NeoCon 2026

Details

Taking place June 7–10 at The Mart, centered on the theme “Where Design Connects,” NeoCon explores the ideas and leaders transforming the spaces where we work, learn, heal, and gather—from corporate offices and healthcare facilities to hotels, retail environments, schools, and public spaces.

Drawing 50,000 design and corporate professionals, the 57th edition highlights the critical importance of adaptive resilience, well-being, and community, introducing major programming evolutions and a new dedicated lighting exhibition designed to maximize attendee ROI and showcase technical advancements.

MAJOR SHOW ADDITIONS:
Preview Day (Sunday, June 7 | 12:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.): Designed to optimize product discovery and foster connection
Illuminate at NeoCon: Spotlighting the essential relationship between architectural lighting, human biology, and environmental design.
NeoCon Collab: Half Light: An immersive installation designed by Charlie Greene Studio and inspired by “Chicagohenge.”

PRODUCT & DESIGN TRENDS TO WATCH:
- AI-enabled workplace design and smart environments
- Lighting innovation and circadian wellness
- Neuroinclusive and human-centered interiors
- Circularity, material reuse, and sustainable manufacturing
- Biophilic and restorative design strategies
- Hospitality-inspired workplaces and amenity spaces
- Adaptive, multigenerational, and hybrid work environments
- Immersive technologies and data-driven spatial experiences

WHEN:
- Sunday, June 7, 12 p.m. - 4 p.m. (Preview Day)
- Sunday, June 7, 12 p.m. – Illuminate at NeoCon Ribbon-Cutting
- Monday, June 8, 9 a.m.- 5 p.m.
- Tuesday, June 9, 9 a.m.- 5 p.m.
- Wednesday, June 10, 9 a.m.- 3 p.m.

NOTABLE EXPERIENCES, ACTIVATIONS & INITIATIVES
NeoCon 2026 captures the intersection of design, culture, and community through curated installations and events.
INSIDE DESIGN: Four curated off-site experiences developed in partnership with the Design Museum of Chicago, offering behind-the-scenes access to civic, cultural, artistic, and material-focused spaces throughout the city, including a special behind-the-scenes visit to the Obama Presidential Center.
Art on The Mart: Starting June 4, the south façade of The Mart’s 2.5-acre exterior—home to the world’s largest digital art platform—will feature Love Language, a curated projection by HDR celebrating the spirit of human connection and our shared capacity to create with intention.
Paved States x DesignLab: A hybrid gallery and living environment presented by Sixtysix Magazine and Haworth. Jointly curated by Patricia Urquiola and Chris Force, the installation brings together emerging designers in a setting that blends retail, exhibition, and residential typologies.
Designing a Better Chicago: Celebrating the city’s enduring design legacy, this initiative honors local talent, public art, and programs that advance civic good through design.