NeoCon 2026

The Future is Here in Design!

Top Industry Trends We Noticed

Warmth is Replacing Corporate
One of the strongest themes across NeoCon and Design Days was a move away from traditional corporate aesthetics. Rich colors, wood detailing, soft textures, and residential influences created workplaces that feel more welcoming, comfortable, and human.
The Office is Becoming More Hospitality-Inspired
Manufacturers continue to blur the lines between workplace, hospitality, and residential design. Lounge settings, layered furnishings, and curated experiences are helping organizations create destinations employees actually want to visit.
Bigger, Softer, More Comfortable Furniture
Oversized lounge pieces, organic forms, rounded edges, and sculptural seating appeared throughout nearly every showroom. Comfort is no longer a secondary consideration; it is becoming a primary design driver.
Architectural Elements Are Replacing Traditional Systems
Manufacturers are moving beyond traditional workstation systems toward more architectural screens, dividers, and integrated workplace solutions.
Flexibility is Expected, Not Optional
Many of the newest products were designed to adapt quickly to changing needs. Modular furniture, movable boundaries, and multi-functional spaces continue to support evolving workstyles and hybrid schedules.

Acoustics Are Becoming a Design Feature
Privacy remains a challenge in open environments. Rather than hiding acoustic solutions, manufacturers are integrating them into ceilings, walls, screens, lighting, and furniture as both functional and aesthetic elements.
Invisible Technology is Winning
The best technology introductions were often the least noticeable. Integrated power, seamless connectivity, and smarter workplace tools focused on reducing friction rather than drawing attention to themselves.
Human Experience is Driving Design Decisions
Across showrooms, the conversation was less about square footage and more about how people feel. Comfort, wellbeing, connection, focus, and belonging are increasingly influencing workplace strategy and product development.
Design is Moving Beyond Function
Perhaps the biggest takeaway from NeoCon 2026 is that performance alone is no longer enough. Organizations are looking for environments that inspire people, strengthen culture, and create memorable experiences. The workplace is becoming a reflection of brand, values, and community as much as a place to work.

“One of the strongest themes emerging from NeoCon and Design Days this year was a return to warmth and nostalgia. Oversized lounge furniture, organic curves, chunky bases, tambour wood detailing, and rich gem tones created environments that felt more residential, layered, and inviting. We also saw a notable shift in the panel market, with manufacturers moving away from the traditional 3-inch tile-and-frame systems toward more architectural gallery-style panel solutions that offer greater visual softness, materiality, and integration within the overall workplace design.”

Jessie JamesVice President – Strategic Relationships

Insights from Leadership & Designers

At NeoCon 2026, Haworth showcased a vision for the future of the workplace that balances craftsmanship, performance, and human-centered design. Through conversations with Chairman Matthew Haworth, President and CEO Franco Bianchi, and featured designer Stephen Burks, a clear theme emerged: creating spaces that feel more personal, adaptable, and meaningful. From innovative products like the Gallery workstation system, dual-circuit power technology, and award-winning lounge collections to Burks’ exploration of craft, community, and making through furniture, lighting, and textiles, the showroom demonstrated how thoughtful design can enhance both function and experience. As organizations continue to navigate evolving workplace needs, Haworth’s message was clear: great design isn’t just about meeting performance standards; it’s about creating environments that help people feel comfortable, connected, and inspired.

AIS’s NeoCon 2026 showcase highlighted a workplace future centered on comfort, adaptability, and human connection. From the introduction of Ardyn lounge seating and the innovative Reshape task chair to more than 100 new materials featuring rich textures and hospitality-inspired finishes, AIS demonstrated how workplace environments are evolving beyond traditional office design. Conversations with AIS leaders revealed a common theme: creating spaces that feel warm, inviting, and flexible while supporting collaboration, sustainability, and inclusion. Whether through thoughtfully designed products or initiatives like the Radiance Program, AIS continues to focus on designing workplaces that people genuinely want to be a part of.