Culture as Catalyst: Rethinking Color, Material & Finish

NeoCon Presentation Description: Color, Material and Finish (CMF) are the building blocks of design - but what are the new drivers influencing broader shifts beyond aesthetics? From lemonading to analoging-on, we will dive deeper into cultural drivers reshaping identities and environments, uncovering lifestyle shifts and new design directions. With a future-focused lens, this presentation draws from outside the industry inspiration, best in class examples, and unexpected influences to prepare designers and specifiers for future shifts in the commercial landscape.

Emily Siwek

Trend Futurist / Director of Architectural Design

Sphere Trending

Emily Siwek is Trend Futurist and Director of Architectural Design at Sphere Trending. Her background in interior design for both residential and commercial spaces supports her insights and trend direction for today’s environments, including home, hospitality, contract and retail. She is also a forthcoming trend advisor for Home Accents Today.

Susan Yashinsky

VP Innovation Trends

Sphere Trending

Susan Yashinsky is VP Innovation Trends at Sphere Trending.  With management experience in corporate retail, marketing and merchandising, Susan is a futurist thought leader for macro insights, studying consumers, society and retail trends.

Mandi Mankvitz

President of Possibilities

Sphere Trending

Mandi Mankvitz is President of Sphere Trending focusing on the big picture culture shifts and signals driving change in the marketplace of the future. She also has previous expertise in product development, brand strategy, retail and media. Mandi provides clients strategies for understanding key culture conversations, the impact of emerging technology and digital innovation.
This content will not be available until 06/07/2026 at 8:00 AM (EDT)