years ago, you could
have said, ‘yeah, this solution is going to work for 90%
of the spaces that we occupy,’ but now I’m not so sure
anyone can say that one solution could satisfy even 50% of
the type and diversity of spaces that exist today.”
The conversation always circled back to context and
dialogue. Today the world is a disparate mix of ideas and
images that infiltrate our days and impact our initiatives.
So the question arises: who is going to distill all of that
noise into functional, alluring spaces to which individuals
and groups are drawn. Brian converges on exactly who
plays that role.
“I think the key is that you still need a designer who
synthesizes everything together. It’s not unlike an
orchestra…you have all these musicians with these
disparate instruments, and at some point somebody has
to grab the baton and wield it into a symphony and make
the music. Designers are more challenged today than ever
before, and they’ve never been more essential to every
aspect of a business.”
We next discussed how architects and designers have
always worked in the open, what benching was called
before it was benching and the way floor plans used to
be featured in the design publications of yesteryear. Then
we fully digressed to battleships and canoes and joked
about ways to shamelessly plug our product collaboration,
Aptos™. Brian likened Aptos™ to the Little Black Dress in
that it offers a classic foundation that you can vary with
accessories and shoes…but don’t get him started on shoes
(he has a major sneakers addiction).
Now that the shameless product plug is out of the way,
I’ll leave you with this. A couple of months ago I was on
a video conference with Brian and a group of students
from Kansas State University regarding a semester-long
furniture design class held in collaboration with
OFS Brands. Brian’s enthusiasm for their design process
was enthralling. Immersing himself in their way of thinking,
you could sense a youthful joy at work as he interacted
with each of them. They were drawn to him as well. He was
fundamental, thought-provoking and inspirational to those
students. We hope that’s exactly what this chat with Brian
Graham does for you, too.
07A CHAT WITH BRIAN GRAHAM
BRIAN GRAHAMCalls Home: San Francisco, CA
Education: BFA in Interior Architectural Design at California
State University, Long Beach
“Everything is designed,” notes Brian Graham who,
conversely, designs almost everything. Perhaps best known
for elegant casegoods and office furniture systems, Graham
is involved in a wide range of genres, consulting across
disciplines and crafting integrated design programs for
his clients.
In 1999, Brian established the Graham Design studio in
San Francisco to offer a strategic approach to the design,
development and marketing of furniture, lighting and related
products for the contract market. Today, Graham is widely
respected for his work with industry leaders.
www.grahamdesignsf.com
Design Study Sketches of Aptos for OFS, 2015 Aptos, a new casegood collection for OFS designed by Brian Graham
A CHAT WITH BRIAN GRAHAMWorkplace, design perspective and gems of knowledge delivered from coast-to-coast with a grin.
Written by Nick Blessinger Illustrations by Brian Graham
I recently caught up with Brian
Graham to hear his thoughts
on workplace and design. It was
quickly discovered that I would get
so much more.
You must know that every
conversation with Brian results in
both learning and a good laugh,
a refreshing notion in today’s
otherwise fly-by world. You can
sense the ingenuity of his big grin
all the way from San Francisco
through the phone. Brian is direct
and honest, with an exceedingly
sharp wit, again all refreshing. Our
brief departures off topic reveal
the breadth of his knowledge and
considerations that Brian bestows
upon his work.
“I believe that the best way to
understand something is to first
establish its context. My context is
that I’m an interior designer who has
evolved into a furniture designer,
and it influences everything that I
do. I find that context lends a unique
perspective because, while it’s
important to understand the object
that we’re designing, it’s even more
vital to understand how it’s going to
be used. That’s why planning is the
foundation of everything that we do.
It all starts with a plan.”
With the lineage of a renaissance
man (his maternal grandfather took
turns as a Hollywood screenwriter,
advertising art director and
architectural designer), Brian was
pre-wired to bring context to utility.
As our conversation progressed,
you could feel Brian stepping
into the user’s shoes and into the
space itself. It was a virtual reality
experience over the phone as he
described how interior design and
product design must connect.
“When I look at any furniture
problem, the first thing I think
about is what else is in that room.
Whatever I’m designing must
play well with others...it has to
be somewhat malleable in
that respect.”
The discussion sidebars a minute as
I hear what sounds like the Pacific
waves rolling in the background.
He denies being beachside on
a Tuesday morning (this native
Californian more likely would be
on a golf course) to keep a mid-
westerner’s daydreaming at bay, but
we segued well into the next topic
of the “Left Coast.”
“So being out here on the West
Coast (Brian and his wife and
“It’s been kind of an ongoing experiment, especially here. There is such an acceptance for quick iterations and rapid prototyping, for getting things up and running and sort of working with it in a kind of messy, vital way…and then quickly measuring the results.”
08OFS BRANDS
With over 40 years of wood craftsmanship and hand selecting veneers,
one of the first things Tom mentioned was how much he enjoys learning
what’s new in the world of veneer. When you talk with those around Tom,
you will hear about how incredibly knowledgeable he is.
“I sometimes wonder how we will replace the knowledge Tom possesses.
He seems to know more about the veneer business than there is
information available to learn,” David Lubbehusen, Director of
Design Solutions.
Tom’s humbleness and pursuit to never stop learning speaks directly
to the company’s core values. He lives them through the care he
takes to ensure the customer gets an exceptionally crafted piece
of wood furniture.
“Often the veneer samples come to me at our Veneer Studio for review.
When I know we have a project and at times in general, I still like to go to
the yard and see the bundle of flitches firsthand so there are no surprises
and we get the consistency the customer deserves,” adds Tom.
Tom elaborated that looking at veneers at the yard is similar to
discovering that great find like “pickers” do. “During my last visit, I saw
this cherry flitch with a unique figure in it. I wasn’t sure what we would
create with it, but I knew I needed to buy it. It sold immediately. That
customer truly received a one-of-a-kind piece of art. We won’t see that
figure again in a piece of wood. That’s the beauty of natural materials.”
adds Tom.
“Tom has forgotten more about veneer than most of us can learn in a
lifetime. He has the eye of an artist and the hand of a creator. He has
a unique ability to see the beauty of the end piece of furniture while
selecting veneer in its rawest state,” comments Phil Englert, Director of
Sales Operations and Training.
Tom likes to remind our tour groups that trees are exactly like humans.
There are no two trees alike in the forest. It’s all Mother Nature and the
environment that gives each tree its fingerprint.
“Think about someone with freckles. That’s genetic. They’re unique and
add character. That’s exactly what birdseye maple is, freckles on the tree.
Or the rarity and beauty of burl wood, too. This prized wood grain is
the result of a tree being under stress or a malignancy. It’s simply nature
doing what it does.”
Tom honestly admitted that sometimes he can’t identify the species of a
tree by its leaves or bark like many people can. “My neighbors and I were
discussing what type of tree we had in the backyard that needed to be
removed last year. Oak, maple, hickory...we went round and round. Finally
I said, ‘Let’s cut this thing down so I can tell you guys what species it is. I
just need to see it from the inside.”
