Our Design Team
Joey Ruiter
Award-winning designer Joey Ruiter challenges the limits of what’s possible, crafting products that surprise and inspire. With a portfolio spanning furniture, transportation, and household objects, his work is a perfect blend of utility and artistry. Known for his bold creativity and boundary-pushing concepts, Ruiter transforms ideas into unforgettable designs that speak for themselves.
The JSI team sought to create a product that captured the essence of the brand — elements of its own nearly 150-year history, artfully made details and a contagious attitude of positivity. Working with Ruiter, he brought his signature vision creating Henley, blending history with modern craftsmanship. Sparked by inspiration in the century-old steam bending room, he drew from the wear patterns on the work bench, the pride of skilled artisans, and the essence of JSI’s nearly 150-year story. With Henley, Joey reimagined the classic 1920s Boston chair, delivering a design that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly new — an artful reflection of timeless quality and creative innovation.
Mike Shields
Mike Shields, principal of StudioThree, is a creative force in the world of industrial design, bringing over 30 years of expertise to the contract furniture industry. Known for his mastery of balancing bold innovation with streamlined functionality, Mike’s work spans seating, casegoods, and tables that elevate both form and function. His career is marked by a relentless pursuit of fresh ideas and an unwavering commitment to detail, earning him six Best of NeoCon awards and over 25 patents.
Mike has delivered transformative designs for JSI Health like the Kindera recliner, the Satisse metal seating family, and the Somna sleep sofa—solutions that redefine comfort and functionality. The Proxy, Protocol, and Newton swivel chairs each showcase his knack for balancing modern aesthetics with practical functionality. His approach emphasizes designing for disassembly, using single-material components, and simplifying manufacturing, all while adhering to environmentally responsible principles. Balancing his “less is more” aesthetic with bold innovation, Mike’s work elevates spaces and sets new standards in sustainable, high-performance furniture that make him a true innovator in the industry.
Kindera
Comfort-forward design for clinical spaces where care, dignity, and versatility matter.
Protocol
Designed for leaders, collaborators, and focused thinkers alike, it offers tailored comfort without excess.
Newton
A contemporary swivel collection with sculpted comfort and signature aluminum detailing.
Justin Champaign
Justin’s design approach goes beyond just making furniture; it combines creativity and purpose with a focus on honest design that truly considers the needs of the user. His style enlivens spaces, turning them into engaging experiences. With a balance of playfulness and intuition, Justin creates pieces that are both visually appealing and functional. His work reflects the diverse pace of modern life, making each item significant and valuable. Through his innovative vision, rooted in honest design, Justin invites us to interact with our surroundings in a more dynamic and meaningful way.
An award-winning industrial designer, Champaign design Caav and Indie lounge families for JSI.
Qdesign
Qdesign is a trailblazer in the contract furniture industry, crafting award-winning designs that seamlessly blend form and function. Known for shaping standout collections like Bourne, Native, Poet, BeSPACE, Finn, and Finn Nu for JSI, they deliver innovative solutions that elevate environments and exceed market expectations. Partnering with Whitney Architects CEO Mark Stenftenagel, Qdesign bridges product and architectural design, creating pieces that don’t just fit into spaces—they define them. With a bold, creative approach, Tim Buchenberger, Chris Harry, and Rick Joutras of Qdesign continue to push boundaries and inspire with every design.
Finn Nu
Scandinavian-inspired warmth, tailored for modern spaces with timeless character.
CSD Studio
CSD Studio is a creative collective passionate about transforming furniture into meaningful experiences. Led by principals Lynda Chesser, Bill Schacht, and Design Director Chad Zimmerman, the team blends art and technology to craft designs that resonate with the human spirit. With a commitment to research, insight, and innovation, CSD Studio creates inspiring, human-centered products that nurture the mind, body, and spirit. Their work has garnered numerous industry awards including 14 Best of NeoCon awards, and a Best of Competition, showcasing their dedication to pushing boundaries and understanding human needs.
CSD Studio has designed the Arwyn family and Collective Motion for JSI.
Arwyn
Arwyn brings softness and versatility to lounges, waiting areas, and collaborative spaces.
Collective Motion
Mini stools designed for movement and connection across work, learning, and care spaces.
David Allan Pesso
New Studio is a boutique industrial design firm founded in 1989 by David Allan Pesso, a Rochester Institute of Technology honors graduate. With over 350 original designs licensed, including Moto and Flux, 24 U.S. patents, and awards like the IIDA, Best of NeoCon, and Good Design Award, the studio has earned its place as a leader in furniture design. Based in Scottsdale, Arizona, this multi-person team delivers fresh, fearless, and functional designs that inspire and elevate spaces for top contract brands, redefining what’s possible in industrial design.
Bill Raftery
Bill Raftery brings a bold, timeless approach to industrial design. With decades of experience shaping office furniture for industry leaders, he continues to leave his mark at JSI with standout creations like the Garvey R5, a design that embodies his passion for blending utility and elegance. A recipient of numerous design accolades, Bill’s innovative spirit and commitment to quality remain at the heart of his work, delivering pieces that inspire connection and elevate spaces.
Greg Saul
Greg Saul, a graduate of Auburn University’s School of Industrial Design, has dedicated over 25 years to creating exceptional commercial seating and ergonomic furniture that seamlessly blend style and functionality. As the visionary behind the award-winning Knox seating collection for JSI, Greg’s designs have earned prestigious accolades, including the Good Design Award, Best of NeoCon Gold and Silver, and Adex Gold and Silver. Operating out of Charlotte, North Carolina, his firm, Tolleson Saul Design, utilizes advanced CAD systems, rapid prototyping, and in-house wood and metal craftsmanship to explore innovative solutions in furniture design and manufacturing. With more than 30 U.S. and European design and utility patents, Greg’s work embodies a commitment to redefining comfort, quality, and modern design.
