HNI (HNI) 10-Q 28 Oct 14 2014 Q3 Quarterly report Financial data

DOCUMENT_AND_ENTITY_INFORMATIO

DOCUMENT AND ENTITY INFORMATION	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]	'
Entity Registrant Name	'HNI CORP
Entity Central Index Key	'0000048287
Document Type	'10-Q
Document Period End Date	27-Sep-14
Amendment Flag	'false
Document Fiscal Year Focus	'2014
Document Fiscal Period Focus	'Q3
Current Fiscal Year End Date	'--01-03
Entity Filer Category	'Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	44,394,795

CONDENSED_CONSOLIDATED_BALANCE

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (USD $)	Sep. 27, 2014	Dec. 28, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
CURRENT ASSETS	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	$29,678	$65,030
Short-term Investments	5,652	7,251
Receivables	277,267	228,715
Inventories	116,864	89,516
Deferred income taxes	16,862	16,051
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	22,234	26,665
Total Current Assets	468,557	433,228
PROPERTY, PLANT, AND EQUIPMENT	'	'
Land and land improvements	27,702	27,465
Buildings	291,118	284,484
Machinery and equipment	485,296	470,748
Construction in progress	25,572	24,209
Property plant and equipment, at cost	829,688	806,906
Less accumulated depreciation	544,209	539,505
Net Property, Plant, and Equipment	285,479	267,401
GOODWILL	277,858	286,655
OTHER ASSETS	166,899	147,421
Total Assets	1,198,793	1,134,705
CURRENT LIABILITIES	'	'
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	445,262	407,799
Note payable and current maturities of long-term debt and capital lease obligations	1,263	484
Current maturities of other long-term obligations	3,358	3,301
Total Current Liabilities	449,883	411,584
LONG-TERM DEBT	166,050	150,091
CAPITAL LEASE OBLIGATIONS	16	106
OTHER LONG-TERM LIABILITIES	70,738	67,543
DEFERRED INCOME TAXES	72,558	68,964
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES	'	'
Capital Stock:	'	'
Preferred, $1 par value, authorized 2,000,000 shares, no shares outstanding	0	0
Common, $1 par value, authorized 200,000,000 shares, outstanding - September 27, 2014 - 44,394,795 shares; December 28, 2013 – 44,981,865 shares	44,395	44,982
Additional paid-in capital	797	16,729
Retained earnings	393,800	373,652
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	538	965
Total HNI Corporation shareholders' equity	439,530	436,328
Noncontrolling interest	18	89
Total Equity	439,548	436,417
Total Liabilities and Equity	$1,198,793	$1,134,705

CONDENSED_CONSOLIDATED_BALANCE1

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Sep. 27, 2014	Dec. 28, 2013
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]	'	'
Preferred Stock, Par Value (per share)	$1	$1
Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized	2,000,000	2,000,000
Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding	0	0
Common Stock, Par Value (per share)	$1	$1
Common Stock, Shares Authorized	200,000,000	200,000,000
Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	44,394,795	44,981,865

CONDENSED_CONSOLIDATED_STATEME

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Income Statement [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Net sales	$614,690	$565,706	$1,576,034	$1,518,701
Cost of sales	394,758	365,835	1,019,797	996,390
Gross profit	219,932	199,871	556,237	522,311
Selling and administrative expenses	166,216	154,641	466,714	451,275
(Gain) loss on sale of assets	'	'	-9,746	2,460
Restructuring and impairment	987	115	11,241	236
Operating income	52,729	45,115	88,028	68,340
Interest income	110	158	326	468
Interest expense	1,971	2,826	6,360	8,219
Income before income taxes	50,868	42,447	81,994	60,589
Income taxes	17,372	14,398	27,817	19,962
Net income	33,496	28,049	54,177	40,627
Less: Net (loss) attributable to the noncontrolling interest	-92	-45	-212	-296
Net income attributable to HNI Corporation	33,588	28,094	54,389	40,923
Net income attributable to HNI Corporation per common share - basic	$0.75	$0.62	$1.21	$0.90
Average number of common shares outstanding - basic	44,689,819	45,317,912	44,916,038	45,295,115
Net income attributable to HNI Corporation per common share - diluted	$0.74	$0.61	$1.19	$0.89
Average number of common shares outstanding - diluted	45,611,099	46,089,580	45,758,502	45,951,775
Cash dividends per common share	$0.25	$0.24	$0.74	$0.72
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	-825	-587	-427	-2,645
Comprehensive income	32,671	27,462	53,750	37,982
Less: Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest	-92	-45	-212	-296
Comprehensive income attributable to HNI Corporation	$32,763	$27,507	$53,962	$38,278

CONDENSED_CONSOLIDATED_STATEME1

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (Parenthetical) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Income Statement [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Other comprehensive income, tax	($197)	$7	($216)	$48

CONDENSED_CONSOLIDATED_STATEME2

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Net Cash Flows From (To) Operating Activities:	'	'
Net income	$54,177	$40,627
Noncash items included in net income:	'	'
Depreciation and amortization	41,764	34,570
Other postretirement and post employment benefits	930	1,011
Stock-based compensation	6,879	5,440
Excess tax benefits from stock compensation	-198	-2,160
Deferred income taxes	2,982	16,053
(Gain) loss on sale, retirement and impairment of long-lived assets and intangibles, net	-570	370
Loss on sale of business	0	2,177
Stock issued to retirement plan	6,005	5,352
Other – net	1,058	3,333
Net increase (decrease) in operating assets and liabiities	-40,901	-29,175
Increase (decrease) in other liabilities	2,681	5,889
Net cash flows from (to) operating activities	74,807	83,487
Net Cash Flows From (To) Investing Activities:	'	'
Capital expenditures	-51,201	-42,793
Proceeds from sale of property, plant, and equipment	13,629	285
Capitalized software	-30,547	-12,314
Purchase of investments	-1,298	-1,106
Sales or maturities of investments	5,270	2,550
Other - net	-5	-578
Net cash flows from (to) investing activities	-64,152	-53,956
Net Cash Flows From (To) Financing Activities:	'	'
Proceeds from sales of HNI Corporation common stock	4,270	7,187
Withholdings related to net share settlements of equity based awards	-79	-1,599
Purchase of HNI Corporation common stock	-35,329	-13,821
Proceeds from note and long-term debt	161,052	157,575
Payments of note and long-term debt and other financing	-142,911	-153,268
Excess tax benefits from stock compensation	198	2,160
Dividends paid	-33,208	-32,656
Net cash flows from (to) financing activities	-46,007	-34,422
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	-35,352	-4,891
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	65,030	41,782
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$29,678	$36,891

Basis_of_Presentation

Basis of Presentation	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
Basis of Presentation	'
	Basis of Presentation
	The accompanying unaudited, condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X.  Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by generally accepted accounting principles for complete financial statements.  The December 28, 2013 consolidated balance sheet included in this Form 10-Q was derived from audited financial statements but does not include all disclosures required by generally accepted accounting principles.  In the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring accruals) considered necessary for a fair statement have been included. Operating results for the nine-month period ended September 27, 2014 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the fiscal year ending January 3, 2015.  For further information, refer to the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes included in HNI Corporation's (the "Corporation") Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 28, 2013.
	During 2014 the Corporation changed its estimate regarding the quarterly accrual of annual incentive plan expense to more accurately match expense with earnings which primarily drives the incentive payout. The impact to the three-month period ended September 27, 2014 was to increase expense by $2.0 million and decrease net income attributable to HNI Corporation $(0.03) per diluted share. The impact to the nine-month period ended September 27, 2014 was to reduce expense $0.9 million and increase net income attributable to HNI Corporation $0.01 per diluted share. There will be no impact from the accrual change on the Corporation's full year financial statements.
	The Corporation has certain non-cash operating and investing activities related to accrued purchases of property and equipment and capitalized software. A revision was made to the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Cash Flow for the nine months ended September 28, 2013 which decreased operating cash flows related to the change in accounts payable and accrued expenses $4.5 million and increased investing cash flows $4.0 million and $0.5 million related to capital expenditures of property and equipment and capitalized software, respectively. The revisions in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows noted above represent errors that are not deemed material, individually or in the aggregate, to the prior period consolidated financial statements.

