Steelcase, Hightower, Hartkopf

Hightower's design approach differs significantly from Steelcase's, primarily in its scale, sourcing, and philosophy. While Steelcase is a global furniture giant focused on large-scale, research-driven commercial and system furniture, Hightower is a smaller, design-driven company that curates a collection of fresh, often Scandinavian-rooted designs. 

Here is a breakdown of the key differences:

Scale and manufacturing

• Steelcase: A multinational corporation with over a century of history, Steelcase has a massive, integrated manufacturing and distribution operation. Its focus is on producing large volumes of system furniture and ergonomic chairs for corporate, educational, and healthcare environments. Its design process is highly systematic, incorporating extensive research on human behavior, posture, and well-being.
• Hightower: As a much smaller, family-owned business, Hightower operates on a more agile, curated model. It initially focused on importing furniture from global partners, particularly from Scandinavian design houses. While it has since expanded to domestic manufacturing, its operational scale allows for greater flexibility and a more selective, design-first approach. 
• Steelcase: Its aesthetic is often associated with the classic, modern corporate office. While innovating with new materials and technology, its primary mission is to create functional, durable, and highly adjustable products that solve specific workplace problems for large organizations.
• Hightower: Its aesthetic is defined by a global, curated approach, with strong roots in Scandinavian design characterized by simplicity, craftsmanship, and clean lines. Rather than being driven solely by function or ergonomics, Hightower's design is heavily influenced by creative and often award-winning designers from around the world. 

Product development and collection strategy

• Steelcase: Its product lines are often the result of extensive internal research and development, leading to signature products like the Leap Chair, which sets industry standards for ergonomics and adjustability. The company's product catalog is a comprehensive portfolio of solutions for entire offices and campuses.
• Hightower: Its product development is defined by collaboration with external designers and international partners, resulting in a more diverse and eclectic collection. The company brings fresh, often award-winning designs to the U.S. market, focusing on specific pieces that add character and unique style to a space, rather than building an entire integrated system. 

Target market and client base

• Steelcase: Historically focused on large enterprise and corporate clients, Steelcase has traditionally outfitted entire floors or buildings. Its emphasis is on providing durable, scalable solutions that meet the needs of a wide range of employees.
• Hightower: While serving corporate clients, Hightower is popular with forward-thinking interior designers and companies in the tech, education, and hospitality sectors. Its curated collection and boutique brand identity appeal to clients seeking to create a specific aesthetic that is unique and less corporate. 

In summary, Steelcase represents the established, large-scale, research-driven end of the commercial furniture industry, while Hightower represents the agile, design-first, and curated end. Scott Hartkopf's experience at Steelcase gave him a comprehensive understanding of the industry, but he founded Hightower on a different set of principles, emphasizing a design-led, nimble, and collaborative model.