We flip chairs. We study trends. We surf the web ‘til late hours in the night keeping up with the latest in office environments around the world. We listen. We learn. We share. We blend passion, knowledge, and creativity to deliver extraordinary results. We never say no. We turn small budgets into innovative spaces. But we love developing solutions for big budgets too. We are designers and craftsmen. We are meticulous and we are dreamers. We work hard and play hard. We love what we do, and it shows.
At AIREA we are devoted to developing environments that reflect today’s working culture, while planning and forecasting for future change. We embrace an Integrated Solution strategy that delivers complete, harmonized interior solutions to our customers. We are aligned with Haworth, as well as over 300 manufacturers and service providers to deliver the best, most cost competitive solutions the industry can offer.
Compuware is an ongoing reconfiguration project. As they transition from an 8x8 workstation to a smaller personal space, AIREA is rearranging each zone for a logical and well-designed overall plan. Creating smaller stations out of the existing product has afforded more room for large collaborative spaces. Many offices are making similar shifts to smaller individual workstations with more group-oriented areas.
Architect/Designer: VonStaden Architects
Product Lines: Haworth Race
SF:200,000 sf
DFC’s new office needed to serve various roles and functions, providing space for meetings, events, and presentations, as well as an everyday workplace for DFC employees. Hamilton-Anderson devised an architectural solution for the office, and AIREA provided the furniture to bring their vision to life. The nearly all-white walls of the space highlight reclaimed wood millwork and showcase the modern furniture pieces.
Architect/Designer: Hamilton-Anderson Associates
Product Lines: Haworth, Primeway custom benching
GM desired a space that would accommodate two primary functions: small group collaboration and large group workspaces. IBI Group provided architecture and design services, and AIREA provided furniture solutions for the project. In the interest of flexibility and adaptability, movable furniture was used throughout an open plan. Modular lounge pieces contribute color and style for an entirely innovative and interactive space.
Architect/Designer: IBI Group
Product Lines:
SF:10,400 sf
When Continental Services relocated their headquarters to an office park in Troy, they took the opportunity to completely reinvent their space, using the architecture and design services of Rossetti. Through this project, the catering company’s newly purchased office building was transformed into an engaging hospitality experience. Test kitchens, event space, and an open office area are all visible to clients and visitors, making for an inviting and interactive facility.
Architect/Designer: Rossetti
Product Lines:
As manufacturers of quality handmade products, Shinola headquarters called for an interior that echoed the same level of meticulous craftsmanship. Shinola moved into the Taubman Building at the College for Creative Studies in 2012, introducing the first watch factory in Detroit. Like AIREA, Shinola is dedicated to the Detroit community and its regeneration, making this an especially meaningful project. AIREA worked with Kraemer Design Group and the Interior Design department at CCS to create an elite collaborative establishment featuring timeless furniture solutions aligned with Shinola’s functional and aesthetic standards. AIREA worked diligently, balancing character and cost to provide an innovative solution.
Architect/Designer: Kraemer Design Group + CCS Interiors Department
Product Lines: Haworth, Indiana Desk, Primeway
SF:30,000 sf
Progressive. Sustainable. Forward thinking. All were key factors in the design and completion of Bartech’s Southfield, Michigan headquarters. AIREA worked in conjunction with Compendium Design Group to develop a total solution for this global workforce management firm, blending several diverse furniture lines to create a cohesive design reflecting Bartech’s brand and culture. The design team balanced individuality and cost to develop a network of collaborative areas and private spaces supporting various job functions. The Bartech headquarters opened its doors in November 2012, and was joined by the remainder of their Michigan employees a year later.
Product Lines: Haworth, Global, Allermuir, Arcadia
SF:16,000 sf
Lear Corporation’s dynamic new headquarters includes open office areas, conferencing spaces, and a showroom. Lear ditched the traditional cubicles in favor of a more inviting open office configuration. They wanted to maximize their space while still providing their employees with some leg room, so AIREA devised a new standard for the corporate and plant environments: workstations occupying a 6x6 footprint in lieu of the former 8x8. These smaller workstations support today’s work style by encouraging employees to make better use of collaborative space. The new furniture solutions come with a smaller kit of parts, allowing the internal facilities team to reconfigure quickly with as few parts as possible.
