Ware Malcomb Reaches Million-Dollar Milestone in Charitable Design Work
We here at i+s are firm believers in our motto, “Design with Purpose,” and believe that design has the power to positively impact people and the planet. International design firm Ware Malcomb has embodied this same spirit of purposeful design in action through its decades-long commitment to equity, collaboration and charitable design. Recently, the firm’s employee-driven philanthropic arm, WM Community, reached a significant milestone, contributing more than $1 million in fundraising to Orange County United Way since its inception in 1999—and we celebrate the achievement with them.
“As a company, one of Ware Malcomb’s core values is giving back to our community,” said Ken Wink, CEO of Ware Malcomb. “Our WM Community philanthropy program celebrates our culture of giving and encourages team members to be involved in charitable organizations. We are not only investing in philanthropic endeavors, but also providing sustainable design services across the Americas.”
Ending Homelessness Through Collective Action
One of Ware Malcomb’s most significant collaborations with Orange County United Way has been through its leadership and assistance with the United to End Homelessness initiative. This groundbreaking program seeks to end homelessness in Orange County in a humane and dignified way by providing long-term housing with supportive care to those who need it the most. Through its WelcomeHomeOC housing navigation and landlord incentive program, more than 1,000 individuals have gained access to housing, a testament to the power of collective action.
Designing Equity and Collaboration
A Shared Vision
The Varanasi Equity Workspace is the result of collaboration and shared vision. Ware Malcomb’s design was complemented by the contributions of other sponsors and supporters, including ViewSonic for digital displays, Tangram Interiors for functional and flexible furniture, and Ingram Micro for its donation towards additional technology integration and upgrades. As the firm continues to shape the built environment with its innovative designs, its commitment to community and social responsibility remains unwavering. Through initiatives like WM Community and partnerships with organizations like Orange County United Way, Ware Malcomb is not only creating spaces that inspire, but also fostering a more equitable and compassionate society, one design and one dollar at a time.
About the Author
Robert Nieminen
Chief Content Director
Chief Content Director, Architectural Products, BUILDINGS, and interiors+sources
Robert Nieminen is the Chief Content Director of three leading B2B publications serving the commercial architecture and design industries: Architectural Products, BUILDINGS, and interiors+sources. With a career rooted in editorial excellence and a passion for storytelling, Robert oversees a diverse content portfolio that spans award-winning feature articles, strategic podcast programming, and digital media initiatives aimed at empowering design professionals, facility managers, and commercial building stakeholders.
He is the host of the I Hear Design podcast and curates the Smart Buildings Technology Report, bringing thought leadership to the forefront of innovation in built environments. Robert leads editorial and creative direction for multiple industry award programs—including the Elev8 Design Awards and Product Innovation Awards—and is a recognized voice in sustainability, smart technology integration, and forward-thinking design.
Known for his sharp editorial vision and data-informed strategies, Robert focuses on audience growth, engagement, and content monetization, leveraging AI tools and SEO-driven insights to future-proof B2B publishing.