StockBased_Compensation

Stock-Based Compensation	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]	'
Stock-Based Compensation	'
	Stock-Based Compensation
	The Corporation measures stock-based compensation expense at grant date, based on the fair value of the award, and recognizes expense over the employee requisite service period.  For the three months ended September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013, the Corporation recognized $2.1 million and $1.6 million, respectively, of stock-based compensation expense for the cost of stock options and time-based restricted stock units issued under the HNI Corporation 2007 Stock-Based Compensation Plan and shares issued under the HNI Corporation 2002 Members' Stock Purchase Plan. For the nine months ended September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013, the Corporation recognized $6.9 million and $5.4 million, respectively, of stock-based compensation expense.
	At September 27, 2014, there was $7.6 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested stock-based compensation awards, which the Corporation expects to recognize over a weighted-average remaining service period of 1.0 years.

Inventories

Inventories	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Inventories	'
	Inventories
	The Corporation values its inventory at the lower of cost or market with approximately 75% valued by the last-in, first-out ("LIFO") costing method.
		September 27, 2014			December 28, 2013
	(In thousands)
	Finished products	$	70,871		$	51,991
	Materials and work in process	73,581			65,247
	LIFO allowance	(27,588		)	(27,722		)
		$	116,864		$	89,516

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income and Shareholders' Equity	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Equity [Abstract]	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income and Shareholders' Equity	'
	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) and Shareholders' Equity
	The following table summarizes the components of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) and the changes in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax, as applicable for the nine months ended September 27, 2014:
		Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment				Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Marketable Securities												Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
										Pension Postretirement Liability				Derivative Financial Instruments
	(In thousands)
	Balance at December 28, 2013	$	2,913			$	81			$	(2,140	)		$	111			$	965
	Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	(49		)		(38		)		—				(371		)		(458		)
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income	—				—				—				31				31
	Balance at September 27, 2014	$	2,864			$	43			$	(2,140	)		$	(229	)		$	538
	All amounts are net-of tax. Amounts in parentheses indicate debits.
	The following table details the reclassifications from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) for the three months and nine months ended September 27, 2014 and September 28, 2013 (in thousands):
				Three Months Ended								Nine Months Ended
	Details about Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Components	Affected Line Item in the Statement Where Net Income Is Presented		27-Sep-14				28-Sep-13				September 27, 2014				September 28, 2013
	Pension postretirement liability
	Transition obligation	Selling and administrative expenses		$	—			$	—			$	—			$	(116	)
		Tax (expense) or benefit		—				—				—				42
		Net of tax		$	—			$	—			$	—			$	(74	)
	Derivative financial instruments
	Diesel hedge	Selling and administrative expenses		$	(38	)		$	33			$	49			$	245
		Tax (expense) or benefit		14				(12		)		(18		)		(90		)
		Net of tax		$	(24	)		$	21			$	31			$	155
	Total reclassifications for the period	Net of tax		$	(24	)		$	21			$	31			$	81
	Amounts in parentheses indicate reductions to profit.
	During the nine months ended September 27, 2014, the Corporation repurchased 962,950 shares of its common stock at a cost of approximately $35.3 million.  As of September 27, 2014, $52.0 million of the Corporation's Board of Directors' current repurchase authorization remained unspent.
	During the nine months ended September 27, 2014, the Corporation paid dividends to shareholders of $0.74 per share.

Earnings_Per_Share

Earnings Per Share	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'
Earnings Per Share	'
	Earnings Per Share
	The following table reconciles the numerators and denominators used in the calculation of basic and diluted earnings per share ("EPS"):
		Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
	(In thousands, except per share data)	September 27, 2014		September 28, 2013		September 27, 2014		September 28, 2013
	Numerators:
	Numerator for both basic and diluted EPS attributable to HNI Corporation net income	$	33,588	$	28,094	$	54,389	$	40,923
	Denominators:
	Denominator for basic EPS weighted-average common shares outstanding	44,690		45,318		44,916		45,295
	Potentially dilutive shares from stock-based compensation plans	921		772		843		657
	Denominator for diluted EPS	45,611		46,090		45,759		45,952
	Earnings per share – basic	$	0.75	$	0.62	$	1.21	$	0.9
	Earnings per share – diluted	$	0.74	$	0.61	$	1.19	$	0.89
	The weighted average common stock equivalents presented above do not include the effect of 634,757 and 987,251 common stock equivalents for the three and nine months ended September 27, 2014, and 869,586 and 1,762,597 for the three and nine months ended September 28, 2013, respectively, because their inclusion would be anti-dilutive.

Restructuring_Reserve_And_Plan

Restructuring Reserve And Plant Closures	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]	'
Restructuring Reserve and Plant Closures	'
	Restructuring Reserve and Plant Closures
	As a result of the Corporation's ongoing business simplification and cost reduction strategies, the Corporation made the decision in the third quarter to close an office furniture manufacturing facility located in Nalagarh, India and consolidate production into an existing office furniture manufacturing facility. Earlier in 2014, the Corporation announced the closure of its Florence, Alabama and Chicago, Illinois office furniture manufacturing facilities. During the three months ended September 27, 2014, in connection with the closures, the Corporation recorded $4.9 million of pre-tax charges which included $2.4 million of accelerated depreciation on machinery and equipment and $1.5 million of transition costs recorded in cost of sales and $1.0 million of severance and facility exit costs recorded as restructuring charges. The closure and consolidation of these facilities is expected to be substantially completed by the first quarter of 2015. The Corporation anticipates additional restructuring and transition costs of approximately $5.8 million related to these closures during the remainder of 2014. See Note G. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets for further impact of these decisions.
	The following is a summary of changes in restructuring accruals during the nine months ended September 27, 2014.
		Severance			Facility Exit Costs & Other			Total
	(In thousands)
	Balance as of December 28, 2013	$	49		$	6		$	55
	Restructuring charges	2,311			46			2,357
	Cash payments	(724		)	(52		)	(776		)
	Balance as of September 27, 2014	$	1,636		$	—		$	1,636
	During the first quarter of 2014 the Corporation completed the sale of a vacated office furniture manufacturing facility from a prior plant closure. The net sales price was $12.0 million resulting in a gain of $5.7 million, net of $2.7 million income tax expense for the quarter ended March 29, 2014.

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangible_

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets	'
	Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
	The table below summarizes amortizable definite-lived intangible assets as of September 27, 2014 and December 28, 2013, which are reflected in the "Other Assets" line item in the Corporation's Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets:
	(In thousands)	September 27, 2014			December 28, 2013
	Patents	$	18,905		$	18,905
	Less: accumulated amortization	18,713			18,685
	Net patents	192			220
	Software	82,685			52,778
	Less: accumulated amortization	16,821			14,380
	Net software	65,864			38,398
	Customer lists and other	110,663			110,609
	Less: accumulated amortization	59,649			54,592
	Net customer lists and other	51,014			56,017
	Net intangible assets	$	117,070		$	94,635
	Aggregate amortization expense for the nine months ended September 27, 2014 and September 28, 2013 was $7.5 million and $7.7 million, respectively.  Based on the current amount of intangible assets subject to amortization, the estimated amortization expense for each of the following five fiscal years is as follows:
	(In millions)	2014			2015			2016			2017		2018
	Amortization Expense	$	10		$	11.8		$	13.8		$	12.8	$	12.6
	As events such as potential acquisitions, dispositions or impairments occur in the future, these amounts may change.
	The Corporation also owns trademarks and trade names with a net carrying amount of $41.0 million as of September 27, 2014 and December 28, 2013.  The trademarks and trade names are deemed to have indefinite useful lives because they are expected to generate cash flows indefinitely.
	The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill since December 28, 2013 are as follows by reporting segment:
		Office			Hearth			Total
	(In thousands)	Furniture			Products
	Balance as of December 28, 2013
	Goodwill	$	149,969		$	166,188		$	316,157
	Accumulated impairment losses	(29,359		)	(143		)	(29,502		)
		120,610			166,045			286,655
	Goodwill acquired	—			—			—
	Impairment Losses	(8,884		)	—			(8,884		)
	Foreign currency translation adjustments	87			—			87
	Balance as of September 27, 2014
	Goodwill	150,056			166,188			316,244
	Accumulated impairment losses	(38,243		)	(143		)	(38,386		)
		$	111,813		$	166,045		$	277,858
	The Corporation evaluates its goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment on an annual basis during the fourth quarter, or whenever indicators of impairment exist. The Corporation estimates the fair value of its reporting units using various valuation techniques, with the primary technique being a discounted cash flow method.  This method employs market participant based assumptions.
	Decisions were made during the quarter ended June 28, 2014 to close a facility and exit a product line at one of the recently acquired reporting units within the office furniture segment. These decisions, along with slower than projected order growth for the reporting unit, were considered a triggering event and, accordingly, the Corporation tested long-lived assets and goodwill at that reporting unit for impairment. The Corporation estimated the fair value of the reporting unit using a discounted cash flow approach along with a market multiple approach. The estimated fair value was below the carrying value indicating a potential impairment existed. The Corporation performed the second step of the test which requires a fair value assessment of all assets and liabilities of the reporting unit to calculate an implied goodwill amount. This resulted in an $8.9 million goodwill impairment charge during the quarter ending June 28, 2014.

