Joey Shimoda, founder of Shimoda Design Group (SDG), built a studio founded on a multi-disciplined platform that provides quality design, innovation and technical excellence for projects of every scale. In just under eight years, this award-winning, well-published architecture firm has aligned its own brand with some of the world’s most powerful design innovators including Steelcase, Harwood International, Mikimoto America, Rolex Watch USA, Noka Chocolate, Malin + Goetz and MTV Networks. Shimoda most recently collaborated with Steelcase Design on the design of Steelcase’s Worklife Center at Chicago’s Merchandise Mart. In his discussion, learn how SDG has cultivated relationships that lead to design solutions that expand the possibilities of design culture and commerce.
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For every trend you can spot, there’s an equally valid countertrend at the other end of the spectrum. Robyn Waters—former Vice President of Trend, Design, and Product Development for Target Stores—has more than thirty years tracking and translating trends into sales and profit. Drawing upon her most recent book, The Hummer and the Mini, Robyn will reveal the marketplace’s most influential trends and countertrends, showing you how to live with the contradictions, make the most of the inconsistencies and embrace the paradoxes of business as a source of fresh ideas.

A book signing of The Hummer and the Mini will take place 30 minutes following Robyn’s presentation.
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Experience five-star design through the eyes of award-winning designer, Roger Thomas. Recently honored as one of Architectural Digest’s Top 100 Designers, his presentation will take you through the creative process and execution of one of the world’s finest hotels, Wynn Las Vegas. He will share the interesting juxtaposition of how residential design has always been the core of his approach to hotel design; home is now influencing fine hotel design, and how in return hotel guests like to take “the hotel home” with them, whether it be bedding, bath, linens or even his furniture from EF+LM.

Join Roger at the EF+LM showroom, Suite 1870A, for wine and dessert immediately following the presentation and drop your business card for a spectacular raffle drawing that will not disappoint. Winner must be present.
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A Spotlight on Afternoon Speakers

Architecture abhors a vacuum. It never happens in isolation. To Michel Rojkind, founder of rojkind arquitectos in Mexico City, designs have always flown: first from paused listening; and second, from an intense dialogue.

A former rock band drummer, Rojkind is anything but conventional. From projects ranging from an Absolute condominium tower in Mississauga to a vast, mixed-use master plan for Dubai, his passion for architecture is more than a moment of expression or style. In his inspiring presentation, Rojkind will explain how to tackle design challenges from the intimate scale of objects to the intricate magnitude of buildings and master plans while promising to share a few short stories and moments of enlightenment.
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Bruce Mau and Kevin Sugden of Bruce Mau Design along with Reese Duncan, Creative Director for Shaw Contract Group will share their multiple collaborations and partnerships with an array of project types and methodologies to illuminate the power of design and multiple design thinking. His team will feature collaborations with such diverse groups as MTV, Frank Gehry, the country of Guatemala and Massive Change initiatives and will reveal recent work from product to sustainable agendas to communication strategies with Shaw Industries and its brands.
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UrbanLab’s Growing Water project reflects a report from the United Nations that two out of every three people in the world will be facing water shortages by 2025, a situation that will lead to global conflict. The project envisions Chicago evolving into a model city for growing water by creating a series of ”Eco-Boulevard Living Machines” spread democratically throughout the city in order to connect and expand Chicago’s existing parks and waterways. In the very near future, clean water will be the world’s most valuable resource, the new oil.
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Networking Dinners

"Wine and Design" At The Chopping Block [SE1]

Sunday, June 8 • 6–8 p.m.
The Merchandise Mart, Suite 107
Fee: $70 per person

Centrally located on the fi rst floor of The Merchandise Mart, The Chopping Block presents an evening of French wine tasting and cooking demonstrations. The Chopping Block's wine director will pair the perfect French varietals with a savory menu of French bistro fare to be demonstrated live. Take advantage of this excellent opportunity to experience the great wines and cuisine of France, while gearing up for a successful NeoCon week.
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Tastebud Tingler [SE6]

Monday, June 9 • 6 p.m.
230 W. Kinzie
Fee: $75 per person

Come wind down after your busy day at Aigre Doux. This 3-star French-influenced contemporary American restaurant will be offering a delicious three-course dinner with paired wines. Choose from Roasted Beet Salad with a candied lemon vinaigrette or an entrée of Slow Baked Wild Salmon with artichoke barigoule. The seasonal menu focuses on locally grown produce combined with subtle flavors to create a sophisticated dinner you don't want to miss.
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Networking In The Heart Of Chicago [SE9]

Tuesday, June 10 • 5:30 p.m.
11 N. Michigan Avenue
Fee: $70 per person

Enjoy an evening of food, wine and networking at Park Grill, located within the world-famous Millennium Park in the heart of downtown. Dine alfresco under Chicago's skyline, while savoring Chef Bernard Laskowski's contemporary American cuisine and expert wine pairings.
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Unwind With Design [SE12]

Wednesday, June 11 • 5:30 p.m.
North Lobby, The Merchandise Mart
Fee: $65 per person

After a busy NeoCon, a relaxing evening of design inspiration awaits at bluprint, located in the North Lobby. Enjoy a three-course meal with creative cocktail pairings as Nick Luzietti and Ewa Kolacz of VOA Associates, explores the concept of dining by design.
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