NeoCon 2024: The Future of Textile Design Revealed

Blog • June 20, 2024

At NeoCon 2024, we observed six key design-forward trends highlighting sustainable materials, biophilic patterns, textured luxury, tech-infused textiles, bold colors, and artisanal craftsmanship.

This year’s NeoCon was a testament to the ongoing evolution in the world of textile design, reaffirming the trends we identified in our previous blog, “Evolving Elegance: 2024 Interior Design Trends Unveiled.” The insights from NeoCon not only echoed these trends but also demonstrated their practical applications and innovations.

Here are six ways in which we observed key trends from our recent design insights brought to life at NeoCon 2024.

1. Sustainable Sophistication

At NeoCon, sustainability was not just a buzzword but a cornerstone of innovation. We observed an impressive array of eco-friendly materials and production processes. Exhibitors showcased textiles crafted from recycled materials, organic fibers, and low-impact dyes, aligning perfectly with the sustainable sophistication trend we previously highlighted. These designs proved that environmental responsibility and aesthetic appeal can indeed go hand-in-hand, offering sustainable solutions that do not compromise on style.

For Pallas, we premiered our upcoming In Good Company Collection which features six patterns woven with SEAQUAL® YARN containing Upcycled Marine Plastic. Each pattern offers lush texture, sophisticated hues, and outstanding performance.

Everyone involved in the making of this collection is committed to donating a portion of the proceeds to the SEAQUAL® FOUNDATION, which supports SEAQUAL INITIATIVE, a unique collaborative community that works with ocean clean-up programs.

Hear more about this collection with a cause on the Deep Green podcast recorded at NeoCon, where Pallas leaders Dean Lindsley and Géraldine Blanchot Fortier sit down with Avi Rajagopal of Metropolis Magazine.

2. Biophilic Beauty

NeoCon 2024 embraced the beauty of biophilic design with open arms. The incorporation of natural elements into textile design was evident in many collections, reflecting this trend. Textiles featuring botanical prints, earthy color palettes, and textures inspired by nature were prevalent, fostering a deeper connection with the natural world. Biophilia promotes well-being and tranquility in interior spaces, making it a standout theme at the event.

Biophilic elements could be found throughout the Pallas and adjoining KI showroom from the plant wall feature in the café to wood finishes on various products. We also showcased a nature-inspired palette featuring new finishes like Hazy Jade, Raw Jasper, and Tarragon, paired with complementary textiles such as Llyr, Isla, and Nuance. Their organic patterns and earthy hues create a serene atmosphere and deepen the connection to the natural environment.

3. Textured Luxury

From plush velvets to intricately woven fabrics, the emphasis was on creating tactile experiences that evoke a sense of comfort and opulence. These rich textures add depth and dimension to interior designs, making them a focal point for designers seeking to infuse spaces with a sense of warmth and luxury.

Pallas leveraged novelty yarns and weaving techniques to create luxurious textures. Run your hand across the surface to experience the alluring sensations.

The upcoming launch of the In Good Company Collection is a prime example. Hali spotlights a recycled, chunky boucle yarn, allowing the sustainable fiber to express its inherent dimensionality. Ahti explores the human connection to materiality by drawing you in with its velvet-like surface, a rich textural accent for any room. Maren toys with the effect that naturally occurs when slub and chenille yarns intermingle, creating a luxurious anchor fabric.

4. Tech-Infused Textiles

Innovation in textile technology was a major highlight at NeoCon. We witnessed the integration of smart textiles and tech-infused fabrics that enhance functionality without sacrificing style. This aligns with the trend of technological integration in interior design. From textiles designed to enhance spaces with increased natural lighting to fabrics utilizing advanced resin formulations for a softer, more supple feel, the future of textile design is undeniably intertwined with technology.

At NeoCon, we highlighted high-tech textile solutions with Pallas Textiles’ latest innovations. Archetype and Motto showcase advanced resin formulations paired with luxurious materiality. Archetype offers a soft, supple feel with its pebble grain, while Motto blends rich hues and a distressed leather look with cutting-edge craftsmanship. Kai features UV yarn for spaces with ample natural light and a sophisticated, heathered texture.

5. Color Stories

The color trends observed at NeoCon were a continuation of the monochromatic palettes recently highlighted. And yet, bold and unexpected color combinations also appeared on the scene. Designers experimented with hues that evoke emotion and energy. These color stories are about creating an inspiring, invigorating ambiance as much as aesthetics.

Our own color stories were represented in palettes of corals, sages, champagnes, and "bleutrals" (neutral blues) across our showroom space. Highlighting textiles from the new In Good Company collection and Color Capsule No. 1, this symphony of colors offers foundational undertones while trending in modern elegance and timeless sophistication. 

6. Artisanal Craftsmanship

Finally, the appreciation for artisanal craftsmanship was palpable at NeoCon. Handcrafted textiles and bespoke designs highlighted the importance of individuality and artistry in modern interiors. This trend celebrates the unique and the imperfect, bringing a human touch to contemporary design that resonates with authenticity and heritage.

We showcased our craftsmanship through the Mantra Collection, highlighting its meticulous attention to detail and use of high-quality, innovative materials. Each piece offers timeless elegance and versatile functionality, reflecting our dedication to enhancing any space with a personal touch.

Guests also engaged their own craftsmanship within our showroom by creating Pallas bracelets made from reclaimed SEAQUAL® YARN in an array of colors. These handcrafted bracelets, adorned with a signature Pallas charm, quickly became one-of-a-kind mementos of the unique design experience that was NeoCon 2024.

Exploring the Future of Textile Design

NeoCon 2024 was a vivid showcase of how the trends we identified earlier this year are evolving and being embraced by the design community. The event underscored the notion that the future of textile design is not merely about following trends. Rather, it’s about innovating and adapting modern design ideas to create spaces that are both beautiful and meaningful.

As we continue to explore and apply these trends, we look forward to seeing how they will shape the interiors of tomorrow.

Relive the highlights of our showroom in this video tour, where Dean Lindsley introduces our In Good Company Collection, set to launch on August 30.

Connect with your Pallas design specialist to see the latest colors and patterns highlighted at NeoCon 2024.