Product_Warranties

Product Warranties	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Product Warranties Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Product Warranties	'
	Product Warranties
	The Corporation issues certain warranty policies on its office furniture and hearth products that provide for repair or replacement of any covered product or component that fails during normal use because of a defect in design or workmanship. Reserves have been established for the various costs associated with the Corporation's warranty programs.
	A warranty reserve is determined by recording a specific reserve for known warranty issues and an additional reserve for unknown claims that are expected to be incurred based on historical claims experience.  Actual claims incurred could differ from the original estimates, requiring adjustments to the reserve.  Activity associated with warranty obligations was as follows during the periods noted:
		Nine Months Ended
	(In thousands)	September 27, 2014			September 28, 2013
	Balance at beginning of period	$	13,840		$	13,055
	Accruals for warranties issued during period	11,577			13,983
	Adjustments related to pre-existing warranties	(54		)	283
	Settlements made during the period	(10,901		)	(14,193		)
	Balance at end of period	$	14,462		$	13,128
	During the fourth quarter of 2013, the Corporation corrected a classification error by reclassifying a portion of the reserve for product warranties which was previously all classified as a current liability, including the related deferred tax impacts, to long-term. The portion of the reserve for estimated settlements expected to be paid in the next twelve months was $7.0 million and $6.4 million as of September 27, 2014 and September 28, 2013, respectively, and are included in "Accounts payable and accrued expenses" in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. The portion of the reserve for settlements expected to be paid beyond one year was $7.4 million and $6.8 million, as of September 27, 2014 and September 28, 2013, respectively, and are included in "Other Long-Term Liabilities" in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. The revisions in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets noted above represent errors that are not deemed material, individually or in the aggregate, to the prior period consolidated financial statements.

Postretirement_Health_Care

Postretirement Health Care	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Postretirement Health Care	'
	Postretirement Health Care
	The following table sets forth the components of net periodic benefit cost included in the Corporation's Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for:
		Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
	(In thousands)	September 27, 2014		September 28, 2013		September 27, 2014		September 28, 2013
	Service cost	$	126	$	132	$	378	$	394
	Interest cost	184		167		552		501
	Amortization of transition obligation	—		—		—		116
	Amortization of (gain)/loss	—		—		—		—
	Net periodic benefit cost	$	310	$	299	$	930	$	1,011

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Income Taxes	'
	Income Taxes
	The provision for income taxes for the three months ended September 27, 2014 reflects an effective tax rate of 34.2 percent compared to 33.9 percent for the same period last year. The 2014 estimated annual effective tax rate is expected to be 35.0 percent.

Derivative_Financial_Instrumen

Derivative Financial Instruments	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Derivative Financial Instruments	'
	Derivative Financial Instruments
	The Corporation uses derivative financial instruments to reduce its exposure to adverse fluctuations in diesel fuel prices.  On the date a derivative is entered into, the Corporation designates the derivative as (i) a fair value hedge, (ii) a cash flow hedge, (iii) a hedge of a net investment in a foreign operation or (iv) a risk management instrument not designated for hedge accounting.  The Corporation recognizes all derivatives on its Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets at fair value.
	Diesel Fuel Risk
	Independent freight carriers, used by the Corporation to deliver its products, charge the Corporation a basic rate per mile that is subject to a mileage surcharge for diesel fuel price increases.  The Corporation enters into variable to fixed rate commodity swap agreements with two financial counterparties to manage fluctuations in fuel costs.  The Corporation hedges approximately 50% of its diesel fuel surcharge exposure for the next twelve months.  The Corporation uses the hedge agreements to mitigate the volatility of diesel fuel prices and related fuel surcharges, and not to speculate on the future price of diesel fuel.  The hedge agreements are designed to add stability to the Corporation's costs, enabling the Corporation to make pricing decisions and lessen the economic impact of abrupt changes in diesel fuel prices over the term of the contract.  The hedging instruments consist of a series of financially settled fixed forward contracts with expiration dates ranging up to twelve months.  The contracts have been designated as cash flow hedges of future diesel purchases, and as such, the net amount paid or received upon monthly settlements is recorded as an adjustment to freight expense, while the effective change in fair value is recorded as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income in the equity section of the Corporation's Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
	As of September 27, 2014, $0.2 million of deferred net losses, net of tax, included in equity ("Accumulated other comprehensive income" in the Corporation's Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets) related to the diesel hedge agreements are expected to be reclassified to current earnings ("Selling and administrative expenses" in the Corporation's Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income) over the next twelve months.
	The location and fair value of derivative instruments reported in the Corporation's Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets are as follows (in thousands):
				Asset (Liability) Fair Value
		Balance Sheet Location		September 27, 2014			December 28, 2013
	Diesel fuel swap	Accounts payable and accrued expenses		$	(362	)	$	—
	Diesel fuel swap	Prepaid expenses and other current assets		—			176
				$	(362	)	$	176
	The effect of derivative instruments on the Corporation's Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the three months ended September 27, 2014 was as follows (in thousands):
	Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedge Relationship	Before-tax Gain (Loss) Recognized in AOCI on Derivative (Effective Portion)				Locations of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI into Income (Effective Portion)	Before-Tax Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI Into Income (Effective Portion)			Locations of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative (Ineffective Portion)	Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative (Ineffective Portion)
	Diesel fuel swap	$	(542	)		Selling and administrative expenses	$	(38	)	Selling and administrative expenses	$	—
	Total	$	(542	)			$	(38	)		$	—
	The effect of derivative instruments on the Corporation's Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the nine months ended September 27, 2014 was as follows (in thousands):
	Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedge Relationship	Before-tax Gain (Loss) Recognized in AOCI on Derivative (Effective Portion)				Locations of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI into Income (Effective Portion)	Before-Tax Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI Into Income (Effective Portion)			Locations of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative (Ineffective Portion)	Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative (Ineffective Portion)
	Diesel fuel swap	$	(487	)		Selling and administrative expenses	$	49		Selling and administrative expenses	$	(4	)
	Total	$	(487	)			$	49			$	(4	)
	The effect of derivative instruments on the Corporation's Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the three months ended September 28, 2013 was as follows (in thousands):
	Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedge Relationship	Before-tax Gain (Loss) Recognized in AOCI on Derivative (Effective Portion)				Locations of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI into Income (Effective Portion)	Before-Tax Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI Into Income (Effective Portion)			Locations of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative (Ineffective Portion)	Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative (Ineffective Portion)
	Diesel fuel swap	$	24			Selling and administrative expenses	$	33		Selling and administrative expenses	$	3
	Total	$	24				$	33			$	3
	The effect of derivative instruments on the Corporation's Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the nine months ended September 28, 2013 was as follows (in thousands):
	Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedge Relationship	Before-tax Gain (Loss) Recognized in AOCI on Derivative (Effective Portion)				Locations of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI into Income (Effective Portion)	Before-Tax Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI Into Income (Effective Portion)			Locations of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative (Ineffective Portion)	Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative (Ineffective Portion)
	Diesel fuel swap	$	414			Selling and administrative expenses	$	245		Selling and administrative expenses	$	(1	)
	Total	$	414				$	245			$	(1	)
	The Corporation entered into master netting agreements with the two financial counterparties where they entered into commodity swap agreements that permit the net settlement of amounts owed under their respective derivative contracts. Under these master netting agreements, net settlement of all outstanding contracts with a counterparty in the case of an event of default or a termination event is allowed. The amounts under the master netting agreement are immaterial and no further disclosure is deemed necessary.

