NeoCon – the Mecca of modern office furniture – did not disappoint this year. Last month in Chicago at THE MART, people came together from all around the world to debut and explore new collections, trends, textiles, and more. NeoCon truly showcases the newest, most cutting-edge elements of office design. Vibrant colors and engaging textures have found their own place in the office. New tech-enabled furniture is replacing outdated solutions. And as work styles and offices change, the designers adapt.
NeoCon 2024 gave us answers to problems we didn’t even know we had. However, here are a few of the biggest emerging trends and what’s to come for the future of office design.
Out with the Old
The office environment and the impact it has on employees has been a focus of office design. Whether livening up a space or showcasing a company’s brand, the colors used in the office are just as important as the furniture we choose. The designs showcased at NeoCon 2024, showcased an elegant combination of functionality and beauty. The office has been gradually changing every year. However, utilitarianism is starting to take a back seat. Furniture is becoming art. Art is becoming functional. Office furniture is evolving. Contemporary furniture and engaging textiles are replacing old office designs. But is it possible for something to be art AND functional?
NeoCon 2024 – what does modern office furniture look like?
It isn’t just the furniture designs that are changing. The materials are changing. The textiles are changing. Chairs aren’t just chairs anymore. Acoustic pods aren’t just for privacy. And most importantly, the office isn’t just a place to work. NeoCon has shown us that modern office furniture has become much more than its intended uses.
Modern office furniture looks much different than in previous years. With sustainability at the forefront of design, emphasis is being put on responsibly sustainably sourced or recycled materials. These efforts have led to innovative materials that reflect natural elements and a biophilic connection to the outside work.
NeoCon 2024 has also shown us the power of color, texture, and visual and textural stimulation. Offices have used color for stimulation for a long time. However, textiles have become the new focus. These newly introduced woven and coated textiles increase brain stimulation and can lead to a more comfortable environment with a focus on wellness.
Modern Office Furniture is Still Functional
Even though the aesthetics of office furniture has changed, the functionality still remains. Actually, the functionality is constantly being innovative to create more application-specific pieces. With the rise of the hybrid model, companies have specific needs. These different modalities require furniture with specific features to optimize space. NeoCon 2024 showed us that a focus on functionality is not dead. In fact, it’s very much alive.
From innovations to sound-absorbing panels to tech-enabled acoustic pods, it’s obvious that there are needs in the office that aren’t being met. However, innovative designs are starting to meet those needs. Acoustic pods are becoming more accommodating. Designers are paving the way to a more immersive office experience. And the unique needs of diverse workforces are being placed at the forefront of design.
Companies are realizing the importance of functionality and what functionality encompasses. However, NeoCon 2024 showed us that functionality isn’t reduced to chairs and desks. Wellness, comfort, and satisfaction have elevated functionality. Functional furniture isn’t just how well furniture meets needs. It has become how well it surpasses those needs.
What NeoCon Showed Us
NeoCon 2024 showed us that the contemporary office will continue to evolve. It has shown us that the office environment can be designed far beyond the space it’s confined to. Modern office furniture can be a focal point. It can be art, comfort, and connection. Employees and companies have spoken, and the world of modern office design has answered. The bold looks of seating solutions, the environmental gratification of working among recycled materials, and the realization that the furniture and design of your office meet all of your unspoken needs are enough to show how bright the future of office design truly is.
If you want an office that looks like it’s pulled right out of NeoCon, we can help. StrongProject offers cutting-edge commercial office furniture that can transform the space you work in. Our design and installation processes can help you find your starting point and help you get to work. Contact us or visit our Los Angeles office furniture showroom to learn more!
Interested in other posts about modern office furniture? Check out these related posts:
Top 5 Modern Design Trends for Your Office
6 Reasons Your Modern Office Design Matters
