The high from NeoCon has just about faded and as various organizations prepare their Post NeoCon events, we thought it was time for us to share what we thought of this year’s event. NeoCon is a three day event where over 50,000 design professionals view and interact with new products from over 700 manufacturers within the Merchandise Mart in Chicago, Illinois. Debbie Loughran and Ed Frey represented the MSA team this year and here is a bit of what they shared upon their return:
Color:
After years of bold, saturated colors, we’re very happy to start seeing a much softer color palette. There was an array of interesting combinations – colors from different eras mixed with beautiful earth tones. Blush made a strong appearance and it’s safe to say it’s the color of the moment.
Workplace:
As the line between work and home continues to blur, residential was a big theme this year. West Elm’s collaboration with Inscape was creating a buzz with their variety of mid-century, modern, industrial, and contemporary styles. Herman Miller (a favorite of the MSA office), is having a lot of fun this season – they shared whimsical color palettes across a variety of their mid-century modern styled pieces and are also playing with residential inspired themes. OFS delivered on its tech-friendly, DIY sensibility. Their casual but elegant palettes have always left you feeling at home, fitting right in with this year’s overarching theme. Haworth showcased their collaboration with Patricia Urquolia and is redefining the workplace. Their pieces soften the look of the relationship between workplace and technology. Geiger is using tapestries to remind us of their dedication to sophistication and refinement.
Flexibility:
We all understand the value of real estate and that maximizing space is essential. Knoll and Steelcase showed that being able to provide power at ANY spot within an open space is not only valuable, but possible! Watson provides a great solution to the bench delivering ultimate flexibility with an agile center deck that allows users to adjust based on function, workstyle, and personal preference.
Technology:
Steelcase has always been the leader in research driven design and they did not disappoint this year. An accessory they chose to showcase was their “smart” panel. You’re able to program the panel to communicate a wide range of information – a name plate, meeting reminders, break reminders, and can been illuminated either green or red to inform neighbors if you’re available.
From a diversity of color and beautiful textiles to redefining the bench system and ergonomic solutions to lounge seating, NeoCon provided an incredible amount of inspiration that MSA can’t wait to start incorporating into projects as we partner with current and future clients! Take a look through the photos below to see some of the products mentioned above and keep in mind, there’s only 328 days until NeoCon 2016!
