HiP Awards > People > HiP Furniture Leader

Photography by Hightower.

Natalie Hartkopf is the co-founder and CEO of Hightower, a forward-thinking commercial furniture manufacturer founded in 2003. Hightower is a family-founded business, as well as a certified Women’s Business Enterprise and Woman Owned Small Business. Additionally, under Natalie’s leadership and efforts, Hightower’s in-house brand, Hightower Studio, became a certified B Corp in 2023, one of only a handful of commercial manufacturers to achieve this important designation. Also in 2023, Natalie led the company on the journey to two significant industry accolades: NeoCon Best of Show for the Flote Lounge as well as IIDA’s award for Best Small Showroom at the event—the third time Hightower has achieved the honor. The quality, craftsmanship, and attention to detail Hightower is known for have shined during Natalie’s time as head of the company. With Natalie at the helm, Hightower has also made significant strides in investing in its employees. 1% of all sales from higher education projects are distributed among Hightower employees into 529 savings accounts. Employees are guaranteed a 40-hour workweek, paid living wages, and Hightower contributes to employees’ 401k regardless of individual contribution. To encourage paying it forward, each employee receives additional days every year to volunteer with the charity of their choice. Natalie is integral in Hightower leading the charge on creating an inclusive, equitable, and regenerative economy. She has pioneered the company’s sustainability efforts to consistently deliver high-quality furniture using toxin-free materials throughout the Hightower supply chain. Non-profit work is very important to Natalie. She is past Board Chair of Reading Partners Seattle and is still active on the Board. In 2017, she received the Governor’s Volunteer Service Award for tutoring at a Title 1 public school in King County. Natalie is a member of Washington Women’s Foundation and is Vice Membership Chair of the YPO Seattle regional Board.