Crypton was birthed in 1993,  over 17 years ago in a basement home in Michigan. The founders Craig and Randy Rubin set out to create a new generation of textiles that were moisture-resistant and easy-to-clean, yet still stylish, breathable and soft to the touch.Crypton is still based in Michigan in West Bloomfield, with a sustainable manufacturing facility in Kings Mountain , North Carolina.

What makes a High Performance Textile and why is Crypton different than other manufacturers of this type of textile.

First, let’s look at the characteristics of a High Performance Textile.

• Repelling capabilities. -The textile must resist the absorption or passage of liquids or other substances. The barrier must be able to keep off or out the substances it comes in contact with.
• Stain Release-Must be able to be cleaned so that the stains can be lifted from the textile in a way that does not damage the fabric.
• Moisture Barrier- The textile must protect the components it covers. It needs to keep moisture from degrading the foam or material it covers.
• High Abrasion Resistance – The textile must be able to withstand a large amount of friction and rubbing from heavy use with low fiber damage. Usually, a minimum  of 50,000 double rubs.

So How does Crypton excel in the High Performance Textile arena? Why Crypton over other High Performance Textiles?

Most any High Abrasion Resistant Fabric can be made into a Crypton. It is not a fabric or finish it is a Process!
Most other manufacturers of High Performance fabrics make a finish. A finish as you know is something that can be taken off or something that wears off over time. The Crypton process makes the textile a new product.

 It actually changes the molecular structure of the textile!

So while other manufactures products wear down over time, Crypton actually continues to repel liquids and substances long after the other manufacturers product have failed. Crypton is the only textile solution offering permanent stain, moisture, mildew, bacteria and odor-resistant protection.

 It is actually bathed in a special solution, then ran through wheels to smooth it out. Finally, it is heated in an oven at 325* or higher. The textile then becomes a permanent barrier.

Crypton textiles are very easy to clean. It has excellent stain release properties.

• Use an enzyme  base detergent such as Tide or Crypton’s upholstery cleaner.
• Apply sparingly and rub with a SOFT bristle brush.
• Don’t forget to Rinse!
• Upholstery should be cleaned once – twice per year in addition to spot cleaning to maintain a clean and healthy environment.

Did you know that Crypton is bleach Cleanable!

It actually performs as a Solid Surface.

It is CEPA approved and is the ONLY disinfect-able fabric in the World!

Crypton offers free of charge to their customers a program called Crypton Care. They offer Free training sessions for maintenance employees and are available to answer any cleaning or care questions you may have FREE of Charge. Professional cleaning services are also available with Crypton Care at a charge determined by the size of the job.

Something that really makes Crypton stand out is it’s Moisture Barrier. It is the Only fabric on the market currently that can warrant its backing with a guarantee not to allow passage of liquids. This is HUGE especially in Healthcare and Educational environments. This  actually allows for cleaning and disinfecting the textile, leaving the owner with peace of mind that the product is clean and germs have not been transmitted to surfaces below. 

Speaking of germs lets talk about antimicrobial versus antibacterial. What is the difference and why is using one property over the other a wiser choice.

Antimicrobial- This is often referred to as Silver Ion technology. It SLOWS down the growth of germs but doesn’t stop them.

Antibacterial- KILLS germs. It doesn’t just slow down the process but actually eradicates the germs.

I am sure at this point you are certain you would rather have a product with antibacterial capabilities. That being the case Crypton currently is your only option! Because of it moisture barrier capabilities and manufacturering process it is the only manufacturer of High Performance textiles that can boast that claim.

So What’s new with Crypton?

Crypton Manufacturing  has come out with a couple of new products. One is call “Incase“.It runs about 1/3 of the cost as  patented Crypton fabrics. It has the same stain release and repelling properties as the original Crypton but without the moisture barrier. This is recommended more for high commercial use where excessive germs are not as much of an issue. It is antimicrobial but not antibacterial. Incase offers a less expensive alternative for the right environment.

Crypton has also partnered with Signature for a new carpet product.  Currently it is broadloom only, but within a year carpet tiles are expected to be available. It is the 1st carpet that is completely cleanable. It offers the same patented Crypton technology; repelling properties, stain release and the antibacterial moisture barrier. The fibers are treated all the way through.

