NeoCon has announced NeoCon Plaza, a new outdoor amenity space that spans the length of The Mart's South Drive. Designed by Gensler Chicago and brought to life in collaboration with Forward Fruit Branded Environments, the outdoor amenity space was inspired by the idea of an 'Urban Boardwalk.' The Plaza will offer visitors a place to connect, collaborate, relax, recharge, unwind and enjoy the outdoors with a backdrop featuring sweeping views of the Chicago River, Riverwalk, and Chicago cityscape.
"An effective workplace is critical, but it's no longer enough. Employees want, and expect, an excellent experience at work, which means spaces with high levels of choice, variety and balance," commented Todd Heiser, Managing Director and Principal of Gensler Chicago. "Adding an outdoor element is another step in the evolution of choice and it is with this philosophy that we approached the NeoCon Plaza."
Along the meandering boardwalk, which was built by Skender Construction, guests will find different sheltered and unsheltered spaces for work, meeting, gathering, rest, nourishment and celebration. These social and ancillary spaces will be furnished by Haworth brands including Janus et Cie and Cappellini and feature an extensive range of offerings from lounge seating and height-adjustable tables to outdoor furnishings.
The NeoCon Plaza will be open Sunday, June 9, 10:00am-2:00pm; Monday, June 10, 7:00am-9:00pm; Tuesday, June 11, 7:00am to 9:00pm and Wednesday, June 12, 7:00am to 5:00pm. A special Art on theMART projection will be featured on the façade of The Mart after sundown on Sunday, Monday and Tuesday nights (from approximately 8:30pm to 11:00pm).
Image: © Gensler, Michael Townsend (artist, design director, Gensler Chicago)