How AMQ’s Zilo Chair Helped Johns Hopkins Get Back on Budget

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July 30, 2025 /

Overview

When Johns Hopkins University set out to furnish its new Whiting School of Engineering space, the team faced a familiar challenge: how to provide high-quality ergonomic seating for a diverse group of users—without blowing the budget.

With countless options on the market, selecting the right chair can be overwhelming. Buyers must balance cost, comfort, and quality—without settling for less. That’s where Dancker, the AMQ dealer partner, stepped in.

The Challenge

The project was originally specified with an all-Steelcase solution, but the team found themselves over budget. Dancker recognized the need for a more cost-effective path forward. Their goal: hit the budget without compromising on ergonomics or design.

The Solution

Dancker proposed a blended solution with Steelcase that included AMQ’s Zilo chair, along with 3F and ACTIV products, to maintain quality while reducing costs. To ensure the right fit, Dancker organized a blind sit test featuring three competitive chairs. Faculty, staff, and students evaluated each option purely on comfort—without knowing the brand.

The Results

Zilo emerged as the clear favorite. With Dancker’s leadership Johns Hopkins was able to:

  • Recover from a large budget overrun
  • Deliver ergonomic seating that met the needs of a wide range of users
  • Maintain the design vision of the space
  • Move forward confidently with a smart, blended solution

“At Dancker, our priority was to simplify the decision-making process for our client. We presented three strong options, organized a blind sit test, and let the results speak for themselves. Zilo was the clear winner and the perfect fit for their needs and budget.”
— Dancker Representative

Conclusion

Thanks to Dancker’s expert guidance, Steelcase’s partnership, and AMQ’s Zilo chair, Johns Hopkins achieved the perfect balance of comfort, quality, and cost. It’s a powerful example of how the right team can turn a budget challenge into a success story.

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