Trends In Modern Work Environments at NeoCon 2014

The recently concluded NeoCon 2014 saw a trend of office furniture companies offering flexible choices for modern work environments ranging from quiet, personal spaces to collaborative settings.

Haworth Inc, for example, introduced the Openest Collection designed by Patricia Urquiola, which is an ensemble of tables, partition screens, sofas and seating pieces which can be arranged into different styles. The Spanish architect created the lounge furniture collection that can provide a venue for quick meetings, intense work or to “relax and rejuvenate” its users.

Nancy Stryker, Haworth Inc’s project specialist said, “What we are finding is that people want a lot of autonomy, choice and variety in places they work.” She added, “The way people work is constantly changing and demands diverse, adaptable workspaces that optimize space and help people work smarter.”
Susan Cain, author of “Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World that Can’t Stop Talking” worked together with Steelcase in developing an office setting that cater to introverts. Last year, the company introduced V.I.A, a soundproof wall system where users can create private spaces within open work layouts.

The Herman Miller company who introduced Living Office last year, made NeoCon a venue to turn their showroom into a live-action Living Office this year. The Zeeland-based furniture company used real people in a real office setting to bring their concept into life.

Rob Kirkbride who covered the event for The Monday Morning Quarterback, observed, “I think we are going to see a refinement of things we saw introduced last year.”

Indeed, there were less introductions of newer products in this year’s NeoCon and more of companies showing how their products can be applied in a modern workspace.

More than 25 Michigan companies had at least one booth at the Superbowl of office and commercial interior's exposition and conference which started last Monday, June 9 and ended Wednesday, June 11.