NeoCon, the largest and most influential commercial interiors trade show in North America, is shaking up its traditional format with a newly announced Preview Day on Sunday, June 7th, from 12–4 PM, ahead of its official opening on Monday.

 

The special Sunday session is being positioned as a press and industry preview—offering early access to the latest furniture, flooring, lighting, textiles, and technology innovations from hundreds of leading brands and emerging designers. According to show organizers, this added window will “enhance the NeoCon experience and generate excitement,” giving media and attendees a first look at key introductions before the opening bell on Monday.

 

For manufacturers and dealers, the implications are significant. NeoCon’s opening day has long been a chaotic, high-stakes sprint, with showroom floors packed from the moment the doors open. An early preview allows press and key clients to get a head start on the show’s biggest stories and product debuts, potentially shifting some of the first-day pressure forward. For exhibitors, it also means one more opportunity to build buzz and secure early coverage—especially valuable in a year with increased media interest in hybrid workspaces, AI-driven design tools, and sustainability.

 

Held each June at Chicago’s iconic Merchandise Mart since 1969, NeoCon draws over 50,000 design professionals and showcases more than 400 companies. It serves as the contract furniture industry’s de facto product launch platform and sets the tone for trends in office, healthcare, education, and hospitality environments. Adding a dedicated preview session aligns with other global trade shows like Milan’s Salone del Mobile and Germany’s Orgatec, where early access for press and VIP buyers is standard practice.

 

Organizers have requested that exhibitors and partners update their listings and materials to reflect the new Sunday schedule. Whether this is a one-time experiment or a permanent fixture remains to be seen—but for 2025, it’s clear: NeoCon starts Sunday.

Steelcase has released its 2025 impact report, showcasing its commitment to community building and achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The report highlights initiatives such as 72 volunteer projects, 186 community partnerships, and significant charitable contributions totaling $10.4 million. Additionally, Steelcase has redesigned its best-selling chairs to include 50% more recycled content, reflecting a dedication to sustainability. The company emphasizes the importance of creating inclusive environments where everyone feels valued and recognized, with a focus on collective action for positive change.

MillerKnoll Expands Research-Backed Workplace Planning Guidance to Support Employee Wellbeing

MillerKnoll has launched a new playbook to support employee wellbeing, specifically addressing menopause in the workplace. This initiative, developed through expert consultations and employee feedback, offers practical strategies for organizations to create supportive environments for those experiencing menopause. Recommendations include enhancing sensory comfort, mental wellbeing, and privacy through thoughtful design and policy adjustments, ultimately benefiting a broader workforce while addressing the needs of historically overlooked employees.

NORNORM, a Nordic scale-up, has secured €50 million in funding to enhance its circular Furniture-as-a-Service model, which offers subscription-based access instead of traditional ownership. The funding round was advised by Houlihan Lokey, with backing from existing investors such as Verdane, Inter IKEA, Philian AB, and Banco Santander. Since its launch, NORNORM has achieved €14 million in annual subscription revenue and has furnished over 360,000 square metres of office space while remaining operationally profitable. The company's model extends the lifespan of furniture, allowing businesses to scale resources flexibly, thereby reducing costs, waste, and emissions. Operating in 17 countries and 59 cities, NORNORM serves over 36,000 employees. The CEO, Anders Munk Jepsen, noted that the funding will help maintain control over growth while ensuring profitability, and accelerate the adoption of their circular model across Europe.

AI companies are rapidly increasing office space leasing in Manhattan, with over 486,000 square feet leased in the first nine months of 2025, nearly double the previous year's total. This surge is driven by smaller, well-funded tech startups, alongside major players like Salesforce and OpenAI. Many leases are short-term, and there is a notable demand from West Coast firms establishing a presence in the city, reflecting a competitive market for office space post-pandemic.

The Washington, D.C. office sector is experiencing modest improvements, with asking rents rising by 0.2% to $58.78 per square foot, particularly for trophy assets which increased by 1% to $95.81. Vacancy rates decreased to 22.4%, with trophy assets seeing a significant drop to 10.2%. Additionally, absorption improved with a positive net of 58,817 square feet in the third quarter, reducing the year-to-date total to -502,646 square feet.