On the more fun side. Crypton has a great retail shop. Available are items such as aprons, pillow cases, pet products. Fun practical items.

Thanks Michelle for all the great information. Hopefully, I have successfully enlightened you  on the world of High Performance Textiles and Why Crypton.

Yes there is!

Here is a list of my top 3 Mesh chair Manufacturers and some of their chair options that don’t break the bank, but supply you the customer with wonderful features and results.

1. Kimball Office

Campos

Average Price Range to pay: $425.00-$625.00

Why I like this chair.

Sleek styling and comfort at an excellent value.

• Extremely comfortable. With its syncro-tilt mechanism the seat and back movement is in a two to one ratio as you lean back so it is intuitive to your movement and glides with you. Excellent sit.
• Available in 3 mesh back colors Black, Red and Beige.
• The 3D woven mesh backrest is a tight weave that provides effortless stability and breathability while delivering  constant and even support.
• Adjustable arms- Both 2D and 4D arms. The 4D arms move front to back as well as side to side pivot ,offering the ultimate adjustability for task work.
• It has a 2″ seat slider option to accommodate all proportions of individuals.
• Air Pressure Technology lumbar support available.
• Height adjustable back
• Polished aluminum base available
• Patented twist threaded column that allows pneumatic cylinder to be adjusted resulting in overall ranges for varying seat and arm heights.
• Quality A grade established Manufacturer backing the product with a limited lifetime warranty.
• Seating can contribute to LEED points.
• 275 lbs weight tested
• Other upholstery back options available

Other Kimball Office Mesh seating you may be interested in:

Approach

Hero

Skye

Xantos

 Mitos  

2. Eurotech

Ergo human ME7ERG

Average Price Range to Pay: $555.00-$750.00

Why I like this Chair:

Versatility and comfort meet price.

• Tilt tension Control with infinite tilt lock
• Back angle Adjustment as well as back height adjustment
• seat depth adjustment
• available in black leather seat and back as an upscale option for Executive look
• comes with or without headrest
• Executive models have an array of specialized options such as knee tilt, swivel tilt mechanisms leather or Poly covered arms, and chrome or traditional black frames
• In stock quick ship option
• Mesh available in blue, silver, green ,orange and red, black
• limited lifetime warranty

Apollo

Average Price Range to Pay: $220.00-$350.00

Why I like this Chair:

Priced right and Fun.

• available in all mesh seat and back dove black and charcoal mix only
• mesh back options with matching fabric  available are: blue, green, silver, orange, red and black
• tilt tension control and tilt lock
• synchro tilt option
• waterfall seat to take pressure off of thigh areas
• back height adjustment
• width and height adjustable arms available
• multi function task chair available for more intensive work environments. Available in dove black/charcoal mesh only.
• high back version available
• in stock options for several models available for quick ship.
• matching side chair available.
• limited lifetime warranty

For a look at all the array of options available on this fabulous chair as well as other mesh chair options by Eurotech  click here

3. IZZY seating

Maxwell

Average Price Range to Pay: $725.00-$825.00

Why I like this chair.

Elegant and durable.

• Available mid or high back
• intuitive control mechanism adjusts seat height and backstop and tension. 4 position variable back stop.
• Flexweave seat and back material is breathable yet supportive.
• armrest is extremely comfortable on the elbows.
• silvertone details add extra dimension to the styling.
• available in 6 fun mesh colors: starlight, Lave, Beach Sand, Lagoon, Deep Sea, Black
• Greenguard Certified
• Limited Lifetime warranty
• Some models available on 2 day Quick ship
• adjustable lumbar option
• hardsurface casters or glides available
• seat pan is also available padded with matching fabric/mesh options.

Other mesh options my Izzy include the Paige chair and the Gracie chair. You can learn more about these options at:

 Paige  

Gracie

As you can see there are many options when shopping for office seating. Just remember to look for quality , long standing manufacturers who back their products and take pride in their craft. I believe all of the above manufacturers do just that. Happy hunting.

 I want to encourage you to browse their website for more information and solutions, but for today’s blog I will try to touch on some of the highlights.

 First what is Indoor Air Quality?

 Indoor air quality (IAQ) is a term referring to the air quality within and around buildings and structures, especially as it relates to the health and comfort of building occupants.

