At Hightower, sustainability and social responsibility aren’t just part of the mission—they’re core values that shape every decision the company makes under CEO Natalie Hartkopf’s leadership. In this engaging conversation, Natalie shares the journey of how a family-founded furniture company grew from a European design importer into a certified B Corporation that's shaking up the industry.

Natalie speaks candidly about the bold choices that have shaped Hightower’s evolution. From launching their own award-winning product line through Hightower Studio to producing upholstery domestically in North Carolina, every move reflects a deeper commitment to intentional, ethical business practices. Their Flote chair—winner of Best of NeoCon and often described as “like sitting on a cloud”—is a perfect example of their focus on comfort, quality, and thoughtful design.

What really sets Hightower apart, though, is its people-first culture. Instead of prioritizing profits alone, the company has introduced meaningful employee benefits like paid volunteer time, living wage standards, and contributions to 529 education savings plans for employees’ children. They’ve even brought in a professional coach to support leadership development across the organization.

The conversation also ventures into more challenging territory when Natalie calls out an imbalance in how leadership is discussed in the industry—pointing out that male CEOs are rarely asked about gender in the same way women leaders are. While she’s encouraged by the increasing number of women in executive roles, she highlights the ongoing need for greater racial diversity and better pathways for young people from underrepresented backgrounds to explore careers in furniture and design.

Whether you're a designer managing product specs, a leader curious about sustainable business strategies, or someone simply interested in where workplace design is headed, this episode offers a thoughtful look at how Hightower is redefining what success can—and should—look like.

In this episode: