A Sustainable Backdrop for Contemporary Workplace Design
Bulo Showroom – The Merchandise Mart
- Client/Specifier: Bulo
- Vertical: Workplace / Showroom
- Location: Chicago, Illinois
- Product: Ekoa in Nutshell
- Installation: Feature wall
- Scale: 180 SF
Impact
CO2 sequestered
equivalent annual carbon uptake
The design challenge
For Bulo’s showroom at The Merchandise Mart in Chicago, the goal was a contemporary workplace vignette that reflects the brand’s shift toward more responsible material choices and forward-looking design thinking. The feature wall needed to frame a curated furniture presentation while adding a clean architectural layer within a compact footprint.
The challenge was delivering a surface that could anchor the display, elevate the furniture, and reinforce a clear, material-driven design language.
Material solution
Ekoa in Nutshell was selected to create a 180 SF feature wall that supports Bulo’s contemporary furniture line. Its flax-based surface brings subtle variation and warmth, acting as a natural wall protection layer behind the vignette.
The full-height sheet format enabled a seamless, efficient installation—clean lines, tight detailing, and a crisp, continuous surface.
Experience in the space
The feature wall sets a grounded backdrop for Bulo’s furniture collections. Nutshell adds a soft, natural tone that strengthens contrast and clarity, keeping focus on the pieces while lifting the overall presentation.
Instead of fading into the background, the surface adds quiet depth—bringing structure, warmth, and material presence to the vignette without distraction.
Sustainability & healthy interiors
Ekoa reflects Bulo’s ongoing move toward more intentional material choices and a design approach rooted in long-term thinking.
Made from rapidly renewable flax fibers and plant-based resins, it reduces material impact while supporting healthier indoor environments and delivering the durability needed for high-use showroom settings.
“Ekoa was the ideal choice for us–—its full-height sheet format made planning simple, installation was effortless, and its superior durability and scratch resistance ensured lasting performance. We love how the natural-looking finish brings a refined, cohesive look to the space.”
Installation & detailing
The feature wall was installed as a continuous vertical surface to emphasize precision and simplicity. Full-height panels supported efficient layout planning and clean transitions, minimizing visual interruption across the display.
The result is an architectural backdrop that holds the furniture without competing with it.
Outcome & impact
A focused showroom vignette where material and furniture work together—delivering clarity, warmth, and performance in a single surface system.
Take a closer look at Ekoa in Nutshell.
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