On April 7th Interface chose to be a part of creating the future by partnering with the Clinton Global Initiative to host a service project during the annual CGI University conference. Standing alongside hundreds of highly motivated college students from all 50 states and more than 70 countries, sharing stories of how they have tackled sustainability, was a humbling experience. To attend students must have developed a Commitment to Action, “a specific plan of action that addresses a pressing challenge on campus, in the community, or around the world.”

Gateway STEM High School, St. Louis. MO.

For weeks, volunteers from Washington University in St. Louis, MO, were busy preparing Gateway STEM High School, a St. Louis magnet school, for the service projects. A flurry of activity surrounded the school – old carpet was removed, painter’s tape lined the walls, supplies were stocked – anticipating the arrival of hundreds of student volunteers and a few VIP guests.

Chelsea and President Clinton kicked off the day with inspiring messages of the power of service and civic engagement. They highlighted the enormous employment opportunity for the American workforce in careers in energy efficiency, green schools, and retrofitting buildings. Gateway STEM high school integrates a strong academic curriculum of science, technology, engineering and math – skills needed for our current and future economy.

After two days of inspiring panel sessions, skill building breakout sessions, and top notch networking, hundreds of students joined in transforming Gateway High in a number of restorative projects around the school and grounds – painting, carpeting, garden construction, storage clean-out, and more.

Interface’s Director of Sustainable Strategy, Melissa Vernon, and St Louis based Account Executives Dennis Upshaw and Katie Sweetin, led a motivated group of students installing carpet in the music room and college room. The students quickly learned the technique and really enjoyed their volunteer experience. Flooring Systems, a flooring dealer in St. Louis, donated their time to prep the floors and installed the auditorium carpet to have it looking great for President Clinton’s welcoming remarks.

From eyesore (and tripping hazard) to restored beauty.

The teachers and staff of Gateway High School were thrilled with the result. The previous carpet in the auditorium was a tripping hazard with wrinkles and duct tape everywhere. Principal Dr. Beth Bender commented, “I have literally had staff in tears and students just shocked at how great the carpet in the auditorium looks, as well as the college and band rooms. For those us of in public education, especially the poorer end of the spectrum, this makes a huge difference.”

In his thanks President Clinton commented, “I’d like to thank Interface carpet, which donated time and supplies to completely re-carpet this auditorium with environmentally friendly modular carpet tiles.” He also mentioned the great work of the USGBC and the Center for Green Schools.

The teachers shared that the students don’t receive many gifts. An upgrade to the building honors these individuals as valued members of society. As President Clinton voiced, “schools like Gateway are giving people a chance to climb up the ladder in this country… they’re [Gateway students] being given a chance to succeed in a world where the doors have been shut to many of their parents because they didn’t have those opportunities.”

Interface was proud to be a part of this special day for the CGIU team and to leave a legacy for the Gateway students.

Color, form and texture take center stage in this palette. Both whimsical and organic in feel, you’ll find very decorative pieces in this group with one pattern relating back to the highly decorated paisley motifs of ancient Persia.

Inspirations for the balance of the patterns were found in nature. Organic form and patterning play a large role in this grouping. Bring the outdoors inside with bursting pods, wispy grass and natural wood textures. The colors are fun and punchy and make a statement with a bold pink accent.

A. Product: Head Over Heels (Sheared), Pattern: M0871; B. Product: Head Over Heels (Sheared), Pattern: M0875; C. Product: Head Over Heels (Sheared), Pattern: M0875; D. Product: RMS506; E. Product: RMS 404, Color: A 40011; F. Product: Hip Over History, Pattern: M0941; G. Product:Head Over Heels (Sheared), Pattern: M0873

Q: What is the 30 x 30 Nature Challenge? How did it all start?

