Design for Well-Being: Creating commercial interiors that nurture health, happiness and human connection.

^{The Design for All Well-Being trend fosters sensory harmony for restorative, human-centric spaces.} 

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

Design for All is the Shaw Contract trend forecast CEU that 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 the planet.

Why Well-Being Matters in Commercial Interior Design

Well-being is a holistic state: mental, emotional, social and physical health intertwined. As people live longer, the goal shifts from simply living longer to living better. Design becomes a powerful tool to support this shift, creating environments that restore energy, reduce stress and foster resilience.

Consider this: just one hour less sleep can reduce cognitive performance by up to 33%. Design choices that support rest and recovery matter. From acoustic solutions to calming color palettes, every detail influences how we feel and function.

The Future of Holistic Health

The future of well-being integrates movement, nutrition, sleep, stress regulation and social connection. Designers are now tasked with creating spaces that encourage these behaviors naturally. For example:

• Workplace wellness zones with quiet pods for mindfulness breaks.
• Education environments that balance stimulation with calm, using soft textures and natural light.
• Hospitality spaces that offer sensory experiences — think spa-inspired flooring and biophilic accents.

Explore real-world examples: Six Senses wellness spas and One Third Yoga by Boundary Space Design.

Key Insights from the Well-Being Trend

• Restore energy with tech pauses: Spaces that encourage intentional breaks from screens help reduce stress and improve focus.
• Prioritize vitality + health span: Design for movement, nutrition and social connection —not just longevity.
• Integrate holistic health: The future blends physical activity, sleep, stress regulation and community into everyday environments.
• Seek connection to nature: Biophilic design — natural light, organic textures and greenery — deepens well-being.
• Create respite from distractions: Thoughtful layouts and acoustic solutions provide calm amid chaos.

Learn more about future-forward wellness concepts: Konel sleep apparel system and Withings health and sleep-tracking wearables.

Actionable Design Strategies for Commercial Interiors

To bring the Well-Being trend into workplace, education and hospitality interiors, consider these strategies:

• Create Temporary Sanctuaries: Surround interiors with softness — encompassing walls, floors and ceilings— to foster sensory harmony and reduce stress.
• Design for Comfort and Inclusion: Use soft curves and comfort-driven design to support cognitive clarity, emotional balance and inclusive ergonomics.
• Incorporate Nature and Plant-Filled Interiors: Neutral tones and greenery create immersive calm, providing respite from the outside world.
• Use Transparency and Tactile Finishes: Glass finishes and marled fabrics soothe the senses while adding visual interest.
• Leverage Color for Emotional Calibration: Apply restorative hues to support well-being and create spaces that feel peaceful, focused and safe.

^{The Design for All Well-Being trend fosters sensory harmony for restorative, human-centric spaces.} 

Well-Being Color Palette Trends for Commercial Interior Design

The palette for well-being fosters sensory harmony for restorative, human-centric spaces. Each color plays a role in emotional calibration in commercial interiors.

• Tranquil: Calms the senses and reduces stress.
• Calm: Evokes openness and mental clarity, like a clear sky.
• Clarity: Soft and serene, fostering peace and reflection.
• Nurture: Signals health with a gentle glow.
• Grounded: Earthy warmth provides a sense of comfort.
• Balance: Inspires optimism and a growth mindset.
• Comfort & Welcome: Neutral foundations that feel peaceful, focused and safe.

Design for All is more than a forecast; it’s a movement toward inclusive, purpose-driven spaces that elevate human experience. Ready to explore how Well-Being can transform your projects?

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