two lookbook vol 2

two book

summer 2023

presented by two unveiling inspiration.

Paul Mabe-Fogg A&D Manager, two

welcome to the two book

I hope this finds you in great spirits! I recently had the pleasure of attending the renowned furniture tradeshow, NeoCon, with my colleagues, and I am excited to share our experiences and impressions with you.

Once again, NeoCon brought together the industry’s finest minds, unveiling a plethora of cutting-edge designs, materials, and concepts poised to shape the future of the furniture and interior design landscape. Witnessing how furniture manufacturers and designers push boundaries, reimagining traditional forms and incorporating technology to create truly remarkable and functional pieces was fascinating. It was a reminder that furniture is not merely utilitarian; it has the power to shape our environment, evoke emotions, and enhance our overall well-being.

I also love witnessing how sustainability has emerged as a central theme across the design world, and the furniture showcased at the tradeshow reflected this growing awareness. Many exhibitors emphasized their commitment to environmentally friendly materials, responsible manufacturing processes, and circular economy principles. It was encouraging to see how sustainability has become an integral part of design, with eco-conscious choices seamlessly integrated into aesthetically pleasing and functional pieces of furniture.

The innovations and ideas presented at NeoCon serve as a testament to the ever-evolving nature of design and its ability to shape the way we live, work, and interact with our surroundings.

Walt Disney once said, “If you can dream it, you can do it.” I hope you get inspired.

Cheers, Paul Mabe-Fogg welcome

meet two

we’re two Chairity 2023

out & about

NeoCon

NeoCon recap

take a seat

elevating functionality

architectural elements & curated spaces

the finishing touch beyond the office

local recommendations

sip + bite recipes

meet two

we’re two

We started with the idea that we wanted to go beyond just selling furniture; we wanted to create spaces for organizations where people, including ourselves, would genuinely want to go to, every day.

In this book, we are excited to share what we see in the marketplace, what is going on in the community, and, of course, sharing what we love. And know, we love more than just furniture.

We look forward to continuing the journey twogether.

financial tech company, San Francisco photography credits :: Adam Rouse

two + our community

As a collective, we’re always trying to find new ways to give back to our community. Here are some of the initiatives we take part in and we look forward to continue expanding our outreach.

Oakland Unified School District

We have an ongoing partnership with OUSD where we help teach students about the A&D Industry - intent being to inspire the future generation on the opportunities and range of what’s possible between design, architecture, sales, administration, project management, and more.

CHAIRITY

Chairity 2023

Chairity is an annual event hosted by two where creative volunteers auction off their designs in order to raise money for our community.

Want

this year’s causes ::

The Anti Police-Terror Project seeks to build a replicable and sustainable model to eradicate police terror in communities of color. They support families surviving police terror in their fight for justice and help connect impacted families and community members with the resources they need.

Muttville reaches out to senior dogs at risk, giving them the care they need, and finding them loving forever homes.

Project Color Corps collaborates with people to add color to their essential community spaces, creating beauty, belonging, and joy. Their work infuses a sense of well-being and equity into the spaces around us.

The Center supports the needs of the entire LGBTQ community and allies through robust programming. They also connect people to a rich network of organizations in San Francisco serving the LGBTQ community.

Project Color Corps

Through Chairity, we have proudly raised over $70,000 in support of Project Color Corps. We hold this organization close to our hearts, and our commitment to their cause is unwavering.

With Brian Buhl joining as a board member, we are excited to remain actively involved for years to come.

Project Color Corps believes in the transformative power of vibrant spaces. They envision places where children can learn, families can connect, and communities can thrive. They work together to transform schools, libraries, community centers, and play areas through color and vibrancy.

out & about

ICFF, New York

Academy of Sciences, San Francisco

IIDA Honor Awards, San Francisco

Congrats Gensler (Twitch, Los Angeles) & Blitz (L’Oreal West Coast HQ) for taking home wins and letting us be a part of it!

NeoCon

NeoCon Recap :: What’s Hot in Design!

Our time at NeoCon was truly remarkable, as we were able to experience the ultimate event for the commercial design industry. We had the privilege to immerse ourselves in the latest trends and innovations at the renowned Merchandise Mart in Chicago - a hub for creativity and inspiration.

