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What does it take to create a workplace that truly works for the people using it? It starts with understanding how people work and recognizing that there’s no single space, setting, or solution that can support every need. In this episode of Tell Me More, Andrea Gauss, Dr. Lauren Gant, and Rikki Crowe from Allsteel’s Workplace Advisory team introduce Harmonizing Spaces, an approach to creating greater alignment between people, work, and place. Together, they explore what it means to tune the room, the day, and the organization, from designing for focus and collaboration to considering flexibility, choice, workplace data, and the everyday experiences that shape how people use space. Along the way, they examine why employees may leave the office to focus, what underused or misused spaces can tell us, and why workplace strategy starts with understanding people rather than prescribing a solution. Because when the way we work continues to change, creating a workplace that supports it requires more than space. It requires intention. Learn More: https://www.allsteeloffice.com/tell-me-more

In this episode of Tell Me More, the final installment of our three-part Rhythm of Change series, Andrea Gauss of Allsteel is joined by Dave Kutsunai, Co-Managing Director of IA Interior Architects’ Seattle studio, to explore how the accelerating pace of change is reshaping the spaces where we work. Together, they discuss how shifting workflows, emerging technologies, and evolving business needs are challenging organizations to think differently about workplace design. From adaptability and circular design to AI, sensory experience, and post-occupancy strategy, this conversation examines what it takes to create workplaces that can evolve alongside the people and organizations they support. Dave shares practical insights into balancing permanence with flexibility, designing for both focus and human connection, and creating spaces that can respond to change without losing their sense of identity. As the final episode in The Rhythm of Change series, this conversation explores change through the perspective of space—bringing together the business, individual, and workplace perspectives explored throughout the series and examining how thoughtful design can help organizations keep pace with the evolving rhythms of work. Learn More:https://www.allsteeloffice.com/tell-me-more

In this episode of Tell Me More, the second installment of our three-part Rhythm of Change series, Dr. Lauren Gant of Allsteel is joined by Dr. Kati Peditto, design psychologist and founder of Built Experience Lab, to explore how individuals experience the accelerating pace of change in their daily work. Together, they discuss how personal rhythms, evolving workplace expectations, and greater autonomy are reshaping the way we work. From ultradian rhythms and neurodiversity to flexible work policies and intentional workplace design, this conversation examines how organizations can better support focus, well-being, and productivity by embracing individual differences. Dr. Peditto shares practical, research-backed insights into creating work experiences that empower people to thrive in a rapidly changing world. As the second episode in The Rhythm of Change series, this conversation explores change through the personal work perspective. In the final episode, we'll examine how thoughtfully designed spaces can adapt to support the evolving rhythms of work. Learn More:https://www.allsteeloffice.com/tell-me-more

In this episode of Tell Me More, the first installment of our three-part Rhythm of Change series, Andrea Gauss of Allsteel is joined by Amy Craig, Executive Vice President at JLL, and Megan Mackinson, Head of JLL's Workplace Team, to explore how organizations are embracing the accelerating pace of change. Together, they discuss how evolving business priorities, workplace expectations, and emerging technologies are reshaping workplace strategy, real estate decisions, and leadership. From flexible lease strategies and workplace amenities to AI and data-informed decision-making, this conversation examines what it takes to build organizations that embrace change rather than simply react to it. Amy and Megan share practical insights into creating workplaces and business strategies that remain adaptable in an ever-changing world. As the first episode in The Rhythm of Change series, this conversation sets the stage by exploring change through the business perspective. In the episodes ahead, we'll examine how change shapes the individual work experience and how thoughtfully designed spaces can adapt to support the evolving rhythms of work. Learn More:https://www.allsteeloffice.com/tell-me-more

In this episode of the Tell Me More podcast, host Andrea Gauss and Brian Kaule of Allsteel joins Christopher Schmidt of ITO Design and Chris Adamick of Adamick Design to discuss the future of furniture design and the evolving relationship between technology, craftsmanship, and the human experience. Together, they explore the thinking behind Allsteel's newest products, Levra and Flourish, which were introduced during Fulton Market Design Days in Chicago, and discuss how advances in AI, digital tools, and material innovation are expanding what's possible in furniture design. From creating more intuitive experiences for the people who use them to balancing efficiency with emotional connection, the group shares how designers are embracing new technologies while keeping people at the center of the design process. Tune in for more insights on the future of workplace design: www.allsteeloffice.com/tell-me-more

In this episode of the Tell Me More podcast, Allsteel explores how AI is reshaping design studios and creative collaboration. Julia de Bono and Delaney Santos of Designworks, a BMW Group Company, discuss how designers can thoughtfully integrate AI into workflows while preserving the human creativity and artistic perspective that drive meaningful innovation. Tune in for an engaging conversation on curiosity, collaboration, and the evolving relationship between technology and design. Learn More: www.allsteeloffice.com/tell-me-more

Join host Rikki Crowe as she chats with Madison Gentry from Allsteel and Dima Daimi-Lewis, founder of Provoke Designs, about the transformative power of demountable walls in workplace design. Discover how these walls offer unmatched flexibility and adaptability, embodying the "living in beta" philosophy to meet evolving work needs. Learn how they save time for interior architects and foster collaboration among architects, designers, developers, and furniture manufacturers. Explore topics like color and finishes, continuous ceiling planes, and the cost benefits over traditional construction. Uncover the positive impact on users, the design process, and the workplace ecosystem. This episode was previously recorded in July 2024. Learn More: ⁠www.allsteeloffice.com/tell-me-more

