With supple fabrics, charismatic hues and daring combinations of pattern and texture, exhibit and event décor design is both daring and demure in 2018.

Color and pattern trends that will dominate the year include Gray Seating, Bold Energetic Colors, as well as Graphic and Tropical Patterns. Design trends you can expect to find in 2018 are Luxurious Curves, Rich Textures, Modern Industrial Chic incorporating the 70’s vibe, and Powered Meeting Chairs.

Incorporating furniture design trends can keep exhibits relevant and engaging. Here are a few to consider:

1. Stark, angular furnishings are softening for a look that is both sexy and effortless. Curves and soft edges are prominent in seating. Fabrics with a rich feel like velvet and other soft textiles compliment the sophisticated looks. Mid-century and Danish modern silhouettes are softening with rounder edges to create a sexier, more sophisticated space.

2. Gray matters. Gray is the new foundation color for soft seating. It’s a fresh look that’s neither black nor white and provides a lot of flexibility because it pairs with nearly every other color. Other non-traditional neutrals popping up in décor design include desert rose tones, terracotta and deep greens. Fabrics are contrasted with black metal frames to anchor the palette and provide a foundation of stability.

3. Pantone’s color of the year, Ultra Violet, adds the right amount of excitement to exhibits that need a little more punch while retaining the feeling of being sensual and elegant. Planners can consider adding a pop of the color with accent pieces. More visual interest is added when exhibit spaces experiment with bright, bold colors and even tropical patterns, channeling a 1970’s Palm Springs vibe without feeling kitschy or overdone.

4. Rustic designs are evolving and are now more eclectic and chic. You’ll see more organic surfaces like marble and stone mixed with lacquer, metallic, and wood. Mixing materials lends a sophisticated and surprising mix that’s easily customizable to suit a client’s theme or brand. Gold, copper, and bronze shelving and tables will accent ottomans and soft seating and unusual combinations of geometric and tribal patterned accessories add contrast to neutral soft seating. Consider adding faux fur and faux greenery to exhibit spaces to bring the outdoors inside and create a more organic and inviting look.

5. Technology is very important for today’s trade show attendees. They expect technology to be built into furnishings and spaces. Opt for seating that incorporates charging into the meeting chair, allowing guests to stay connected, charge their devices and access wireless internet. Powered tables and seating are mandatory when designing exhibit spaces in 2018, encouraging learning, engagement and interaction.

Keep these trends in mind as you plan exhibits for 2018. Excite your attendees by utilizing designs that combine the unique trends above with the style and persona of the client’s brand.

​​​​​​