Fair_Value_Measurements

Fair Value Measurements	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Fair Value Measurements	'
	Fair Value Measurements
	For recognition purposes, on a recurring basis the Corporation is required to measure at fair value its marketable securities and derivative instruments.  The marketable securities are comprised of government securities, corporate bonds and money market funds. When available the Corporation uses quoted market prices to determine fair value and classifies such measurements within Level 1.  Where market prices are not available, the Corporation makes use of observable market-based inputs (prices or quotes from published exchanges/indexes) to calculate fair value using the market approach, in which case the measurements are classified within Level 2.
	Assets measured at fair value as of September 27, 2014 were as follows:
					Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets		Significant other observable inputs			Significant unobservable inputs
		Fair value as of measurement date			(Level 1)		(Level 2)			(Level 3)
	(In thousands)
	Government securities	$	10,859		$	—	$	10,859		$	—
	Corporate bonds	$	1,202		$	—	$	1,202		$	—
	Derivative financial instruments	$	(362	)	$	—	$	(362	)	$	—
	Assets measured at fair value as of December 28, 2013 were as follows:
					Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets		Significant other observable inputs			Significant unobservable inputs
		Fair value as of measurement date			(Level 1)		(Level 2)			(Level 3)
	(In thousands)
	Government securities	$	11,254		$	—	$	11,254		$	—
	Corporate bonds	$	4,859		$	—	$	4,859		$	—
	Derivative financial instruments	$	176		$	—	$	176		$	—
	In addition to the methods and assumptions the Corporation uses to record the fair value of financial instruments as discussed in the section above, it uses the following methods and assumptions to estimate the fair value of its financial instruments.
	Cash and cash equivalents - Level 1
	The carrying amount approximated fair value and includes money market funds.
	Long-term debt (including current portion) - Level 2
	The carrying value of the Corporation's outstanding variable-rate, long-term debt obligations at September 27, 2014 and December 28, 2013, the end of the Corporation's 2013 fiscal year, approximated the fair value.  The fair value of the Corporation's outstanding fixed-rate, long-term debt obligations is estimated based on discounted cash flow method to be $156 million at September 27, 2014 and $159 million at December 28, 2013, compared to the carrying value of $150 million.

Commitments_and_Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Commitments and Contingencies	'
	Commitments and Contingencies
	The Corporation utilizes letters of credit in the amount of $11 million to back certain insurance policies and payment obligations.  The letters of credit reflect fair value as a condition of their underlying purpose and are subject to competitively determined fees.
	The Corporation has contingent liabilities which have arisen in the ordinary course of its business, including liabilities relating to pending litigation, environmental remediation, taxes, and other claims.  It is the Corporation's opinion that liabilities, if any, resulting from these matters are not expected to have a material adverse effect on the Corporation's financial condition, cash flows or on the Corporation's quarterly or annual operating results when resolved in a future period.

New_Accounting_Standards

New Accounting Standards	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Accounting Changes and Error Corrections [Abstract]	'
New Accounting Standards	'
	New Accounting Standards
	In January 2013, the FASB issued accounting guidance clarifying the scope of disclosures about offsetting assets and liabilities.
	This guidance is effective for annual reporting periods beginning on or after January 1, 2013, and interim periods within those
	annual periods. The Corporation adopted the guidance effective December 29, 2013, the beginning of the Corporation's 2014 fiscal year. The guidance did not have a material impact on the Corporation's financial statements.
	In July 2013, the FASB issued accounting guidance on the financial statement presentation of an unrecognized tax benefit when a net operating loss carryforward, or similar tax loss, or a tax carryforward exists. The Corporation adopted the guidance effective December 29, 2013, the beginning of the Corporation's 2014 fiscal year. The guidance did not have a material impact on the Corporation's financial statements.
	In April 2014, the FASB issued accounting guidance which changes the criteria for determining which disposals can be presented as discontinued operations and modifies related disclosure requirements. The guidance will be effective for fiscal years beginning on or after December 15, 2014 and interim periods within those annual periods with early adoption allowed. The Corporation does not expect the adoption to have a material impact on its financial statements.
	In May 2014, the FASB issued accounting guidance which outlines a single comprehensive model for entities to use in accounting for revenue arising from contracts with customers. The core principle of the revenue model is that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The guidance will be effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2016. Early adoption is not permitted. The Corporation is currently evaluating the impact of adopting this standard on its financial statements.

Business_Segment_Information

Business Segment Information	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]	'
Business Segment Information	'
	Business Segment Information
	Management views the Corporation as operating in two business segments: office furniture and hearth products with the former being the principal business segment.
	The office furniture segment manufactures and markets a broad line of metal and wood office furniture which includes storage products, desks, credenzas, chairs, tables, bookcases, classroom solutions, freestanding office partitions and panel systems and other related products.  The hearth products segment manufactures and markets a broad line of manufactured gas, electric, wood and biomass burning fireplaces, inserts and stoves, facings and accessories, principally for the home.
	For purposes of segment reporting, intercompany sales transfers between segments are not material and operating profit is income before income taxes exclusive of certain unallocated corporate expenses.  These unallocated corporate expenses include the net cost of the Corporation's corporate operations, interest income and interest expense.  Management views interest income and expense as corporate financing costs rather than a business segment cost.  In addition, management applies one effective tax rate to its consolidated income before income taxes so income taxes are not reported or viewed internally on a segment basis.
	The Corporation's primary market and capital investments are concentrated in the United States.
	Reportable segment data reconciled to the Corporation's condensed consolidated financial statements for the three and nine months ended September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013, is as follows:
		Three Months Ended						Nine Months Ended
	(In thousands)	September 27, 2014			September 28, 2013			September 27, 2014			September 28, 2013
	Net Sales:
	Office Furniture	$	488,612		$	466,213		$	1,270,404		$	1,268,214
	Hearth Products	126,078			99,493			305,630			250,487
		$	614,690		$	565,706		$	1,576,034		$	1,518,701
	Operating Profit:
	Office furniture	42,753			40,696			77,488			71,523
	Hearth products	23,785			14,409			43,974			23,699
	Total operating profit	66,538			55,105			121,462			95,222
	Unallocated corporate expense	(15,670		)	(12,658		)	(39,468		)	(34,633		)
	Income before income taxes	$	50,868		$	42,447		$	81,994		$	60,589
	Depreciation & Amortization Expense:
	Office furniture	$	12,427		$	9,257		$	34,398		$	27,384
	Hearth products	1,121			1,274			3,455			4,039
	General corporate	1,264			1,201			3,911			3,147
		$	14,812		$	11,732		$	41,764		$	34,570
	Capital Expenditures (including capitalized software):
	Office furniture	$	13,542		$	13,689		$	43,378		$	36,638
	Hearth products	1,691			1,133			4,389			2,798
	General corporate	15,394			6,666			33,981			15,671
		$	30,627		$	21,488		$	81,748		$	55,107
								As of			As of
								September 27,			December 28,
								2014			2013
	Identifiable Assets:
	Office furniture							$	771,385		$	722,697
	Hearth products							281,765			255,978
	General corporate							145,643			156,030
								$	1,198,793		$	1,134,705

Subsequent_Event

Subsequent Event	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Subsequent Events [Abstract]	'
Subsequent Event	'
	Subsequent Event
	In October 2014, the Corporation acquired Vermont Castings Group, a leading manufacturer of free standing hearth stoves and fireplaces. The transaction was completed as an all cash transaction.
	As this acquisition closed on October 1, 2014 and due to the limited time since closing, the initial accounting for this transaction has not yet been completed. The Corporation will disclose additional information once the initial accounting is completed in the fourth quarter of 2014. The financial results of Vermont Castings Group will be included in the consolidated financial statements from the date of acquisition forward.