At NeoCon, we discovered some exciting trends that are taking the design world by storm. We are thrilled to share our knowledge with you in our twobook!

With our passion for design, we’re excited to bring these trends to life and help you create inspiring workspaces that reflect your unique brand. Whether it’s embracing dynamic workspaces, prioritizing sustainability, integrating technology, or adding vibrant colors, we’ve got you covered.

Twogether, we’ll make your workspace shine!

The Color Story of NeoCon

the wildbunch drop by

Boardwalk by West Elm

LessThanFive by Coalesse

Designtex

Grid Shelves by Steelcase

WorkValet by Steelcase

Nido by Martin Bratturd

Hana by Martin Bratturd

Alfred Chair by Grand Rapids Chair Co

Stacked Storageby Established & Sons

Puffy by Hem

take a seat

Bolete Lounge BIO + table by Andreu World

Hendrika’s favorite product ::

by Hendrika Kantor, Creative Specialist

It’s been a long time since I’ve been to NeoCon so when invited to attend this year, I jumped at the opportunity.

Eagerly anticipating this event, I packed my bags and headed to Chicago, and I was not disappointed, as a matter of fact, it was better than expected. The platform that NeoCon provides to a multitude of manufacturers is simply unmatched. We got to walk through beautiful vignettes, experience new materials, feel new textures and enjoy bright colors vibrating throughout the spaces. This year the focus was on the variety of textures, colored wood, organic shapes, soft curves, color and nature. All working in synergy to create spaces that will have a profound effect in the people sharing new spaces.

Oru by Andreu World

Pippin by NaughtOne

twobit :: this was a unanimous favorite for the most comfortable lounge chair @ NeoCon!

Flote by Hightower

Gathr exudes both sophistication and style. Its two-tier module form allows for adaptability, creating harmonious landscapes that support various workflows

Gathr by OFS

multi-functional seating

Summit by Hightower

pictured below

Bleachers by Spacestor

pictured above

Gala Chair by Andreu World

Soto by Andreu World

Rib by Schiavello

Underline by Stylex

Monica by Bulo

by Paul Mabe-Fogg, A&D Manager

Furniture can help create an equitable workplace by promoting inclusivity, accessibility, and comfort for all employees. At 5’5, I have personally felt the power of equitable design and the lack thereof and how it has impacted my well-being and performance at work. Some may call it the little things, but the little things make all the difference to many. From having a three-stage sit-stand desk vs. two-stage so I can sit upright with my feet on the ground to having a variety of typologies within a floorplate to allow for different work modes - they all can impact the way we think, collaborate, and work.

An equitable workplace is important because it ensures fairness, equal opportunities, and inclusion, ultimately contributing to a positive work culture, employee engagement, and organizational success. It is a continuous process requiring ongoing commitment and effort from employers and employees alike.

Here are several ways in which furniture contributes to a more equitable workplace ::

· Accessibility

· Ergonomics

· Flexibility

· Inclusive Design

· Collaborative Spaces

· Breakout and Relaxation Spaces

· Privacy and Personalization

By considering these factors and providing adaptable furniture options, organizations can create a more equitable workplace that supports the well-being and productivity of all employees, regardless of their diverse needs.

One of my favorite products from NeoCon this year was Halcon’s Optic. It takes the idea of hybrid meetings to a whole new level. When I first saw Optic, it made me think of King Arthur’s Round Table; its shape and technology make you feel like everyone in the meeting has equal status. Plus, the table is gorgeous!

Paul’s

how do we make hybrid work more equitable?

Traditional office room layouts are biased toward in-room collaboration and create sightline challenges and obstructed views. Designers are rethinking traditional norms to improve collaboration spaces for hybrid work.

Ocular Collection by Steelcase

Ocular™ is a collection of tables designed for hybrid collaboration. Unique table shapes improve sightlines, creating a more equitable experience for in person and remote meeting participants.

