Recently I came across a product line from Enwork that really caught my eye. It is called Grid.

When speaking to a rep about a particular project I was working on he suggested this new introduction from Enwork. I had priced out several products that were similar in concept but they were just too expensive.I was shocked at how affordable the Grid product was, especially since there were many options and configurations available. So I did some research on the line and was pleasantly surprised.

Customers today are wanting something different than cubicles. A great deal of my clients are looking for a more open environment in-which workers can team and collaborate,but they don’t want to give up the electrical and storage options cubicles offer. There are wonderful products out there that offer a great look and collaborative environment and are perfect for the company that can afford that furniture luxury. However, this new product by Enwork is a great alternative for the company that wants quality furniture at a great affordable price.

Grid can be totally freestanding with the use of T legs or it can be used in a linking or tethering environment using the straight legs. Everything works off the Grid frame. There is a 42′H frame with power and data above the worksurface or the 36″H frame with power and data below the worksurface. There is also a mini frame at 34″H with power and data above the worksurface and 28″H with power and data below the worksurface. The power that runs through the frame is a 5 circuit 3 wire system.Frames can be ordered with1 or 2 sided power, each with 2 duplex receptacles and 2 data openings per user per side.  Cable Management is handled through a trough or through slots in the support legs.The frames can connect at a straight run , 90* or 120*.

The idea of the Grid is quite simple. You start with your frame and then build from there. You can opt for a simple Topper Screen that is 12″ made out of Acrylic for a simple look, or you can opt for the wide variety of tile options listed below.

• Acrylic Full and Partial
• Steel Full and Partial
• Fabric Full and Partial
• Whiteboard Full and Partial
• Laminate Full and Partial
• Wood Full and Partial

Instead of tiles you also have several overhead configurations you can use. The storage options with Grid are plentiful. Some of the options include:

• Mobile pedestals
• closed and open overhead shelving
• low bookcase
• Bookcase and pedestal storage towers
• mobile and freestanding cubbie storage

The Grid Frame also acts as a hanging brace for work tools. They have the basics such as diagonal and paper trays as well as phone holders and pencil cups and an organizer tray. The LED lighting also hangs off the frames and tiles. The lighting is available to daisy chain and  has an average of  50,000 lifetime hours per unit.

There is also a modesty panel available for your more exposed environments.

Good Options,Good Quality,Good Value

There are many configurations for the worksurfaces as well. Recently as an environmental leader Enwork switched from PVC to ABS edgeband. They offer the specifier and end user chlorine free worksurface solutions as STANDARD product.

You can learn more about their environmental leadership initiative at www.enwork.com/environmental.php

Enwork tables can be integrated into Grid pods as well. The legs of the products are made to blend.

Enwork also has several other products worth mentioning. They have been widely known for their tables for years. They also carry laminate and steel casegoods and a variety of storage products and signage.

As an interesting end note I found out that Facebook after looking at several other high end manufacturers chose the Enwork product. So I have to say Enwork may just be on to something.

At least I think so!

 

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.

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!

Now this posed several issues.

• Because of budget and interior storage limitations the furniture needed to be in the same room and be able to be used for office furniture and educational furniture.
• The furniture needed to be able to quickly shift into multiple arrangements.
• There needed to be individual spaces that could be locked to protect information .
• They needed visual board and tackable capabilities for educational needs and video projection.

So what is the solution?

I chose a line of furniture that could solve all of the above issues. I used Kimball Traxx system where I could line the wall with a credenza like appearance but also create overhead lockable storage as well as a multi file below. With the Traxx system I was able to give a seamless appearance with the tackable panels and a visual display board that could be used as a marker board or projection screen.  The tackable panels could be used by day for the office and at night for educational purposes. Because I was able to hang the work surfaces on the Traxx system with mimimal support I was able to save money because I didn’t need full freestanding furniture.

I also used the Kimball mobile Array table against the extended wall credenzas. The tables were used for their laptops  and workspace during office time but were able to be rearranged in to a more training and educational groupings at night.  We brought in the Kimball Event chair to complete the solution, which could easily stack on a dolly until time for use.

There you have it.

All the furniture in one space and ready to be used for multiple interior functions.

Office by day Classroom by night.