June 16, 2016

NeoCon 2016: Retro Residential + Collaboration Space

NeoCon 2016 was filled with color and comfort this year!  Stepping into the Chicago Merchandise Mart, there was an air of fun, informal and retro flair to the showroom exhibits.  Warm wood tones, copper, and succulents galore created a throwback experience.

Collaboration and connectivity are still widespread themes.  Lounge seating with integrated power, in conference spaces, and attached to workstations.  Overall, this added a more informal feel to the work environments.  With the addition of popular retailers like West Elm entering the commercial furniture world, it is no wonder more manufacturers are blending residential elements with high functioning workspaces.

Technology continues to play a role as both a way to collaborate and experience space.  Virtual reality made an appearance this year with manufacturers like National letting visitors experience their corporate headquarters through virtual googles.  Steelcase’s Workplace Advisor, which won Best of NeoCon Silver for Workplace Technologies, provides information to decision makers on how their collaborative spaces are being used through room sensors.