I would say that Tom’s perspective on trees goes right along with the
adage, “It’s what’s on the inside that counts.”
09MEET THREE MAKERS
TOM SCHEPERS Calls Home: Celestine, IN | OFS Brands: 15 years
Left to Right: Tom Schepers; Tommy Owens; Scott Raffensberger
MEET THREE MAKERSThere are people who love what they do so unconditionally
that they bring depth to topics that seem flat. They strike a
curiosity in people they meet that opens up an entirely new
world of beauty and perspective. They list fact after fact and
tell story after story of their history with their passion.
These are three of those people.
Written by Nick Blessinger
Photography by Kenneth Spond
10OFS BRANDS
As the door squeaks slightly when entering the seating development
area, Rick Rademacher’s head pops up from his computer for a moment.
Tommy Owens is over at the table with a rolling cutter, chalk lines
meandering with effortless precision as he works on upholstery patterns
that will ultimately be cut by a machine. But like all good things, they start
by hand.
Rick is a seating engineer, and Tommy is an upholsterer: simple titles for
a daily jigsaw puzzle of responsibilities. Yet the puzzle always looks like
the pristine image on the front of the box. Rick and Tommy bounce ideas
back and forth in the same way an engineered form of mixed materials
needs foam and fabric to bring it to life.
This is the start of the game. How can Tommy make the process and
patterns consistent and repeatable, so the 1,000th chair that is ordered
and produced in the plant mirrors what is sitting on the table in
development? That’s the thought process...below are thoughts shared
while reviewing samples.
”I think the team is going to need an extra pull here to keep this corner
taut. Rick, let’s add another Christmas tree (fastener term) along the seam
to keep that line consistent.”
“That area gets a lot activity. Let’s use a double stitch for extra durability
and a more tailored look. A customer may not notice, but we know...we
can do better.”
Tommy takes out his tape measure and makes some notes. He disappears
through double doors to the manufacturing floor and returns with some
foam and fabric. He rolls out the fabric and gets to work with chalk,
straight edges, protractors and the rolling cutter in hand. He jumps
over to the sewing machine where he taps his foot like a drummer and
spindles of yarn unravel like he’s trying to land a blue marlin. He’s a
sewing machine (pun intended). Then he raises the spinning/lift table to
ergonomic height, and the popcorn starts popping, aka the stapler gun.
Pop, pop, pop, it’s taking shape. Like a great friendship, frame, foam and
fabric (and few hundred staples) become something greater together
than apart.
This whole process can be simplified into a few sentences thanks to
the meticulousness, creativity and experience that Tommy draws upon
to deliver our core values to our customers through his job. There’s an
inherent pride that takes shape as well that is never spoken, but is seen in
the form of a finely tailored chair. And, Tommy would be the first one to
tell you that it is a team effort.
“Tommy is our ‘go -to’ when it comes to converting high level design into
shop floor productivity. It’s amazing how he has turned countless napkin
sketches into functional, beautiful pieces of furniture,” said Jeff Eckert, VP
of Manufacturing.
Tommy is definitely an artist...a maker.
11MEET THREE MAKERS
TOMMY OWENSCalls Home: French Lick, IN | OFS Brands: 23 years
With an eye for all things interesting and
a perspective on keeping it simple, Scott
Raffensberger, the Highwayman, offers a
glimpse in his rearview mirrors to honor the
paths traveled as well as the open road ahead.
The truck-driving, Instagram’r blends two
worlds that one typically would think might
not go hand-in-hand, but he proves they most
certainly do.
“Instagram is an artistic outlet. I think people
like my pictures because they’re of places they
don’t typically get to see. There’s a lot to see
out there, but you can’t snap photos while
you’re driving. The Safety team gets kind of
mad about that.”
“My grandparents lived in Stilton, PA. There was
a big steel company there, Bethlehem Steel.
They had trains running through their backyard.
You know, just as a kid it was so overpowering
and loud, I just kind of took to it I guess. There
are some people that can tell you all the details,
you know, the horsepower, the model numbers,
stuff like that. I’m not as much into details as
I am the overall impression of things. These
impressions are what you see on my Instagram.”
The drive to become a driver was innate, yet it
had to take its course before becoming a way
of life.
“My dad drove trucks, so I think that kind of
put that seed in there, and I thought maybe
someday I’ll do that too. When I was a kid I
wanted to be a park ranger, but then I saw the
salary that they make, and I thought well maybe
that’s more of a hobby field. I’ve always liked to
work with people, and I’ve always liked to build
things and drive things. I got a West Point letter
in the mail, and they wanted me to come up
there, but something about sitting in college at
18 years old, that just wasn’t for me.”
“We had so many irons in the fire early on. My
wife was a House of Lloyds Home Party type
person. Every year they would have stuff left
over so we would run a retail outlet store. Then,
when the dot com bubble burst and everything
went sideways, people didn’t have the cash to
work on their homes anymore. So work wasn’t
going too good. Then I thought well maybe I’ll
go drive a truck. I figured that’s something I can
do for a very long time, if I need to.”
Driving a truck has opened up a world and a
way of life that fits the Highwayman. The job
provides the destination and the route. The
people and places along it are the canvas for
that impressionable creativity.
“I just think that I guess your world is what
you make of it. Happiness can be created right
where you are.”
Miles traveled, trailers of furniture delivered
and pictures shared represent a job, hobby and
passion intermix for the Highwayman that many
would have never imagined. That’s what makes
it all so very interesting.
Roll on, Highwayman!
SCOTT RAFFENSBERGER @HIGHWAYMANCalls Home: Kernersville, NC | OFS Brands: 4 years
Photography by Scott Raffensberger
Photography by Kenneth Spond
12OFS BRANDS
13PORTFOLIO
PORTFOLIOA look at our new product introductions debuting at NeoCon 2016.
Check out more images of our new products shown at NeoCon online at neocon.ofsbrands.com
Eleven Wood Design: Daniel Korb OFS
TO INSPIRE FORWARDVP of Design Development, John Phillips, discusses his approach to design and how inspiration motivates, influences and ultimately moves creativity.
Written by John Phillips
Open your minds to see the inspiration around you for your “aha” moment.
Inspiration is a wonderful yet difficult word to fully understand and an even
greater challenge to effectively apply. Inspiration tends to be a noun, but I
disagree. Inspiration commands action to first see and feel, then compels you to
apply it for the benefit of something greater.
“Aha” moments trigger creativity and clarity that become the new intensity
where we channel our energy. As designers, we never shut down and rarely close
our mental stimuli receptors. This openness and spontaneity sometimes labels
designers as unfocused or inattentive when actually we’re more attuned than
most.
