This week in the world of design, key developments have occurred in various industries. In California, the State Senate has passed a bill banning the sale of upholstered furniture and mattresses containing fiberglass and other flame-retardant chemicals. The bill, if passed by the state assembly, will take effect in 2027. Fiberglass has been found to have negative health effects, and its use in foam mattresses has already been banned in the state.
In other news, Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams, a well-known furniture brand, recently filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. The brand blamed PNC Bank for its sudden closure, but PNC has disputed this claim, stating that the blame lies with the management of the company. Amazon has also made an announcement this week, revealing its plans to expand its logistics network. The new program, called Supply Chain by Amazon, will offer sellers the option to move their products to unaffiliated stores and warehouses, in addition to delivering directly to consumers through the site.
Office vacancy rates in the U.S. have reached record highs, with many outdated buildings remaining empty. Businesses are increasingly moving into newer buildings with better-quality spaces and amenities. This trend is referred to as the “flight to quality,” with buildings constructed after 2015 seeing lower vacancy rates.
Soft Surroundings, a St. Louis-based company specializing in women’s apparel, accessories, and home goods, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy last week. The company has secured financing to fund its transition and has agreed to sell its assets to retailer Coldwater Creek.
In the world of acquisitions, Surya has acquired Salt Lake City-based furniture company RST Brands, following the company’s previous acquisition of Global Views. The terms of the deal were not disclosed.
In the realm of launches and collaborations, The Metropolitan Museum of Art has partnered with Samsung to bring its collection of masterworks to Samsung Frame TV owners. Ilia, a beauty brand, has collaborated with the e-commerce art platform Tappan Collective to commission three custom artworks. The Bruno Effect, an online marketplace connecting interior designers and collectors, has rebranded as Effetto.
Ikea has teamed up with Afterpay to introduce its first-ever buy-now, pay-later program, allowing customers to make interest-free payments over a six-week period.
Lastly, the Kips Bay Decorator Show House has announced its lineup of designers and architects for this year’s Dallas edition. The event will raise funds for various charitable organizations.
Sources:
– Designers Today
– TechCrunch
– Fortune
– Home Textiles Today