The concept of 30X30 was originally inspired by one of the Foundation’s Camp Suzuki leaders – Barry Freeman – who decided he needed to get outside more often. We began working with Your Brain on Nature co-author Dr. Alan Logan and Canada’s 30×30 Nature Challenge was born! I’m not sure if this is the official line at DSF now, but it was originally conceptualized by a Camp Suzuki (Rouge NP) participant Barry Freeman – assistant prof in and performance studies at UofT Scarborough.

The concept is really simple, we are inviting people from coast to coast during the month of May to commit to spending 30 minutes a day, for 30 days outside in nature. Our goal is to inspire Canadian’s to ‘cultivate a nature habit’ and enjoy all of the benefits nature can provide. The Challenge launched on Earth Day (April 22).

Q. Why is it important for people to stay connected to nature?

Over the last decade researchers have found what most of us know intuitively, there are countless benefits to time spent outdoors. Simply, connecting with nature is good for our heath and overall emotional and physical well-being. Numerous scientific studies have shown that being regularly immersed in a natural setting like a park, woodland or forest, can lower blood pressure, anxiety and stress levels, as well as boost immunity. ‘Green time’ has also been shown to reduce feelings of anger and depression, while increasing energy, creativity and attention span.

It’s no secret many of us spend our days in front of electronic screens and enjoy little interaction with nature.  There is an increasing body of scientific and medical evidence connecting outdoor activities in nature to increased mental and physical health. Take what you do inside — board games, books, a game of cards — outside. It just makes sense to create a nature movement and get people outdoors!

Getting your daily dose of nature is essential to maintaining a balanced, happy, active life for you and your family. Strap on your running shoes and go for a walk on your lunch, take your family on a hike or bike ride in your favorite green space after dinner. It’s that easy.

Q: Why is workplace engagement a focus of this year’s 30 x 30 nature challenge? Why should offices sign up?

The motivation comes from a recent study published by the World Economic Forum that shows how wellness can play a powerful role in employee engagement, organizational productivity, talent retention, creativity and innovation.

Living in the digital age, many of us spend our days in front of electronic screens and computers- this is particularly true for those of us working in offices. The cost of our high-tech, high-stress lives is very real for employees and employers: reduced productivity, lower job satisfaction and higher rates of absenteeism.

It’s been shown daily exposure to nature can improve concentration, and overall mental health and wellbeing. We’ve identified the need to introduce the challenge to businesses across Canada in an effort to transform office culture. We’ve developed a customized Toolkit for HR representatives so they promote the challenge in a fun, interactive way to their employees. The kit includes colourful posters, daily inspirational cards and an office copy of Your Brain on Nature.

Companies can sign up at www.davidsuzuki.org/30x30challenge. We encourage participants to share their stories with their friends and social networks, as well as submit photos of time spent outside in our weekly 30×30 Photo Contests throughout May.

Organize walking staff meetings, a pop-up picnic over the lunch hour, or an after work jog. These are simple and meaningful ways organizations can get everyone involved, and support employee wellness and environmental connection.

Q: How does the support of companies like Interface contribute to the success of the challenge?

The David Suzuki Foundation is so excited to partner with Interface for Canada’s 30X30 Nature Challenge. As supporting partner of this national campaign, we are thrilled sustainable business leaders like Interface are committed to enhancing employee health and well-being. We all play an important role in helping to re-energize corporate and business culture so employers and employees alike can benefit from a positive atmosphere that supports a healthy work-life balance. Companies like Interface are on the forefront, and by embracing campaigns like 30X30 you recognize the return on investment ‘Green Time’ can have for your employees and the bottom line. Together we can inspire one another to fully reap the benefits nature has to offer.

Q: How are you planning to spend your 30 x 30?

A couple of years ago my doctor suggested that I get more exercise and participate in stress relief activities like walking, as I have a strong family history of high cholesterol and high blood pressure. I started biking to work every day on a bike path that runs along the waterfront. I benefited not only from the exercise, but looking out to the lake in the early morning to watch the shorebirds was very relaxing and prepared me for my busy day. I’ll be spending my 30 x 30 time this year cycling once again, but I’m also committing to spend time playing with my young children in a local ravine by my home after school and on weekends.

