Creating a memorable and impactful presence at a trade show is essential for success. At Steel City Displays, we make it a priority to stay current with the latest industry research, design trends, and innovations, continuously learning and sharing what we discover to help our clients achieve success. The 2025 CORT Elevated Experiences Report, highlights emerging design trends, color stories, and sustainability practices that can transform your trade show strategy. Building on these insights, Steel City Displays specializes in rental exhibit booths and components that align with the most relevant trends, helping you stand out and engage your audience effectively.

Key Trends from the 2025 CORT Elevated Experiences Report

1. Color Stories That Enhance Engagement

The report identifies color as one of the most powerful tools in shaping emotional connection and engagement.

·       Light Neutrals: Soft tones like ivory, beige, and taupe create a calm, inviting atmosphere that encourages conversation and comfort.

·       Warm Hues: Rich colors such as terracotta and caramel evoke a sense of familiarity and warmth, making exhibit spaces feel more approachable.

·       Organic Greens: Shades of green promote balance and well-being while aligning with the biophilic design trend, an approach that incorporates natural elements like plants, textures, and materials to foster a stronger connection to nature.

·       Blues and Deep Reds: Muted blues convey serenity, while deep reds suggest sophistication and depth, ideal for brands looking to make a confident visual statement.

When used strategically, these palettes help exhibitors create emotional resonance and ensure their booth design aligns with current audience preferences

2. Personalization: The Power of Customization

Personalization continues to be one of the strongest differentiators in trade show marketing. The CORT report notes that attendees are increasingly drawn to environments that reflect a brand’s unique identity and personality. Customizable layouts, branded color schemes, and integrated lighting or furniture selections all contribute to a cohesive brand experience.

Brands that tailor their exhibit design, through messaging, materials, and layout, can make visitors feel recognized and valued, leading to stronger engagement and recall. Modular booth systems and rental options make it easier than ever to adapt designs for different audiences or event goals while maintaining a consistent brand feel.

3. Sustainability in Trade Shows

Sustainability has evolved from an emerging trend into a core expectation. The report highlights growing interest in eco-conscious practices, including the use of recycled materials, modular components, and efficient logistics that reduce environmental impact.

Trade show organizers and exhibitors alike are seeking ways to minimize waste while maintaining design quality. Rental exhibits and reusable booth systems offer a practical way to align with these values, allowing brands to refresh their presence each year without discarding materials after a single use. Incorporating sustainable finishes and energy-efficient lighting can further reinforce a brand’s commitment to responsible design.

4. Design Trends: Resimercial and Ecophilic

Two key design movements are redefining how exhibitors approach booth environments: Resimercial and Ecophilic design.

Resimercial design blends residential comfort with commercial function. This approach brings in soft seating, warm lighting, and home-like finishes that make attendees feel relaxed and open to conversation. The result is a space that feels less transactional and more experiential—perfect for fostering authentic connections on the show floor.

Ecophilic design—rooted in biophilia, focuses on integrating nature into built environments. Through the use of greenery, natural textures, organic shapes, and daylight-inspired lighting, this style creates environments that promote calm, focus, and well-being. Exhibitors that adopt these design principles can create spaces that stand out visually while supporting the attendee’s overall experience.

Together, these design trends signal a shift toward human-centered exhibit environments that balance beauty, comfort, and sustainability.

Why These Insights Matter

The 2025 CORT Elevated Experiences Report reflects a larger evolution in trade show strategy: audiences are looking for spaces that feel personal, purposeful, and environmentally responsible. Exhibitors who embrace these principles can strengthen brand perception, increase engagement, and create experiences that extend beyond the booth.

At Steel City Displays, we believe in The Power of WE, collaborating with clients to apply these insights in practical, impactful ways. From exhibit rentals to full-scale design, our goal is to help every brand build a space that connects meaningfully and leaves a lasting impression.

Incorporating insights from the 2025 CORT Elevated Experiences Report can elevate your trade show strategy from functional to unforgettable. By embracing personalization, sustainability, and design approaches like Resimercial and Ecophilic, your brand can craft an experience that resonates with modern audiences.

Discover how trend-informed, flexible exhibit solutions can transform your presence on the show floor. Visit Steel City Displays to explore options that align with your goals and bring your brand to life.