I recently had the pleasure of attending ICFF (International Contemporary Furniture Fair) in New York City. Held annually at the beautifully designed Javits Center (shoutout to TVS! 😉), ICFF showcases the latest in residential, commercial, and hospitality design.

The show brings together an inspiring mix of innovative lighting, furniture, fixtures, finishes, and prototypes from world-renowned designers to rising stars and student creators.

As I made my way across the exhibit floor (in my most reliable, comfy shoes!), a few overarching themes and trends stood out across the many vibrant and thoughtful displays:

1 – Play

In a world that often feels a bit too heavy, this year’s ICFF exhibitors were leaning into play and bringing lightheartedness, humor, and a sense of irreverence to the spaces and products we interact with every day.

While using design as a form of escapism isn’t exactly new, it’s now showing up more boldly in commercial spaces and public environments. Playful design is no longer reserved for kids’ rooms or the occasional vacation getaway, it’s about finding joy in the everyday. Whether it’s a quirky chair in an office, a vibrant installation in a lobby, or a whimsical detail at home, these moments invite us to smile, pause, and reconnect.

At this year’s show, playful energy was everywhere. Think funky silhouettes, unexpected textures, and what my colleague perfectly dubbed “Flintstone chic”  bold shapes, bright colors, and finishes that sparked curiosity and delight.

Play isn’t a distraction from life, it’s a reminder to enjoy it.

2 – Sustainability Is Here to Stay

Sustainability isn’t a trend, it’s a responsibility. And while it’s certainly not new, this year’s ICFF presented it in fresh, inspiring, and genuinely innovative way.

In a time when “greenwashing” has become all too common, it was refreshing to see so many brands at ICFF not just talking about sustainability but truly living it. These weren’t just eco buzzwords, they were thoughtful, intentional designs grounded in real environmental impact.

From light fixtures grown from mushrooms in Brooklyn, to fully circular products made entirely of recycled materials, to breathtaking chairs crafted from responsibly sourced materials that mimic the delicate wings of a dragonfly, each piece offered a glimpse into a future shaped by creativity and responsibility.

This year’s show reminded us that sustainable design isn’t just possible, it’s beautiful, functional, and here for the long haul.

 3 – Designing for the Senses

Just as we design spaces in three dimensions, this year’s exhibits took a multi-sensory approach, engaging sight, sound, and touch in thoughtful, innovative ways.

Some of my favorite booths created fully immersive experiences, inviting visitors to feel design rather than just look at it. Exhibitors paid close attention to how their products connected with people on a sensory level, turning design into an experience.

One standout for me was LaRose Guyon’s stunning lighting installation. Rather than traditional walls, the booth featured layers of gauzy, flowing fabric that moved as you walked through it. Their handcrafted lights, designed and made in Canada, glowed softly through the textiles, wrapping the space in a warm, dreamlike ambiance. It felt like stepping into another world, soft, ethereal, and human, offering a beautiful contrast to the exhibit hall around it.

4 – The future is Diverse and human centered

For me the most inspiring part of the show was the Wanted section. Back in the back highlighted by bright yellow, the Wanted area was dedicated to future designers and students. Every product was a testament to the individuality and creativity of its maker. The vibe? Think design school final project energy – electric, passionate, and full of promise.

It was more than just a showcase; it was a vibrant melting pot of perspectives and shared experiences. The designers weren’t just proud of their work, they were genuinely thrilled to be there, eager to engage, and excited to share their stories.

Wrapping It Up

ICFF 2025 was more than just a design trade show, it was a reminder of why I love this industry. From inflatable art installations to mushroom-grown lighting, the show was packed with creativity, intention, and a whole lot of joy. I left feeling inspired by the playful spirit, the real commitment to sustainability, the immersive sensory experiences, and the powerful presence of emerging, diverse voices.

Walking the floor, it was clear that the future of design is not only beautiful, it’s thoughtful, human, and full of personality. Whether it was bold colors, experimental materials, or conversations with passionate designers, ICFF sparked ideas and reminded me of the impact design can have on our everyday lives. Before you go, can we just take a moment for NYC food

Special thanks to Bernhardt Design and Wit Contract for graciously hosting me. Thanks for reading, talk soon!