I’m drawn to architecture. The manners in which planer surfaces interact
together, the negative space between city buildings; it’s what’s not there or
the items that were left on paper because they didn’t translate that makes the
difference. Distillation is more important than addition.
Nature will always reign supreme in the inspiration category. As a youth, I
was inspired by the detail found in insects. An appreciation ran deep for their
translucent, incredibly functional wings, their geometric intricacies, kaleidoscopic
patterns and iridescent colors. It’s not just visual, it’s the relationship. The
majesty of mountains, fissured rocks of Zion and Yosemite and plate tectonics
manifesting the original formation are a testament of the best designs and
interconnectivity ever created. While designing vehicles in the motor city, I
utilized natural elements such as cork, bamboo and different layers of translucent
materials like amber to balance the steel and synthetics of car concepts.
Our susceptibility provides an endless source of beauty and function regardless
of industry or activity as long as we remain open to possibility. Routine can be
efficient, but it can also cause settling in a very mundane way.
The internal and external design partners of OFS Brands discover inspiration
differently, and that is a good thing. Successful design is then picked up by all
the senses….it’s the sensation of it that just feels right.
Just like innovation, inspiration can be the simplest form of a process or product
because of the mass utility and attraction that make it so desirable. Inspiration
guides, then expertise, collaboration, rapid-prototyping, 110% teamwork and a
million other things align and transform inspiration into the products you see
today. We hope not only that our products inspire you, but more so our hard
work, responsiveness and the fact that we sincerely care to make your day better
is the “good stuff” that truly moves you.
We want to inspire forward.
14OFS BRANDS
Skara Loewenstein Genus Design: Roger Webb Associates Highmark
Qove Design: Q Design OFS
Aptos Design: Brian Graham OFS
15PORTFOLIO
16OFS BRANDS
17PORTFOLIO
Coact FirstOfficeRein+ Expansion Carolina
Whisper Sleep Bench Carolina Mention FirstOffice
18OFS BRANDS
19PREVIEW
5.AN EXPERIENCE OTHERS SHOULD TRY…
My wife and I love to
wilderness kayak up remote
rivers and stream tributaries
until we can no longer
paddle and portage any
further. There is something
magical about studying a
watershed this way. The
amount of wildlife in these
relatively inaccessible places
is simply amazing.
Preview Personal Light Design: Tom Newhouse OFS
PREVIEW5 topics with Lighting designer, Tom Newhouse.
Design Study Sketches of Preview by Tom Newhouse
1. LIGHTING AS A PASSION...
Aesthetically pleasing,
sustainable, ergonomic and
affordable office lighting has
been a passion of mine for
many years. The first time I saw
a “white” light emitting diode
throw a few pathetic lumens
onto a work surface...I knew I
was hooked.
2.DRAWING FROM SIMPLICITY AND EFFICIENCY, PREVIEW WAS BORN…
I always strive to design with the
philosophy of “simplicity on the
far side of complexity” as quoted
from Oliver Wendell Holmes. Yes,
LEDs have stabilized greatly in the
last decade and now have tight
modular footprints to support a
more minimalist approach to design.
From energy-efficiency to eco-
dematerialized form factor, Preview
departs from the traditional 6-10 lb
desk lamp to weighing a mere
1.7 lbs. while delivering flawless, even
intensity. Preview solves challenges
and delivers an intuitive luminaire
with affordability and efficiency
from every angle. Functional,
sculpturally alluring, yet intentionally
unobtrusive…Preview is definitely on
the far side of complexity!
3.MAKING A USER’S DAY BETTER…
Achieving beautiful and healthful
lighting in an office building is a
complex puzzle. The trend toward
more energy efficient buildings has put
pressure on architects to dramatically
lower the lighting watts per square
foot on office floor plates. This can
create serious ergonomic problems
for an office user, such as, too little
light to perform a task, too much glare,
darkness, gloomy environment, etc.
Offsetting lower ambient lighting with
high quality personal task illumination
that is efficient and thoughtful creates
ideal conditions for users to work or
study. Simply put, I want to make their
day better.
4.OBSERVATION ON A TREND IN SPACE…
I am very concerned about
the shrinking amount of space
per person being allocated to
North American office facilities.
Over 200 square feet per
person used to be the norm
before 2010. By 2014, it was
nearing 175 square feet. Some
studies suggest a trend toward
100 square feet. At what point
will this cramming and higher
density have a reverse effect
on individual well-being and
organizational productivity
that it is intended to
benefit today.
20OFS BRANDS
21AT OUR CORE
AT OUR COREOur 3rd generation leader talks about the important role wood has played in our history and how we have championed the use
of this strong, sustainable material.
Written by Jarod Brames
“It was a love affair,” said Hank Menke, President and CEO
of OFS Brands, about his parents’ commitment to taking
worn out, scrubby and eroded land and refurbishing it
into thriving forestland. He went on to say, “We did a lot of
planting. We did a lot of tree planting. I did more holing in
and stubbing in with my foot than most would care to. It
was enjoyable, though. It was rewarding to see what we did
while reflecting on what it had looked like before.”
I recently had the opportunity to talk to Hank about a
seemingly simple subject - wood. My goal: to show how
the material is at the core of OFS Brands; to show the
important role wood has played in the history of the
company and how OFS Brands has championed the
use of this versatile and renewable material. My result: a
perspective on how this structural material was used to
build the intangible framework of a culture.
“Today you can see the pines we planted and the
hardwoods that are re-emerging because of those efforts.
There were mistakes made, but you know what? The fact
that we were out there planting, that we were managing the
land, that’s why we have more today than we did 20 to 30
years ago,” he said.
Hank talks often about how OFS Brands is a relationship-
driven company. “Of course, you have to have the right
product at the right price, but for us it’s much more about
the relationships that we create. What you make people
feel is as important as what you make,” he said. I’d heard
this before, but I gave it some extra thought this time. Hank
continued, “When I think of wood, I think of the forests.
That makes me think of family, and I’m not just talking
about my family. I’m talking about this family, OFS Brands.
Wood has always been what we have done. Wood is in our
roots, but ultimately it is about family. It is about this group
of people.”
Wood, as I knew it, began to look less and less like just
another construction material and more like a symbol
of something much deeper. After all, there are so many
different materials to choose from, and we use a lot of
them. We don’t build just wood furniture anymore. “It is
applying those same principles and techniques learned in
wood manufacturing to everything we do. We didn’t get to
where we are today by being wasteful and abusive of what
nature gave us to work with,” Hank stated.
I began to see that this is about the mentality of the wood-
worker, the conservationist. It is about the legacy of a
relationship between man and material and the evolution
of a culture.
I continued on with the interview. After a particular
question, Hank spoke about one of his proudest
accomplishments. In the early eighties Hank led the
transition of what would later become OFS Brands from a
residential furniture manufacturer into the contract office
furnishings arena. “I felt we had a real opportunity. We were
the new kid on the block when it came to office furniture.