Q: Where can people go to learn more?

Sign on to take the pledge during the month of May at: www.davidsuzuki.org/30x30challenge. Let’s reap the benefits nature has to offer together!

And if you want to find out more about the science evidence of how spending even small amounts of time in nature can improve your personal health and wellbeing, check out this recent report by Trees Ontario that reviews dozens of research studies.

About Dr. Faisal Moola: Faisal is an adjunct professor in the University of Toronto’s Forestry Faculty, regularly having his work published in books and journals on ecology, conservation biology and environmental policy. For the past decade he has led an expert team of scientists, analysts and campaigners at the David Suzuki Foundation, focusing on the protection of Canada’s cherished wild spaces and wildlife, as well as the greening of our cities.

Designer: Colleen Musika, Design & Supply

Q:What is the inspiration for your vignette at HI Connect Design?

A: I approached this space with the excitement of what I would want to see in a boutique room. I started with an oversized, colorful, and eye- grabbing pop art piece that draws the guests in when they first open the door. The room layout leant itself to creating two distinct areas, with the focal wall of the pop art in the background. Pop art refers not as much to the art itself but to the attitude that led to it, and pays tribute to aspects of mass culture. I choose to have the saying “call me maybe” because I loved adding a kitschy element to the space by taking a very popular song from the past year and displaying it on this prominent wall. The overall feel of the room brings excitement and fun to the guest’s experience, leaving them wanting to come back.

In addition to the bold digital pop art, I wanted the carpet to stand out as well by creating movement and adding a graphic element. I love how the carpet tiles really ground the different areas of the room.  Because the art and floor have such a great impact, adding texture with the brick wall covering, velvet and tweed fabrics add coziness that you want your guests to experience. The final element of the gold, reflective surfaces and shine add much needed dimension.

Q: How does the flooring contribute to the overall design concept?

A: As you can read in my Inspiration for my vignette, the carpet adds the perfect graphic and bold element I was looking for. Mostly all my furniture and walls are simple and textured, so I needed the carpet to be the statement piece in the room. The carpet tiles also provided a great way for me to create two different sections in my vignette. I created a custom “area rug” with the tiles in my living space.

Q: Does sustainability figure prominently in your design concept? If so, please elaborate.

A: Sustainability is a continuing trend and effort that is growing within the design industry every day.   It is always beneficial to have product that speaks to it.  Using Interface Hospitality will not only allow for less waste per project, but it also will allow for less waste when it comes to replacing product as well.

Q: Why did you choose to work with Interface Hospitality as a supplier for your design concept?

A:  I have chosen to work with Interface Hospitality as my carpet supplier because they have impressed me when I have worked with them on previous jobs, before HI Connect. Interface as a whole is very innovative and forward-thinking when it comes to the hospitality industry. I love all the custom capabilities I have with their product and they have such a unique and distinct look to their hospitality line, to which no other carpet company can really even compare.

About the designer:  Colleen Musika has been the head interior designer with Design & Supply for the past five years. Musika joined Design& Supply after graduating from the Art Institute of Philadelphia, and has since designed for all types of properties in many different locations. For her, the change of scenery keeps the day to day interesting. Musika does not lean toward any one type of style or aesthetic, but appreciates all design and particularly enjoys the design challenges posed by hotel projects.

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These products range in tone from ivory through a range of soft golds and warm taupes, into rich, deep chocolate browns with an accent of cerulean.  Soft curves mixed with nature’s hard lines create complimentary design elements. The colors mimic the range in hues of a Siamese cat with cerulean eyes as a stunning accent.

