July 27, 2026

In this issue…construction and architecture remain uneven, with resilient design, public funding, healthcare, AI and data-center projects creating pockets of growth while traditional offices and discretionary sectors soften. Office markets show sharp divides, from Manhattan, California, Phoenix and AI-heavy submarkets gaining momentum to LA and furniture retail facing continued pressure. Workplace coverage looks at AI’s impact on jobs, office design, utilization, Gen Z social habits, job lock and new ways landlords activate space. Design stories emphasize data-driven planning, hybrid meeting rooms and AI-ready workplaces. Trends point to coworking becoming part of travel platforms, while product updates spotlight sustainable carpet tile, modular workwalls, textiles, HPL surfaces and flexible seating collections.