The tightening of Tier 1 office space in Chicago is pushing tenants towards Tier 2 properties, with over 90% of active tenants seeking this next class of space. Tier 2 leasing has increased significantly, with a 16% rise in 2024. The West Loop is a key area benefiting from this trend, as it houses a majority of Tier 1 and 2 spaces. Demand for high-quality Tier 2 space is rising as tenants upgrade from Class-B offices. JLL projects continued spillover into Tier 2 buildings due to limited new construction and upcoming lease expirations.

Despite the prevailing belief that office spaces are no longer needed post-pandemic, some investors, like Lincoln Property Company, are actively acquiring office buildings, particularly in markets like San Francisco. They focus on properties with financial issues rather than structural problems, believing in the potential for recovery and profitability. While hybrid work models may reduce overall demand for office space, high-quality offices are expected to remain attractive for companies aiming to enhance collaboration and corporate culture.

The Trump administration recently announced new tariffs on upholstered furniture and kitchen and bathroom cabinetry, effective October 14. The tariffs on imported lumber will be 10%, while upholstered furniture will face a 25% tariff, increasing to 30% in January 2026. Kitchen and bathroom cabinets will also be taxed at 25%, rising to 50% in January. Special rates are set for certain countries, with the UK capped at 10% and the EU and Japan at 15%. The announcement clarifies that these tariffs will replace existing "reciprocal" tariffs rather than adding to them. Notably, kitchen cabinetry tariffs will apply to both finished products and components. Trump justifies these measures as necessary for national security and aims to strengthen supply chains, create jobs, and enhance domestic production capabilities. He has hinted at further tariffs on countries that do not manufacture furniture in the U.S.

US President Donald Trump has announced new tariffs on furniture imports, particularly targeting countries that export kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities, and upholstered furniture, with initial duties set at 25–30% and potentially rising to 50% for cabinets and vanities starting January 1, 2026. The measures aim to boost domestic manufacturing in states like North Carolina, South Carolina, and Michigan, with Trump citing national security and declining domestic production as justifications. China, a leading exporter, is particularly affected, while the UK, EU, and Japan will face lower tariffs of 10% and 15%. The tariffs are part of a broader trade strategy to reduce foreign reliance and enhance US manufacturing, amidst ongoing negotiations with trading partners.

Trump's H-1B visa crackdown is prompting U.S. firms to shift high-value work to India, enhancing the growth of global capability centers (GCCs). With increased visa costs and tighter regulations, companies are reassessing their labor strategies, leading to a potential surge in offshoring critical tasks related to AI and product development. While some experts anticipate a significant increase in GCCs in India, concerns about proposed taxes on outsourcing could disrupt service exports. Overall, the demand for GCC services may offset losses from H-1B reliant businesses.

Frank Lloyd Wright is set to be the subject of a Hollywood biopic, following a licensing deal between the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation and Galisteo Media. The film will focus on the transformative 1920s period of Wright's life in Los Angeles, highlighting his innovative residential designs and the impact of a tragic event at his Wisconsin home. The producers, who live in a Wright-designed house, aim to shed light on his significance in architecture and engage audiences through various media projects.

This year marks the centenary of the Bauhaus art school's move to Dessau, highlighting the legacy of tubular steel furniture, notably Thonet's B 9 H stool. Innovators Marcel Breuer and Mart Stam revolutionized residential design with lightweight, functional pieces. Thonet, after acquiring Breuer's company, produced iconic designs like the S 32/S 64 chairs and B 285 desk, blending material innovation with Bauhaus minimalism. Today, Thonet continues to honor this heritage with modern reinterpretations and a commitment to sustainable, quality furniture, demonstrating the ongoing relevance of Bauhaus-inspired design.

