By Erin Griffith from NYT Technology https://ift.tt/X7i4gaS
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"The Furniture Hustlers of Silicon Valley" is an article by Erin Griffith published in the New York Times on June 12, 2019. The article examines the trend of tech startups in Silicon Valley using high-end furniture to create a desirable work environment, and the companies that have emerged to supply this demand.
Griffith begins the article by describing the office of a startup called Brex, which features a $35,000 conference table, a $7,000 couch, and a $1,500 trash can. She notes that Brex is not alone in this trend, and that other startups such as WeWork, Dropbox, and Airbnb are also known for their expensive furniture.
The article goes on to explain the origins of this trend, which can be traced back to the early days of Google. The company's founders, Larry Page and Sergey Brin, famously invested in high-end Aeron chairs for their employees, which became a symbol of the company's success and culture.
Griffith then introduces the companies that have emerged to supply this demand for luxury office furniture. These companies, such as Poppin, HAY, and Article, offer a range of high-end furniture at more affordable prices than traditional luxury brands. They also offer unique customization options and fast shipping, which appeals to startups with fast-paced work environments.
The article raises questions about the value of these expensive furniture investments, and whether they actually improve productivity and creativity in the workplace. Some experts argue that these investments are more about impressing investors and potential employees than improving the work environment. Others point out that comfortable and aesthetically pleasing workspaces can improve employee morale and lead to more productive work.
Overall, "The Furniture Hustlers of Silicon Valley" provides an interesting look into the intersection of technology and office design, and the companies that have emerged to supply the demands of Silicon Valley's startup culture. It raises important questions about the value of luxury office furniture and its impact on workplace culture and productivity.