Dining/Seating

The team from Gensler aimed to create a minimal, futuristic dining experience. The installation contained a black-and-white color scheme, lights, and lots of empty space.

The setting from architecture and interior design firm Bortolotto let guests feel as if they were dining in a construction site overlooking the city's skyline.

Commute Design used its instillation to showcase the beauty of handmade objects. The setting featured a hand-scraped dining table, and there were rules of Victorian dining laser-cut into the installation.

The goal of ArchitectsAlliance setting was to demonstrate that design can "express a profound sense of connection." With white curtains surrounding a white table and bench, the installation held at its center a clear bowl filled with statements written on neon paper.

Planners predict the price of high-tech video projections will begin to lower, allowing for greater usage at events.

Red threads also appeared on the edges of a communal table designed by Perkins & Will and the Ruder Group. Like many of this year's tabletop settings, the design had a natural look. The table had no linens and was topped with succulents and white taper candles. Small sprigs of greenery were tied onto white napkins with twine, and a furry throw added texture to the seats.

A similarly natural, garden-like design appeared at a table decorated by OFS Brands and student members of the American Society of Interior Design Illinois. With no linens, the table had leafy floral arrangements dotted with berries, and napkins were topped with delicate green sprigs. Settings included copper mugs, golden flatware, and wooden place mats.

Yet another linen and flower-free table was designed by Thomas Interior Systems and Siebold & Baker by Eastlake Studios. The installation featured a table that had traveled to 10 Chicago communities and served as a pop-up dining space. Those who gathered at the table were encouraged to write on its surface.

More doodling was encouraged at the table designed by Allsteel and Henricksen. The design incorporated pages plucked from adult coloring books, and centerpieces held crayons and colored pencils. Like many others this year, the table was flower free.