A. Product: Hip Over History, Pattern: M0938, Colors: a. 40177, b. 40169, c. 39801, d. 40146, e. 34417, f. 34418, g. 40099; B. Product: Walk The Plank, Color: Poplar; C. Product: Walk The Plank, Color: Poplar; D. Product: UR102, Colors: a. 40011, b. 39840, c. 39801; E. Product: UR101, Colors: a. 40011, b. 39840, c. 39801, d. 34418, e. 40146, f. 40146; F. Product: UR103, Colors: a. 40146,  b. 34418; G. Product: A Cut Above, Pattern: M0819, Colors:a. 40169, b. 39801, c. 40099, d. 40177, e. 40011, f. 40010, g. 39840, h. 40005; H. Product: Hip Over History, Pattern: M0939, Colors: a. 40177 b. 40169, c. 39801, d. 40146, e. 34417, f. 34418, g. 40099; I. Product: RMS 607, Color: Khaki; J. Product: RMS 103, Color: Walnut

Protecting our planet’s oceans spans from knowledge of tangible environmental impacts to preserving our unique curiosity of the unknown. As resources become more scarce our attention turns to the impact of our own consuming and our attitudes become gentle when we consider these complex and sensitive ecosystems. Considering this valuable resource to our survival – our own bodies are comprised of this essential element and it is water that interconnects our lives with the existence of all other living things.

One thing is certain, you don’t need to be near our planet’s beautiful oceans to respect and cherish all that blue provides us. Wherever you find yourself, think blue.

A. PlushMix / 103841 SagePlush; B. Menagerie II / 101470 Glacier; C. UR501 / 103615 Blue; D. HeatherMix / 103515 Sage; E. Permian / 100534 Ocean; F. Micro Line / 103715 Flax; G. SuperFlor / 609157 Lagoon Blue; H. Top Stitch / 102525 Denim

Modern – Mid-century

Mid Century Modern is characterized by a warmth and informality. Thoughtfully designed spaces are punctuated with furniture and things that are not precious or pretentious. The use of simple, affordable materials like American hardwoods, laminates and molded plywood, communicate accessibility and inclusion.

The Mid Century Modern Studio Palette selects colors that recall the optimism of the middle of the last century. The preference for natural wood tones, undyed wools and linens are also reflected in the warmth of the palette and the textures of the styles.

A. Tongue in Groove / 100720 Mahogany; B. Sew Straight / 102399 Crewel; C. Viva Colores / 101162 Mandarina; D. Cambria / 102560 Marsh; E. Bertola / 8822 Cioccolate; F.Redeliver / 102621 Lame;G. Viva Colores / 101138 Azul Verdosa; H. Flor / 603188 Black-Brown

Here are some individual takes from our design experts (and me) on what was hot in Milan:

• Judy Betts, SOM, New York: “Environments infused with light.”

• Joe Rondinelli, Shepley Bulfinch, Boston: “Manipulating new technologies to create art.”
  “This was most evident when we looked at the lighting exhibits. The technology was no longer the star, instead our creative use and manipulation of it was.  We saw theatrical spatial experiences manipulated with light; we saw the refinement of form and light as an architectural spatial tool.  We have moved from what it is to what it can do. We saw technology as the means to achieve the craft, whether it was with the sculpting of marble or the fabrication of organic resin bench forms. This is a significant leap; it shows that technology is being used as a tool for creativity.”

• Mel Kleve, Wright Heerema, Chicago: “Geometric shapes”
  “Geometric shapes continue to be a trend, taking form in actual shapes of furniture pieces, not just patterns.”

• James Kenner, EDRTrust, Memphis, TN:“Lighting!”

• Antonio Caliz, ValerioDeWaltTrain, San Francisco: “Reinterpreting the classics.  The reinterpretation of some of the classics makes them really appealing for a contemporary space”

• “We are all looking at how to infuse notes of ‘domestic feel’ into corporate environments.”

• Angela Denney, FRCH International, Cincinnati, OH: “A lot of felt.”
  “I saw a lot of use of felt, not only in upholstery but even in wall tiles. I also saw more use of pastel colors, especially pale pink and yellow. I even saw it in one of the Bocci light fixtures.”

