Six designers. Three days. Two iconic Chicago destinations. Over 150 showrooms explored and thousands of products experienced.
This year marked the first time NeoCon at The Merchandise Mart and Design Days in Fulton Market felt truly balanced. With many manufacturers—both large and small—now showing in Fulton Market, the experience was more enjoyable and navigable. Both venues were bustling, but not overcrowded, allowing us to explore products without the shoulder-to-shoulder intensity of previous years.
With a great event in the books, here’s a glimpse of the standout trends we loved:
Color is Back (and Bold!)
Color made a strong comeback this year—especially in smaller showrooms. While large manufacturers leaned into neutral palettes with pared-back forms and patterns, we saw vibrant hues pop across other spaces: bold oranges, electric blues, vivid purples, golden yellows, and rich mulled wine tones.
Powder blue continues to trend, as do matte black and warm neutrals, but green was the real standout. After a noticeable absence last year (except for plants), it reemerged in full force—from chartreuse to forest green—highlighting the immersive biophilic experiences many showrooms embraced.
Immersive Biophilia
Biophilic design went beyond the typical plant-filled corners. Showrooms like Andreu World used backlit greenery panels, while OFS showcased massive high-definition nature scenes to create environments that felt like working in nature rather than just around it. This deeper integration of natural elements made a big impact.
Materials on the Move
Walnut dominated as the wood of choice, offering warmth and depth, contrasting the lighter Rift Cut White Oak we’ve seen in recent years. Champagne and light bronze were the go-to metal finishes—hinting at a move away from whites and grays, especially in more permanent pieces like demountable walls and workstation components.
Textural wood treatments were also everywhere: tambour wood, vertical slats, and grooved panels added dimension without overpowering the space.
Embracing Workplace Equity
Hybrid work continues to shape product innovation. Many showrooms featured new “pod” solutions—individual and group spaces with integrated lighting, fans, ADA-compliant features, and even fire suppression systems. These are ideal for quick calls, focused work, or creating semi-private zones within open environments.
The concept of micro-privacy was big this year. Spaces that offer users personal control through movable screens or adaptable layouts reduce visual distractions without full enclosure, supporting equitable experiences for different needs in the workplace.
Equity also extended to neurodiversity. We saw furniture that embraces different user needs—rocking bases, varied seating heights and orientations, and products that work for both high and low sensory preferences. This signals a much-needed shift away from one-size-fits-all solutions.
Tangible Sustainability
Sustainability has moved from abstract to actionable. Rather than just pledges, we’re seeing real products that prioritize circularity, bio-based materials, and responsible end-of-life strategies.
Highlights included:
- Wolf-Gordon’s RAMPART® Fiber (flax-based)
- Haworth’s cornstarch-based upholstery
- Andreu World’s BIO thermopolymer (100% recycled and recyclable)
- Teknion’s Modus Maluma, filled with coconut husks
Take-back programs, swappable components, and life cycle planning are becoming standard. As designers continue asking the tough questions about sustainability, manufacturers are stepping up.
Blurred Boundaries
Furniture and spatial layouts are more adaptable than ever, reflecting the overlap between workplace, education, and healthcare environments. Reconfigurable lounges, height-adjustable tables, and multi-functional pieces provide flexibility and choice—enabling work, collaboration, and relaxation all in one zone.
Home-like Comfort
Rounded edges and soft forms were everywhere, from demountable walls and planters to credenzas and conference tables. The trend toward making offices feel more like home continues, promoting comfort and inviting employees back into shared spaces.
Standout Showrooms
- Momentum Textiles
Always pushing boundaries, Momentum delivered a standout experience. Their “six biomes” concept activated all the senses—sight, sound, touch, and even scent. Yes, scent! Guests received a scratch-and-sniff card to guide them through the space. - Muuto
A favorite among our designers, Muuto’s new Fulton Market space was filled with natural light thanks to skylights and delicate blue curtains. The soft color palettes and thoughtful design details were truly stunning. - OFS
Winner of Best Showroom at Fulton Market Design Days, OFS’s new space felt bright, calm, and refined. Their neutral tones and biophilic digital installations created a grounded yet inspiring environment. - Turf
Turf expanded into a new space complete with a live DJ and hands-on CNC cutting demos. It felt like an acoustic playground for adults—immersive, playful, and unforgettable. - Kimball International
Transforming their showroom each year, Kimball continued to impress with a fresh layout and product story. We love watching how they reimagine their space annually.
NeoCon and Design Days 2025 proved that the future of design is immersive, inclusive, and ever-evolving. From sustainability and sensory-driven experiences to bold tones and soft forms, the trends we saw this year are sure to influence everyday environments across industries.
We’re excited to see how these insights shape the next year of design—and can’t wait for what 2026 has in store!
