Nine presidents and counting

Gunlocke is known for their craftsmanship and their agility to respond to the needs of today’s fast-changing workplace. They stand for quality and insist on integrity. What else would you expect from a 117-year-old furniture manufacturer that has had nine U.S. presidents sit in their chairs? They still steam bend wood for select seating, a wood working technique rarely employed by large manufacturers, but modern machining and a wide-ranging choice of materials are used to enhance their products’ purposeful design. When Gunlocke’s lease was about to expire, they knew they needed to find a new showroom to highlight their purposeful design. Where did they end up and what does it look like? See for yourself.

Gunlocke designs and manufactures furniture with character for workplaces across the United States. It is part of the HNI family of companies that, together, make up one of the largest furniture manufacturers in the world. Like other HNI companies, Gunlocke has a longstanding relationship with JLL. With a few years left on Gunlocke’s lease, JLL’s Tucker Farman helped determine whether Gunlocke should renovate and refresh their current showroom or relocate somewhere better suited for them. Tucker conducted an extensive needs analysis and helped Gunlocke realize they should be in the heart of Washington, DC, close to their clients and design partners in a space more visible to the community. After touring all available options that fit Gunlocke’s preferences, Tucker identified space at 1725 Eye Street. The best part: the space is in the same building as Gunlocke’s sister company, Allsteel. This enhances a strong synergy between the two companies and makes it easier for clients and furniture partners to visit.

Tucker negotiated the business terms for Gunlocke’s new showroom and engaged JLL’s project manager, Mark Montgomery on the project. Mark worked closely with Tucker and Gunlocke to coordinate the project’s build out and design, from developing the plans to coordinating with the architect and engineer. Gunlocke’s new showroom is a realistic showcase of furniture that makes sense –exactly as Gunlocke intended. It’s warm and inviting and includes broad applications of their product to showcase Gunlocke’s tradition and craftsmanship. Most importantly, when clients visit the space, they can picture themselves working in Gunlocke furniture. The company has had more traffic in their showroom since moving to their new space, largely because of the new location and presence. Tucker and Mark were instrumental in making this all come to life.