Employees prioritize work-life balance over salary, with expectations for flexible hours and supportive office environments. While many accept hybrid work policies, compliance varies based on personal circumstances and workplace quality. Employers must address burnout and recognition to enhance retention, tailoring strategies to individual needs and fostering a culture that values wellbeing and engagement.

Congresswoman Dina Titus criticizes President Donald Trump's executive orders mandating classical architecture for federal buildings, likening his actions to those of dictators. She argues that architecture reflects cultural values and believes Trump's approach undermines America's diversity and history. Titus has proposed the Democracy in Design Act to empower local areas over design decisions, countering Trump's preference for traditional styles. She emphasizes the importance of architectural variety and expresses concern that Trump's mandates could establish a precedent for uniformity in building design across the country. Titus also highlights the need for public input in architectural decisions and opposes the notion of a singular preferred style dictated from above.

Flos has launched the Flos Design Space in Chicago, located within the Lightology showroom. This space showcases a blend of classic and contemporary lighting designs, including the Bilboquet, IC Lights, Snoopy table lamp, and various other notable pieces. The design of the space is minimalistic yet theatrical, featuring materials such as rough concrete and dark grey plaster that enhance the lighting effects. It allows customers to visualize how the products would look in their own homes. The showroom is located at 215 W Chicago Ave., in Chicago.

New research from Yale and Brookings indicates that the U.S. job market has not yet been significantly disrupted by AI, with changes in occupational mix largely predating the introduction of AI tools like ChatGPT. While entry-level workers face challenges, the data does not support claims that AI is the primary cause of their difficulties. Companies are adopting a cautious approach to hiring as they assess AI's impact on productivity, suggesting that any major transformations in the labor market may take longer to manifest.

Loneliness affects 25% of U.K. adults and costs employers £2.5 billion annually due to staff turnover, reduced productivity, and sickness absence. Flexible workspaces can help mitigate loneliness by fostering social connections and community, ultimately enhancing employee engagement and retention. As organizations adapt their workspace strategies, offering flexible options can support both productivity and wellbeing, addressing the broader issue of workplace loneliness.

Corporate real estate decision-making has shifted from the C-suite to employees, influenced by technology, cultural changes, and the impact of COVID-19. Flexibility in workspace arrangements is now prioritized, with shorter leases and remote work becoming mainstream. Generational shifts and globalization further drive this change, emphasizing the need for workplaces that support autonomy and collaboration. The future of corporate real estate lies in adapting to these evolving demands and treating office spaces as platforms that enhance productivity.

Service charges for office occupiers rose by 9% last year due to increased investments in maintenance and amenities aimed at encouraging a return to physical workplaces. This follows a 15% rise the previous year, driven by wage inflation and deferred maintenance. Central London offices have service charges nearly 70% higher than the UK average. Other sectors like shopping centers and retail parks also saw significant increases. The findings emphasize the need for landlords to show how these investments enhance productivity and wellbeing to justify ongoing cost increases.

Office occupancy remains low five years post-pandemic due to entrenched remote work attitudes, with two-thirds of U.S. companies offering hybrid work. This model leads to reduced office space as firms aim to cut costs, and while some markets like New York City see increased leasing activity, overall vacancy rates are high.

Japan is experiencing a wave of office renovations as companies strive to attract and retain employees amid a labor shortage. A significant investment by Matsukawa Rapyarn into modernizing their facilities illustrates this trend, resulting in increased job applications and a more appealing work environment. The shift from traditional workplace norms reflects a broader change in corporate culture, where employee satisfaction and aesthetics are becoming priorities. The country's office furniture suppliers are benefiting from this renovation boom, with sales increasing despite a declining population. However, the rise of artificial intelligence poses a potential threat to this trend, as it could reduce the need for physical office spaces in the future.

Rigid return-to-office mandates are ineffective in increasing attendance; instead, flexibility and well-designed workplaces that offer amenities and experiences motivate employees to return. Research shows that incentives and renovated offices significantly boost attendance, while the rise of AI is reshaping office planning towards more collaborative spaces. Key findings indicate that hybrid work remains prevalent, and desirable office features like wellness areas and networking opportunities are crucial for attracting workers.