There were things we were doing in residential furniture
with wood and veneer that gave us a fresh set of eyes,
but we basically had to create a brand new company.” He
mentioned that during that period of time, there was simply
no way for residential furniture to compete with what was
going on overseas. The market was dying. “Taiwan was
eating our lunch,” he said.
So, what did Hank and his company do?
They began to plant. They did a lot of planting. They did
more holing in and stubbing in with their feet than most
would care to. Why would they do anything less? Soon
what was worn out, scrubby and eroded was refurbished,
and it was thriving.
Today we can see what was planted and what is
re-emerging from those efforts. There were mistakes made,
but you know what? The fact that they were out there
planting, that they were managing that new ‘land’…that’s
why we have more today than we did 20 to 30 years ago.
An old love affair continues. I think we can all feel rewarded
for that.
“What you make people feel is as important as what you make.”- HANK MENKE
A photo editorial showing the process of making the end grain prints off of fallen reclaimed tree
stumps pulled from our OFS Brands Cool Springs property located in Southern Indiana.
22OFS BRANDS
MAKING AN IMPRESSIONAn interview with Rick Joutras of Whitney Architects about the
inspiration behind our refined Chicago Showroom.
Interview by Doug ShapiroImagery by Whitney Architects
First off, tell us about your reaction when we first asked you if you’d work with us on NeoCon 2016:
Honestly, we were flattered to be considered. We were also
very excited for the chance to come in and be a fresh set
of eyes for the showroom. Since this is the first internal
OFS Brands project we have worked on together, it gave
us the opportunity to discover and learn who OFS Brands
is at their core and what their vision is for the future.
You’ve known us for some time now, but it was your first time getting “behind the curtains.” What do you remember most from that visit to OFS Brands headquarters, and what surprised you?
The range and depth of the brand experience is what
initially wowed us. Experiencing Cool Springs and taking in
the heritage of OFS Brands was inspiring. Then to see the
breadth of manufacturing; we couldn’t help but be moved
by the pride and knowledge of the people that are
OFS Brands. We wanted to capture this experience and
bring it into the showroom space.
During the early stages, what provided the inspiration that helped guide the rest of the design process?We focused on how to create an experience that will tell
people the story about OFS Brands; who they are, what
they do, and what’s unique about them. On our first trip
down to Huntingburg, we learned the history behind
OFS, we got to see the tree farm, and understand the
brand story. The Cool Springs experience is very unique
and brings everything back to the basics. So how do we
translate that into a space? That was a major driver for the
initial design process.
We also took into account the vision for the future of
OFS Brands and how to elevate the perception of the
brand; peeling back the layers and making people
understand the size and capabilities of the company;
opening the space up and creating a sophisticated image
while still staying true to the heritage of OFS. One of
the biggest components to that story is showing the
link between raw, natural materials being crafted into
sophisticated, high-end products.
Without giving away the secret sauce, walk us through the process and what you do differently for a showroom project like this.
It all starts with the development from our brainstorming
sessions. Meeting with the OFS team, understanding how
one would walk potential clients through the space, and
re-planning the layout of the space to better organize the
products so that the walk-through experience is more
streamlined. We also wanted to design the space to be a
working office environment; making it easier to understand
what the different products do.
Describe the moment where you knew you landed on something special for OFS Brands.
When we opened up the front of the showroom and
started developing the entry environment, we knew we
had something special. It gave us the opportunity to
make a big impact – a real change for 2016. This is our
favorite part of the enhanced showroom. It’s very clean
and minimal, but still tells the full story of OFS Brands.
The graphic artwork on the wall references the raw
materials, and the sophisticated reception desk creates
a dramatic contrast.
23MAKING AN IMPRESSION
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We focused on how to create an experience that will tell people the story about OFS Brands; who they are, what they do, and what’s unique about them.”
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24OFS BRANDS
25SUCCESS STORIES
SUCCESS STORIESA look back at just a few of our favorite projects over the past year.
Photography by Halkin Mason Photograpy
Foulger Pratt Commercial Management engaged
architecture and design firm Perkins+Will to portray
an image of a progressive company by establishing
an inspiring, current, clean and light-filled space
as the design drivers. STAKS crossover casegoods
and benching, along with seating, conference and
training tables, provide more types of places to
work throughout their space and support their
goal to have employees mingle and interact across
work groups.
FOULGER PRATT Potomac, MD
DESIGNER
Perkins+Will DC
DEALER
re|District
WORKSTATIONS AND PRIVATE OFFICES
STAKS by FirstOffice
EXECUTIVE/CONFERENCE SEATING
Flexxy by OFS
TASK SEATING
Agile by FirstOffice
CONFERENCE
Eleven by OFS
TRAINING TABLES
Applause by FirstOffice
foulgerpratt.com
Photography by Michael Robinson
Populous is an architecture and design firm based
in Kansas City. They are considered a global leader
in the design of sports facilities and convention
centers, as well as planning of major special events.
Notable projects include Yankee Stadium in
New York, Wembley Stadium in London,
Stadium Australia in Sydney, Wimbledon Centre
Court, Minneapolis’ Target Field and many more.
Their new space for their Kansas City staff of
300+ was highly tailored to their requirements.
Workspaces were a generous 96x36, and each
cluster of workstations featured a centrally
integrated pin-up wall.
Eleven was used in both the desking and
conference applications to create a continuous
aesthetic throughout the workspace.
POPULOUSKansas City, MO
DESIGNERPopulous
CONFERENCEEleven by OFS
WORKSTATIONS Eleven Workstations by OFS
STAKS Storage by FirstOffice
populous.com
26OFS BRANDS
27SUCCESS STORIES
Photography by Barkow Photo Photography by Al Hurley
At NJ Institute of Technology the gargoyles
preserved in the restoration of the Gothic Central
King Building presented a challenge to the
construction. Similarly OFS Brands’ solutions met
the design challenge to support the technology
requirements, respect the “academic gargoyles” and
create an atmosphere where high thinking would be
stimulated by the correlating furniture and finishes.
NJ INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY Newark, NJ
DESIGNERMarvel Architects
DEALERJC Office Consultants
EXECUTIVE/CONFERENCE SEATINGFlexxy by OFS
TASK SEATINGShift by FirstOffice
Agile by FirstOffice
GUEST/DINING SEATINGCaprice by Loewenstein
Balance by FirstOffice
LOUNGE SEATINGMadrid by OFS
CONFERENCEEleven by OFS
Applause by FirstOffice
Intermix by FirstOffice
PRIVATE OFFICESTAKS Crossover by FirstOffice
www.njit.edu
Axxess aspired to create a “beautiful space” where
employees could thrive and collaborate. Using
STAKS product they were able to customize
each department, giving them the division of
space where it was needed. With the inclusion of
customized furniture throughout the entire space,
they achieved the aesthetic the client desired.
