Chicago—As the global platform for the commercial interiors industry, NeoCon, to be held here June 13–15 at theMART, is a launchpad for the latest products, commercial design trends and ideas that shape the built environment today and into the future, according to show organizers.
The show’s exhibitors said they continue to innovate and illustrate agility in responding to the latest market needs and design trends, especially when it comes to the workplace—where recent shifts have given rise to concepts such as “hotelification” and “phygital.”
This year’s exhibitor introductions and programming will also address the ever-evolving demands of the healthcare, hospitality, retail, education, public space and government sectors. Demand for products that support privacy and adaptability, promote well-being and feature biophilic elements continue to endure and, along with the latest commercial design trends in colors and materials, will also be on display throughout the show.
Below is a roundup, by trend, of some of the cutting-edge exhibitor solutions destined to shape the future of our shared spaces, according to show organizers:
The “Hotelification” of the office
Designers and facility managers are increasingly approaching office interiors as they might a high-end hotel property. According to CBRE’s 2030 Global Outlook Report, the movement is “most evident in stylish co-working spaces that cater to untethered digital workers.” Characterized by a warm, inviting ambiance, copious amenities and designs that promote collaboration, these new spaces aim to increase employee satisfaction and attract and retain top talent. Cue highly functional and flexible pieces with a big dose of comfort, beauty and colors in calming palettes.
The future of work is “Phygital”
The hybrid work model has ushered in a “phygital” approach to workplace design that blends the digital and physical realms. Whether equipped with tech-integrated products or adaptable, acoustic solutions, successful phygital built environments seamlessly sync up remote and in-person workflows for a better work experience.
Biophilia & Well-being
It’s no secret that incorporating biophilic design into a space can help promote well-being—the connection to nature helps reduce stress, supports cognitive function, enhances mood and spurs creativity and productivity.
Mohawk Group (377)
Mohawk Group’s Lichen Community, a new, multi-hued modular carpet collection, features a soothing textural design that recalls the natural world. Outfitted with the company’s new EcoFlex One backing, Lichen Community is just as appealing in its formation. It is also Mohawk Group’s lowest embodied carbon carpet tile to date, is Living Product certified and NSF 140 Platinum for a net positive impact all while supporting a more sustainable, ecological, community-inspired wellness.
Patcraft (10-160)
Patcraft’s Within is a coordinating plank and sheet resilient collection available in both abstract and wood visuals that infuse any office with a nature-inspired aesthetic. With patterns and colors determined by market research and insights, the collection was designed to specifically meet the needs of healthcare environments and would be ideal in hospital offices and other healthcare-oriented workspaces. The wood visual is embossed in register, providing texture for a more realistic wood look, and is available in nine warm and inviting colorways. The collection features a 20-mil wear layer for superior durability and an ExoGuard finish provides enhanced scratch and stain resistance.
Privacy & Adaptability
The increased need for privacy and adaptability in open-plan workspaces is not just the result of the pandemic. Workplaces are increasingly recognizing that facilitating workers’ sense of autonomy through designs that can adapt to one’s needs improves productivity and a sense of well-being.
Warm Earthy Tones
Out of the colors most often seen in nature, the warmer, earthier hues tend to be more inviting, can double as neutrals in interiors and are known to impart feelings of positivity and stimulate good energy.
Momentum Textiles & Wallcoverings (323)
Momentum’s new At the Museum Collection—designed by Sina Pearson—is inspired by modern art. Featuring six minimal, abstract pattern collections that employ graphic elements and limited color palettes, the high-performing textiles are woven with bleach-cleanable, harsh chemical-safe yarns and are Greenguard certified. The multi-toned Mezzotint collection—shown here—is woven with textured yarns designed to mimic wool. The eye-catching simplicity of the patterns bring warmth to commercial spaces without overpowering the interiors.