Events

NeoCon & Design Days: The Top Trends That Inspired Us

From bold palettes to emotionally intelligent design, this year’s NeoCon and Design Days experiences reaffirmed what we predicted and pushed our thinking even further.

Each year, NeoCon and Design Days give us a fresh perspective on what’s next in the world of design and 2025 is looking more thoughtful, expressive, and human than ever. What stood out most? The alignment between what we saw and the predictions we made in our COR Curated: Inspiration & Solutions for 2025. If the showrooms are any indication, we’re right on track.

Across the MillerKnoll collective and beyond, we saw a shift toward design that prioritizes emotional resonance, adaptability, and material integrity. These weren’t just ideas. They were fully realized spaces and solutions showing how design can support well-being, strengthen connection, and prepare us for what’s ahead.

Here are the five top trends that inspired us most.

The New Neutral Palette

This year’s color story redefined the concept of neutral. Instead of traditional beiges and grays, we saw saturated colors rooted in nature—forest green, golden yellow, burnt orange, deep red, and sky blue—showing up across textiles, painted metals, plastics, and architectural elements. The effect was cohesive and energizing. These palettes made spaces feel grounded and expressive, adding personality while still offering balance.

Sensory-Rich and Emotionally Intelligent Design

There was a strong focus on environments that support how people feel in a space. Furniture, materials, and layouts responded to neurodiverse needs, promoting calm and personal control. Designs incorporated soft surfaces, quiet zones, and ergonomic options that adapt to a range of users. It echoed what we shared in our trend outlook: well-being is no longer a bonus—it’s a design essential.

Adaptable and Accessible Multi-Use Spaces

Showrooms emphasized flexibility as a core design strategy. From height-adjustable tables to mobile furniture with concealed casters and integrated handles, everything was designed to move and adjust easily. Whether for work, learning, or hospitality, spaces are being created to shift quickly based on the needs of the moment. The goal is to create future-ready environments that encourage agility without sacrificing function or style.

Promoting Community and Connection

Designers are responding to the evolving workplace by creating spaces that help people come together. The focus was on layouts that encourage interaction, using color, scale, and thoughtful planning to build a sense of belonging. As hybrid work continues, these design strategies help strengthen culture and make collaboration feel more natural and engaging.

Sustainability in Action

Sustainability was no longer just part of the conversation—it was part of the product. We saw real examples of materials and manufacturing choices designed to reduce impact, embrace circularity, and prioritize longevity. MillerKnoll’s commitment stood out, with clear strategies for responsible design and measurable progress. It’s proof that sustainable solutions are not only possible, but already in motion.