NeoCon and Fulton Market Design Days 2026 centered on the theme "Where Design Connects," drawing design professionals from around the world to Chicago. The standout shift was warmth equal to function: nostalgic, residential-feeling spaces with curved silhouettes, tactile materials, and rich tones like burgundy and plum. Details were innovated and considered, comfort was prioritized, and hospitality-inspired spaces signaled how workplaces should feel, not just perform.
Kettal, KI, Allsteel, Zilenzio, Allermuir, Andreu World
Allsteel, Boss, Darran, Andreu World, Bulo, Via
Allsteel, Andreu World, Bulo, IKEA, Halcon, Andreu World
more than just curvy, beyond contract comfortable
Allermuir, Stylex, Allermuir, Artifort, Kettal
piping, pleats, needlework
KI, OFS, Allsteel, Andreu World, Allsteel, HBF, KI
Nienkamper, Nienkamper, Viccarbe, Zilenzio, ERG International, Halcon
single & small arched meeting spaces
JSI, Darran, Darran, Venue
from seating to storage and surfaces
Falcon, OFS, Andreu World, Enthicraft, Impact Acoustics, Venue, Kimball
angular forms making a comeback
Uhuru, HBF, KI, HBF, Studio TK, Allermuir
Header image via Allermuir