Product Lines: Haworth Unigroup II
SF:20,000 sf
Quicken’s offices are famous for their bold, high energy interiors and eccentric atmosphere. Employees’ desks are furnished with cardboard cutouts of their own faces, and razor scooters are a common method of travel through the halls. For this project, Quicken sought to develop new ways of working, and took particular interest in Haworth’s line of electric sit-to-stand tables. As a preferred Haworth dealer, AIREA was able to provide Quicken with accurate pricing information and precise lead times. Swift turnaround was a vital factor due to the company’s rapid growth, which compounded its already fast pace.
Architect/Designer: Rossetti, Quicken Standards
Product Lines: Haworth Planes tables
SF: sf
AIREA assisted CBT Architects in the completion of Compuware’s Waltham, Massachusetts office. Designed by CBT, the site includes two outdoor spaces and a large collaboration area and café. The network operating center (NOC) acts as a nucleus where Compuware monitors client websites across the globe. Consequently technology and work tools were key to this project, but the facility also includes lounge and recreation opportunities, such as outdoor terraces and a game room for employees.
Architect/Designer: CBT Architects
Product Lines:
SF:70,000 sf
AIREA STUDIO is a work-lounge open to the public, intended for anyone who wants to work away from their everyday work environment. It's also viewed as business development and product exposure incubator developed to connect [to] Detroit/Metro Detroit business through networking and collaboration. The 2500sf space offers 11 different work-zones, from a single person lounge to a 40 person conference space. For the ‘heads-down-flying-solo’ type to the ‘more brains are better than one’ types, the STUDIO is designed to accommodate the variety of work styles present in today’s workplace.
Product Lines: Haworth, Haworth Collection, Vitra, Allermuir, Molo lighting, Shaw Commercial Flooring, Detroit Wallpaper Co.
SF:2,500 sf
AIREA is a multidisciplinary group from all different walks of life. We work in customer focused teams comprised of individuals with diverse backgrounds and strengths that when combined make great things happen. From right brains, to left brains, to the combination of the two, we have the right personnel for whatever situation or project that arises.
AIREA STUDIO is a forward thinking resource, work lounge, and event studio embedded in the heart of downtown. We promote knowledge sharing and problem solving through inspiration, dialogue, collaboration, and networking. It’s a place where designers, small businesses and corporate work-groups can connect, share, and evolve ideas.
We are passionate about design: the STUDIO is a constantly evolving space showcasing the latest in furniture, materials, technology, and design. At the end of the day, our goal is to serve as a catalyst in the development of projects across a multitude of disciplines throughout the City.
We exist to Connect.Think.Share.Solve.
Alice brings over 20 years of experience in Commercial Interior Design to AIREA. Her A/D experience along with product knowledge and attention to detail allows her to provide a complete package to our clients. Alice is involved in many projects and is the Lead Designer for our Health Care Team providing interior design, space planning, furniture documents and specifications. Her primary goal is to make sure the end result reflects the client’s expectation.
Amy brings over 10 years of contract furniture experience to AIREA. She has a BA in Interior Design from Michigan State University and is a passionate Spartan fan. From small office reconfigurations to complete floor build outs, she treats each design with the focus and creativity it deserves. You can always count on her to get the job done right with a smile on her face, and most likely a cup of coffee and donut in hand.
Andrea brings 7 years of Design and Marketing experience to AIREA. She is the pulse of our customer base, and makes it her priority to stay current on product knowledge, new perspectives, value added ideas and client satisfaction. Having a dual degree in Architecture and Interior Design from Lawrence Technical University, and a MA in Creative Advertising from University Falmouth in the UK, Andrea has a broad knowledge base that makes her vital on all accounts.
Annette is AIREA’s team cheerleader and coach, all wrapped into one. No matter what the day brings, you can count on Annette for a cheerful smile and a can-do attitude. Her clients and team members count on her expertise, experience, and motivation to get the job done.
As a second generation contract furniture aficionado, Arthur brings deep background knowledge of the industry, its evolution and future. A true team player, Arthur enjoys time with his family, dogs, sports and the next business challenge large or small. From the conceptual stages to the completed punch list, he makes sure everyone is happy with all aspects of the project.