I am sure it would not surprise you to know that Mold is one of the leading causes of Indoor Air Quality issues. Mold spores can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Some mold can even be fatally toxic to humans.  If you have mold it needs to be removed as soon as possible. Depending on how much of the mold will determine if you can handle the removal ,or if a professional is warranted. If the mold is visible there is no need to spend time and money on sampling as all mold growth is cleaned in the same manner.

 The key to controlling mold is to control humidity levels. Ideally the relative humidity indoors should be between 35-55%.  If the humidity is low you may experience symptoms like dry skin. If it is too high , condensation will occur on cool surfaces, such as windows, AC vents, floor joists and beams in the crawlspace.  This condensation is an invitation to mold growth.

 Something you may not have even considered as an Indoor Air Quality issue is the site drainage outside of your home or building. This plays a huge role in IAQ. For instance, if surface water is directed towards or is trapped against the foundation wall, moisture may enter the basement, concrete pad or crawlspace. The moisture in turn raises humidity levels and encourages mold growth. Check and may sure all gutters are properly fitted and well- maintained and that downspouts discharge water at least 6 ft. away from the building structure.  It is important to make sure the soil near the foundation grades so the water flows away from the building eliminating any gullies or puddles.  Keep leaves, mulch and pine straw, and debris away from the foundation as these items hold moisture.

 Another factor in poor Indoor Air Quality is Negative Building Pressure.

 Negative Building pressure results when an HVAC system inside a building draws in more air from the return ducts than it expels through the supply ducts.

 Most buildings operate under some degree of negative pressure, which means some air must be introduced from the outside to balance the pressure on the inside. In an ideal situation the air would enter the HVAC unit through a valve or duct and be dehumidified before coming indoors.  However, this is rarely the case. So the air finds ways to enter the home through means such as loose sealed windows and doors, cracks in the foundations and crawlspace. Overtime this increases the indoor relative humidity levels.

 Although Crawlspaces are not intended to be a part of the breathing environment, because of negative pressure and cracks, mold, moisture, radon and other elements are being sucked up in to the building above. It is important to seal your crawlspace, plumbing, and ductwork to avoid toxic air traveling to the living space.

 Routine Maintenance and Inspection of the HVAC system is a key component to good Indoor Air Quality.

• Set up and keep regular scheduled cleanings and inspections by a licensed professional HVAC contractor. Have them inspect the drainage pan and tube for proper flow. Have them check all ductwork, repair any leaks and damage as needed.
• Set the thermostat to a proper temperature like 72* to ensure both regular system cycling   ( which provides dehumidification) and also to prevent condensation.
• Always have the fan on AUTO not ON. Leaving the fan ON causes the fan to run continually thus increasing negative building pressure issues.

After researching mold and Indoor Air Quality issues I enlisted the services of DocAir for my home. We used them for mold remediation services( 2 year guarantee). They also installed a dehumidifier in the crawlspace and sealed it as well. They did some drainage modification and site grading and installed a Proof Positive system to combat negative building pressure.

 We are now “Indoor Air Quality” certified which brings great peace of mind to me and my family.

The dust in our house is down tremendously and our family allergies at home have dramatically decreased. We are very pleased with the results. TVA is also running a special for many of these services in which they will give a credit for up to $500.00 towards improvements. Flood victims are waived the initial inspection as long as a certified TVA vendor is contracted to do the work. We took part in this initiative. More here

Doc Air is an expert in IAQ issues. Thanks DocAir for all the research and helpful information.

For  even more information about IAQ issues and how you can treat and improve your environment visit  www.docair.com

DocAir provides services for residential, industrial, governmental, medical, and commercial clients throughout the South East.

Services provided by DocAir:

• Flood Recovery
• Proof Positive- solution to negative building pressure
• IAQ evaluations
• Exposure Assessment
• Mold Abatement specification and remediation
• Testing and Sampling
• Drainage modification
• Expert Witness  in IAQ area
• Forensic Investigations
• HVAC Systems analysis
• Ventilation Studies

If you have questions or need assistance, or know someone who needs help, feel free to contact Barry at bwestbrook@docair.com or call DocAir at 615-373-2498

So since that seems to be what you are looking for, I pulled some additional pictures of some of my favorite manufacturers that I think do well in the area of ADA reception desks. I think you will agree that function and ADA compliance can come together in these reception desks without compromising design style. I might add that these manufacturers are also surprisingly affordable.

