Depth of Connection
A search for belonging through deep, authentic connection—woven together in shared experiences and the interconnectedness of life.
This Trend Forecasting movement invites people to become deeply connected through our shared experiences of life
more connection
=
more loneliness
We live in an age of endless connection—able to reach anyone, anywhere, instantly. Yet the more connected we become, the more disconnected we feel.
Online, we build personas, perform identities, and chase validation until our authentic selves blur with our online persona. This constant performance has left us lonelier than ever, unsure where the screen ends and we begin.
So the question becomes: How can we satisfy our need for connection without losing authenticity?
Rise of
Casual Hosting
If deep connection continues to rise, we may start to see the world embrace the idea of intimate gathering—where people feel open to hosting friends, sharing experiences, and exchanging ideas.
With this new wave of casual hosting comes a need for products that make it easier to host.
The goal is to design a collection of home items that encourage effortless hosting and meaningful shared moments.
The Cozy Casualist
Demographic: Gen Z, ages 23–29
Life stage: Fresh out of college, starting careers, settling into their own space
Mindset:
• Not chasing perfection
• Rejecting social media ideals
• Craving comfort, connection, and authenticity
• Embracing life’s natural messiness
Social life:
• Moving away from chaotic college parties
• Preferring impromptu hangouts with close friends
• Sharing takeout meals around a coffee table
• Having deep, honest conversations about real struggles and shared experiences
Authenticity over aesthetics
They value what’s real, meaningful, and imperfect over polished perfection or high-end branding.
The Cozy Casualist Values
Comfort meets function
Their home is cozy, casual, and filled with easy-to-use, low-maintenance pieces.
Emotional Depth
They seek products and spaces that spark conversation, connection, and lasting memories—not just things.
Uniqueness & Imperfection
They love found treasures and secondhand charm—pieces with character, story, and beauty in their scars.
.png)
Color Tracking
Competitors On Market Color Tracking
Good
Consumer: Attracted to the aesthetic and seasonal trends, preferring lower-cost, low-maintenance materials over authentic, high-maintenance ones.
Store: Target
Price Range: <$100
Materials:
-
Porcelain Marble Look
-
Airbrushed & Spray
-
Patina Effect
-
Wood
Better
Consumer: Values the aesthetic and longevity of authentic materials but prefers products to maintain their original texture and color over time, with minimal change.
Store: Urban Outfitters
Price Range: $100 - $350
Materials:
-
Engineered Marble (marble dust)
-
Powder Coating with Patina Effect
-
Wood
Best
Consumer: Seeks authentic, natural materials with unique textures that age gracefully, ensuring each piece feels distinct and full of character.
Store: Anthropologie
Price Range: >$350
Materials:
-
Raw Marble
-
Copper applied chemical accelerants
-
Wood
