June 19, 2017

Designers’ Picks From NeoCon 2017

We asked design leaders to share their favorite finds from the Chicago show.

“New wood finish totems at Geiger with warm, cool, and pale color tints. An amazing range.”—Bill Bouchey, director of design, interiors, HOK

“My overall impression of the show and the trends I’m seeing are 1950’s modern meets post-war industrial. Also, attention to detail. In today’s digital age, it’s so nice to see quality craftsmanship that looks like it has been touched by human hands.”— Marlyn Zucosky, Director, Interior Architecture & Design, Ware Malcomb

“Technological integration with user observation, subtle movement, and comfort and depth seem to be notable themes this year.”—Mark Hirons, design principal, interior design, CannonDesign

“The new Lichen carpet from Mohawk has a very strong environmental story. It is the only carpet to have achieved Living Product Challenge Petal Certification from the Living Future Institute. I think this will set the new bar for carpet sustainability.”—Ken Wilson, design principal, Perkins + Will

Haus by West Elm Workspace is an amazing piece. A great way to create small breakout areas without building any walls.”—Hector Fernandez, senior interior designer, Gertler & Wente Architects

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“My favorite moment of the show was the Maharam exhibit. The simplicity and power of seeing leather hides against relaunched Alexander Girard and new designers from Japan was moving beyond words. I’m a circular thinker, which is probably why I loved the big metal ring they used to hang all that gorgeous fabric.”— Angie Lee, principal/design director, interiors, FXFOWLE

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