Everyone in the room is equidistant to the camera

Optic by Halcon

Cape by Pair

Viccarbe

Solar

Solar is a disruptive swivel table concept that leads to new ways of working and collaborating for both indoor and outdoor settings. The integrated seat rotates according to the user’s needs, guaranteeing collaboration but also privacy.

Foro Bring richness, texture, and dimension to any environment with this solid oak table. Foro can include Viccarbe’s patented electrification solution, to seamlessly conceals cables through the leg without any visible joints or screws.

Fuste

Warm, perfectly balanced, and subtle – a tribute to classic architecture. Bring a touch of warmth and minimalism to your space.

All parts can be recycled independently, extending its lifecycle and fostering circular economy. With Funda resources are optimized, without compromising on comfort or resistance, creating a rich sustainability story.

elevating functionality

an eye for detail

Helm by Halcon

Meet Helm, the ultimate executive desk and meeting table. It’s designed to perfection, featuring luxurious materials and seamless integration of technology. The unexpected twist: Helm also comes with an adjustable-height surface, adding even more functionality to its already sleek design.

Minimalist adjustableheight controls with USB-C Connectivity

Designed to accommodate facilities power access at any point along base

Luxurious valet drawer is seamlessly tucked away

Wireless charging + USB-C connectivity

effortlessly transform boardrooms into flexible, multi-use space with Motus

Motus by Halcon

Adaptable folding tables and mobile accessories provide space flexibility with executive-level sophistication

Tables flip and nest easily on concealed casters

Motus is the ultimate exectutive-level reconfigurable table

flip your world (and table) upside down

Myne by Nucraft

The Vox® Mega FlipTop by Nienkamper International Inc.

Agility by Nucraft

With innovative design and thoughtful engineering, CREW pairs the familiar form of a classic table with the ease of flip-top mobility.

Crew by Halcon

get inspired :: Halo Office Collection

Dev’s favorite product ::

Seba Davis

by Dev Reyes, Senior Creative Specialist

Whirldwinds might do well to take note of the flurry of anticipation and inspiration that two days of NeoCon managed to jostle up! As a first-timer attending this commercial furniture mecca in Chicago, I was not ready for the sheer volume of bodies and backrests I encountered in the hours we spent perusing new products with clients and designers alike.

What I saw: Color is back in a big way. Many of us in the industry have noticed this as we transition from more neutral palettes to clients’ desire for a stronger sense of place and narrative in their workspaces. It was bright, it was moody, it was playful!

Most poignant for me, outside of the broad range of ancillary easter eggs, was the deep sense of community that permeated the walls of the showroom right out onto the riverwalk some hundred feet below: this is just as much as an event for clients as it is for the community of makers, thinkers, dreamers and risktakers that is our A+D world. How special it is to feel a sense of belonging in what I would argue is THE best INDUSTRY in the world. Until next time windy city!

Davis

Seba Lounge

The Seba collection is designed with convenience in mind. With its cast inner core and thin base, you won’t even notice the concealed casters that effortlessly glide the furniture into various applications.

Capas

The Capas Table is a visually dynamic piece that changes its appearance depending on how you look at it - when nested together, they create a beautiful landscape arrangement.

Cape

The Cape Collection provides an endless variety of furnishing opportunities. From classic sofas to large-scale modular lounge configurations, this collection defines memorable and remarkably comfortable spaces within lounge areas, open offices and casual interiors.

A collection of cascading planters, the modern, geometric shapes were created to starkly contrast with an infinite variety of plants used to bring the outdoors in.

Vida

This sculptural, modern showpiece design will be a stand-out in any space. The strength and rigor of the base is contrasted with a soft curve in both its silhouette and overall form.

Bonh

earning the commute

top 10 reasons to come to the office ::

source: Gensler

work modes

Versatile Planning

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to the modern workplace. Employees are looking for options that support both team and individual work. Solutions such as Gradient ( pictured left) can accommodate a variety of workstyles; whether you need open or closed floorplans, collaborative or focus work, or seated or standing postures, Gradient flexes to create a tailored workspace just for you.

Gradient by Pair

Gradient was created to be changed. No more stagnant work zones; simply add or take away components to create the perfect blend of focus, collaboration, meeting, and huddle areas – all in one platform. Add storage and space division to create a truly dynamic workspace.