Featured below are ADA reception desk creations by:

Artopex

Groupe Lacasse

Paoli

Check out this PDF from Mayline on how their reception lines can meet ADA compliance as well.

For more information on specifics for ADA reception desk compliance check out ADA guidelines.

You may also like my previous posts on ADA compliant office furniture and ADA reception desks by ARD furniture.

There are many other wonderful manufacturers that handle ADA compliant reception desks. You can check out the reception links tab on my blog for even more helpful information.

 

 

In the past you have had roughly two choices-

1. Cheap laminate or wood conferencing solutions with limited technology and sizes limiting your functionality

OR

2. Expensive wood furniture costing thousands of dollars for a small space.

So you can understand my excitement when Mayline came out with their Real Office line and their extensive line of meeting and conference tables.

I remember the first time I was trying to find a small wood conference table for a private office. I only had $300.00 to spend. Yikes, that did not leave me with many options or at least not any that I would want to sell. I came across the Corsica small round wood veneer table  from Mayline for $279.00 at the time for a 42″ Rd wood veneer table. I actually called the factory to see if it was a typo. I couldn’t believe that this wood veneer table could be so reasonable. I ordered the table and have ordered many since then. It is beautiful, functional and priced right.

Since then Mayline has really stepped up and added some beautiful additions to their line. You can check out their conference and meeting table brochures below. This highlights only some of their options.

Conference Brochure

Training and Meeting Table Brochure

A Few of the Reasons to Check out Mayline Conference and Training Tables

1. All styles from Contemporary, Transitional to Traditional.

2. Laminate and Wood options available

3. Various ways to handle the technology of today in a tasteful manner.

Training table power options

Conference table power options

4. For training and meeting High Pressure Laminate tables you can choose from any standard Wilson Art, Nevamar standard laminates at NO UPCHARGE and NO MINIMUM QUANTITY. Making this an excellent design choice.

5. Various sizing capibility. Some lines up to a 30′ wood stylish conference table within 3-6 week turn around. This is un heard of.

6. Most items are in stock or easily delivered to you within a 3-6 week period.

7. Companion pieces such as lecturns, presentation boards and buffets available for most lines.

8. Seating that is compatable and affordable, yet offering an edge in forward thinking design.

9. Nesting capabilities and reconfigurability for many models. I love the Napoli Nesting table and the Flip and Go Training tables.

10. Most all of the lines in Real Office  by Mayline come with a whole family of offerings. This allows you to outfit the reception, conference and office spaces with a consistant designer look.

Below is the Napoli Real Office Family of products from Boardroom to Reception giving you the idea behind the full family of products concept.

Napoli Family of Furniture by Mayline

If that isn’t enough to entice you to browse, consider a couple of more things.

Mayline offers White Glove Installation Services that is second to none. This is wonderful when you are a company that is national and or your local dealer can not service those areas. The Mayline crews are professional and consistant.

Finally, the customer service department  is just plain fabulous. They take my calls with care and concern and have always delivered on all levels above and beyond what is expected.I can not say enough good things about this company and their lines. Mayline is a full service manufacturing company. In addition to office and conferencing solutions they can do complete projects including high density filing, mail-rooms and server rooms. Their offerings are extensive.

So next time you are in the need of conferencing and meeting spaces know there are options that are both stylish and affordable. Read more about Mayline and their capabilities at www.mayline.com or contact me if you have further questions or needs.

 

That said they want it all.

The systems furniture needs to be adaptable, aesthetically pleasing but most of all affordable. That can be hard to find if you don’t know where to look. However, lucky for me and my readers I have a PERFECT solution.

One of my favorite products since I have been introduced to it about 3 years ago, is Interworks EQ by Kimball Office. This product has been around for decades and continues to offer a strong presence in the market place. But don’t let the longevity fool you. The product has been updated to accommodate new technology, growth and expansion, and designers eyes.

So why is this product one of my favorite solutions. It really can deliver on all fronts. Check out how below.