Restore Harrow Green Partners with RESEAT to transform Workplace Asset Management Across the UK

Restore Harrow Green has partnered with RESEAT to enhance workplace asset management across the UK, providing clients with access to a platform for real-time asset visibility and management. This collaboration aims to reduce waste and promote sustainability, allowing users to manage furniture inventories, track carbon impact, and utilize a mobile app for asset management. The partnership aligns with both companies' commitment to innovation and long-term customer value.  Info: bsusewitz@reseat.com

Fellowes Contract Interiors is launching the Titan™ Frame and Tile models, enhancing their modular wall offerings with frameless solid tiles and framed glass tiles that provide visual and acoustic privacy. The new line features interchangeable trim designs and allows for easy updates to wall sections, supporting a variety of finishes and functionalities. The entire Titan series will be available for specification in the Fellowes CET Extension by the end of October, reinforcing Fellowes' commitment to innovative, design-driven workspace solutions.

Designtex introduces three new textiles—Little Leaf Crypton®, Petal Play Crypton®, and Ridge Crypton®—that combine biophilic design with high performance. These durable, stain-resistant fabrics are ideal for healthcare and communal settings, offering soothing palettes and organic patterns to enhance emotional wellbeing while withstanding everyday use.

3form has launched Array, a versatile officefront hardware system designed for seamless integration of Varia and Glass materials. It features a sleek profile, accommodates various environments, and allows for customizable configurations. The system aims to enhance design flexibility for architects and designers while ensuring structural integrity and ease of installation for contractors.

Feeney has launched the Kerrie Kelly x Feeney DesignRail® LaserCut Collection on DesignShop, providing residential designers and contractors with easy access to laser-cut panels for indoor and outdoor railing needs. The collection features nine intricate designs made from durable aluminum, available in 15 frame color options, and aims to simplify the specification process while promoting sustainability through reduced packaging waste. Feeney, a family-owned company since 1948, continues to innovate in architectural products that blend beauty and functionality.

Tile Club introduces three new tile collections: Alata, Boldara, and Real Terrazzo, blending timeless design with modern durability. Alata features elongated subway tiles in earthy shades, Boldara mimics Italian marble with customizable options, and Real Terrazzo showcases mid-century inspired designs with authentic stone chips. Each collection is suitable for various residential and commercial applications, emphasizing lasting performance and aesthetic appeal.

Móz Designs created a custom metal feature wall in Boston's 75 State Street lobby, featuring 72 aluminum panels with laser-cut chevron patterns that evoke birds in flight. The installation is backlit with RGBW LED lighting, allowing for dynamic displays and enhancing the space's aesthetic. Utilizing a Key-Slot Wall System for a clean finish, the project combines design innovation with functionality, revitalizing the urban environment while honoring the building's architectural history.

Koroseal introduces a new print-on-demand program for window films, featuring eight popular designs made from 100% post-consumer recycled materials. These decorative films enhance privacy while being eco-friendly and LEED-friendly. They are optically clear, scratch-resistant, and designed for durability, making them suitable for various settings including corporate, healthcare, and hospitality environments.

MeSpace has developed a neuroadaptive office pod designed for neurodiverse individuals, allowing customization of lighting, airflow, and privacy levels. The workstation features visual layering for spaciousness and is aesthetically refined with integrated acoustic panels and plants. It can be quickly installed from flat-pack and aims to enhance focus and comfort in the workplace.

The Nomad Collection features sleek power strips designed by Form Us With Love, made from 100% recycled aluminum. These power strips can be paired with Nomad Lamps that plug directly into the sockets, and a flush-mounted variant is also available. The collection aims to integrate electricity and charging into interior design, emphasizing sustainability and aesthetic appeal.

DeskMakers’ Sidekick Mobile Pedestal Collection Awarded Design Patent

DeskMakers has received a design patent for its Sidekick mobile pedestal collection, which offers mobility, storage, and adjustable-height work surfaces for hybrid and remote workers. Designed by David Winston, the collection features various models with pneumatic lift tabletops and customizable finishes, promoting flexibility and inclusivity in modern workspaces. The product is now available for purchase.