Gradient’s componentry includes beams, desks, collaborative tables, screens, storage, and planters allowing a wide range in privacy and collaboration.

Take control of the design. Besides just changing the configurations, select a palette that best reflects your brand, whether playful, light and bright or dark and moody; the options are endless.

Pair collaborated with Gensler, serving as a product design consultant for Gradient

SOMA is an ultra-flexible storage solution that goes far beyond the typical locker. SOMA provides you with a platform to design something with intention that fits your workplace perfectly.

Add some functional flair with lockers, meeting zones, planters, shelves, whiteboards, collaborative tables, and more.

SOMA by Pair

architectural elements & curated spaces

Designed to simplify + define spaces. Whether you need privacy or a place for collaboration, Obeya provides a framework for bringing people together.

Obeya by OFS

Air³ by Orangebox

Orangebox’s award-winning Air³ acoustic pod range can act as a freestanding meeting room, private space, phone booth or touchdown room.

Lives Post + Beam by Okamura

Subtle, adjustable boundaries, offer places for authentic conversations, that build trust, care and a sense of belonging. These powerful connections will help teams collaborate more effectively.

it’s not just a pod; it’s a way to transform workplace culture

Adapt sound, light and airflow to work for you. Don’t just look and sound good. Feel your best.

Framery

Framery soundproof meeting

for teams of up to 6

2Q by

room

On the QT by Orangebox

BuzziNest by BuzziSpace

Everwall, by Steelcase

Everwall, by Steelcase

Everwall is a prefabricated wall system offering the right balance of acoustic performance, aesthetic options and price. It combines design freedom with one of the fastest installations in the industry.

hybrid-unitized system

acoustic performace

ceiling track

the finishing touch

by Manali Khatri, Marketing Project Manager

As a marketer, my perspective at NeoCon revolved around how furniture and design elements can amplify a brand’s message. It’s not just about looks; a space should create a unique sense of identity, even without logos. Through elements such as color, textures, graphics, and decor, you can help make your brand shine!

Let me tell you about two big standouts: DI-NOC by 3M x DesignTex and Pixel by Scandinavian Spaces. DI-NOC blew me away with its ability to achieve a luxurious, high-end vibe using versatile wall coverings. And the best part? You can easily refresh the space when trends change without breaking the bank.

Now, let’s talk about Pixel. This clever solution allows endless customization and seamlessly incorporates elements of nature into your space. What’s really cool is that if any Pixel cube gets damaged or needs an update, you can swap it out in a matter of seconds.

From stunning wall coverings to truly unique pieces of furniture, I left NeoCon feeling inspired and excited for what’s to come!

Manali’s favorite products ::

DI-NOC 3M x Designtex pictured left Pixel

Scandinavian Spaces pictured right

Etc.Studio

Add the finishing touch with art & decor

Etc. is for finding, sourcing, and installing all the decorative things that will complete a space. It is a service that enhances the design vision and supports the story of your brand identity. Their goal is to create enjoyable & meaningful workplace environments that evoke an emotional connection.

And the best part... They’re a one stop shop! They make it easy for you, from design & curation to install & trash removal. They’ll be there every step of the way.

It obscures digital screens to outside view, perfectly balancing openness and privacy in the workplace.

Casper by Designtex

DI-NOC distributed by Designtex

change the look and feel of your whole space with ease

DI-NOC

DI-NOC allows you to achieve your design vision on almost any surface with simplicity, ease and peace of mind. With a catalog of over 1,000 realistic patterns that include textured woodgrains, artisanal metals, sophisticated stones, soft textiles and more, DI-NOC is a smart choice that requires little downtime for installation. As easy to install as vinyl wallcovering, DI-NOC adds a special touch to walls and makes incorporating precious materials affordable and practical.

twobit :: DI-NOC was initially used in the auto industry to supply cars with wood-grain effect finishes in the 60s.

what to do with your walls

Flex Wall Pacakge

Mirror Mirror by blu dot

by Steelcase

Groove, Wall Scape by Turf

Fire resistant and hypoallergenic, this moss purifies the air by constantly removing airborne particles