Basis_of_Presentation_Policies

Basis of Presentation (Policies)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans	'
	The Corporation measures stock-based compensation expense at grant date, based on the fair value of the award, and recognizes expense over the employee requisite service period.
Inventory	'
	The Corporation values its inventory at the lower of cost or market with approximately 75% valued by the last-in, first-out ("LIFO") costing method.
Goodwill	'
	The Corporation evaluates its goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment on an annual basis during the fourth quarter, or whenever indicators of impairment exist. The Corporation estimates the fair value of its reporting units using various valuation techniques, with the primary technique being a discounted cash flow method.  This method employs market participant based assumptions.
	Decisions were made during the quarter ended June 28, 2014 to close a facility and exit a product line at one of the recently acquired reporting units within the office furniture segment. These decisions, along with slower than projected order growth for the reporting unit, were considered a triggering event and, accordingly, the Corporation tested long-lived assets and goodwill at that reporting unit for impairment. The Corporation estimated the fair value of the reporting unit using a discounted cash flow approach along with a market multiple approach. The estimated fair value was below the carrying value indicating a potential impairment existed. The Corporation performed the second step of the test which requires a fair value assessment of all assets and liabilities of the reporting unit to calculate an implied goodwill amount. This resulted in an $8.9 million goodwill impairment charge during the quarter ending June 28, 2014.
Product Warranty	'
	The Corporation issues certain warranty policies on its office furniture and hearth products that provide for repair or replacement of any covered product or component that fails during normal use because of a defect in design or workmanship. Reserves have been established for the various costs associated with the Corporation's warranty programs.
	A warranty reserve is determined by recording a specific reserve for known warranty issues and an additional reserve for unknown claims that are expected to be incurred based on historical claims experience.  Actual claims incurred could differ from the original estimates, requiring adjustments to the reserve.
Derivatives	'
	The Corporation uses derivative financial instruments to reduce its exposure to adverse fluctuations in diesel fuel prices.  On the date a derivative is entered into, the Corporation designates the derivative as (i) a fair value hedge, (ii) a cash flow hedge, (iii) a hedge of a net investment in a foreign operation or (iv) a risk management instrument not designated for hedge accounting.  The Corporation recognizes all derivatives on its Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets at fair value.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments	'
	For recognition purposes, on a recurring basis the Corporation is required to measure at fair value its marketable securities and derivative instruments.  The marketable securities are comprised of government securities, corporate bonds and money market funds. When available the Corporation uses quoted market prices to determine fair value and classifies such measurements within Level 1.  Where market prices are not available, the Corporation makes use of observable market-based inputs (prices or quotes from published exchanges/indexes) to calculate fair value using the market approach, in which case the measurements are classified within Level 2.
New Accounting Standards	'
	In January 2013, the FASB issued accounting guidance clarifying the scope of disclosures about offsetting assets and liabilities.
	This guidance is effective for annual reporting periods beginning on or after January 1, 2013, and interim periods within those
	annual periods. The Corporation adopted the guidance effective December 29, 2013, the beginning of the Corporation's 2014 fiscal year. The guidance did not have a material impact on the Corporation's financial statements.
	In July 2013, the FASB issued accounting guidance on the financial statement presentation of an unrecognized tax benefit when a net operating loss carryforward, or similar tax loss, or a tax carryforward exists. The Corporation adopted the guidance effective December 29, 2013, the beginning of the Corporation's 2014 fiscal year. The guidance did not have a material impact on the Corporation's financial statements.
	In April 2014, the FASB issued accounting guidance which changes the criteria for determining which disposals can be presented as discontinued operations and modifies related disclosure requirements. The guidance will be effective for fiscal years beginning on or after December 15, 2014 and interim periods within those annual periods with early adoption allowed. The Corporation does not expect the adoption to have a material impact on its financial statements.
	In May 2014, the FASB issued accounting guidance which outlines a single comprehensive model for entities to use in accounting for revenue arising from contracts with customers. The core principle of the revenue model is that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The guidance will be effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2016. Early adoption is not permitted. The Corporation is currently evaluating the impact of adopting this standard on its financial statements.
Segment Reporting	'
	Management views the Corporation as operating in two business segments: office furniture and hearth products with the former being the principal business segment.
	The office furniture segment manufactures and markets a broad line of metal and wood office furniture which includes storage products, desks, credenzas, chairs, tables, bookcases, classroom solutions, freestanding office partitions and panel systems and other related products.  The hearth products segment manufactures and markets a broad line of manufactured gas, electric, wood and biomass burning fireplaces, inserts and stoves, facings and accessories, principally for the home.
	For purposes of segment reporting, intercompany sales transfers between segments are not material and operating profit is income before income taxes exclusive of certain unallocated corporate expenses.  These unallocated corporate expenses include the net cost of the Corporation's corporate operations, interest income and interest expense.  Management views interest income and expense as corporate financing costs rather than a business segment cost.  In addition, management applies one effective tax rate to its consolidated income before income taxes so income taxes are not reported or viewed internally on a segment basis.

Inventories_Tables

Inventories (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule Of Inventory Current Table	'
	The Corporation values its inventory at the lower of cost or market with approximately 75% valued by the last-in, first-out ("LIFO") costing method.
		September 27, 2014			December 28, 2013
	(In thousands)
	Finished products	$	70,871		$	51,991
	Materials and work in process	73,581			65,247
	LIFO allowance	(27,588		)	(27,722		)
		$	116,864		$	89,516

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv1

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income and Shareholders' Equity (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Equity [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income and Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Net of Tax	'
	The following table summarizes the components of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) and the changes in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax, as applicable for the nine months ended September 27, 2014:
		Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment				Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Marketable Securities												Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
										Pension Postretirement Liability				Derivative Financial Instruments
	(In thousands)
	Balance at December 28, 2013	$	2,913			$	81			$	(2,140	)		$	111			$	965
	Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	(49		)		(38		)		—				(371		)		(458		)
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income	—				—				—				31				31
	Balance at September 27, 2014	$	2,864			$	43			$	(2,140	)		$	(229	)		$	538
	All amounts are net-of tax. Amounts in parentheses indicate debits.
Schedule of Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	'
	The following table details the reclassifications from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) for the three months and nine months ended September 27, 2014 and September 28, 2013 (in thousands):
				Three Months Ended								Nine Months Ended
	Details about Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Components	Affected Line Item in the Statement Where Net Income Is Presented		27-Sep-14				28-Sep-13				September 27, 2014				September 28, 2013
	Pension postretirement liability
	Transition obligation	Selling and administrative expenses		$	—			$	—			$	—			$	(116	)
		Tax (expense) or benefit		—				—				—				42
		Net of tax		$	—			$	—			$	—			$	(74	)
	Derivative financial instruments
	Diesel hedge	Selling and administrative expenses		$	(38	)		$	33			$	49			$	245
		Tax (expense) or benefit		14				(12		)		(18		)		(90		)
		Net of tax		$	(24	)		$	21			$	31			$	155
	Total reclassifications for the period	Net of tax		$	(24	)		$	21			$	31			$	81
	Amounts in parentheses indicate reductions to profit.

Earnings_Per_Share_Tables

Earnings Per Share (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Earnings Per Share Basic and Diluted Table	'
	The following table reconciles the numerators and denominators used in the calculation of basic and diluted earnings per share ("EPS"):
		Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
	(In thousands, except per share data)	September 27, 2014		September 28, 2013		September 27, 2014		September 28, 2013
	Numerators:
	Numerator for both basic and diluted EPS attributable to HNI Corporation net income	$	33,588	$	28,094	$	54,389	$	40,923
	Denominators:
	Denominator for basic EPS weighted-average common shares outstanding	44,690		45,318		44,916		45,295
	Potentially dilutive shares from stock-based compensation plans	921		772		843		657
	Denominator for diluted EPS	45,611		46,090		45,759		45,952
	Earnings per share – basic	$	0.75	$	0.62	$	1.21	$	0.9
	Earnings per share – diluted	$	0.74	$	0.61	$	1.19	$	0.89

Recovered_Sheet1

Restructuring Reserve and Plant Closures (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Restructuring Reserve by Type of Cost	'
	The following is a summary of changes in restructuring accruals during the nine months ended September 27, 2014.
		Severance			Facility Exit Costs & Other			Total
	(In thousands)
	Balance as of December 28, 2013	$	49		$	6		$	55
	Restructuring charges	2,311			46			2,357
	Cash payments	(724		)	(52		)	(776		)
	Balance as of September 27, 2014	$	1,636		$	—		$	1,636
	During the first quarter of 2014 the Corporation completed the sale of a vacated office furniture manufacturing facility from a prior plant closure. The net sales price was $12.0 million resulting in a gain of $5.7 million, net of $2.7 million income tax expense for the quarter ended March 29, 2014.

