Top 5 Highlights from NeoCon 2026: Insights & Innovations Unveiled!

The 7^th Floor Exhibit Hall at The Mart was buzzing with energy as attendees congregated for the 2026 NeoCon Talks. This event, a collaboration with Design Milk and supported by sponsors such as Slalom Acoustic Solutions, MOCKETT, Garden on the Wall, Andreu World, and Keilhauer, spanned over two days. Assistant Editor Sophie Sobol moderated the sessions, which included a variety of thought-provoking discussions by over a dozen speakers. Topics ranged from designing for neurodiversity to creating health-promoting interior spaces, providing the audience with a wealth of new insights.

Read on to discover five key insights from the talks…

1. Understanding Hidden Disabilities

Kristin Cerutti, Regional Design Leader for Workplace at NELSON Worldwide, opened her session with a crucial distinction. She stated, “There are two types of people: those who are disabled and those who are temporarily abled.” She emphasized the importance of inclusive design, particularly for disabilities that are not immediately apparent. Cerutti highlighted that globally, one in six people have a disability, and about 80 percent of these disabilities are not visible. She encouraged designers to adopt a mindset of curiosity and empathy, to initiate conversations, and to educate themselves, reinforcing that visibility increases through dialogue.

2. Harmonizing Sound and Color

Elettra de Pellegrin, founder and CEO of Slalom Acoustic Solutions, delved into the interconnectedness of sound and color in architectural design. During her presentation, she explained how these elements collectively enhance wellness by reducing stress, boosting concentration and productivity, improving emotional health, enhancing comfort, and shaping spatial experiences. The stage was flanked by Slalom’s acoustical trees and vibrant pink totems, showcasing how these elements can be both functional and stylish, while adding a playful ambiance to the setting.

3. Designing for Holistic Wellness

Jill Stewart, President of Office Revolution, and Kelly Colón, a coach, educator, author, and founder of Eledex Consulting, spoke about the broader scope of inclusive design. They introduced the concept of Whole-Body Design, which considers humans as integrated beings with interconnected sensory, cognitive, and psychological needs. Stewart and Colón explained, “By deepening our understanding of people, we can create environments that nurture every aspect of an individual.”

4. Reevaluating Workplace Design for Neurodiversity

Arnold C. Levin, Principal at CWI, shared personal insights from his daughter Zoe about her experiences with neurodiversity in the workplace. He emphasized that simply providing space does not equate to safety or comfort. Inclusive design in open-concept offices often fails to address the real needs of neurodiverse employees, who may find these environments overwhelming due to various sensory stimuli. Levin posed a critical question about our current approach to neurodiversity, challenging the effectiveness of well-intentioned but potentially misguided design strategies.

5. Embracing Circularity in Design

Brittany McNairy, Senior Technical Coordinator and Senior Associate at Perkins&Will, and Timothy Anscombe-Bell, Fitwel Ambassador and ASID Director at Sustainable Design Collective, focused on the challenges of implementing circular design principles. They argued that true circularity in design requires early collaboration, careful planning, and a shift from linear project models. They offered practical steps for immediate implementation, such as initiating reuse protocols, conducting inventories before demolitions, incorporating reuse intentions into designs, starting with smaller components, and engaging with manufacturers about product lifecycle programs.

Access the complete recordings of the 2026 NeoCon Talks at neocon.com

Sponsors for the 2026 NeoCon Talks include Slalom Acoustic Systems, Garden on the Wall, MOCKETT, Andreu World, Keilhauer.