AXXESSDallas, TX
DESIGNEREntos Design
DEALERFMG Dallas
PRIVATE OFFICEIntermix by FirstOffice
WORKSPACESCustom STAKS Crossover by FirstOffice
GUEST/MULTI-USEPrague by FirstOffice
CONFERENCEIntermix by FirstOffice
Custom Slate by OFS
CONFERENCE SEATINGRevel by Highmark
Agile by FirstOffice
RECEPTIONCustom Element by OFS
LOUNGE SEATINGSymphony by OFS
www.axxess.com
28OFS BRANDS
29SUCCESS STORIES
Photography by Halkin Mason Photography Photography by Al Hurley
One of the pre-eminent challenges in designing
the Inova Women’s Hospital and Inova Children’s
Hospital was to create distinct yet complementary
identities for each of these institutions sharing
the same newly constructed building. OFS Brands
offers an extensive, proven line of modern furniture
appropriate for a wide range of healthcare spaces
from patient rooms to waiting areas to cafés.
OFS Brands furniture became part of the design
concept, helping the team effectively create the
desired soothing, spa-like feel of the women’s
areas and highlight the bright, playful motif in the
pediatric spaces.
INOVA WOMEN’S HOSPITAL INOVA CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL Falls Church, VA
DESIGNERWilmot Sanz, Inc.
DEALERInteriors By Design
WORKSTATIONS AND PRIVATE OFFICESSTAKS Crossover by FirstOffice
Carino by OFS
TRAININGApplause by FirstOffice
Flexxy by OFS
PUBLIC SPACESBasil by Carolina
Basket by Carolina
Commons by Carolina
Embrace by Carolina
Ice by Carolina
Interlude by Carolina
Modern Amenity by Carolina
Retrospect by Carolina
Boost by FirstOffice
Bistro by Loewenstein
Custom Booths by Loewenstein
PATIENT SPACESModern Amenity by Carolina
Orchestra by Carolina
Reverie Sleepover by Carolina
inova.org
Moffitt McKinley Outpatient Center has helped
accommodate the hospital’s growing needs.
The facility offers numerous outpatient services,
and patients experience a warm and inviting
atmosphere. All five floors include large waiting
areas that are multi-functional with soft seating,
powered tables, game areas, etc. Themed fabric
selections were used for way-finding on each floor
and added to the overall inviting experience.
MOFFITT CANCER CENTERTampa, FL
DESIGNERAlfonso Architects and CI Design Team
DEALERCI Group
LOUNGE SEATINGBasil by Carolina
Embrace by Carolina
OCCASIONAL TABLESModern Amenity by Carolina
moffitt.com
30OFS BRANDS
31GET YOUR MOVE ON
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P O U N D S L O S T
Think about the last time you played musical chairs.
Count the participants, then gather one less chair than
the number of persons. The music stops, and the person
standing is out. Take away a chair and do it again. In
today’s world, the music never stops. Individuals just keep
going, tackling their day through meetings, tasks and
general interaction. When the music does pause, where are
you sitting? Is that space conducive towards the activity
at-hand?
Many conversations today revolve around how many seats
per person are needed in today’s workplace. Is it one?
Maybe three? It depends on the organization, department
and the type of work needed to get done; however, when
you think about primary, secondary and social spaces at
minimum, what is truly needed are choices.
Technically, 1st Place is home and 2nd Place is work. 3rd
Place was originally described as places outside of home
and work, designations such as cafés, coffee shops and
local gathering places. This approach as a community is
thoroughly covered by urban sociologist, Ray Oldendburg,
author of “The Great Good Place” (1991). Just like there
have always been makers (i.e. blacksmiths, cobblers) but
now we’re in a maker movement, there have always been
third places (i.e. libraries, parks, general stores), and we’re
in a third place movement. Today, similar to maker spaces,
third spaces benefit in popularity from greater awareness
of a connected world and a shift towards right-brained
appreciation. And, even more so, the evolution of these
movements simply resonates with boomers to digital
natives without effort.
Starbucks and establishments of their ilk benefited greatly
from the onset of third place. Then, third place, generally
reserved outside of home and office, became the “3rd
Space” and was planted internally among organizations
to benefit from the great atmosphere and interaction
these spaces generated. Casual collisions, the bump factor,
all became rooted in the reasons to dedicate prime real
estate to informal spaces that accommodate individuals
and small-to-medium-to-large groups with various levels
of public and private applications. Why are organizations
doing this? Because it works.
“Clients ask me, ‘what’s this space over here you planned
with nobody’s name on it?’ I respond with ‘that is where
the most work will get done.’ We purposely plan in 30
to 40% of third space because the research and our
experience shows how important it is to productivity and
overall culture. They reply, ‘what’s third space?,’” Pam Light,
Senior Vice President, HOK Los Angeles, relates.
What is 3rd space? It’s that inviting lounge chair next to a
window with tablet and power and some seclusion where
you can knock out 45 minutes of work before your next
meeting. It’s the small round table with three chairs where
your project team can meet for an impromptu meeting.
It’s a highback lounge configuration that replaces four
walls, yet has all the privacy four colleagues need. Now,
add LinkedIn-type networking to an external third space
with cool amenities and charge for access...say hello to
co-working, another movement that fits the generational
blend and evolution of work/home/play.
Technology, more so the untethering of it, combined
with transient workforces spawned third space activity
as designers recognized that individuals needed only a
percent of time in the office or at a dedicated or
primary space.
“We coach our clients through a deep-dive assessment
of dedicated space. What’s the run-rate on daily office
capacity? How mobile is your workforce? The allocation
of primary, secondary and third spaces is a measurement.
Then, the proximity of the third space is just as important
as recognizing that it is needed,” adds Pam Light.
What’s more, just like musical chairs, third spaces create
movement and flow by being a destination, just like that
last open chair. Individuals remove their bodies from
statue-like positions and walk to a new space to work.
Movement is well-being. Interaction is well-being. Third
spaces done properly will be just like the kitchen at a
house party...it’s where everyone ends up.
So, let’s play the new version of musical chairs where
everyone has a couple of seats to choose from, depending
on what’s playing on the day’s to-do list. The new musical
chairs isn’t reserved just for the workplace. Education and
healthcare environments dance right along to this tune too!
THE NEW MUSICAL CHAIRS3rd spaces answer how many seats per person as the music plays.
Written by Nick Blessinger
GET YOUR MOVE ON TOWARDS WORKPLACE WELL-BEINGEncouraging healthier choices and changing behaviors for a better work day.
Written by Nick Blessinger
Don’t just sit there...Move! This phrase often uttered by
parents and coaches to motivate individuals to take action
also translates into the battle cry in the fight against
sedentary positions in the workplace. The word “sit” could
easily be replaced by “stand,” but “Move!” still reigns
supreme for the healthiest way to go about your day.
