From the Community Blog

Forward Fruit is a Chicago-based branded environments and experiential design studio. In applying a strategic, user-driven methodology to hyper creative projects, they create soulful, on-brand solutions that are exciting, beautiful, and inspire brand-user connections. See their work at the new NeoCon Plaza. Forward Fruit leaders Elise Metzger (right), Principal, and Marissa Smith (left), Principal, present a guest blog with their recommendations for the latest and best spaces to eat, drink, and celebrate while attending NeoCon 2019 in Chicago. As designers, the environment of our spaces is almost as important as the food. That said we still love those spots where ...

Listen on Apple Podcasts or Google PlayIn this episode of NeoConversations, we are taking on the challenge of designing flexible workplaces - specifically, designing in power and data distribution solutions that can keep up with the speed of evolving technology, business transitions, budget demands and the ever-changing need for adaptable power configurations. Frequently, this happens in pre-existing buildings, which creates its own set of unique challenges… so what are the creative solutions? Amy Devers talks to Steve Batchelder of Connectrac, Kevin Saindon of Brigholme, and David Meckley of Huntsman Architectural Group. Have a listen:Steven Batchelder and David MeckleyThe Connectrac System ...

Listen on Apple Podcasts or Google PlayIn this episode of NeoConversations, we are asking: What is the circular economy and what role do architects and designers play in it? How can we design truly sustainable spaces and specify materials in which the entire lifecycle has been considered, including eventual reuse?What are the implications, misconceptions and benefits associated with materials made from regenerated waste? Joining us today are two experts who taking the lead in the circular economy...Listen as host Amy Devers talks to Giulio Bonazzi, CEO + Chairman, Aquafil and David Oakey, founder of David Oakey Designs: ...

Listen on Apple Podcasts or Google PlayThe craft and details of a space can impact us on more than an aesthetic level—they can add an extra element of reinforcement, structure or aesthetics, while also being on trend.In this episode of NeoConversations, Amy Devers talks to Dana Madden, Architectural Product Manager for XtremeInterior™ by Tamlyn, and Wayne Braun, Principal at PDR in Texas about architectural trim and how it can be used to enhance interior spaces by adding sophistication, depth, color and drama to walls. Beyond aesthetics, it offers protection from dings and dents in high traffic commercial and multi-family residential ...

Chicago is absolutely no Second City when it comes to world class art, architecture and design-- and to inspiring places to visit. We asked 8 Chicago based design leaders (and partners for this year’s NeoCon) to share their favorite spaces and places to visit in the city. Add these designer-curated stops to your NeoCon 2019 Chicago ‘To-Do’ List! John CzarneckiDeputy Director and Senior Vice President | IIDA "The Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool in Lincoln Park is an oasis of quiet beauty in the city. Just north of downtown—and walking distance to Lake Michigan—this landscape is a wonderful escape. Designed by Caldwell in ...

A designer, urbanist, and social innovator, Liz Ogbu is an expert on sustainable design and spatial innovation in challenged urban environments globally. She is founder and principal of Studio O, a multidisciplinary innovation practice that works within communities in need globally to use the power design to catalyze sustained social impact. Liz’s projects include a design workshop at the Clinton Global Initiative Annual Meeting, Oakland Museum of California, and Pacific Gas & Electric. In addition to her practice work, Liz has served as an educator at several universities including UC Berkeley, Stanford, and the University of Virginia. She also frequently ...

Ilse Crawford is a designer, academic and creative director who focuses on putting human needs and desires at the center of all that she does. As founder of Studioilse, together with her multi-disciplinary, London-based team, she brings her philosophy to life on projects like Soho House New York, Winterspring in Copenhagen, Ett Hem Hotel in Stockholm, and the Lounge at Plaza 66 in Shanghai. Ilse will be speaking at NeoCon about creating designing furniture and products that support and enhance human behavior and actions in every day live and how brands and businesses can restore human balance. We had the ...

Stephen Alesch and Robin Standeffer founded Roman and Williams Buildings and Interiors in 2002. They will be speaking at NeoCon 2019 on balance and experience in design. We had the opportunity to chat with Stephen and Robin about their work, design philosophy, and favorite things about Chicago. How does design impact our culture? Design informs how we live, how we see ourselves and the world we’re in. It is an immovable part of culture that literally dictates how you feel and experience space. La Mercerie Cafe inside of Roman and Williams Guild in SoHo. NY. Image Credit: Adrian Gaut How do you see ...

January and the new year rolled around quickly for us on the NeoCon team... and we're delighted! When we began planning for last year's NeoCon and our 50th edition, we took a long look back at all that our community has shared, experienced and contributed during a half century-- and it's a lot! But more than looking back--we focused on looking forward. Along with our NeoCon partners and constituencies, we have several new ideas in the works that will evolve, extend and elevate the NeoCon experience into the future. A number of initiatives will be launched this year. We hope ...

Listen on Apple Podcasts or Google PlayIn this episode of NeoConversations, we’ll find out what happens when a commercial design brand takes on the design of new headquarters. What are the challenges and opportunities involved in bringing teams from disparate offices together into a unified headquarters? And, what is involved in the design and construction of that project so that it emcompasses the brand’s DNA, supports company culture and sends a strong message to the world about the company’s mission? Plus, how do you do all that and consider LEED and WELL specifications?Sneak peek of the new Interface HQ in ...