Where Do We Go Next? A NeoCon Reflection
“As I reflect on the week, I’m still thinking about what “next” really means.”
Every year, NeoCon asks something of us.
It asks for time, energy, and creative stamina. It asks us to coordinate, stretch, refine, and reinvent. It’s Thursday and I am taking a moment to pause, to look around, and to feel proud of what we’ve created.
In the days leading up to NeoCon, we shared a series of words—Need, Experience, Observation, Craft, Objective, and Next. Each one offered a glimpse into how we think, what we value, and how we show up through design. It wasn’t a campaign. It was a way to ground ourselves—and our work—in the purpose we carry forward: our commitment to Support Every Moment™.
That mission showed up in the details.
In the showroom we refreshed to better tell the story of both healthcare and senior living.
We highlighted the Ellie Collection, created in collaboration with Von Robinson—including a preview of the new sleeper sofa—alongside Ethan, designed by Brian Graham.
We also featured Nashville, a refined new collection for senior living, and Tropitone for Kwalu, offering outdoor seating created for comfort in real-life settings.
And it showed up in the team—everyone who contributed, collaborated, and carried this project across the finish line. Getting this showroom ready was no small task. What I’m proudest of isn’t just the work on display, but the people behind it. That’s where the real craft lives.
As I reflect on the week, I’m still thinking about what “next” really means.
It’s easy to say we’re looking ahead. It’s harder—and more interesting—to ask what we’re carrying forward. What lessons, what approaches, what partnerships deserve our attention and energy beyond the show floor?
And more broadly—how is healthcare changing? What does the future of senior living look like? Where do we need to go next, and how can we lead with purpose when we get there?
I don’t have all the answers, but I know this:
Support Every Moment™ isn’t a campaign. It’s the standard.
If you didn’t make it to Chicago you can see what you missed here – NeoCon 2025
Damion Van Slyke
Vice President, Marketing
Kwalu