Pixel by Scandinavian Spaces

Tig Hook by Hem

Cut by Davis

Custom Gradient wallpaper digitally printed from Designtex digital studio

beyond the office

Tiki by Extremis

A couple months ago, we suggested to Thomas Wynant that workplace facilities would love a trolley for the Tiki, and... BAM! By NeoCon, they made it happen!

tools to make spaces work harder, and your life easier

Stacking

Chair

Dolly by blu dot

Thomas Wynant, Next Boss pictured left

Hot Mesh by

blu dot

by Extremis

Amai

Souvenir by Pedrali

Hevea by Pedrali

Nolita by Pedrali

items perfect for a cozy conversation, a calming coffee break, or simply observing the world’s gentle rhythms.

Chop by Hem

Tribeca by Pedrali

Bistroo by Extremis

research & trends

ESG is playing a larger role ::

80% OVER

of respondents consider environmental, social, and governance (ESG) elements when making operational or investment decisions.

Professional Service

Firm Trends ::

1 2 3 4

For professional service firms, experience and amenities can draw workers to the office.

For law firms, the office will continue to be a valuable tool for focus work

The need for talent will continue to drive sustainability and equity in the legal workplace.

Management avisory forms have an oppurtunity to onnect real estate to carbon goals.

Financial Leadership Trends ::

1 2 3

Leadership in the industry will focus on training, mentoring, professional development, and onboarding to retain talent.

Hybrid work is causing the industry to rethink the definition of a primary seat in the financial workplace ecosystem.

Financial service organizations are increasingly transforming their design space guidelines into workplace experience guidelines.

sources: Gensler, HOK

1 2 3 4

More than 70% of organizations are using workforce analytics projected value of workforce analytics by 2028*

$2.9 bil

*currently valued at $1 billion

Workplace Design Trends for 2023 ::

Workplace data showed a continued uptick in office occupancy and demand as companies rebound from the pandemic

Instead of just prioritizing cost, companies are asking for highly tailored spaces to recruit and retain talent, especially in today’s tight labor market.

The 2023 workplace must be commute-worthy as getting to the office is often cited as the leading deterrent to working in-person.

Spaces should be flexible to accommodate the day-to-day.

5 6 7 8

44% global tech leaders say they’re short on talent

More and more companies are investing in diversity, equity and inclusion to meet the expectations of employees, customers and shareholders.

Outdoor amenities and movement are part of a healthy workplace.

Wellness will continue to cross paths with sustainability in 2023 as workplaces and office products emphasize human health and minimizing off–gassing, carbon and waste

Employees currently have the advantage as it’s an employee’s market (vs. employers)

lifestyle

If you find yourself in beautiful San Francisco, be sure to check out Beretta off Divisadero for some Italian fare then walk over to Minibar for delicious cocktails and cozy vibes.

-Dev Reyes

Mornings in SF call for coffee and tasty pastries at b. patisserie! If you’re here on a Saturday, be sure to take a stroll through the Ferry Building Farmer’s Market.

-Paul Mabe-Fogg

Heading to Culver City? Start your day with coffee and pastries at GoodBoyBob. Next, head over to Chica’s Tacos for some mouthwatering fish tacos. Oh, and don’t forget to make a pit stop at Erewhon for some fancy groceries or a smoothie— it’s totally worth the hype.

Casa de Reyes in San Diego offers traditional Mexican food in a great setting. You can enjoy the entertainment of the Mariachi music and folk dancing!

-Manali Khatri

-Hendrika Kantor

recipe ::

Roasted Broccolini & Lemon With Parmesan

ingredients :: steps ::

1 Lemon

4 Garlic Cloves

2 Bunches Broccolini

3-4 Tablespoons Olive Oil

Salt & Pepper

1/2 Cup Grated Parmesan

1 2 3

Heat oven to 425 degrees. Thinly slice half the lemon into rounds and set the other half aside. Toss lemon slices, garlic and broccolini with the olive oil on a rimmed baking sheet. Season with salt and pepper, making sure everything is evenly coated, especially the broccolini tips so they get fried and crisp.