Interworks EQ has adapted to the changing  work environment, while offering a variety of aesthetic and affordable solutions.

Electrical and Technology perks- With the exception of the full glass panel, the panels can house base or mid electrical and data. A great added benefit to the panel is its immense space allotment in the top channel for high tech data requirements. 

The 4 circuit 8 wire system can be configured to a 3-1  -3 hot – on separate ground and neutral with a single hot with a dedicated isolated ground and neutral  for computer protection. Or, you can also configure a 2-2 configuration with 2 hots sharing one ground and neutral and the other 2 sharing the other ground and neutral. Check with your electrician and furniture supplier on the building supply to determine your options. The electrical components are installed with a simple snap in assembly and jumpers between panels to reduce install time.The solutions are simple but effective.

Universal Hinge connector- Having a universal connector makes change and reconfiguration much simpler. The hinge connector allows for versatile arrangements in L, T, X or 120* configurations. This can create a world of adaptability some other systems just don’t offer without a great deal of hassle.

Reduced cost of Installation- In addition to the snap in electrical and the universal hinge, Interworks EQ panels come with top cap, wire-way panel, hinges and glides and carpet grippers ready on each panel. So the installer is not wasting time searching for components to install.

Another great added benefit is the specification tools.As a Designer this proves to be invaluable. Kimball Office Interworks EQ has programs with Auto-Cad, 2020 Imagine, Giza as well as other manufacturers software. Auto hardware is available on many of the software programs and changing from configuration to configuration is a breeze with the specifying tools. This saves money and time and insures a good order and install the first time around. This I know from experience!

Varying heights and width or panels and components-

Monolithic Panels- Full fabric tack-able acoustical panels are the most affordable configuration and offer the widest range of possibilities. You are able to create reception systems areas all the way to management areas.

Widths- 18″,24″,30″,36″,42″,48″,60″

Heights- 34″,42″,48″,54″,62″,66″,80″

Full Glass Panels- Want a full glass look, well Interworks EQ has it. Heights available at 62″,66″ and 80″H. Widths are available in 24″,30″ or 36″

Sectional Panels- This offers style, individuality and functionality. You are able to keep private areas private and other areas visible where needed. With the combination of fabric , glass( both clear and frosted) and metal sections you can create a unique look that is functional and aesthetically pleasing. You can attach the sectional panels to the monolithic panels and use only where needed to save on expense while still delivering the results you need and want.

Sectional panels come in the same heights as the monolithic panels and same widths up to 48″.

With the exception of the glass sections you can even specify different fabrics and looks on each side. This gives you even more versatility and design options.

Stack-able Panel Sections- The ultimate in versatility. Want short panels now but you may need to add sections later to create more private environments. You want to be able to adjust to different work environments as times change. You may want to consider Interworks EQ and the stack-able solution. You don’t have to worry if you need to add privacy later, because you can!

Stack-able sections are fabric or glass and come in 12″,14″ or 18″ H. The widths match all panels sizes of both the sectional and monolithic panels. You can stack up to 2 stacking sections high up to 32″ H not to exceed 80″H or 66″H depending on original configuration.

Privacy Panels and Hinged doors- This is one of my favorite options on the Interworks EQ system. The privacy panel can offer just enough of the private office without the added expense. The privacy panels can come in all fabric, translucent glass, or fabric/marker board combination. You can see in the gallery below how I used the privacy panel on a job I installed. A more traditional hinged door is available for the 80″H systems office areas.

Compatibility with components of other Kimball Office Products-Using Kimball Office Footprint ,Perks and Traxx you can open up an even broader design pallet as well as cost savings. Your local Kimball Office sales person can guide you on how this can save space and time. The storage possibilities and organizations tools are endless.

Sustainability- And if all that isn’t enough you should check out the sustainability of the system. Interworks EQ exemplifies Kimball Office commitment to the environment. It is certified as low emitting furniture, fully Indoor Air Quality( IAQ) compliant and can contribute to LEED-CI points.

So now you get an idea on why I LOVE this product. Until the end of 2010 Select Kimball Office dealers are running a HUGE special on this product. To take advantage of that special contact me.

Life is in the details.

So is a successful interior environment. One detail that is often an after thought is interior signage. Yet it is this detail that can enhance or hurt an experience for your patron or customer.

