Our team headed back to Chicago for one of the most anticipated weeks in commercial interior design…NeoCon and Fulton Market Design Days! These events never disappoint, packed with forward-thinking ideas, standout products, and beautifully curated showrooms from the industry’s leading manufacturers. We spent an energizing few days fully immersed in the future of workplace design, from furniture and flooring to textiles, acoustical products, and everything in between.
Whether you’re a seasoned designer or simply curious about where interiors are headed next, here are some of the trends that caught our eye this year!
This year’s color palette proved that calm doesn’t have to mean boring. Fluted wood details were everywhere, adding texture and depth, while soft, earthy tones, greens, purples, and burnt orange brought warmth and personality without overwhelming the space. Neutral, elevated, and just the right amount of color!
JSI embraces the trend with warm neutrals and elegant wood paneling.
This stunning private office at Steelcase showcases how wood tones can create a clean, refined aesthetic.
A calming blend of neutrals, purples, and pinks took center stage at Kimball International’s showroom.
The OFS Acoustic Lounge by ROOM offers all the privacy and comfort you need.
Sutton & Harris by Three H creates soft zones for an escape in the busy workplace.
Nest Pods by Venue Industries provide a cozy retreat for quiet focus or relaxation.
No longer confined to rectangles or circles, we spotted lots of guitar pick-shaped tables and other soft-edged forms that bring a fun, relaxed vibe to the workplace. Whether it’s a side table, desk, or conference piece, organic is officially in!
This Nienkämper conference table is a prime example of organic shapes adding unique visual interest.
The Three H Kynde table demonstrates how soft edges can create a more relaxed, inviting atmosphere.
These triangular Bermuda Tables from Venue Industries are sure to make a statement in any space.
Today’s workplace is all about versatility, and manufacturers are certainly stepping up. We’re talking stackable or nesting chairs, mobile furniture and carts, height adjustable desks and tables, modular lounge systems, and shelves doubling as space dividers, to name a few. Here’s to multi-functional design that works hard, looks good, and moves with you!
The OFS Adler private office collection features a cleverly designed rotating bench that tucks away when not in use.
The Hightower Toward Modular lounge offers flexible configurations to fit any space, plus armrests that double as lap desks.
Arcadia’s TOOthePOINT flexes easily with purpose to maximize functionality.
Many brands rolled out furniture products crafted from recycled materials, reclaimed wood, and low-impact manufacturing processes. Flooring vendors are also jumping on the green train, introducing PVC-free Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) and Vinyl Composition Tile (VCT). These new PVC-free options promise the same durability and performance as traditional versions, but minus the harmful chemicals. Kudos to those designing with the planet in mind, creating materials that do good and look good!
Believe it or not, this Extremis tabletop is made from recycled shampoo bottles!
Made from recycled material, Patcraft’s new ReMaterial line is 100% PVC-free.
With sustainability at its core, Steelcase highlights that 40% of landfills are construction waste and the company is on a path to be net zero by 2050.
Many companies leaned into their heritage, reflecting on their past while showcasing a clear vision for the future. This resonated with our team because of our own 2025 theme, NBS Roots, which embodies the foundation and core values that have shaped our company. This nod to the past added a meaningful layer to NeoCon and Design Days this year, reminding us that good design doesn’t just embrace the new, it builds on legacy, reinvents with purpose, and continues to evolve.
Steelcase reflects on their legacy as they look ahead to the future.
JSI proudly honors nearly 150 years of dedication to creating and preserving their legacy.
Kimball International displays their rich history to celebrate 75 years of craftsmanship.
NeoCon and Design Days once again offered an inspiring, energizing glimpse into the future of commercial design….one that’s more human, more intentional, and more adaptable. From sustainability to flexible furniture, thoughtful color palettes, and a focus on privacy, the trends point to a workplace that not only functions better but feels better. Design is evolving with purpose, and we’re excited to carry that momentum forward.
Excited about these trends and curious how they can transform your workplace? Let’s connect and explore how to bring these themes and solutions to life in your own space…contact us today!