Casey is a 2014 graduate from Michigan State (Go Spartans!) and spent a year learning the ropes at a non-profit organization. Now her energy and enthusiasm are a welcome addition to the AIREA family. She has a great attitude, fresh outlook and fits right in with the team.
For not being a ‘black and white’ girl, you wouldn’t expect Christine to be the “Controller,” handling numbers the way she can! With both Corporate and Public Accounting experience, Christine joined AIREA in early 2013. She is a financial wizard who loves the challenges of numbers and enjoys keeping AIREA’s figures in balance and order. Rarely will there be a day in the office without Christine in a cheerful color of fuchsia, coral or aqua, which makes her feel and look happy! Her job flexibility allows her to balance work and family, enabling this lifetime Michigander to take care of work while still making time for family movies, pool and beach fun, and reading a good book during off hours!
Dave brings over 25 years of industry knowledge and leadership to AIREA. Dave leverages his extensive relationships with vendors, architects, designers and industry influencers to motivate & educate the AIREA Team. Driven by creating a “best of class” customer experience, Dave sets the bar high and drives the organization to exceed it. He is a graduate of THE Michigan State University, an Eagle Scout and an avid fisherman.
With an optimistic attitude toward life and a personality that belongs on the big screen, Erica is AIREA’s ‘design-y’ go-to. She has a willingness beyond the norm, and directs it towards everything she touches, from a simple reconfiguration to the design of a new space. She is always up for a challenge, and loves working with all the different teams at AIREA because she understands the value of versatility. Her vibrancy engages both clients and co-workers, and is a vital component to what AIREA represents: genuine connection.
Jane has extensive project experience and provides high-level administrative support to our clients and internal teams. As one of our long term customer service reps here at AIREA, she has an accumulation of more than 28 years in both product sales and order fulfillment. Her knowledge of the process from start to finish allows for a great understanding of any size project, including those she has been involved with; Metro Detroit McNamara Airport, Crain Communication HQ, Lear Corp. HQ, Archdiocese of Detroit, DTW, Private Bank, to name a few.
You can rely on Jane for her attention to detail and focus on getting it done, as her motto is "let’s do it right the first time!" She is a proud graduate from Michigan State University and the office cheerleader for our winning Spartans! Outside of work for fun her passions include decorating with treasures she finds at Estate Sales and Consignment shops, as well as floral design work.
Jeff has over 25 years of experience as an installer and a project manager for the contract furniture industry. In this time, he has developed vast knowledge of furniture, installation, and warehousing that provides an extended service to all clients and projects. Hitting the road on his Harley is Jeff’s form of therapy – “Weekend road trips are the best; just pack the bags and go.”
Jill’s multi-disciplined role to develop new business for AIREA through strategic marketing efforts is paired perfectly with her attention to detail and keen eye for great design. This could be the combined outcome of her education at The University of Michigan and the 5 years of Industry Experience that she brings to us. Jill has a natural understanding of knowing how to provide a great experience which takes a special skill for one to acquire. We are fortunate to have Jill apart of our team with her high energy and positive outlook, she was an instant fit from the day she started with us. If you can’t humor her with a good play on words, offer her something sweet to eat. Guaranteed she will not resist.
Kathy joined the AIREA family in 2008, coming in with 10 years of experience in Customer Service and Project Coordination in the contract furniture industry. She is a master at blending the perfect combination of business and humor into her into her daily routine and her trustworthy can-do attitude is refreshing to her co-workers and clients alike. She is a proud alumnus of Oakland University and a loyal Detroit Tigers fan.
Successful executive and entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience in creating dynamic teams and implementing best practices within the office furniture industry, Ken knows that his strengths are leveraging human capital through mentoring and personal growth of his employees. Performance driven, he understands that an engaged team is a customer focused team that strives for excellence and providing an unsurpassed customer experience.
Besides his extensive international experience, Ken is a Michigan native at heart. He is a Calvin College graduate and has an MBA from Drexel University. He supports the community through membership on several non-profit boards and provides strategic mentoring.