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangible_1

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets(Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class	'
	The table below summarizes amortizable definite-lived intangible assets as of September 27, 2014 and December 28, 2013, which are reflected in the "Other Assets" line item in the Corporation's Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets:
	(In thousands)	September 27, 2014			December 28, 2013
	Patents	$	18,905		$	18,905
	Less: accumulated amortization	18,713			18,685
	Net patents	192			220
	Software	82,685			52,778
	Less: accumulated amortization	16,821			14,380
	Net software	65,864			38,398
	Customer lists and other	110,663			110,609
	Less: accumulated amortization	59,649			54,592
	Net customer lists and other	51,014			56,017
	Net intangible assets	$	117,070		$	94,635
Schedule of Expected Amortization Expense Table	'
	Based on the current amount of intangible assets subject to amortization, the estimated amortization expense for each of the following five fiscal years is as follows:
	(In millions)	2014			2015			2016			2017		2018
	Amortization Expense	$	10		$	11.8		$	13.8		$	12.8	$	12.6
Schedule of Goodwill	'
	The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill since December 28, 2013 are as follows by reporting segment:
		Office			Hearth			Total
	(In thousands)	Furniture			Products
	Balance as of December 28, 2013
	Goodwill	$	149,969		$	166,188		$	316,157
	Accumulated impairment losses	(29,359		)	(143		)	(29,502		)
		120,610			166,045			286,655
	Goodwill acquired	—			—			—
	Impairment Losses	(8,884		)	—			(8,884		)
	Foreign currency translation adjustments	87			—			87
	Balance as of September 27, 2014
	Goodwill	150,056			166,188			316,244
	Accumulated impairment losses	(38,243		)	(143		)	(38,386		)
		$	111,813		$	166,045		$	277,858

Product_Warranties_Tables

Product Warranties (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Product Warranties Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Product Warranty Liability Table	'
	Activity associated with warranty obligations was as follows during the periods noted:
		Nine Months Ended
	(In thousands)	September 27, 2014			September 28, 2013
	Balance at beginning of period	$	13,840		$	13,055
	Accruals for warranties issued during period	11,577			13,983
	Adjustments related to pre-existing warranties	(54		)	283
	Settlements made during the period	(10,901		)	(14,193		)
	Balance at end of period	$	14,462		$	13,128

Postretirement_Health_Care_Tab

Postretirement Health Care (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures	'
	The following table sets forth the components of net periodic benefit cost included in the Corporation's Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for:
		Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
	(In thousands)	September 27, 2014		September 28, 2013		September 27, 2014		September 28, 2013
	Service cost	$	126	$	132	$	378	$	394
	Interest cost	184		167		552		501
	Amortization of transition obligation	—		—		—		116
	Amortization of (gain)/loss	—		—		—		—
	Net periodic benefit cost	$	310	$	299	$	930	$	1,011

Derivative_Financial_Instrumen1

Derivative Financial Instruments (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value	'
	The location and fair value of derivative instruments reported in the Corporation's Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets are as follows (in thousands):
				Asset (Liability) Fair Value
		Balance Sheet Location		September 27, 2014			December 28, 2013
	Diesel fuel swap	Accounts payable and accrued expenses		$	(362	)	$	—
	Diesel fuel swap	Prepaid expenses and other current assets		—			176
				$	(362	)	$	176
Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) in Statement of Financial Performance	'
	The effect of derivative instruments on the Corporation's Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the three months ended September 27, 2014 was as follows (in thousands):
	Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedge Relationship	Before-tax Gain (Loss) Recognized in AOCI on Derivative (Effective Portion)				Locations of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI into Income (Effective Portion)	Before-Tax Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI Into Income (Effective Portion)			Locations of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative (Ineffective Portion)	Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative (Ineffective Portion)
	Diesel fuel swap	$	(542	)		Selling and administrative expenses	$	(38	)	Selling and administrative expenses	$	—
	Total	$	(542	)			$	(38	)		$	—
	The effect of derivative instruments on the Corporation's Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the nine months ended September 27, 2014 was as follows (in thousands):
	Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedge Relationship	Before-tax Gain (Loss) Recognized in AOCI on Derivative (Effective Portion)				Locations of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI into Income (Effective Portion)	Before-Tax Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI Into Income (Effective Portion)			Locations of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative (Ineffective Portion)	Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative (Ineffective Portion)
	Diesel fuel swap	$	(487	)		Selling and administrative expenses	$	49		Selling and administrative expenses	$	(4	)
	Total	$	(487	)			$	49			$	(4	)
	The effect of derivative instruments on the Corporation's Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the three months ended September 28, 2013 was as follows (in thousands):
	Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedge Relationship	Before-tax Gain (Loss) Recognized in AOCI on Derivative (Effective Portion)				Locations of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI into Income (Effective Portion)	Before-Tax Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI Into Income (Effective Portion)			Locations of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative (Ineffective Portion)	Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative (Ineffective Portion)
	Diesel fuel swap	$	24			Selling and administrative expenses	$	33		Selling and administrative expenses	$	3
	Total	$	24				$	33			$	3
	The effect of derivative instruments on the Corporation's Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the nine months ended September 28, 2013 was as follows (in thousands):
	Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedge Relationship	Before-tax Gain (Loss) Recognized in AOCI on Derivative (Effective Portion)				Locations of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI into Income (Effective Portion)	Before-Tax Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI Into Income (Effective Portion)			Locations of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative (Ineffective Portion)	Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative (Ineffective Portion)
	Diesel fuel swap	$	414			Selling and administrative expenses	$	245		Selling and administrative expenses	$	(1	)
	Total	$	414				$	245			$	(1	)
	The Corporation entered into master netting agreements with the two financial counterparties where they entered into commodity swap agreements that permit the net settlement of amounts owed under their respective derivative contracts. Under these master netting agreements, net settlement of all outstanding contracts with a counterparty in the case of an event of default or a termination event is allowed. The amounts under the master netting agreement are immaterial and no further disclosure is deemed necessary.

Fair_Value_Measurements_Tables

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Fair Value Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis	'
	Assets measured at fair value as of September 27, 2014 were as follows:
					Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets		Significant other observable inputs			Significant unobservable inputs
		Fair value as of measurement date			(Level 1)		(Level 2)			(Level 3)
	(In thousands)
	Government securities	$	10,859		$	—	$	10,859		$	—
	Corporate bonds	$	1,202		$	—	$	1,202		$	—
	Derivative financial instruments	$	(362	)	$	—	$	(362	)	$	—
	Assets measured at fair value as of December 28, 2013 were as follows:
					Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets		Significant other observable inputs			Significant unobservable inputs
		Fair value as of measurement date			(Level 1)		(Level 2)			(Level 3)
	(In thousands)
	Government securities	$	11,254		$	—	$	11,254		$	—
	Corporate bonds	$	4,859		$	—	$	4,859		$	—
	Derivative financial instruments	$	176		$	—	$	176		$	—

Business_Segment_Information_T

Business Segment Information (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]	'
Business Segment Information	'
	Reportable segment data reconciled to the Corporation's condensed consolidated financial statements for the three and nine months ended September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013, is as follows:
		Three Months Ended						Nine Months Ended
	(In thousands)	September 27, 2014			September 28, 2013			September 27, 2014			September 28, 2013
	Net Sales:
	Office Furniture	$	488,612		$	466,213		$	1,270,404		$	1,268,214
	Hearth Products	126,078			99,493			305,630			250,487
		$	614,690		$	565,706		$	1,576,034		$	1,518,701
	Operating Profit:
	Office furniture	42,753			40,696			77,488			71,523
	Hearth products	23,785			14,409			43,974			23,699
	Total operating profit	66,538			55,105			121,462			95,222
	Unallocated corporate expense	(15,670		)	(12,658		)	(39,468		)	(34,633		)
	Income before income taxes	$	50,868		$	42,447		$	81,994		$	60,589
	Depreciation & Amortization Expense:
	Office furniture	$	12,427		$	9,257		$	34,398		$	27,384
	Hearth products	1,121			1,274			3,455			4,039
	General corporate	1,264			1,201			3,911			3,147
		$	14,812		$	11,732		$	41,764		$	34,570
	Capital Expenditures (including capitalized software):
	Office furniture	$	13,542		$	13,689		$	43,378		$	36,638
	Hearth products	1,691			1,133			4,389			2,798
	General corporate	15,394			6,666			33,981			15,671
		$	30,627		$	21,488		$	81,748		$	55,107
								As of			As of
								September 27,			December 28,
								2014			2013
	Identifiable Assets:
	Office furniture							$	771,385		$	722,697
	Hearth products							281,765			255,978
	General corporate							145,643			156,030
								$	1,198,793		$	1,134,705

