Formfunc Studio & Humanscale Lead the Conversation on the Future of Human-Centred Workplace Design

In late October, South Africa’s design community gathered for two dynamic events that explored one of the industry’s most urgent frontiers: the future of human-centred workplace design. Hosted by Humanscale, the global leader in ergonomic innovation, in partnership with Formfunc Studio, its exclusive dealer in Southern Africa, the sessions brought fresh perspective, thoughtful dialogue, and a renewed focus on wellbeing in the built environment.

Taking place at Workshop17 Firestation in Rosebank and Workshop17 Newlands in Cape Town, the events welcomed architects, interior designers, specifiers, and industry leaders for afternoons shaped by insight and connection.

In Johannesburg, Juliet Kavishe (Prof Int Arch) guided a compelling live conversation with Todd Bracher, Humanscale’s Creative Director, who joined virtually from New York. Bracher offered a global lens on phenomenological design – the idea that spaces should respond to human experience at its most fundamental level. His discussion sparked a lively Q&A, where emerging workplace trends and practical design applications took centre stage.

Cape Town’s session shifted the lens to strategy and future-thinking, with Chris Reid, Trend Researcher and Strategist, in conversation with Sergio Silva, Humanscale’s Vice President of Design & Innovation. Silva explored how purpose-driven design, sustainability, and inclusivity can shape more meaningful workplaces, places where productivity and wellbeing are not opposing forces, but deeply intertwined.

Both facilitators brought clarity, expertise, and an inviting sense of openness to their sessions, creating an atmosphere ripe for discussion and shared curiosity.

Adding to the momentum, Formfunc Studio unveiled the new Humanscale Kvadrat Living collection, a series of seating solutions defined by bold colour, rich texture, and a distinctly residential sensibility. Designed to move beyond traditional task seating, the range signals an exciting evolution in contract furniture, bridging comfort and performance for modern offices and hybrid workspaces.

“We were delighted to bring together such an enthusiastic and knowledgeable design community,” said Kim Kowalski, Director at Formfunc Studio. “The depth of conversation and shared commitment to human-centred innovation perfectly reflect the values that Humanscale and Formfunc Studio champion.”

With thoughtful content, warm hospitality, and the creative energy of two of South Africa’s most inspiring co-working spaces, the events reinforced a shared commitment: to design workplaces that prioritise people – their comfort, their creativity, and their everyday experience.