Here are some helpful planning tips to get you started that will provide not only a functional way finding environment but one that is aesthetically pleasing as well.

Where do I need signage?

Below is a list of some basic Interior Signage and locations

Directories- look for a product that is available in a full range of lens configurations as well as one that can accommodate a printed insert enabling the system to be updated as necessary 

 Locations:

• Lobbies
• Elevator exits
• Stairwell exits

Floor Directional- Look at products that have inserts that can be updated easily.

Locations:

• Corridor intersections
• Elevator exits
• Stairwell exits

Overheads-

Types: wall mount, flush ceiling mount, or suspended

Locations:

• Lobbies
• Corridors
• High traffic areas impeding visibility of wall signage

Evacuation Maps- Make sure the signage is in accordance with local code. Maps need to have a changeable insert.

Locations:

• Elevator exits
• Stairwell exits
• Hotel Rooms
• Classrooms

Conference Rooms

Locations:

• Conference rooms
• Meeting rooms

Office/Suite/Room Identification- Check ADA guidelines and Braille capabilities. Look for non-glare and clean flush appearances.

Locations:

• Offices
• Hospital/Assisted Living/
  Patient Rooms
• Hotel Rooms
• K-12 and University classrooms
• Other areas where signage must accommodate change.

Misc. room Identification- Look for ADA complaint and Braille requirements. May want multiple lines of text option.

Locations:

• Restrooms
• Stairwells
• Any secondary (non-office) room
• Common Areas

Workstation Nameplates- Look for inserts that can easily be updated. Various mounting option may include tape, pin, magnet, Velcro and under-cap attachment.

Locations:

• Workstations
• Open office environments

Flag Mounts- Flag mounts are double sided and typically oriented horizontally, however, they may be mounted vertically as well. Both orientations are perpendicular to the wall.

Locations:

• Lobbies
• Vestibules
• Corridors
• High traffic areas impeding visibility of wall signage
• Restrooms

Interior Stairwells- Fire and building code typically requires that stairwells in buildings of three floors or more identify the floor and exit point. Raised text and Braille are not required.

Locations:

• Interior stairwells

Does my business need ADA compliant signage? If so what are the ADA regulations for signage?

Take Form- a commercial architectural interior signage company does a wonderful job explaining ADA compliance requirements in this PDF. It is simple and easy to understand.

ADA Compliant Interior Signage Regulations

Ready to get started? Consider this information when choosing an interior signage provider  and planning your environment .

1.Be able to provide basic facts about the project  

• Your name, title and contact information
• Company & address
• What kind of project is it (hospital, residence hall, corporate office, etc)?
• What is the stage of the project (planning & design, construction, etc)?
• Have interior finishes been selected? If yes, describe
• Occupancy date
• What is the project size (signage budget, number of signs, overall project budget, square footage, etc)
• Have sign types, quantities and locations been determined? If no do you need someone to perform these programming functions?
• Will the signs be purchased on GSA, state or other contract?
• Please supply a floor plan in .dxf or .dwg format if possible. Supply room #’s and or room names.
• Floor plans need to indicate fire extinguisher stations and fire alarm pulls down.

2. Design concerns

• Select materials to be used, colors and finishes.
• Note that some non standard finishes my result in longer lead times.
• Talk to your signage representatives about what materials and styles would best suite your environment.
• If LEED credit points are needed check with manufacturer for sustainable signage products that will work in your environment.

3. Way finding and Programming

• Understand the level of way finding required.
• Identify every location with a role in the signage network (type of sign).
• Consider position and viewing distance.
• Designate sign types, message copy and content.
• Address all ADA and life/safety compliance issues.

4. Quotation and Approvals- Look for a company that will supply you a detailed quotation with the following information.

• Rendering of the signs
• Location plan
• Message schedule
• Installation details
• Cleaning and Maintenance information
• Printed Insert Templates where needed
• Reorder information for future needs

5. Installation- Make sure you have qualified, certified licensed installers that will correctly install your signage needs. Federal and Local codes must be met to insure a clearance from local and federal agencies for occupancy.

Below is a list of some interior signage companies that are leaders in the industry.

You can also contact me for more information.

That in turn equates to the need for seating. 