Basis_of_Presentation_Details

Basis of Presentation (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended	3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended	3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 27, 2014
		Annual Incentive Plan Expense [Member]	Annual Incentive Plan Expense [Member]	Earnings per Share, Diluted [Member]	Earnings per Share, Diluted [Member]
Change in Accounting Estimate [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Change in estimate, amount	'	($2)	$0.90	'	'
Change in estimate, per share	'	'	'	($0.03)	$0.01
Increase (decrease) in accounts payable and accrued expenses	4.5	'	'	'	'
Payments to acquire property and equipment	4	'	'	'	'
Increase (decrease) in capitalized software	$0.50	'	'	'	'

StockBased_Compensation_Detail

Stock-Based Compensation (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Stock-based compensation expense	$2.10	$1.60	$6.90	$5.40
Unrecognized compensation cost	$7.60	'	$7.60	'
Remaining requisite service period for unrecognized compensation cost (in years)	'	'	'1 year 0 months 0 days	'

Inventories_Details

Inventories (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 27, 2014	Dec. 28, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'
Percentage of LIFO Inventory	75.00%	'
Inventory, Net [Abstract]	'	'
Finished products	$70,871	$51,991
Materials and work in process	73,581	65,247
LIFO allowance	-27,588	-27,722
Inventories	$116,864	$89,516

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv2

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income and Shareholders' Equity (Components) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended			9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014		Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 27, 2014		Sep. 28, 2013
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]	'		'	'		'
Balance at December 28, 2013	'		'	$965		'
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassification	-825		-587	-427		-2,645
Balance at September 27, 2014	538		'	538		'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member]	'		'	'		'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]	'		'	'		'
Balance at December 28, 2013	'		'	965	[1]	'
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassification	'		'	-458	[1]	'
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income	'		'	31	[1]	'
Balance at September 27, 2014	538	[1]	'	538	[1]	'
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment [Member]	'		'	'		'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]	'		'	'		'
Balance at December 28, 2013	'		'	2,913	[1]	'
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassification	'		'	-49	[1]	'
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income	'		'	0	[1]	'
Balance at September 27, 2014	2,864	[1]	'	2,864	[1]	'
Unrealized Gains on Marketable Securities [Member]	'		'	'		'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]	'		'	'		'
Balance at December 28, 2013	'		'	81	[1]	'
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassification	'		'	-38	[1]	'
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income	'		'	0	[1]	'
Balance at September 27, 2014	43	[1]	'	43	[1]	'
Pension Postretirement Liability [Member]	'		'	'		'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]	'		'	'		'
Balance at December 28, 2013	'		'	-2,140	[1]	'
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassification	'		'	0	[1]	'
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income	'		'	0	[1]	'
Balance at September 27, 2014	-2,140	[1]	'	-2,140	[1]	'
Derivative Financial Instruments [Member]	'		'	'		'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]	'		'	'		'
Balance at December 28, 2013	'		'	111	[1]	'
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassification	'		'	-371	[1]	'
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income	'		'	31	[1]	'
Balance at September 27, 2014	($229)	[1]	'	($229)	[1]	'
[1]	All amounts are net-of tax. Amounts in parentheses indicate debits.

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv3

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income and Shareholders' Equity (Reclassification) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended				9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014		Sep. 28, 2013		Sep. 27, 2014		Sep. 28, 2013
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Selling and administrative expenses	($166,216)		($154,641)		($466,714)		($451,275)
Tax (expense) or benefit	-17,372		-14,398		-27,817		-19,962
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member]	'		'		'		'
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Total	-24	[1]	21	[1]	31	[1]	81	[1]
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] | Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment [Member]	'		'		'		'
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Selling and administrative expenses	0		0		0	[1]	-116	[1]
Tax (expense) or benefit	0		0		0	[1]	42	[1]
Total	0	[1]	0	[1]	0	[1]	-74	[1]
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] | Derivative Financial Instruments [Member]	'		'		'		'
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Selling and administrative expenses	-38		33		49	[1]	245	[1]
Tax (expense) or benefit	14		-12		-18	[1]	-90	[1]
Total	($24)	[1]	$21	[1]	$31	[1]	$155	[1]
[1]	Amounts in parentheses indicate reductions to profit.

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv4

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income and Shareholders' Equity (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Schedule of Shareholders' Equity [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Stock repurchase program, remaining authorized repurchase amount	'	'	$52	'
Cash dividends per common share	$0.25	$0.24	$0.74	$0.72
Common Stock [Member]	'	'	'	'
Schedule of Shareholders' Equity [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Repurchased common stock, shares	'	'	962,950	'
Repurchased common stock, value	'	'	$35.30	'

Earnings_Per_Share_Details

Earnings Per Share (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Numerators:	'	'	'	'
Numerator for both basic and diluted EPS attributable to HNI Corporation net income	$33,588	$28,094	$54,389	$40,923
Denominators:	'	'	'	'
Denominator for basic EPS weighted-average common shares outstanding	44,689,819	45,317,912	44,916,038	45,295,115
Potentially dilutive shares from stock-based compensation plans	921,000	772,000	843,000	657,000
Denominator for diluted EPS	45,611,099	46,089,580	45,758,502	45,951,775
Earnings per share - basic	$0.75	$0.62	$1.21	$0.90
Earnings per share - diluted	$0.74	$0.61	$1.19	$0.89
Earnings Per Share, Diluted, Other Disclosures [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share	634,757	869,586	987,251	1,762,597

Restructuring_Reserve_and_Plan1

Restructuring Reserve and Plant Closures (Changes in Restructuring Accruals) (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]	'
Balance as of December 29, 2012	$55
Restructuring charges	2,357
Cash payments	-776
Balance as of September 27, 2013	1,636
Severance [Member]	'
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]	'
Balance as of December 29, 2012	49
Restructuring charges	2,311
Cash payments	-724
Balance as of September 27, 2013	1,636
Facility Exit Costs & Other [Member]	'
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]	'
Balance as of December 29, 2012	6
Restructuring charges	46
Cash payments	-52
Balance as of September 27, 2013	$0

Recovered_Sheet2

Restructuring Reserve And Plant Closures (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Sales price of furniture manufacturing facility	'	'	$13,629,000	$285,000
Gain on sale of furniture manufacturing facility	'	'	9,746,000	-2,460,000
Income tax expense	17,372,000	14,398,000	27,817,000	19,962,000
Office Furniture [Member]	'	'	'	'
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Restructuring and related cost	'	'	4,900,000	'
Additional restructuring and transition costs during the remainder of 2014	'	'	5,800,000	'
Facility Closing [Member]	'	'	'	'
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Sales price of furniture manufacturing facility	'	'	12,000,000	'
Gain on sale of furniture manufacturing facility	'	'	5,700,000	'
Income tax expense	'	'	2,700,000	'
Facility Closing [Member] | Machinery and Equipment [Member] | Cost of Sales [Member] | Office Furniture [Member]	'	'	'	'
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Accelerated depreciation	'	'	2,400,000	'
Transaction Costs [Member] | Office Furniture [Member]	'	'	'	'
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Restructuring and related cost	'	'	1,500,000	'
Severance and Facility Exit Costs [Member] | Office Furniture [Member]	'	'	'	'
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Restructuring and related cost	'	'	$1,000,000	'

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangible_2

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 27, 2014	Dec. 28, 2013
			Trademarks and Trade Names [Member]	Trademarks and Trade Names [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Aggregated amortization expense	$7,500,000	$7,700,000	'	'
Indefinite-lived intangible assets (excluding goodwill)	'	'	41,000,000	41,000,000
Goodwill, impairment loss	$8,884,000	'	'	'