Sprinkle with Parmesan and roast until the broccolini is bright green, starting to char and the cheese is golden brown, 10 to 15 minutes.

Remove from the oven, squeeze the remaining half of the lemon over the top and serve.

source: NY Times Cooking

recipe ::

Chutney Grilled Cheese

grilled cheese filling ingredients (mix together) ::

Shredded Cheddar Cheese

Chopped Grape Tomatoes

Minced Serrano Chilies (or jalapeno) to taste

Minced Red Onion

Chopped Cilantro

Lime Juice

Salt to taste

mint chutney (blend the following ingredients) ::

1 Bunch Mint

1 Bunch Cilantro

1 Serrano Chili

Garlic (optional)

assembly ::

1-2 Limes to taste

Salt to taste

1 ice cube

Butter both sides of your bread, then start by crisping up the inside of your bread slices. Once crispened, flip the slices and spread a generous layer of mint chutney, and add a heaping pile of the cheese mixture and close the slices. Be patient! Heating this sandwich up low and slow will create the meltiest cheese and crispiest exterior.

Serve with more mint chutney.

recipe by: Manali Khatri

recipe :: Summer Corn Salad

6-8 Ears of Corn

2 Tablespoons Olive Oil

1/2 Red Onion, Diced

1/2 Red Bell Pepper, Diced

1 Avocado, Seeded, Peeled & Chopped

4 Tablespoons Olive Oil

6 Tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar

1 Teaspoon Sugar

ingredients :: dressing :: instructions ::

1 Teaspoon Dijon Mustard

Juice From 1 Lime

Salt & Pepper

2 3 4

1 Whisk dressing ingredients together and set aside.

Heat grill on medium-high heat. Brush corn lightly with olive oil and grill for a few minutes, rotating it as it cooks, until golden on all sides.

Add 1-2 inches of water to a large skillet. Bring to a boil. Add shucked corn ears and cook for 3-4 minutes, rotating to cook on all sides. Drain water.

source: The Recipe Critic

Allow the corn to cool and then cut corn off of the cob and add to a bowl. Add remaining salad ingredients and drizzle with desired amount of dressing (you may not use it all). Toss to combine. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

recipe :: Vesper

ingredients :: steps ::

3 ounces gin

1 ounce vodka

1/2 ounce Lillet blanc

aperitif

Garnish: lemon twist

1 2 3 4

Add the gin, vodka and Lillet blanc into a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously for 20–30 seconds, until ice cold. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.

source: Bon Appétit

Express the oils from a lemon twist over the drink, rub the twist along the rim of the glass and drop it into the cocktail.

recipe ::

Chile-Lime-Pineapple Soda

ingredients ::

1 tablespoon pink peppercorns

1 lime, plus wedges for serving

2 dried chiles de árbol, plus crushed for serving

makes 12 steps ::

1 2 3

Crush peppercorns with a mortar and pestle or use the side of a chef’s knife.

3 cups fresh pineapple juice

½ cup sugar

Pinch of kosher salt

9 cups club soda, divided

4

Remove zest from lime in wide strips with a vegetable peeler, leaving white pith behind. Place in a medium bowl. Add peppercorns, whole chiles de árbol, pineapple juice, sugar, and salt and stir until most of sugar is dissolved. Transfer to a 1-qt. jar or an airtight container. Cover and chill 8–12 hours.

Strain juice through a fine-mesh sieve into another medium bowl (you should have about 3 cups); discard solids.

https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/chile-lime-pineapple-soda

To make 1 drink, mix ¼ cup juice with ¾ cup club soda in a measuring glass; taste and add more juice if you want it sweeter. Pour into an icefilled glass. Garnish with a lime wedge and crushed chile de árbol.

5

Do Ahead: Juice can be infused and strained 3 days ahead. Cover and chill.

Publisher two

Editors

Manali Khatri

Paul Mabe-Fogg

Contributors

Dev Reyes

Emily Senes

Hendrika Kantor

Manali Khatri

Paul Mabe-Fogg

twofurnish.com

Editorial Designer

Ian Isaacs

twofurnish

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