Study upon study of prolonged sitting or standing prove
that purposeful, incremental movement throughout the
day is the only way to ensure proper blood flow which
nourishes the body and prevents toxin buildup, especially
in the spine. What’s interesting is that the research also
shows that no matter how much you exercise outside of
the workday, the effects of stagnant sitting and standing
can’t be reversed...inaction simply must be turned
into action.
In the age of wearables technology, movement shouldn’t
be a problem, right? Buzzes, beeps and flashes should be
abundant reminders to not “just sit or stand there” but
to Move!, stretch and walk. Often the events of the day
take over, and if we’re not uber-disciplined and focused
on a culture that promotes well-being, movement moves
down the list of priorities. Yet movement must become as
inherent as breathing.
What starts out as something very specific, that is,
eliminating sedentary positions, really is just one piece of
the overall puzzle to make the workplace full of healthy
choices and behaviors. Workplace well-being must be a
holistic approach and part of an overall strategic program
to support an organization’s most important asset, people.
Well-being as a workplace initiative is the catalyst to
boost energy, productivity and morale, mitigate healthcare
expenses and serve an integral role in the recruiting and
retaining of talent. Creating a culture of well-being by
empowering employees with accessible programs, classes,
incentives, teams, information and the flexibility to make
healthier choices throughout the day builds fundamental
elements that transcend employees simply coming to
work. The workday becomes an extension of your active
lifestyle rather than an interruption of it.
“It’s amazing how much team building happens when
people are running hills and doing push-ups together
during our morning, lunchtime and afternoon workouts.
The encouragement and commitment translates directly
back into their daily responsibilities and making healthier
lifestyle choices. It’s powerful!” Alice Brescher, Corporate
Fitness Coordinator, attests.
Supporting people from all perspectives: creating nutrition
plans, exercise classes and challenges, providing height
adjustable workstations and ergonomic seating solutions
along with the education of how to properly use them;
these small, purposeful steps can produce big results in
the pursuit of a thriving well-being culture. Additionally,
when alignment and buy-in are apparent, especially in
active, consistent participation from leaders and managers,
employees are exponentially more likely to take advantage
of the programs and support offered to them.
Whether a company of 3 or 3,000, create an evolution
with movement and a commitment to well-being as a
fundamental initiative in your business model. It will make a
difference. Don’t just stand or sit there...Move!
llustration by Kenneth Spond
32OFS BRANDS
A VISUAL ATTRACTIONUtilizing the power of magnetics to revolutionize how we interact with our space.
Written by Nick Blessinger
Some things are glaringly obvious. We knew the minute we saw
the capabilities of Visual Magnetics that we needed to connect
with them. Then we met the people behind the product, and they
were even more amazing. Brought together by chance through
the worthy cause, Fresh Artists, Ryan Menke, SVP of Sales and
Marketing, OFS Brands, and Joe Deetz, President/CEO
of Visual Magnetics, instantly saw a better future by blending
their worlds.
Joe has a soft spot for wood manufacturing, and Ryan
loves innovation through simplicity. That’s the beauty of
Visual Magnetics; whether in the retail merchandising market
or in an education, healthcare or corporate application, the end
product is simple.
Visual Magnetics has disrupted the retail merchandising graphics
industry with their patented signage and wall-covering process.
Global retailers such as Verizon and Oakley, have discovered the
simplicity and design agility the Visual Magnetics’ system allows...
it’s an “enabling” technology and process for quicker responses
to capture consumer mindshare.
Equally impressive is the transformative design of the
Dynamic Spaces collection coupled with MindLayers that turn
walls into works of art with the functionality of whiteboards
and work tools. WeWork needed collaborative wall space for
their new headquarters in New York’s financial district while
also wanting to celebrate its expansion into additional cities
worldwide. They looked to Visual Magnetics as a solution
and discovered that the product can do so much more.
Visual Magnetics solves the utility challenge and layers in design
and culture enhancement in what was typically only a functional
application (writable surfaces).
Using an array of magnetic wallcovering materials from
Visual Magnetics’ new Dynamic Spaces® collection for office
design, WeWork’s Devin Vermeulen, Senior Associate, Product
Designer, and Jeremiah Britton, Associate, Director of Art
& Graphics, created an interactive mural at the company’s
headquarters in New York City. It was tailored to the coworking
platform’s playfully creative attitude and collaborative workflow
and includes MindLayer™ dry erase productivity aides for
brainstorming and note-taking. Vermeulen and Britton created
a skyline filled with illustrations of iconic buildings from
New York City, San Francisco, Seattle, Boston, Washington D.C.,
Los Angeles, Tel Aviv, Amsterdam and London. The cityscape is
surrounded by repositionable dry erase layers and charts that
add functionality and personality to the space.
“Visual Magnetics has been a great product for us because of its
collaborative nature and flexibility,” says Britton. “In some ways,
our headquarters represents our WeWork members all over the
world in the sense that we have so many different departments
grinding away with different workflows. Being able to move
around pieces and layers of VM-DRYerase from one area to
another allows us to create custom work environments
on-the-fly, staging different areas for different
workflows within the same space.”
One may call it an analog renaissance, but we know
that one of the most productive ways to brainstorm,
work through processes or simply explain a concept is
to draw or map it. Visual Magnetics thrives because
it’s built around fundamental usability. Then when
you can add design to utility, you have a product
that delivers an experience that will be valuable at
many levels. What’s really exciting is that the product
can play just as important a role on the digital and
technology side of the spectrum. There’s more to
come on this frontier.
Another connection point to OFS Brands was
Visual Magnetics approach to sustainability. All of VM’s
materials are 100% PVC-free and fully recyclable, with
an entire line dedicated to sourcing post consumer
and sustainable bases. Visual Magnetics is truly one
of those things you have to see to truly appreciate.
Once you see, your mind will take the path of endless
possibilities, and then you come back to “wow, this
could really change the way we use our space,” and
that’s what counts...individuals using the tools available
to them to be more productive.
Visual Magnetics and OFS Brands are like two good
friends catching up. Now, that we’re caught up, we’re
planning our next great adventure!
33A VISUAL ATTRACTION
ABOUT VISUAL MAGNETICS
Visual Magnetics is a materials innovation company focused on transformative, magnetic surface design for walls. Visual Magnetics’ unique magnetic wide-format materials can be used in a multitude of applications, each custom-designed, printed and easily adaptable.
Dynamic Spaces® is a collection of products and materials for use in offices, educational spaces, home interiors and more, focusing on transformative surface design for walls.
The company’s founders developed MagnaMagic®, the original brand of magnetic paint, and later launched Visual Magnetics in 2007, introducing VM-Graphic System®, a widely adopted solution for quick-change graphics and signage in retail environments.
All of Visual Magnetics’ materials are PVC-free, and recyclable with an entire line of materials dedicated to 100% post-consumer and natural, sustainable bases.
