Chicago is the final stop on our spring design show tour, and we’re eagerly anticipating the latest launches at NeoCon 2023. While the annual design fair has become the go-to place to discover the latest in contract furnishings, there’s far more to see than just task chairs (though there will be no shortage of innovations there). Spanning the Merchandise Mart’s 14 floors, and nearby Fulton Market — which has become a hotbed for showrooms in recent years — there is sure to be design inspiration abound. Below is a preview of five collections we’re excited to see.

Belgian brand BuzziSpace has become a leader in developing acoustic solutions that are design features in their own right — and this year, its NeoCon launches are no exception. Part acoustic panel and part decorative wall sconce, the BuzziPebl Light reinterprets the organic forms of the pebble that inspired its name.

Each panel is equipped with an LED light strip on its back to bring ambient mood lighting to offices, hospitality spaces and more — all while absorbing sound waves for optimal acoustics. As versatile as it is functional, the multi-tasking piece can be wall-mounted, ceiling-mounted or ceiling-suspended. And while the BuzziPebl is shown grouped here for visual interest, its understated design holds its own when mounted solo.

PHOTOS: Pippa Drummond

New York firm Alda Ly Architecture imparts its affinity for expressive form and colour to its debut furnishings collection with HBF. Dubbed Bao, the series of pouffes brings an undeniable sense of fun to office, healthcare, hospitality and public settings. The easily movable seats are available in six variations: small and medium circles, large semi-circles, with low loop handles or high loop handles, and a stacking version that playfully recalls the form of dim sum trays.

Bridging the gap between formal and informal, the collection is offered in both a lounge and work height. The pouffes, which can be upholstered in an array of hospitality-grade HBF textiles, can also be customized with decorative details such as a concentric quilted seat top, a signature seam stitch and a protective metal cap on the stacking model. The space-saving solution embodies a playful and collaborative spirit that makes it a true standout in the contract market.

Nienkämper’s latest collection goes beyond the realm of furnishings to create full-blown workspaces. Developed by Carl Gustav Magnusson, the modular system of self-supporting structures can be used to carve out semi-secluded areas for private work or collaboration in otherwise open spaces. While Toko’s wooden walls are designed to provide both visual and sonic separation, a patented incision process enables transparency without sacrificing acoustic performance. Acoustic felt panels overhead provide additional sound absorption while still allowing light in.

Toko can accommodate meeting tables, seating areas, built-in credenza storage, and wall-mounted monitors, whiteboards and shelving — and even offers integrated power.  An affordable and sustainable alternative to fixed construction, the freestanding design can be easily relocated and reconfigured as needs change, making it the perfect solution for the ever-changing contemporary workspace.

Ethnicraft’s sculptural Boomerang Desk by Belgian designer Jacques Deneef will surely make for a striking addition to any office environment. The solid mahogany piece is inspired by the organic shapes found in nature: Its sinuous pebble-shaped top is set on curved legs with a stacked wood-stick effect.

Stained with a handsome dark brown varnish, the desk is the first of its colour and wood type in Ethnicraft’s collection — and, paired here with the more angular Bok Dining Chair, its unique design makes for an eye-catching statement piece.

Part of Keilhauer’s soon-to-be-launched Tailored collection — designed by their long-term collaborators EOOS — the Swav family is an elevated take on office seating. The versatile series is comprised of an armless lounge chair, low- and mid-back conference chairs, counter stools and barstools, which are all unified by a refined grid-stitch detail. Defined by their minimal silhouettes, the lightweight lounge chair and stools feature a clean-lined seat that appears to float on its wooden frame.

Its framed back detail allows for combo cover upholstery — a trait that is carried into the mid-back conference chair, which also boasts an integrated-but-visible support shell for an added sophisticated textural element. The low-back version, meanwhile, is scaled-down with a thin side profile and classic loop arms. Suitable for everyday meetings and conference rooms, the collection makes for a standout addition to any office.