• Lara Leskaj, Perkins+Will, Chicago: “Soft color and pastels.”
  “I noticed was a lot of SOFT color/pastel and pattern (freshened) and thought Missoni did the best interpretation of it all. I also noticed a lot of the light woods.”

•  Jennifer Busch, Interface, New York: “Creativity with hard surfacing.”
  “Some very interesting manipulation of hard surfacing materials, yielding creative shapes and forms that offer a refreshing alternative to typical tiles and slabs.”

• “With lighting technology advancing so rapidly, Euroluce usually provides the most interesting product innovations at the Salone. It would seem I like circles…”

American Hotel Register Company
Designers: Jen Conley, NEWH and Katie Popp, NCIDQ Certificate No. 28337, ASID, IIDA, NEWH

Q:What is the inspiration for your vignette at HI Connect Design?

A: Pop Art was a cultural movement to celebrate commonplace people and objects of the industrial period.  It simplified art to its most basic form.  By using the same concept, a space was designed that speaks to the new urban traveler.

Q: How does the flooring contribute to the overall design concept?

A: We used Interface Hospitality products to create defined spaces in our ‘open loft’ concept.  By using carpet tile mixed with vinyl plank flooring, we were able to give our guests commercial grade area rugs with the flexibility of replacement if needed.  By using different textural elements that Interface Hospitality offers, we could also bring a more comfortable feel to the urban loft.

Q: Does sustainability figure prominently in your design concept? If so, please elaborate.

A: Sustainability is a continuing trend and effort that is growing within the design industry every day.   It is always beneficial to have product that speaks to it.  Using Interface Hospitality will not only allow for less waste per project, but it also will allow for less waste when it comes to replacing product as well.

Q: Why did you choose to work with Interface Hospitality as a supplier for your design concept?

A: Using Interface Hospitality has allowed us a lot of flexibility throughout the design process.  With their wide range of products, as well as continual creative freedom, we found ourselves very pleased with the overall outcome.  Our representative is also extremely accommodating and willing to send us samples and even present them in person when needed.

About the designers: 
Katie Popp is a recognized designer in both the residential and hospitality industry.  She is NCIDQ certified and licensed in the state of Illinois.  Since entering the hospitality industry, she has specialized in Marriott and IHG design specifications.  Along with the knowledge of standard room designs, Katie also contributes to independent properties and emerging markets.  With an Interior Design degree from The Illinois Institute of Art – Schaumburg, she states that the unique mixture of creative and technical elements is what makes her so passionate for this profession.

With an Interior Design degree from Purdue University and three years of experience in the hospitality industry, Jen Conley has gained expert knowledge in a wide range of brands.  You can also see Jen’s custom design program throughout many La Quinta brand hotels.  Aside from her busy work schedule, she also participates as a board member with her local NEWH chapter to help develop activities that stimulate and promote hospitality design and related fields.  Her enthusiasm for this industry shows through her extraordinary daily work ethic.

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Modern Classic

Classic Modern – the clarity and purity of the modernist ideology prevails in architecture and interiors to this day. Glass and steel and a strong palette built on white, black and gray are the cornerstones of the style. Add an African mask and a stack of art books to complete the familiar composition that has served so well for decades and decades.

This Studio Palette selects straightforward textures in a particular range to reflect the archetypical Classic Modern style. Deep tones for the floor—like dark brown, black and charcoal—provide clarity to the space, putting a finer point on the perfect

white of the walls. A single primary color punctuates with lesser accents in light neutrals.

A. Square Footage / 7750 Model; B. Sew Straight / 102405 French Knot; C. Matrix / 100848 Format; D. Palindrome / 102552 Onyx; E. Viva Colores / 101176 Estuco; F. Broomed / 100036 Cornerstone; G. Monochrome / 101841 Blue; H. Worn Again / 9055 Licorice