Chicago maintains a rich design history with contributions spanning architectural, graphic, and industrial design, but the last decade has seen something of a renaissance for the contract furniture industry that gathers there. From modern towers to Art Deco facades, this vibrant cityscape became the perfect backdrop for pop-ups, permanent showrooms, and installations found during Fulton Market DesignDays (FMDD).
Once an industrial meat-packing zone, the vibrant Fulton Market district on Chicago’s Near West Side once again hosted its annual celebration dedicated to contract furniture and contemporary workplace design – sometimes referred to as ‘contradential’ or ‘resimercial.’
From June 9-11, 2025, visitors descended upon the area by the tens of thousands to visit over 50 iconic brands with countless products housed within daylit, post-industrial spaces. Design enthusiasts and specifiers alike bore witness to new trends – beyond the typical industry insights – as brands looked inward to improve manufacturing with more sustainable practices, expand current collections with new colorways or materials, and provide meaningful experiences that fostered emotional connection to their products.
Continue reading for a look at 12 favorite products from our time at FMDD 2025.
Carole Baijings brings her signature palette to the Lijn Collection – a sleek series of chairs with artful silhouettes, sophisticated soft curves, and an incredible poise whose moniker is derived from the Dutch word for ‘line.’ No matter the configuration, each piece blends residential comfort with commercial polish through its elegant gestures and material connection. The collection is slated for launch this fall.
Outdoor lounging gets an upgrade with the Keene Collection’s crisp color, stackability, and sustainability-mindedness. Their manufacturing incorporates recycled milk jugs – great minds think alike! This patio-ready line includes everything from bar stools to lounge chairs, all weatherproof and ready for a life al fresco while boasting Loll’s thinnest silhouette yet. What’s more, the collection is named after Keene Creek in Duluth, a waterway the Loll Designs team keeps clean each year volunteering as part of the local, annual ‘Clean Yer Creek’ event.
Modularity meets moody glow and iconic chrome finishing. This expandable lamp system merges Gantri’s signature bioplastic lighting with Rarify’s clever USM Haller builds. This cube-shaped lighting has great potential for stacking into futuristic sculptures with dimmable, warm LED light.
Effortlessly chill, the Rest Sofa keeps things laid-back with oversized cushions and neatly tailored details reminiscent of nurse’s corners. The sofa’s embrace captures those seated in Scandinavian warmth from our Nordic neighbors.
Room dividers are all the rage, rightfully so, but Kriskadecor seems to be leading the charge. Khronos activates their glimmering aluminum chain links with graphic panels that soften sounds – perfect for spaces that need a little drama tempered by peace and quiet.
Dinner table by day, arena by night. This minimalist ping-pong table blends seamlessly into the modern home or office thanks to its matte monochrome finish and clever storage. It is equal parts business and pleasure, utility and wit. What’s more, it actually plays like a pro-grade table.
Low-slung and high-style, the Vibe Sofa takes cues from ‘70s mod lounging. With its firm foam core and cloud-like cushions, it’s perfect for curling up while remaining easy on the eyes. Additionally, an expanded range and removable covers allow designers to specify by style and need.
Get into the grain with wood, reimagined. This architectural series – comprising a table, armchair, side chair – leans into repetition, raw materiality, and perfect geometry. Built from stacked oak dowels with zero fluff, it’s a sculptural standout in any setting and for almost any dining need.
Textile-lovers and surface pattern aesthetes rejoice; a design legend’s archival pattern, circa 1957, comes alive again! Transistors is bold, graphic, and deeply rooted in Girard’s mid-century magic.
Inspired by Japanese bathing rituals, the Onsen Collection brings increased serenity outdoors. Expect powder-coated frames, nautical rope details, and spa-day energy from sun-up to sundown.
Clean lines, soft recline, and cloud-like support. This duo delivers breathable, curved forms and unique styling from its novel construction comprising a tubular structure, upholstery in tension, and minimal physical cushioning.
Part seating, part architecture, all seamlessly beautiful. The Heya suite of products – a Japanese term for ‘room’ – makes smart use of nooks and boundaries, giving users privacy without physical walls and mobile comfort solutions. The collection is ideal for coworking spaces and those looking to regularly fashion fresh boundaries within the office.
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