Blu Dot’s “Showboat” Returns to Chicago during NeoCon 2025

Modern furniture brand Blu Dot is back on board during NeoCon 2025 as they bring their signature floating showroom to the Chicago River on June 9th. Part exhibit, part experience, part party, the vessel Chicago River Odyssey is transformed into a vivid showcase of the company’s latest designs, customization capabilities, and unique personality, all staged in vignettes that highlight Blu Dot’s contract-grade solutions for the workplace.

“Even though we launched as a residentially-focused brand almost 30 years ago,” says Blu Dot co-founder and CEO John Christakos, “we soon learned that our designs were equally viable in commercial interiors. For more than a decade we’ve been taking steps to increase our assortment and provide the level of quality and service demanded by the contract business. Showing up during NeoCon is a symbol of this commitment. Doing it on a boat is our way of making it fun for everyone involved.”

Step aboard the Blu Dot Showboat and discover a variety of distinct indoor and outdoor settings designed to showcase the company’s range of BIFMA-tested, UL-listed furniture and lighting. These vignettes reflect the evolving office landscape, where work environments are becoming more aspirational, amenity-rich, and home-like. Blu Dot’s versatile designs are perfectly suited to support this shift, and can be experienced by guests as they cruise the Chicago River. In addition to the immersive settings, exhibit-like displays highlight the company’s thoughtful design approach.

The layout includes best-selling collections, new designs, fresh colorways, and a handful of other surprises. Among the latter are examples of seating upholstered in non-standard options made available through Blu Dot’s Made-to-Order program. The program allows designers to draw from a broader palette of textiles to upholster some of Blu Dot’s most iconic collections in new and exciting ways. 

“With Made-to-Order, we’re giving our contract clients more creative freedom without sacrificing efficiency,” says Gwen Goddard, VP of Trade & Contract at Blu Dot. “It’s about showing how accessible design can still be expressive, durable, and tailored to commercial needs.”

Guests are invited to join one of four cruises taking place over the course of the day, or during a morning or afternoon dockside open house. Each cruise includes guided tours, conversation with Blu Dot leadership, and a relaxed hospitality experience, complete with food, cocktails, and views of Chicago’s iconic architecture.

Please contact casey.c@alphakilo.com for more information.