AD100 firm Olson Kundig has named Hemanshu Parwani, formerly the firm’s COO and CFO, to the top executive role. Parwani joined Olson Kundig in 2018, following C-suite titles at Wilson Associates and AECOM. In addition to being named CEO, Parwani will join the international architecture and design firm’s ownership group in a move that has him “incredibly humbled and excited.” Continuing in a statement from the firm, Parwani says, “This promotion offers an incredible opportunity to build on our design talent and strengths, ensuring the firm’s ongoing leadership throughout the design industry for years to come.”
Also of note, Kia Weatherspoon has been named the chief development officer at the Black Interior Designers Network (BIDN). “Kia’s determination and tenacity will fuel our team and propel us into a bright future where the network will succeed at its fullest potential with her support,” BIDN president Keia McSwain commented of the news.
Openings
New Design Within Reach Concept Shop Opens in the Hamptons
A new-format retail shop from Design Within Reach opened earlier this week in Southampton, New York. Replete with cash-and-carry items like home accessories, art, and books, the shop marks a new chapter in the brand’s retail experience. Debbie Propst, president of Herman Miller Group Retail, tells AD PRO that the outpost signifies a new strategy—one driven by customer purchasing habits—that the brand is beginning to test in certain markets, beginning with Southampton.
“Given the seasonality of our new location,” says Propst, “this element of instant gratification is particularly compelling for the area’s residents and visitors. From my experience standing on the sales floor and engaging with customers in this market, I’ve learned Southampton visitors and residents have an appreciation for authentic design, a unique sense of style, and a penchant for a coastal modern aesthetic. As this region is primarily a second-home market, homeowners are regularly looking to bring that coastal modern feel into their homes through art, books, and other decorative essentials to infuse the effortless comfort and style that the Hamptons has to offer.”
The Iconic Home Readies for an Encore
This week, AD made an exciting announcement of its own. The Iconic Home, a virtual show house created in partnership with the Black Interior Designers Network, is set to return for a second installment. To learn more, read up on the news on Fashion Week Daily.
