Designers used to be able to create 2,725 different configurations, now they can create over 180,000

Chicago, IL — June 2019 — Allseating plans to debut the third phase of its ever-expanding Exchange Collection at NeoCon 2019. Designed in collaboration with Nick Gillissie, Exchange is a modular soft-seating system that meets the long-term needs of the modern, flexible workplace through supporting movement and choice. While conceptualizing the enhancements to the system, Gillissie surveyed the 21st century worker to better understand their desired conveniences. With access to power, work surfaces, storage and collaborative tools, Exchange provides an all-encompassing destination that supports user-preference—whether it be a place to relax, collaborate and socialize, or a private spot for individual focus.

At launch in 2018, Exchange offered 2,725 possible configurations. The third expansion of the collection allows for additional planning capabilities resulting in over 180,000 possible variations. Exchange is comprised of just seven recycled injection-molded plastic components and a series of support rails. From single chairs, to banquettes, to open-plan collaborative enclosures, to personal pods and quad workstations, companies can specify the system to suit their needs. In the third phase, Gillissie has introduced back-mounted counters, larger collaborative pods with media sharing, and half-moon collaboration circles with storage and power.

“The contract furniture industry has used the term ‘systems’ in a specific way over the last 30 years, referring to multi-component products that are used to create workstations in their most recognizable form: a desk with a task chair and some variety of vertical surfaces to provide privacy,” says Nick Gillissie of modus ID. “With these recent additions to the Exchange collection, we are forming the basis of a new kind of workplace “systems” product that creates work settings that are: soft-seating based, instead of task chair based; that provide work surfaces suitable for individuals moving from location to location – as opposed to full-sized desks stacked high with paper organizers; and that create spaces supportive of collaboration without the need for costly, full partition walls.”

Customization and retrofitting are key to this collection. Arm styles can be modified based on the work done within the environment. For example, wide, low arms with integrated power outlets can be specified for collaborative areas to support laptop use. Additionally, the collection features connecting legs and tables that allow configurations to easily attach to each other enabling end users, designers and specifiers to create their own custom layouts. In order to best complement a space’s design concept, designers can choose from a multitude of different features and accessories, along with various finish and upholstery options.