When not at AIREA you may find Ken and his lovely wife Adriana at various soccer, basketball and hockey games of his 3 sons. Yes…3 boys!
Kris is a guy who loves a dark roasted coffee in the morning, freshly pressed himself. The care and passion he takes in making his special coffee is passed through to his profession as a Project Manager. With a background of over 10 years of industry experience installing and then migrating to Project Manager, Kris has been trained by the best and continues to educate himself on the up and coming products. If you want detail and precision, Kris is your main man. As a project manager who embraces big-picture thinking, he stresses the importance of the little details from something as small as aligning an end trim to be perfectly straight to ensuring the job is completed with white glove service, you’re sure to never be disappointed.
Kristie has over 15 years of customer service experience in the contract furniture industry. Beyond her attention to detail and relentless positive attitude, Kristie is mainly responsible for working with the Health Care Team. She handles all quotes, orders and repair service requests from our numerous health care locations, and has great product knowledge. Kristie is a family person; she likes to spend time outdoors, and enjoys cheering for her two children at their sporting events.
Larry’s love of architecture can be documented back to age five, when he created his first floor plan. He continued his training at school, with awards in architectural and lighting design. Larry attended the University of Detroit, where he earned his Bachelor of Architecture, and continued with courses at the Harvard Graduate School of Design, in design firm management and marketing. Larry has been in the industry for over 30 years, with extensive knowledge of systems furniture, space planning, project management, and custom millwork design. In his spare time, he is an avid collector and semi-professional magician.
Lisa has been in the contract industry for 15 years. Her facility planning and interior design background allows her to educate clients on best practices, and the latest in products and trends. Lisa connects with her clients, always getting to the root of their spatial and facility issues, and provides holistic solutions that resolve them. She has a BA in Interior Design from MSU and is a passionate pinterester.
As the saying goes, "the hospital never sleeps." Mary Ann manages the Healthcare team with flawless surgical precision, always aware of the interworking of every project, and it’s a wonder that she ever sleeps. She may not project her voice at the same volume as that of many sales people, but that is her true strength. She listens—truly listens—and understands her clients. Mary Ann is devoted to ensuring excellence for her customers. If it’s a project for a Cardiologist, Mary Ann understands that the project requires heart.
Mary Beth is an essential part of the design team here at AIREA. Whether she is utilizing her contract furniture expertise or entertaining us with her endless humor, she is always enjoyable to be around. Her willingness to help out always comes with an upbeat and positive attitude. She is recognized for her passion to deliver client satisfaction as well as her determination to design in an efficient and creative way. We can always count on her to be a team player and appreciate her insistence that the fun never stops.
Don’t let Pete’s intimidating stature fool you. He actually has a teddy bear soft side that puts you at ease when things get complex. He efficiently manages the service requests for Beaumont Hospital without a hitch. Pete is exceptional at multitasking, which makes him an amazing Director of Operations. He has a wealth of product knowledge that is beneficial to everyone around him. Pete is the commander of everything behind the scenes, keeping the AIREA machine running at full speed.
Terry brings over 33 years of industry experience to AIREA. Starting as a delivery person and working his way up to project management, Terry’s passion to deliver excellent installation at the highest level provides a customer service experience like no other. Driven with a great deal of pride and desire to constantly find ways to improve, you can always count on him to see the job through. Terry’s true passion can be found inside a gym, where he begins each morning setting out to reach for his limits and beyond. Putting a high importance on achieving complete and full body health, Terry strives to improve every day in every aspect of his life.
For the past 20 years, Will has established himself as a reputable, dedicated, and knowledgeable flooring expert. His passion to this business is as great as his commitment to his family. Clients and manufacturers agree that Will’s vast knowledge of products, dedication to customer service, experience estimating, project management and on-site supervision of labor, provides a smooth process from the inception of a project to the final punch. His philosophy is to set the bar high and over-deliver to ensure customer satisfaction.
Yulanda is the heart of AIREA. For the last 10 years, she’s been responsible for everything in our office, from the technology we use to the coffee we drink. She’s fun and lively, always handing out a kind smile or a “job well done.” Her outstanding work ethic and positive attitude are never affected by the busyness of her day, and she always gives the AIREA team something to look forward to when we walk in the door.