When specifying church seating I like to make sure that it is quality workmanship,has a reliable warranty and on time delivery. Of course, not to be overlooked and one of the main things that drives any purchase is the price. Now in the past it has been hard to find church seating that has all of those elements. You could find the quality, maybe even the warranty and delivery but not the price. Something had to suffer. To get the price needed to meet budget for start up churches and building expansions you had to settle for an inexpensive import and hope that the seating comes in on time and that there won’t be any issues with the quality when you get it.

Well no more!

 

I am happy to say when I was looking for church seating recently for the church I attend,that I found a better alternative that has it all. Even better it came from one of my favorite, reliable manufacturers Bertolini Chair. Bertolini has almost 50 years of experience, and is a family-owned business. They have provided premium seating to customers like Denny’s Restaurants, Radisson Hotels, and even the happiest place on Earth — Disneyland and they are one of the top manufacturers and distributors of church seating in the USA.

In 2009 Bertolini created USA Church Chairs and the Liberty Pew Stacker.

So when I found out about the new ” Made in the USA” chair that could meet or beat import prices I had to blog about it.

So what makes USA church chairs different? What are some of the features?

• Stack-able
• Quality Manufactured in the U.S.A.!Manufacturing facilities in Chino. CA and Lawrenceburg, TN
• Fully Upholstered ergonomic back for elegance and extra comfort
• Rolled-front seat cushion for extra leg comfort
• Heavy-duty 16 gauge steel construction
• It’s well made frame built from cold-rolled USA steel features mandrel bending and radius edges to produce and stronger frame than any other in the industry; It easy supports 1000+ lbs
• Close looped frame construction with torsion bar system
• Durable and attractive powder coating
• Heavy-duty contract grade fabric
• Top-grade seat and back construction
• Commercial grade dual density seat cushion
• Built-in ganging device for interlocking chairs together
• Enhanced cutaway lumbar support
• Exceeds Cal-117 specifications
• 20”W, 35.5”H, 18.5”SH, 25”SD
• The foot glide covers both inside and outside of the bottom so you never have sharp edges.
• 1000′s of chairs stocked in basic colors for quick turn around.
• card pocket able to retrofit in the field allowing you to stay on budget.
• Prices as low as $32.99 for quantities of 50 or more on standard option model

Warranty

• 20 year, 100% full-replacement frame/structural
• 5 year, 100% full-replacement all other components

 

The response I got from my pastor and staff after having seen it and sat in it was “We don’t need to see anymore, this chair is perfect”

 

With the chair being manufactured in TN just an hour and a half away it was an obvious choice.

 Now you can have quality, aesthetics and price all in one!

For more information on all the quality product offerings Bertolini carries visit their website or contact me.

Fit Lounge Seating by Interstuhl/ Kimball Office is lounge seating like NO other.

 

 

 

 

“Kimball Office is starting the new decade off with a bang!  Hero. Just for You and Fit seating lines have both been awarded GOOD DESIGN Awards from the Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture and Design and The European Centre for Architecture Art Design and Urban Studies! Since 2001, Kimball Office has won nine GOOD DESIGN awards in seating, office systems and tables.”

  

So what makes Fit lounge seating different from the rest besides it obvious “Cool” factor.

From lobby areas to quest seating, collaborative and interactive areas, Fit can work for a variety of environments. It is ideal for office break out rooms for creative interaction, church small group areas and youth spaces, educational, libraries and study rooms as well as your reception lobbies and any other area where comfortable seating is a must.

Fit is made of a mesh upholstery that cradles the user for ultimate comfort. It does this by the use of what are called “flexzones’.The “flexzones” are 4 woven areas in targeted spots of the chair that provide support and comfort when and where needed. While the mesh on the seating is somewhat flat when not in use it actually acquires the shape of the person upon entry of the chair. It creates a “sling lounge” affect like a hammock. This makes for an extraordinary seating experience.

The mesh is cantilevered over a light weight coated steel frame. This makes it extremelly easy to  move and rearrange for quick interations. But don’t let the light weight fool you. It is rated for weights as high as 285lbs!

The chair may also attribute to LEED furniture credit points and  also qualifies for SCS Certified Indoor Advantage. This makes the Fit a great sustainable seating option.

