From the Community Blog

Each year, NeoCon showcases thousands of innovative products for commercial interiors—spaces where we live, work, play, and heal—and serves as a barometer for prevailing and emerging movements in design. One of these growing movements is the rise of neuroaesthetics. “Neuroscience-informed design shows us that science can guide us to good choices,” says Sally Augustin, PhD Fellow at the American Psychological Association and Principal at Design With Science. While the notion that sights and sounds impact mood is not new, neuroaesthetic research shows that intentionally incorporating these elements can enhance overall well-being and boost productivity. At NeoCon this past June, exhibitors ...

Technology is everywhere in our lives — our cars, smartwatches, phones, alarm clocks — and there is nothing inherently wrong with this reality. However, amidst all this tech, we cannot lose sight of the power of immersive design and human connectivity. Leaving NeoCon earlier this summer, that commitment to immersive design resonated louder than before. Interior designers have the incredible agency to create spaces where meaningful human experiences take place. We should embrace this power and always push for evocative design solutions that connect people, memories, stories, and physical space in profound ways. Balancing bold graphics and dynamic lighting highlights ...

Recently, at NeoCon, I had the privilege of leading a panel sponsored by IIDA that was part of IIDA’s Collective Design LIVE series. The panel’s topic was “The Future of Experience.” As a foresight practitioner and IIDA’s Futurist-in-Residence, I was thrilled to engage with some of the industry’s top minds on this relevant topic. As the discussion unfolded, it was clear that the interior design industry stands at a pivotal moment where experiences and storytelling are becoming more vital than ever to maintain relevance and foster deeper human connections. It’s what the clients and end users are asking for more ...

In today's interconnected world, embracing diversity and fostering community engagement are essential for driving innovation and creating inclusive, empowered environments. In the heart of Via Seating lies a powerhouse - our people. Our organization takes immense pride in the dedicated artisans within its ranks who skillfully handcraft every chair with care and pride. Hailing from various corners of the community, Via Seating's team is a mosaic of nationalities, age groups and personalities, contributing to a diverse and vibrant work environment. This diversity fuels the company's strength, fostering innovation and enhancing their approach to chair manufacturing. Guided by LEAN manufacturing ...

In the realm of healthcare, wellness is not just a buzzword; it's a fundamental aspect that encompasses physical, mental, and emotional health. When it comes to medical education buildings, where future healthcare professionals are trained, the design of these spaces plays a crucial role in shaping the learning experience and, ultimately, the quality of care they provide. Designing for wellness in these environments goes beyond aesthetics; it involves thoughtful considerations that promote the well-being of both students and faculty. It also seems fitting that we design healthy buildings and learning environments for those that are training to promote health and ...

Over 150 years of inspirational and collaborative leadership, the award-winning architecture practice of Shepley Bulfinch has influenced health and science design paradigms, from hospital campuses to teaching facilities. An education legacy with a specialization in library design has evolved to embrace a new commitment to housing and urban development for a regenerative and equitable future. Since its inception in 1874, the firm’s work has been at the forefront of major social movements and moments in Chicago, and across the country. Beginning with the design of the Marshall Field Wholesale store in 1874 to completing a Master Plan for the University ...

The 55th edition of NeoCon, the world’s leading platform and voice for commercial interior design, will be held June 10-12. An estimated 50,000 attendees will convene at THE MART in Chicago to experience firsthand the latest trends and innovations influencing the future of shared spaces. From fostering deeper connections and prioritizing sustainability to learning from neuroscience, NeoCon exhibitors are pioneering what’s next in design with creative solutions for environments that are not only innovative and functional but also enriching and inclusive. Below are just a few impactful themes shaping today’s workplaces, hotels, restaurants, retail spaces, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities––alongside standout new ...

It's one of the unspoken questions in the (ongoing? permanent? soon-to-be ­wrapped-up?) debate about in-person work versus remote work: How can the office be better than home? Or, for the non-believers - can the office be better than home? Home is, for many, the place of maximum comfort and convenience. There has never been - will never be, short of a Jetsons-level invention - an easier commute than the one between your bed and your desk setup. Your fridge has exactly the snacks you love and if someone burned an empty coffee pot again, you probably only have yourself to ...

I am an endless advocate for small business, always have been and always will be. It is within my core. The question I want to look at is why should small business manufacturers matter to the industry and to GSA? With experience working for small business manufacturers earlier in my career, I now dedicate my efforts to supporting them through Catalyst. Additionally, I take pride in being a woman-owned small business myself. Through this lens, let’s look at the importance of small business manufacturers to the furniture industry and GSA. It’s important to understand that Small Business Manufacturers play an ...

Can design be functional, responsible and beautiful? Some believe that you must compromise one in order to succeed with the other two. I believe that innovative, responsible, beautiful design is not just a dream or a potential for “one day,” but that there are tangible, practical steps designers can take to make their ideal creations a reality. 1. Choose Materials That are Better for People + Planet Materials matter. In fact, Urban Land Institute shares that 80% of a building’s environmental impact is based on its materials. By selecting materials that are more inclusive for all people and better for the planet, ...