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangible_3

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Other Intangible Assets) (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 27, 2014	Dec. 28, 2013
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net [Abstract]	'	'
Finite-lived intangible assets, net	$117,070,000	$94,635,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Abstract]	'	'
2014	10,000,000	'
2015	11,800,000	'
2016	13,800,000	'
2017	12,800,000	'
2018	12,600,000	'
Patents [Member]	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net [Abstract]	'	'
Finite-lived intangible assets, gross	18,905,000	18,905,000
Less: accumulated amortization	18,713,000	18,685,000
Finite-lived intangible assets, net	192,000	220,000
Software [Member]	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net [Abstract]	'	'
Finite-lived intangible assets, gross	82,685,000	52,778,000
Less: accumulated amortization	16,821,000	14,380,000
Finite-lived intangible assets, net	65,864,000	38,398,000
Customer Relationships [Member]	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net [Abstract]	'	'
Finite-lived intangible assets, gross	110,663,000	110,609,000
Less: accumulated amortization	59,649,000	54,592,000
Finite-lived intangible assets, net	$51,014,000	$56,017,000

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangible_4

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Goodwill) (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014
Goodwill [Roll Forward]	'
Goodwill, beginning balance	$316,157
Accumulated impairment losses, beginning balance	-29,502
Goodwill, beginning balance	286,655
Goodwill acquired	0
Goodwill, Impairment Loss	-8,884
Foreign currency translation adjustments	87
Goodwill, ending balance	316,244
Accumulated impairment losses, ending balance	-38,386
Goodwill, ending balance	277,858
Office Furniture [Member]	'
Goodwill [Roll Forward]	'
Goodwill, beginning balance	149,969
Accumulated impairment losses, beginning balance	-29,359
Goodwill, beginning balance	120,610
Goodwill acquired	0
Goodwill, Impairment Loss	-8,884
Foreign currency translation adjustments	87
Goodwill, ending balance	150,056
Accumulated impairment losses, ending balance	-38,243
Goodwill, ending balance	111,813
Hearth Products [Member]	'
Goodwill [Roll Forward]	'
Goodwill, beginning balance	166,188
Accumulated impairment losses, beginning balance	-143
Goodwill, beginning balance	166,045
Goodwill acquired	0
Goodwill, Impairment Loss	0
Foreign currency translation adjustments	0
Goodwill, ending balance	166,188
Accumulated impairment losses, ending balance	-143
Goodwill, ending balance	$166,045

Product_Warranties_Details

Product Warranties (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Product Warranties Disclosures [Abstract]	'	'
Standard product warranty accrual, current	$7,000,000	$6,400,000
Standard product warranty accrual, noncurrent	7,400,000	6,800,000
Product Warranty Accrual [Roll Forward]	'	'
Balance at beginning of period	13,840,000	13,055,000
Accruals for warranties issued during period	11,577,000	13,983,000
Adjustments related to pre-existing warranties	-54,000	283,000
Settlements made during the period	-10,901,000	-14,193,000
Balance at end of period	$14,462,000	$13,128,000

Postretirement_Health_Care_Det

Postretirement Health Care (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Service cost	$126	$132	$378	$394
Interest cost	184	167	552	501
Amortization of transition obligation	0	0	0	116
Amortization of (gain)/loss	0	0	0	0
Net periodic benefit cost	$310	$299	$930	$1,011

Income_Taxes_Details

Income Taxes (Details)	3 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'
Effective income tax rate	34.20%	33.90%
Estimated effective income tax rate	35.00%	'

Derivative_Financial_Instrumen2

Derivative Financial Instruments (Narrative) (Details) (Diesel Fuel Swap [Member], USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014
Diesel Fuel Swap [Member]	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'
Expected hedging percentage of diesel fuel requirements for next twelve months	50.00%
Deferred net losses, net of tax	$0.20

Derivative_Financial_Instrumen3

Derivative Financial Instruments (Balance Sheet Location) (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 27, 2014	Dec. 28, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Derivative, Fair Value, Net [Abstract]	'	'
Derivative, fair value, net	($362)	$176
Diesel Fuel Swap [Member] | Accounts Payable and Accrued Expenses [Member]	'	'
Derivative, Fair Value, Net [Abstract]	'	'
Derivative, fair value, net	-362	0
Diesel Fuel Swap [Member] | Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets [Member]	'	'
Derivative, Fair Value, Net [Abstract]	'	'
Derivative, fair value, net	$0	$176

Derivative_Financial_Instrumen4

Derivative Financial Instruments (Effect of Derivatives on Income Statement) (Details) (Cash Flow Hedging [Member], USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Before-tax Gain (Loss) Recognized in AOCI on Derivative (Effective Portion)	($542)	$24	($487)	$414
Before-Tax Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI Into Income (Effective Portion)	-38	33	49	245
Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative (Ineffective Portion)	0	3	-4	-1
Diesel Fuel Swap [Member]	'	'	'	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Before-tax Gain (Loss) Recognized in AOCI on Derivative (Effective Portion)	-542	24	-487	414
Diesel Fuel Swap [Member] | Selling and Administrative Expense [Member]	'	'	'	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Before-Tax Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI Into Income (Effective Portion)	-38	33	49	245
Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative (Ineffective Portion)	$0	$3	($4)	($1)

Fair_Value_Measurements_Assets

Fair Value Measurements (Assets) (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 27, 2014	Dec. 28, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Assets Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'
Derivative financial instruments	($362)	$176
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value as of Measurement Date [Member]	'	'
Assets Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'
Derivative financial instruments	-362	176
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member]	'	'
Assets Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'
Derivative financial instruments	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]	'	'
Assets Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'
Derivative financial instruments	-362	176
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member]	'	'
Assets Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'
Derivative financial instruments	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Government Securities [Member] | Fair Value as of Measurement Date [Member]	'	'
Assets Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'
Available-for-sale securities, fair value disclosure	10,859	11,254
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Government Securities [Member] | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member]	'	'
Assets Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'
Available-for-sale securities, fair value disclosure	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Government Securities [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]	'	'
Assets Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'
Available-for-sale securities, fair value disclosure	10,859	11,254
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Government Securities [Member] | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member]	'	'
Assets Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'
Available-for-sale securities, fair value disclosure	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Corporate Bonds [Member] | Fair Value as of Measurement Date [Member]	'	'
Assets Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'
Available-for-sale securities, fair value disclosure	1,202	4,859
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Corporate Bonds [Member] | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member]	'	'
Assets Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'
Available-for-sale securities, fair value disclosure	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Corporate Bonds [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]	'	'
Assets Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'
Available-for-sale securities, fair value disclosure	1,202	4,859
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Corporate Bonds [Member] | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member]	'	'
Assets Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'
Available-for-sale securities, fair value disclosure	$0	$0

Fair_Value_Measurements_Longte

Fair Value Measurements (Long-term Debt) (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 27, 2014	Dec. 28, 2013
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Long-term debt	$166,050,000	$150,091,000
Fixed Rate Debt Instruments [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Long-term debt, fair value	156,000,000	159,000,000
Long-term debt	$150,000,000	$150,000,000

Commitments_and_Contingencies_

Commitments and Contingencies (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 27, 2014
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Letters of credit used to back insurance policies and other obligations	$11

Business_Segment_Information_D

Business Segment Information (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Dec. 28, 2013
			Segment
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Number of business segments	'	'	2	'	'
Net sales	$614,690	$565,706	$1,576,034	$1,518,701	'
Income before income taxes	50,868	42,447	81,994	60,589	'
Depreciation and amortization expense	14,812	11,732	41,764	34,570	'
Capital expenditures (including capitalized software)	30,627	21,488	81,748	55,107	'
Identifiable assets	1,198,793	'	1,198,793	'	1,134,705
Operating Segments [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Total operating profit	66,538	55,105	121,462	95,222	'
Office Furniture [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Net sales	488,612	466,213	1,270,404	1,268,214	'
Total operating profit	42,753	40,696	77,488	71,523	'
Depreciation and amortization expense	12,427	9,257	34,398	27,384	'
Capital expenditures (including capitalized software)	13,542	13,689	43,378	36,638	'
Identifiable assets	771,385	'	771,385	'	722,697
Hearth Products [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Net sales	126,078	99,493	305,630	250,487	'
Total operating profit	23,785	14,409	43,974	23,699	'
Depreciation and amortization expense	1,121	1,274	3,455	4,039	'
Capital expenditures (including capitalized software)	1,691	1,133	4,389	2,798	'
Identifiable assets	281,765	'	281,765	'	255,978
Segment Reconciling Items [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Unallocated corporate expense	-15,670	-12,658	-39,468	-34,633	'
Depreciation and amortization expense	1,264	1,201	3,911	3,147	'
Capital expenditures (including capitalized software)	15,394	6,666	33,981	15,671	'
Identifiable assets	$145,643	'	$145,643	'	$156,030