The Lecrase Stool, designed by Friedrich Gerlach, is crafted from leather offcuts from the automotive and fashion industries, showcasing an innovative use of leftover materials. Gerlach emphasizes the value of these materials as resources rather than waste, and his design won the 2025 Rising Talent Award for its sustainable approach.

Coalesse, a Steelcase brand, introduces the Jean Nouvel Seating Collection, which combines ergonomic comfort with sculptural beauty, challenging traditional office furniture aesthetics. The collection features fluid, organic shapes that allow for flexible office configurations, catering to the rise of porous workspaces post-COVID. This innovative design emphasizes both functionality and visual appeal, showcasing the potential for office furniture to be both practical and artistically striking.

A new ultra-thin window technology, developed by Corning, combines design with energy efficiency, potentially revolutionizing building architecture. Made from millimeter-thin glass, these windows can achieve five times the energy efficiency of standard windows, significantly reducing heating and cooling costs. This innovation allows for larger windows without compromising energy standards, encouraging architects to rethink building designs. Production is ramping up in the U.S., with several manufacturers set to adopt this technology, which could lead to substantial reductions in global emissions.

The Museum of Wisconsin Art is hosting an exhibition titled "Frank Lloyd Wright: Modern Chair Design" from October 4, 2025, to January 25, 2026, showcasing over 40 chair designs by Frank Lloyd Wright, many of which are being exhibited for the first time. The exhibition highlights Wright's innovative furniture as integral to his architectural vision, featuring reconstructed works based on new research by architectural historian Eric Vogel. Key pieces include chairs designed for the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum café and others that were previously thought lost, emphasizing Wright's belief in furniture as 'living designs' that complement the buildings they inhabit.

A new Hermès workshop in L'Isle-d'Espagnac, France, emphasizes handcrafted leather goods in a modern, sustainable building designed to harmonize with its surroundings. The facility, housing 260 artisans, promotes a slow, meticulous production process, integrating natural light and eco-friendly materials while showcasing the artistry of leatherwork. The architecture reflects a commitment to craftsmanship and sustainability, creating a luxurious space that enhances the artisans' work and connects to the local environment.

Italian architects Floriani & Strozzi designed the new headquarters for Planet Farms, a leading vertical farming company, in collaboration with UniFor and Citterio. The facility emphasizes sustainability and functionality, blending into the surrounding agricultural landscape. The interior features bespoke workspaces and innovative design elements that reflect the company's commitment to high-quality, environmentally friendly products. The building's exterior includes a wooden slatted façade for energy efficiency, showcasing a harmonious integration of architecture, technology, and agriculture.

MASS Design Group transformed six derelict factory buildings in Poughkeepsie, New York, into the Scenic Hudson Northside Hub, a mixed-use community space. The renovation preserved over 85% of the original structures and included workspaces, a gallery, community meeting rooms, and a café. The project emphasizes adaptive reuse for carbon neutrality and incorporates sustainable features like a green roof and solar energy systems, showcasing a commitment to environmental responsibility.

A typical day starts at 6am with coffee, followed by focused work on priority projects until noon, including a workout. After a break for lunch and preparation, work continues at an offsite studio from 2pm to 7pm, primarily involving shooting or editing. The day concludes with dinner and relaxation, aiming for sleep by 10:30pm.

ADP is relocating its Miami office to the Waterford Business District, signing a lease for 78,000 square feet. This move reflects Miami's growth as a global business hub, with the district featuring over 3 million square feet of Class-A office space. The area has seen significant developments, including the headquarters of TracFone Wireless and plans for Carnival Corp's new headquarters. The relocation aims to enhance the employee experience and foster innovation in a well-connected environment.

Integra Welcomes Josh Price as Partnership Manager 

Integra Seating has appointed Josh Price as Partnership Manager to enhance relationships with brand representatives and dealer partners in the A+D market. Price's background in teaching and coaching will aid in fostering collaboration and support for partners. Integra aims to strengthen its presence in the commercial design industry, focusing on innovation and customer service while maintaining a commitment to sustainability.

