TURNERBATSON Interior Designer Mary-Claire Brown headed to Chicago for NeoCon 2024 and Fulton Market Design Days. With nearly 1 million square feet of exhibition space, NeoCon features game-changing products and services from more than 400 leading companies and emerging players as well as industry partners providing unparalleled access to the latest and most innovative solutions in commercial design (NeoCon.com). Upon her return, Mary-Claire shared with our office how this year’s top trends have resulted from the evolution of work cultures.

Warmer Color Palettes with Monochromatic Pops

The use of color was consistent in each showroom this year. Warmer earth tones in combination with saturated hues of color in varying shades were the “IT” trend. Varying shades of aged denim, raspberry, sage and gold were the most popular accent colors featured in monochromatic metals and fabrics. Laminates and woods followed suit with the use of warmer chocolate tones as an emergence of stone and abstract visuals are becoming more prominent.

Workspace Flexibility

Employee workspaces are ever-evolving to accommodate the flexible office trend. Furniture displays had an element of versatility — from private offices to breakrooms. Examples included flexible conference room tables, collaboration tables with battery packs built in, and lounge seating that can be configured to any shape for informal meetings.

Making a Sustainable Difference

Many showrooms highlighted their use of eco-friendly materials in an effort to minimize waste in the manufacturing process. PVC – Free materials are making more of an appearance, especially in flooring. Overall, the goal is to improve wellness and enhance creativity and minimize environmental impact.