For additional details please email [email protected]
“Visual Magnetics has been a great product for us because of its collaborative nature and flexibility”
34OFS BRANDS
Are you surprised by the success of Embrace?
Our goal with Embrace was to create a line that was
“timeless.” We were frustrated with manufacturers’
presenting ‘healthcare’ product lines--for furniture, carpet
or fabrics---and it was typically leaves, dark colors or
built like an army tank. We wanted a product that had
a transitional and hospitality feel but tastefully married
the details needed for healthcare. We wanted many
options, like back heights, arm details, and discreet
bumper guards for vacuum cleaners, in addition to the
more standard details. It’s a nice validation of our original
concepts that it continues to be successful for you.
What have you been up to since designing the Embrace collection for Carolina?
In 2008, I jumped into an amazing opportunity to live
and work in Doha, Qatar. I sold my home, my car, left
my grown children (who were wonderfully supportive!)
and worked briefly for a U.S. firm there. Then my client,
the government-owned healthcare system, hired me.
I worked in The Center for Healthcare Improvement
at Hamad Medical Center. It was my dream job, and I
worked with a wonderful group of people from all over
the world.
While in Doha, I was asked to design a healthcare
product line for the Asia Pacific division of a U.S. furniture
company, and I moved to Shanghai in 2012. Another
dream job! My commission evolved to overseeing
the product development, branding and marketing
strategies for the line. As that neared completion, I
started consulting with Robarts Spaces in Beijing on their
hospital and senior living projects; beautiful work and
beautiful people!
In 2015, I decided it was time to come home. Air pollution
and daily challenges with the Internet just became too
much to handle; and I missed family!
While you were working overseas, how would you describe the general state of Healthcare to be in those countries?
Qatar and the Middle East are very different from China,
and both are very different from the U.S.
Qatar is an interesting study of contrasts: they’ve
leapfrogged ahead with technology and are slowly
developing the infrastructure to support it. It is with the
very best of intentions that they build the most modern
healthcare facilities. Their challenge is bringing their
citizens through the systems to support the facilities
without the help of expert oversight.
In China, it is another but different contrast: there’s
the beautiful tradition of TCM, or Traditional Chinese
Medicine, that has sustained the citizens for thousands
of years. At the same time, there’s the drive to be
recognized globally as a world leader, so there’s been a
rush to construct these massive healthcare centers with
the latest technology. But as in Qatar, the infrastructure
hasn’t caught up, and often the technology is plentiful
but unused.
How is (or isn’t) that different than Healthcare in the US?
Everything is different.
There are very basic things for designers, like learning to
convert our Imperial dimensions into metric. The design
process is also very different. In Qatar, owners wanted
a final rendering at the first meeting, and there was no
consideration for any user input. In China, you were
required to present “inspiration photos” for your design,
and there was no appreciation of creativity.
On the positive side, both countries invested in many
tours to the U.S. to tour our well-known facilities. In
the case of Qatar, they actively seek partnerships with
leading facilities to bring their knowledge and expertise
back to Qatar.
As far as healthcare furniture, there’s nothing available
around the world that is similar to U.S. healthcare
furniture. There’s also no appreciation for it; it is
often beautiful but totally inappropriate high-end
contemporary pieces. There are lots of opportunities for
education regarding infection control and patient safety.
What do you see as the biggest issues facing Interior Designers in the US that are designing Healthcare spaces?
Technology and Evidence-based Design has changed
everything.
It’s incumbent on each of us to keep up with the latest
research and not to rely on our intuition or what we
did on our last project. You have to spend time reading
and understanding the implications of the data to your
projects.
You have to spend time with all segments of the
population and observe them in a healthcare setting:
what do patients need and then solve the puzzles
when designing the environment and when specifying
appropriate products.
You have to cast a critical eye on finishes when you walk
through a hospital: what hasn’t worked or what seems
hard to clean and then bring those observations into the
design process.
We all know the ACA has changed the healthcare landscape. What trends do you see health systems going towards to address these changes?
Not a trend, but something that is significant for
designers is the new requirement that re-admits within
30 days will result in a reduction of reimbursements
for care.
My hope is that it starts a more careful review of finish
specifications during the design process. Yes, most
Infection Control issues can be traced to central lines and
respirator/ventilator cleaning issues, but a small percentage
have been traced to contamination of horizontal surfaces in
the patient room.
When you also consider the number of individuals that
routinely travel internationally and the increased resistance
to antibiotics, it also should raise an awareness of
appropriate selection of product and the realistic cleaning
process in a client’s facility.
What opportunities do you see for Carolina and OFS Brands to support the A&D in the US Healthcare market?
I think you are right-sized: not so large that it is hard to
respond to the market and not too small to be overlooked.
You also have a wonderful tradition of knowledgeable reps
who have been with Carolina, especially, for many years,
who know the market and know their designers.
When you combine those qualities, you have an opportunity
to make an impact as a thoughtful knowledge leader with a
supporting portfolio of beautifully designed products.
Where do you see Healthcare Interior Design in 10 years?
First, I think we need to think about our work as Health and
Care Design. It addresses the unique needs of hospitals and
clinics as “care” environments.
From a branding and marketing perspective, it’s only a
short hop to senior living — or what I call “healthcare-lite.”
That opens up a new market.
With this huge wave of retiring Baby Boomers, we have
an opportunity to redefine what those environments will
look like. Most of us don’t live in a Chippendale-inspired
environment; I’m eagerly awaiting a senior living provider
who gets this concept.
As each generation of designers enter the market, their
preferences have taken over the market and the preferences
of the older generation has been phased out. But we have
so many people living and working longer, and we need to
find a respect for each and a recognition of their individual
tastes with our design solutions.
Which living person do you admire the most?
My mom. She’s 91, has always encouraged me and has the
most laid-back attitude. As she’s gotten older, she refuses
to worry about things and just enjoys her life.
Where is your favorite place you’ve traveled in your life?
It’s a tie….love the food and culture of Istanbul, but the quiet
and peace of the beaches of Oman.
What book(s) are you currently reading?
Just finished Elena Ferrante’s 4 Neopolitan Novels; up next
are “Custer’s Trials” and “The Fall of the Ottomans.”
What’s your screensaver?
On my phone it’s my 4 grandchildren sitting on my lap
during last summer’s family vacation.
Who would play you in a film?
Meryl Streep…..easiest of all the questions….queen of the
movies!
What/where do you see Linda Porter Bishop 10 years from now?
Sorry, totally personal: watching my four grandchildren
grow and welcoming any new ones that might come along.
I still have a couple of destinations on my bucket list: a
photo safari in Africa and kayaking in the Galapagos. I’d
love to return to the beautiful beaches of Oman, revisit the
whirling dervishes in Istanbul, spend another New Year’s
Eve sunset at the pyramids in Giza and take another six
week yoga retreat in the Himalayan foothills. And there’s
always spring camping in Big Bend in Texas.
