This year at Neocon and Design Days the trending themes our team saw related to supporting more working styles, neuroaesthetics, and flexibility across all vertical markets. Below, we have unpacked some of our favorite product picks in each theme.
THEME
Sustainability and Circular Design
Across the board, we saw a conscious effort to promote the sustainability initiatives that each manufacturer is working towards. There was a strong sense of ownership in the responsibility to positively impact people and the planet by refining the full cycle of a product from creation to recycling. We saw that it is now more of a standard rather than an option to have sustainability at the forefront of furniture design.
The Pippin Chair by NaughtOne can be easily disassembled into its component parts, ready to be refurbished, reused or recycled. Making this circular design a win, win for people and the planet.
Vox® by Neinkamper, introduced a new eco-material, Eelgrass, to its workstations. This sustainable alternative to traditional acoustic panels is designed to create healthy and comfortable spaces while being environmentally friendly.
Avalon by KFI Studios has a distinctive split design for the seat and back that is visually light and engineered to minimize packaging size which reduces its carbon footprint.
THEME
Flexibility and Simplicity
Flexible and adaptable furniture isn’t a new trend, however, many manufacturers introduced extensions to their existing product lines that are mobile and reconfigurable, whether that is office pods, prefabricated meeting rooms, or moveable desks and modular furniture. Each features simplified ways to adapt furniture pieces into new configurations.
AMAi by Extremis is an amazing hyper-flexible solution that has different seating options to spark creativity and collaboration. This can be put inside or outside and AMAi's multifunctional table comes with light, power high and low table top, and bold color options.
Focus Booths by Schiavello are available as a single booth or ottoman combo and have over 10 other variations. This solution is great for open offices or learning environments.
Crate Curved by Allermuir allows users to seamlessly specify fully circular spaces or elegantly snake their designs around their chosen environment. Adding Curtains provides acoustic and visual privacy as well.
THEME
Color Versatility & Soft Textures
This year we saw manufacturers push the boundaries of color and texture to infuse distinctiveness into every space. From soft textiles to innovative surface materials, there was an emphasis on how these elements transform the look and feeling of an environment. Earth tones and monochromatic colorway options became a focus to foster calmness and continuity to any space. Together, these elements not only elevate the visual appeal of individual furniture pieces but also enrich the overall sensory experience of any working environment.
HAG Celi by 9to5 Seating is thoughtfully designed with monochromatic bold color options to enhance continuity within any space. The rich, uniform tones create a cohesive aesthetic, which impacts how people feel in the space by promoting a sense of productivity and unity.
The Fortune Chair by Heller is a fun rounded form that stands out in any environment. A great choice for all verticals, Fortune's smooth texture, colorways, and lightweight body foster wellbeing and spark joy.
Elora by Davis Furniture comes available as a sofa or lounge chair and makes an unforgettable statement with its thoughtfully curated design and soft texture. Whether you're furnishing a corporate office, a lively hospitality setting, or a cozy learning nook, this chair adds both style and sophistication to any space.
THEME
Designing for Senses and Wellbeing
A standout trend was the emphasis on how color, texture, sound, and shape influence our brains and emotions on a subconscious level. We noticed that the majority of manufacturers showcased soundproof pods for meetings, collaboration, or focused alone time, highlighting the growing importance of acoustic privacy. Alongside this, there was a strong emphasis on curved edges and rounded forms in seating, tables, and workstations. The use of earth-tone colors and soft textures was prevalent, creating environments that foster well-being and productivity.
Gathr by OFS is crafted from molded plywood with an exposed plywood edge accent. Gathr's addition of biophilia and smooth textured body make any space comfortable and foster wellbeing. It's also a flexible solution with its two-tier module form that allows for adaptability, creating landscapes that support various working styles.
Abl by Keilhauer recreates the appearance of a soft curve shaped by gravity, offering an inviting, seating option. Shaped foam attached to the arms mimics soft material swaddling the chair's base, while a recessed back highlights Abl’s multi-piece construction.
Framery's new line of soundproof office pods are redefining privacy and sustainability for the office pod industry. Each pod is designed with clean lines and spacious interiors that seamlessly blend style and functionality. They are equipped with advanced technology and top-notch connectivity features and offer superior soundproofing, ensuring a quiet and productive environment.