In this episode of the Tell Me More podcast, Allsteel host Andrea Gauss is joined by industry leaders Beth Goff-McMillan, CEO of SKG, and Susan Stinnett, Principal of Insidesource PNW, to explore the nuances of effective leadership. They discuss the importance of focus, the art of delegation, and the power of creating space for reflectionand respite. The conversation highlights how leaders can navigate change, foster innovation, and maintain authenticity in a rapidly evolving business landscape. Tune in to discover insights on leading with clarity and the significance of human connection in the age of technology. Learn More: www.allsteel.com/tell-me-more

In this episode of Tell Me More, Dr. Lauren Gant of Allsteel and Dr. Susan Chung, Director of Innovation Programs at HKS Inc.,explore how to design focus in a world filled with distractions. They discuss how our environments, habits, and culture shape our ability to concentrate—and share practical strategies to improve productivity, creativity, and overallwell-being. From achieving the elusive flow state to examining the latest research on brain health, this conversation reveals how intentional design canhelp you work smarter and live better. Learn More: www.allsteeloffice.com/tell-me-more https://www.hksinc.com/how-we-think/reports/getting-to-a-brain-healthy-workplace/

In this episode of the Tell Me More podcast, Allsteel explores a question shaping the future of work: How do we design for attention in a distracted world? Looking ahead to 2026, the conversation introduces emerging concepts like “Dimensions of Focus,” “Exploring Rhythms,” and “Harmonizing Space”—ideas grounded in how people actually work. Tune in for a thoughtful discussion on how intentional design can better support focus, productivity, and well-being at work. Learn More: www.allsteeloffice.com/tell-me-more

In this episode of Tell Me More, host Kina Ingersoll sits down with Laurel Chadzynski, a licensed Architect, sustainable design leader, and founder of Loom & Lever, a strategic consultancy focused on enabling collaborative action and collective change in the built environment industry. They discuss the integration of lean thinking with sustainable and circular design, emphasizing the importance of eliminating waste and maximizing value. Laurel shares insights on the challenges and opportunities in the design industry, particularly around material reuse and the need for transparency in product manufacturing. The conversation also touches on the mindset shifts required to move towards circularity and the role of designers in promoting sustainable practices.   Learn More: https://www.allsteeloffice.com/tell-me-more

This episode of Tell Me More unveils the new Allsteel D.C. Design Lab, a purpose-built space for design exploration, creativity, and collaboration. Hosted by Rikki Crowe, the conversation features insights from key contributors Natalie Johansen, Beth Gall, and lead design partner Emma Chang of Gensler. Together, they discuss the vision behind creating a living lab rather than a traditional showroom—one that supports human-centric, flexible, and future-ready design. The group explores how the Lab thoughtfully integrates both physical and digital elements, encourages real-time co-solutioning with the design community, and opens doors to new ways of redefining workplace solutions. Plan your visit to the D.C. Design Lab: https://www.allsteeloffice.com/where-to-buy/find-us/showrooms/washington-dc-design-lab Learn more about Tell Me More: https://www.allsteeloffice.com/tell-me-more

In this episode of the Tell Me More podcast, host Kina Ingersoll speaks with Katy Mercer, Principal and Interior Design Leader at Woods Bagot, about her people-first approach to creating spaces that reflect brand, culture, and context. Katy shares her unexpected path into architecture and design, drawing connections between storytelling, empathy, and leadership. Their conversation explores the importance of authenticity, collaboration over competition, and the role of AI as a creative partner. Katy emphasizes the power of vulnerability, clarity, and curiosity in shaping meaningful work and inspiring others across the design community. Learn More: https://www.allsteeloffice.com/doing-more

Allsteel is proud to partner with TEDx Chicago for the second year in a row, welcoming the team to the Allsteel Chicago Experience Center ahead of their annual event at the Harris Theatre on Friday, September 26. In this special episode—recorded just one week before the big event—Dr. Lauren Gant brings together three remarkable TEDx Chicago speakers for an inspiring conversation on authenticity, connection, and growth. Dr. Mack, a community psychologist, shares insights on building trust in today’s digital-first world. Natasha Pearl Hansen, comedian and storyteller, explores the transformative power of humor and vulnerability. Nisaini Rexach, public affairs professional at Microsoft, discusses how mentorship and social capital can fuel career advancement. Together, their perspectives offer fresh ideas for navigating both personal and professional life with authenticity and purpose. Tune in for a powerful journey of humor, storytelling, and social connection. Learn More: www.allsteeloffice.com/tell-me-more | https://www.tedxchicago.com/

This episode concludes our special two-part series on Community and Culture. While part one explored the personal side of community — how individuals build connections and find belonging in the workplace — part two takes a broader, research-driven look at how culture and community are experienced across organizations. Part 2/2: Dr. Lauren Gant and Maria Meschi, Lead Project Strategist at DORIS Research, dive deeper into recent research findings, exploring how culture is shaped by daily interactions and why authenticity is essential to fostering a supportive workplace environment. Together, they uncover the nuances between culture and community and examine the impact of intentional leadership on organizational success. Learn More: https://www.allsteeloffice.com/tell-me-more