AN INTERVIEW WITH LINDA PORTER BISHOP Healthcare overseas, changes in the landscape and confusion in today’s
furniture market.
Interview by Stan Gray
35AN INTERVIEW WITH LINDA PORTER BISHOP
LINDA PORTER BISHOPCalls Home: Oxford, MS
Education: BFA in Interior Design
Masters in Educational Psychology
Bachelors in Elementary Education
Linda has been a registered interior designer in Texas for 19
years. She is a professional member of ASID and IIDA and
has her LEED-AP certification. She is one of 50 Founding
Members of AAHID (2004). She has designed several
furniture collections. Along with interior designer Iris Dates,
Linda designed the award-winning Embrace Collection for
Carolina. She has won local ASID, state IIDA and national and
international design awards. She has been part of the
editorial review board for HERD Journal since its beginning,
one of two interior designers out of 30 worldwide reviewers.
Frequent speaker at NeoCon.
Past juror for Healthcare Design Awards at Contract Magazine.
Best of NeoCon juror for 15 years.
She is a mother of 4 and grandmother of 4.
Embrace Lounge by Carolina
“It’s incumbent on each of us to keep up with the latest research and not to rely on our intuition or what we did on our last project. You have to spend time reading and understanding the implications of the data to your projects.”
36OFS BRANDS
NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCKOur newest showroom spaces.
Photography by David Christensen
NEW YORK SHOWROOM
Opened in 2013 and located in Midtown Manhattan, our New York City showroom displays
10,000-square-feet of the latest in office furniture. The space features views of the city’s
architecture spanning from the Empire State Building to the Hudson River. This space
experienced a refresh in November, 2015.
37NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK
LOS ANGELES SHOWROOM
Located in the PacMutual building in
Downtown Los Angeles, the newest
OFS Brands showroom speaks to both
the history of the built environment
as well as the culture and heritage of
the brand. A collaboration with Pam
Light, pL-D Studio and Klawiter and
Associates allowed this truly refined
aesthetic to be achieved through
preservation of existing architectural
elements and thoughtful selection of
interior finishes.
38OFS BRANDS
ATLANTA1362 Collier Road NW
Atlanta, GA 30318
404-231-4347
CHICAGO222 Merchandise Mart Plaza, Ste 1132
Chicago, IL 60654
312-222-9377
DALLAS150 Turtle Creek Boulevard, Ste 207
Dallas, TX 75207
214-571-0366
LOS ANGELES523 West Sixth Street, Ste 220
Los Angeles, CA 90014
310-453-0212
NEW YORK1250 Broadway, FL 3501
New York, NY 10001
212-337-9676
WASHINGTON DC1602 L Street NW, 5th Floor
Washington, DC 20036
202-331-1063
SHOWROOMLOCATIONS 2016
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
39A FOREST FEAST
A FORESTFEASTPhotography by Jami Brames
Chef Aimee Blume shares a recipe she prepared for one of the lucky tour groups to visit our Cool Springs property.
Cajun Lasagna
Serves 4-6
INGREDIENTS1 box Barilla® flat oven ready Lasagna noodles
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup diced green and red pepper
1/4 cup diced onion
1/4 cup diced celery
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (I like Paul Prudhomme Blackened
Redfish Magic), divided
1/2 pound andouille or other spicy smoked
sausage, diced
(3) 14-ounce cans crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 pound small shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 1/2 pounds Provel cheese (Imo’s from St. Louis)
Chopped parsley for garnish
DIRECTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the
olive oil. Add the garlic and sizzle for 1 minute, but do
not brown. Add the bell pepper, onion, celery, thyme,
and half the Cajun seasoning. Continue to cook,
stirring often, for 15 minutes or until soft and lightly
browned. Add sausage and cook until hot and
beginning to render.
3. Add crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Stir in
shrimp. They do not have to cook fully.
4. Build the lasagna. Spray a 13 x 9 inch baking pan and
add a thin layer of sauce. Top with three noodles.
5. Add 1/3 of remaining sauce, 1/3 of the Provel cheese,
and three more noodles. Repeat twice, except save the
last 1/3 of cheese and do not add to the lasagna.
6. Cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap and then foil.
Bake 30 minutes or until noodles are soft. Carefully
remove foil and wrap and add last addition of cheese
to the top of the dish and sprinkle with parsley. Return
to the oven for 10 minutes to melt the cheese. Cover lasagna
with foil and allow to rest in a warm place 20 minutes
before slicing.
__________________________
June__________________________
13-15 NEOCONChicago, IL
Over 48 years NeoCon has evolved into one of the
most recognized and attended trade shows in the
industry, and 2016 will be no exception. With over
100 CEU seminars and 500 leading companies,
50,000 design professionals are expected to visit the
Merchandise Mart during this year’s show.
If you are one of the many visitors, be sure to visit the
OFS Brands showroom on the 11th floor, Space 1132.
You’ll be glad you did.
neocon.com
__________________________
September__________________________
23–25IIDA ADVOCACY SYMPOSIUMDenver, CO
Held at the Grand Hyatt in downtown Denver,
Colorado, commercial interior designers and students
from all across the country will descended upon the
city to learn, network and exchange ideas on the topic
of interior design advocacy. Speakers, sessions and
panels will focus on issues that affect Commercial
Interior Design and how interior designers practice, as
well as how to build relationships with
decision makers.
iida.org
_________________________
November__________________________
NOV 2-4ED SPACESCincinnati, OH
EDspaces is the gathering place for architects, facility
planners, designers, administrators and dealers to
learn about trends and experience the latest products
and services to enhance student learning.
ed-spaces.com
12–15HEALTHCARE DESIGN EXPO + CONFERENCEHouston, TX
With more than 100 educational sessions providing
the latest research, trends and strategies in the
healthcare design industry, in addition to the
educational sessions, you’ll have the chance to
connect with industry leaders from around the
country, as well as take in the exhibit hall – featuring
hundreds of providers giving demonstrations and
showcasing the newest innovative healthcare products
and services that support the design of hospital and
clinic environments.
The conference is designed to provide comprehensive,
carefully planned content, along with inspirational
keynotes, panel discussions, facility tours
and networking.
hcdexpo.com
30INTERIOR DESIGN HALL OF FAMENew York City, NY
The black-tie event begins with a cocktail reception
that fills all three Grand Ballroom Salons. A special
VIP reception is held additionally with invited guests
ranging from Hall of Fame members, benefactors,
editors, members of the press and diamond, platinum
and gold sponsors. Dinner and the awards ceremony
follow the reception. Carol Cisco, publisher,
Interior Design , and Cindy Allen, editor in chief,
Interior Design, host the awards ceremony.
An inspirational documentary of each of the inductees
is shown, and inductees are present to accept their
awards. It is the Academy Awards of the interior
design industry.
interiordesign.net
STAKS by FirstOffice