HIGH POINT, North Carolina, October 22, 2026 — Carolina, an OFS company and Presenting Sponsor of the Healthcare Design Conference + Expo (HCD), welcomed the healthcare design community to New Orleans, October 17–20, 2026, for an immersive experience guided by its philosophy: design is the quietest form of care™. Through healthcare-inspired environments, new product introductions, industry conversations, and opportunities to connect, Carolina demonstrated how the details of our surroundings can shape the experience of care.
Experiencing care across healthcare environments
Carolina's space invited attendees to explore a series of interconnected zones representing different moments throughout the healthcare journey. From hospitality-inspired waiting areas and lounges to exam, patient, and treatment spaces, each environment highlighted how comfort, flexibility, and functionality can support patients, families, guests, and caregivers.
At the heart of the experience was the expanded Offshore collection, designed with Achella Design. The comprehensive collection introduced additional seating and tables, including guest, multiple, patient, bariatric, and easy-access seating. With a consistent aesthetic and versatile configurations, Offshore demonstrated how furniture can create familiarity across spaces while accommodating diverse needs.
Carolina also debuted Solace, a new healthcare textile available in 12 colorways, alongside Bokeh, In The Fold, and the ROOM x Carolina Phone Booth, highlighting solutions for comfort, adaptability, and acoustic privacy.
Conversations shaping healthcare
In collaboration with Imagine a Place, Lauren Morgan, Director of Marketing for Carolina, hosted Hot Mic conversations with healthcare design professionals, gathering candid perspectives on the industry's future.
Three key themes emerged:
- Respite spaces for healthcare workers: Quiet retreats and comfortable breakrooms give caregivers opportunities to pause, recharge, and feel supported.
- Healthcare is human: Hospitality-inspired environments are replacing traditionally clinical settings with warmth, comfort, and a greater sense of belonging.
- The power of connection: Bringing designers and industry professionals together creates opportunities to exchange ideas, share perspectives, and learn from one another.
These insights reinforced the importance of listening to the people shaping healthcare spaces and creating environments that prioritize comfort, connection, and care.
An evening beneath the surface
From the show floor to the ocean floor, Carolina welcomed industry partners, designers, and friends to a private after-party at the Audubon Aquarium in New Orleans. Surrounded by marine life, guests enjoyed an evening of discovery, conversation, and connection. Extending its commitment to care, Carolina made a donation to the Audubon Aquarium's Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Program in honor of its guests. The contribution supports essential veterinary treatment, medical supplies, nourishment, and rehabilitative care for sea turtles. Blending celebration with conservation, the event highlighted the importance of connection, discovery, and caring for the world around us.
Continuing the conversation
Carolina thanks the healthcare designers, partners, and industry professionals who joined the team at HCD 2026. From exploring new solutions to sharing perspectives and supporting conservation, the experience reinforced Carolina's commitment to caring for people, communities, and the environments we share. Explore Carolina's healthcare solutions and discover how design can make a difference across the continuum of care.
About Carolina
For more than 80 years, Carolina, an OFS company based in High Point, North Carolina, has designed and manufactured furniture for healthcare environments worldwide. Guided by the philosophy that design is the quietest form of care™, Carolina creates thoughtful solutions that support patients, families, guests, and caregivers across the continuum of care. Through products, research, education, and healthcare expertise, Carolina helps create environments that support comfort, function, well-being, and the evolving needs of care.
Media Contact
Brooke Lueken
Digital Marketing and Communications Strategist
blueken@ofs.com