Ware Malcomb Welcomes New Leaders from CBRE's U.S. Design Collective

Ware Malcomb has welcomed eight new leaders from CBRE's U.S. Design Collective across various offices. The new team includes experts in structural engineering, interior architecture, branding, and electrical engineering, bringing extensive experience and numerous awards in their respective fields. The firm continues to expand its capabilities in architecture, interior design, and engineering services, maintaining its position as a leading design firm in the commercial real estate sector.

ASID Releases 2025 State of Interior Design Report

The 2025 State of Interior Design Report by ASID highlights employment trends, business growth, and future outlooks for the profession. Key findings include approximately 69,580 employed interior designers, a 3.4% increase in self-employment, an average salary of $71,430, and a projected 3.4% growth in the number of design firms. Small businesses significantly contribute to the industry, with projected sales of $30.9 billion in 2025. Demand for design services is expected to slow due to rising construction costs.

Humanscale Consulting Marks 20 Years of Ergonomic Leadership During Global Ergonomics Month

Humanscale Consulting celebrates its 20th anniversary during Global Ergonomics Month, highlighting its role in transforming workplace ergonomics into proactive health initiatives. As hybrid work models become prevalent, ergonomics is essential for enhancing employee health, engagement, and productivity. The company is expanding its global services with new programs, including a course on integrating ergonomics into collaborative workspaces and a Post Move Training program to support workplace transitions. Additionally, they are hosting an Expert Session to discuss the impact of unhealthy workplaces and strategies for improvement.

Scandal Meets Style at IIDA NY’s Color Invasion® 2025

The IIDA NY's 23rd annual Color Invasion® event, themed "Sunsets & Scandals," will take place on October 30, 2025, in Chelsea Industrial, New York. The event promises a glamorous atmosphere with bold colors, stylish fashion, and immersive experiences, while also supporting the nonprofit Beyond Bedtime. Guests are encouraged to donate pajamas and books for children in need, and a pop-up shop will be available for donations during the event.

Solomon Coyle to Host Q3 2025 Market Index Webinar with ITR Economics 

Solomon Coyle is hosting a Q3 2025 Market Index Webinar in partnership with ITR Economics on October 7, 2025, at 11:30 AM ET. The webinar aims to provide contract furniture industry leaders, including dealer principals and sales and operations leaders, with valuable economic insights to aid in smarter business planning. Featured speakers include economist Lauren Saidel-Baker and consultant Ashley Baker, who will discuss current economic data impacting the U.S. and global economies, focusing specifically on its implications for the contract furniture sector. Attendees will gain data-driven insights, industry-specific analysis, and strategic confidence for planning for Q4 and 2026. A recording and downloadable materials will be available for subscribers. For more information, visit solomoncoyle.com/research/market-index-report.

NEWH, Inc. Launches Third Annual Martha’s Mentors Program

NEWH, Inc. is accepting applications for its third annual Martha’s Mentors Program, which connects emerging hospitality professionals with experienced mentors over a 10-month period. The program focuses on career advancement, leadership development, industry knowledge, and networking, while encouraging mentees to volunteer with NEWH. Applications are open until November 15, 2025, for active members with less than five years of experience, and seasoned professionals are invited to apply as mentors.

A salesperson in the office furniture industry is considering attending the Boutique Design New York (BDNY) trade show, despite uncertainty about its relevance to selling office furniture. BDNY focuses on hospitality and boutique design, linking closely with the "resimercial" trend, which merges office environments with hospitality aesthetics. Attending BDNY is beneficial for networking with architects and designers, learning about innovations in hospitality design, and exploring new career opportunities in the growing senior living market. The recommendation emphasizes that engagement in hospitality shows is increasingly important for office furniture professionals as design trends shift. 

The Senior Accountant is responsible for managing key components of the financial reporting process on behalf of client accounts, ensuring the timely and accurate preparation of financial statements in accordance with US GAAP.