Design for Connection: Exploring the palette that brings warmth, meaning and a sense of belonging to the future of commercial interiors.

^{The Design for All Connection trend features reassuring colors that reflect tradition and carry deeper meaning.}

^{Article written by: Frances Phillips, Senior Content Marketing Manager | Published by Shaw Contract}

Design for All trend forecast CEU explores how inclusive design shapes the future of commercial interiors. Through five interconnected lenses — Wellbeing, Connection, Learning, Experience and Thriving — discover actionable color and material strategies to create spaces that support both people and planet.

How Connection Shapes Human Experience in Commercial Interiors

Connection is at the heart of human experience and at the core of great design. In an era where people crave authenticity and community, the Connection trend celebrates spaces that foster relationships, evoke nostalgia and ground us in the present. Shaw Contract’s Connection palette is designed to reflect these values, using color and materiality to create environments where people feel rooted, inspired and engaged.

Key Insights from the Connection Trend

• Design shapes how we feel, not just where we live. Spaces that restore are the new luxury. See how 3XN’s revitalization of Baltimore’s Inner Harbor creates a sense of place through community-driven design.
• Belonging is built, not found. Design bridges generations and sparks shared stories. Allsteel’s inclusive workplace is a great example of how environments can foster belonging for all.
• 1 in 4 U.S. adults feel lonely. Belonging is built, not found.
• Swap screen time for real-time. Design for connection and experience. See how URBANSCREEN’s Forest Dancer installation transforms public space into a shared, immersive moment. 
• Nostalgia connects in a powerfully sentimental way, to each other and the past. ARJÉ’s Re Jin Lee collection and Wutopia Lab’s Ceramic Pages Bookshop both use materiality and memory to evoke connection.
• The powerful connection of color evokes emotion, sparks dialogue and unites us all. Dulux’s Still palette demonstrates how color can be a tool for emotional resonance.

The Connection Palette

The Connection palette features reassuring colors that reflect tradition and carry deeper meaning:

• Belong: A deep burgundy evokes intrigue and emotional depth.
• Material: Rich brown and terracotta anchor spaces in comfort and resilience.
• Craft: Warm neutrals and ochre reference artisans and honest materials.
• Nostalgia: Soft taupe and muted green recall nature and memory.
• Adapt: Slate blue and charcoal provide grounding and quiet.

These hues are inspired by the warmth of wood, the tactility of leather and the timeless appeal of natural materials. The palette is both nostalgic and stylish, bridging past and present to create spaces that feel familiar yet fresh.

Explore the Connection palette featuring Shaw Contract carpet tile, hard surface and porcelain tile.

How can designers build nostalgia and connection through commercial spaces?

To bring the Connection trend into workplace, education and hospitality interiors, consider these strategies:

• Emphasize Materiality: Use wood, leather and tactile finishes to create a sense of comfort and authenticity.
• Layer Warm Colors: Combine burgundy, ochre and terracotta for inviting, grounded spaces.
• Incorporate Graphic Mixes: Blend materials and patterns for visual interest and a modern twist on tradition.
• Design for Nostalgia: Reference classic forms and familiar textures to evoke memory and belonging.
• Create Zones for Gathering: Arrange furniture and finishes to encourage conversation and collaboration.

What flooring choices evoke a sense of place in workplace, healthcare and hospitality spaces?

Color in the Connection palette tells a design story. Each hue is chosen to spark emotion, support confidence and foster a sense of place. By layering these colors and materials, designers can create interiors that are both practical and meaningful, supporting well-being and community.

The Connection trend is about more than aesthetics—it’s about creating spaces where people feel seen, valued and connected. Ready to explore how the Connection palette can transform your next project?

Contact your Shaw Contract account executive today to schedule the Design for All CEU.