Inside the Highlights, Surprises, and Must-Sees from COE Team Members Experiencing NeoCon for the First Time

NeoCon is widely considered the go-to event for commercial design professionals—and for good reason. But what is it really like to attend for the first time? According to a few first-timers from the COE team, NeoCon is more than just a tradeshow; it’s a full sensory immersion into the future of workplace and educational environments.

Here’s what stood out:

First Impressions: A Stunning, High-Energy Atmosphere

The initial impact of THE MART, the iconic building in downtown Chicago that serves as the central hub for NeoCon, is hard to overstate. One team member shared,

“My first impression was that it was absolutely beautiful! Everything I’ve learned over the last few months was right in front of me—it was so cool to see it in person.”

The grandeur of the space, combined with thoughtfully curated displays, instantly sets the tone. Haworth’s showroom made a strong first impression—bright, cozy, and intentionally designed to invite visitors into a multi-layered experience. For many, it was powerful to see in real life what they’d only seen in lookbooks and product guides. The buzz of the crowd added to the excitement and underscored NeoCon’s role as a true industry hub.

Standout Showrooms: Haworth, Turf, and Fomcore

The Haworth showroom was a clear favorite. It delivered not only on product presentation but on the emotional impact of thoughtful design. Visitors appreciated the combination of color, comfort, and layout—everything felt intentional, immersive, and relevant to today’s office design needs. One person described it as

“Vibrant, cozy, and inviting… it made you feel like you were being immersed into the design world.”

Another surprising hit? Turf. Their creative use of acoustical panels, including walls that blocked out a live DJ setup, left a lasting impression on the team. It was a standout example of how form and function can merge in unexpected, memorable ways.

“They integrated sound with a DJ booth, and when you turned the corner, you couldn’t even hear it because of the acoustic walls.”

Fomcore also earned praise for showcasing how far educational furniture has come. Seeing playful, flexible, student-focused designs up close helped drive home the importance of environments that support how people actually learn and engage.

Event Highlights: Where Work Meets Celebration

Beyond the showroom tours, NeoCon’s after-hours events proved to be just as energizing. The SitOnIt party at the House of Blues, for instance, created a perfect blend of industry networking and pure fun—something first-timers didn’t expect but thoroughly enjoyed.

Meaningful Takeaways: Trends + Inspiration

Among the trends that caught attention, a few stood out:

• Sustainability: Many manufacturers are upping their game when it comes to recycled materials and eco-conscious design.
  
• Function-as-Art: Products like whiteboards disguised as artwork combined utility with aesthetic appeal—a clear hit.
  
• Designing for Impact: From lighting to wall décor, the use of intentional design elements left attendees with fresh ideas for creating emotionally engaging environments back home.
  

Attendees left NeoCon with phones full of photos—and not just for social sharing. Each picture was a reminder of an idea worth bringing to life. Whether it’s revamping the showroom, proposing a new product to a client, or simply staying on the pulse of what’s next in commercial design, the inspiration was real and actionable.

Final Verdict: 10/10, Would Attend Again

For first-time attendees, NeoCon delivered on every level—visual inspiration, product education, industry connection, and personal growth. It left them feeling more connected to their work, more confident in client conversations, and excited for what’s next.

“It meant the world to me. Attending NeoCon reminded me why I enjoy being part of this industry.”

This first visit might have been a learning experience—but it certainly won’t be the last.