Baltimore—The 11th annual edition of NeoCon East returns to Maryland’s famous seaport city at the Baltimore Convention Center, Oct. 16 and Oct. 17. With more than 250 exhibitors or exhibiting brands, the show offers a great opportunity to see new and trend-driven products, material innovations and cutting edge technology across the entire contract world from GSA-approved products to innovations in healthcare, education, hospitality and office. It’s well-curated mix of speakers, educational programming and events build upon and perfectly complement the offerings found on the show floor.
Julie Kohl, vice president of NeoCon sales, said, “NeoCon East has steadily grown since its launch in 2003. With current indications of a sold-out 2013 event, the upward trend shows no sign of stopping. We understand that a tradeshow ought to be eye opening, educational and generate key business connections. While NeoCon East can boast the largest concentration of products and services for commercial interiors on the GSA schedule, the show truly has a broader mission. The products on display cover the range of contract markets mirroring its sister show NeoCon. Products launched as prototypes at NeoCon in June are ready for specification in October. NeoCon East consistently delivers a rich experience in which architects, designers, facility managers and other key decision makers are literally able to ‘see it and spec it.’”
On the show floor
NeoCon East will feature best in brand exhibitors such as Arcadia, Allermuir, Coalesse, Davis, Herman Miller, Steelcase, The Mohawk Group, Thonet and more. Set to impress with their latest offerings across a wide range of categories, many will be showing off their products for the first time. In the office sector, ESI Ergonomic Solutions is unveiling its Lucera light, an under-cabinet LED with optional occupational sensor. Offering a “diffrient” type of task chair, Humanscale will highlight its Diffrient World chair. It features a combination of performance, sustainability and simplicity in a task seating solution. Nello Wall Systems is introducing its new frameless glass system called Clarity. Also making its début at NeoCon East is Conestoga Tile’s hospitality-friendly Mosa Murals collection. The system allows for the creation of endless combinations of tile to create one-of-a-kind murals. These are just a few of the many fresh picks attendees can expect to see along the aisles. A complete exhibitor list and press information is available at NeoConeast.com.
Once again positioned to take place at the beginning of the federal government fiscal cycle; NeoCon East is the only design expo and conference with a specialization in government commercial interiors. More than $1.3 billion in furniture/furnishings are specified for the federal government through GSA’s Integrated Workplace Acquisition Center (formerly National Furniture Center) every year. With 80% of the product on view GSA-approved, NeoCon East is the most efficient and effective way for attendees to source products for government interiors. Complimentary shuttle service between Washington and Baltimore, and Philadelphia and Baltimore will be offered.
Conference program
Headlining this year’s conference program are two of the industry’s most insightful individuals. Sponsored by Stinson, Michael Graves will speak on Wednesday, Oct. 16 at 11 a.m. The renowned American architect and product designer will speak about the foundation of his design philosophy and how a personal healthcare tragedy focused his attention on improving healthcare experiences by design. Graves will present recent projects that range from military housing for returning wounded warriors, to a revolutionary transport chair for the acute care hospital, to performance textiles for all healthcare environments.
Sponsored by Teknion, Suzanne Tick will take the stage on Thursday, Oct. 17 at 11 a.m. The award winning textile designer, weaver and principal of Suzanne Tick, Inc., will present her findings on the idea that great design comes from Surface Tension, where contrasting properties make for the most dynamic treatment of surfaces and materials. By looking at prevalent trends in architecture, interiors, product design, fashion and art, Tick will examine two major shifts in design thinking: Contrast Blocking and the Digital Habitat.
In addition to the keynote speakers, the show offers more than 30 CEU-accredited seminars over twelve different educational tracks. Subjects range from collaborative office environments to smarter renovations, to the state of design profession to color trends for the contract industry.
All seminars will be filed with respective associations including AIA, IDCEC, GBCI and NCQLP for continuing educational credits. Registration is required as seating is limited. Seminar fees vary. Keynotes as well as all GSA sponsored seminars under the GSA educational track are free to all attendees.
Registration for admission to NeoCon East can be completed through NeoConeast.com and is complimentary if completed by Oct. 9; on-site registration for the expo is $25. Seminar and special event prices vary. More details can be found at NeoConeast.com. Online show registration is available now. Online registration for show seminars will open in early September.
For more information, call 800.677.6278 or visit NeoConeast.com.