The Planning Interiors team recently packed up our bags and headed to Chicago for NeoCon 2025! As one of the largest commercial design trade shows in the country, NeoCon is the place to be to see manufacturers debut new products and highlight upcoming design trends for workplace, education, and hospitality interiors.
It was an inspiring few days, and we’re buzzing with fresh ideas to bring back to our clients.
What is NeoCon?
For over five decades, NeoCon has been the premier event for the commercial design industry. Held annually at THE MART in Chicago, it’s a vibrant hub where designers, architects, and industry professionals connect, learn, and discover what’s next in commercial interiors. From cutting-edge furniture to innovative materials and smart technology, NeoCon provides an insightful glimpse into the future of how we work, learn, and socialize in commercial spaces.
The Trends and Takeaways That Stood Out the Most
Walking through the countless showrooms and exhibits, several exciting themes consistently emerged, further shaping our understanding of the evolving landscape of commercial design. We saw innovation across various commercial spaces, all pointing towards more dynamic, people-centric, and sustainable spaces.
Here are some of our top takeaways:
Curves
A noticeable shift towards soft, organic forms and rounded shapes was everywhere we looked. From gracefully curved sofas inviting collaboration to beautifully sculpted reception desks and architectural elements, curves are bringing a softer, more inviting, and human-focused feel to commercial interiors. This trend helps create a sense of comfort, fluidity, and psychological ease, making spaces feel less rigid and more approachable, perfect for stimulating connection and well-being.
Bold Colors
While sophisticated neutrals will always have their place, NeoCon 2025 was a lively celebration of bold colors. We saw rich, saturated tones alongside playful palettes, infusing energy and personality into every space. Deep blues, emerald greens, cheerful orange hues, and pops of fuchsia caught our eye. Color is often strategically used to define zones, evoke emotions, and create memorable experiences, especially in maximalist settings. It’s a wonderful way to add character and visual interest to any space!
Tech Integration
As expected, technology continues its seamless integration into commercial design, moving beyond just screens and cables to become an inherent part of the environment. NeoCon 2025 showcased intelligent solutions that enhance functionality and user experience without being overtly visible. Think concealed power solutions within furniture, intuitive smart lighting systems that adapt to natural light, integrated technology that manages sound, and furniture specifically designed to support hybrid work with built-in charging and connectivity.
Modular Furniture
The increased demand for flexibility and adaptability in commercial environments has led to a boom in modular furniture solutions. We saw so many beautiful systems that can be easily reconfigured to support various activities throughout the day, like individual-focused work, impromptu team collaborations, or large group gatherings. This allows spaces to evolve with changing needs, maximizing utility, and ensuring longevity.
Adaptable Designs
Beyond just modular furniture, the overarching trend of adaptable designs continues to dominate the interior design world. This means creating spaces that can truly support multiple modes of engagement and seamlessly transform for different functions. Imagine office lounges that effortlessly double as informal meeting areas, or educational spaces that quickly shift from lecture halls to interactive workshops. This trend emphasizes versatility, inclusivity, and user autonomy, ensuring that commercial interiors are as dynamic and responsive as the people who inhabit them, promoting efficiency and long-term value.
Keeping Our Finger on the Pulse of Interior Design
Attending NeoCon 2025 was an invaluable experience for the Planning Interiors team. In an industry that is constantly changing, staying connected to the latest innovations and emerging trends is a must. Events like NeoCon allow us to:
- See New Products Firsthand: There’s nothing quite like experiencing new materials, finishes, and furniture pieces in person. It allows us to understand their quality, functionality, and aesthetic impact to the fullest extent.
- Connect with Manufacturers: Building relationships with product manufacturers means we have direct access to the best and newest solutions for our clients, often before they’re widely available.
- Gain Inspiration and Knowledge: With insightful seminars and endless networking opportunities with fellow design professionals, NeoCon is a powerhouse of ideas. It fuels our creativity and ensures our team is always at the forefront of the ever-changing design sphere.
- Ensure Future-Proof Designs: By understanding where the industry is heading – whether it’s the shift towards more flexible spaces or the increasing demand for sustainable materials – we can create designs for our clients that are not only beautiful today but will also remain relevant and effective for years to come.
This commitment to continuous learning and staying on the cutting edge reinforces our dedication to delivering exceptional interior design solutions. We’re excited to apply these insights and leverage these exciting new products to create inspiring, functional, and effective environments across workplaces, educational facilities, and hospitality settings. Reach out to Planning Interiors today and let’s put some of these insights into action!