Fit Picture Gallery

 Unique Features and Options for the Fit Lounge Seating

• Great for a Variety of Environments- great for reception lobbies, guest areas, collaborative and study environments.
• Removable headrest-The headrest can be positioned anywhere along the frame for personal comfort and support.
• Finishes available- Black, Green, Grey, Red- You can mix and match the headrest and seating for a personalized look.
• Nesting Capabilities- The nesting capability makes the Fit great for tight spaces  and multifunctional use areas.You can set aside and tuck away when not in use.
• FlexZone support-the “flexzones” offer comfort and support for all body types and sizes.
• Black Felt Glides- available for use on hard wood floors or other sensitive surfaces.
• Sustainable Design-Materials and methods used for the Fit design can attribute to furniture LEED points, in addition to being overall an environmentally “Green” product.

At an average Sale price running between $650.00-$995.00 depending on options you can even make it fit into your budget.

So enjoy getting FIT for the New Year! Get support for whatever shape you are in.

For more information on Interstuhl and Kimball Office products you can visit www.kimballoffice.com

      

“Don’t work HUM”

Hum- the sound of a productive team working well individually and together.

Kimball Office furniture company developed HUM Minds at Work in partnership with Formway Design. As they noticed the nature of work changing, they knew that to stay ahead of the game they needed to adapt to a new way of thinking and working. Through the study of “Cognitive Ergonomics”-the study of thinking processes in the work environment that affect both the physical and the mental- Kimball Office and Formway developed the collaborative/teaming  furniture product HUM.

The generation of “we can have it all” coupled with the technological breakthroughs have made businesses that are more mobile, agile, and leaner.  In this competitive environment innovation is the key to survival.

“Ideas are the new currency”

So how do you tap into the creative mind of your employees to bring about that innovation and next “Big Idea”?

HUM has taken down some of the traditional workplace barriers that keep creative inspiration from flourishing.  The HUM furniture design promotes collaboration of minds and helps facilitate the flow of ideas. 

Some Examples of the HUM environment

Here are some of the key elements to the design that enhance the collaborative and creative environment.

• Go to Zones( Now, Soon, or Later) help you work in the moment or offload thoughts for a while. 

Go to NOW- Place things immediately in front of you on your main level desk terrace.

Go to SOON- Utilize the terrace box or 2nd level just above your desk space for things that you need to get to but are not your first priority.

Go to LATER- HUM also has filing capabilities( over 700 configurations) and terrace boxes for those things you just need access to every now and then. This allows you to keep your desk clear for the main task at hand.

• Personal Space and Focus work

Private Office- freestanding furniture- HUM offers freestanding furniture applications to help facilitate all the office needs. This allows for coordination of furniture from the collaborative, creative spaces to the private office, giving consistency to the interior aesthetics.

See Me Screens and Fabric Privacy Panels-See Me Screens help filter distractions, yet allow eye contact. There is a science to the positive and negative space of the screens.Available in 15 colors. Or you can create your own using Kimball Office By Design Team. 100% sustainable recyclable wool is used for the fabric privacy panels for those even more focus driven environments.

Adjust-ability-each person can personalize their space to meet their individual needs. It doesn’t have to be cookie cutter anymore. The main desk level can be adjusted to your height comfort. Whether you are a piler of a filer HUM offers a solution for your work flow.

• Collaborative Interaction

Meet Me Spaces-These are spaces in between the private zones that facilitate mini-meetings that occur throughout the day. Through the use of the See Me Screens you can tell when it is a convenient time to ask for a quick opinion or question while it is fresh on your mind. Then you can easily lean over for a quick collaborative encounter.

Touch Down Spaces-Spaces that provide extra space to huddle and collaborate with many people with out having to totally leave the work area. Impromptu conferences promote creative minds when they are at their best.

• Accessories-bookends, papertrays, displays, and monitor arms. LED lighting and capability for electrical. It is all there.

Although HUM may not be the furniture solution for every office work environment it does answer a great deal of the challenges we have in our creative and collaborative workspace.

I must also mention that HUM’s sustainability story is quite impressive. The Kimball Office team and Formway design put a lot of effort into using sustainable, recyclable products. You can explore that further by going to Kimball Office and checking out the sustainability statement.

Get HUMming!