Human interaction is now a luxury ...

Last week I joined a review on 2026 trends, and one thing stood out: in a world leaning hard into AI, humans are craving anything but another bot solution.

We absolutely want life to be easier in banking, travel, finances, the repetitive stuff. Boring work processes and admin (that we know is done first-time right). 

But the real drivers of happiness, growth and a sense of thriving still come down to two things:

 1. Our relationships.

 2. Feeling seen and recognised within them.

Your local Starbucks might know every data point about you (mine doesn't). But what actually lifts your day is the unexpected: a real conversation, a compliment, a shared moment of frustration or a giggle. These tiny collisions of authenticity feel special precisely because they’re becoming rarer.

This longing is now shaping major global trend reports, including DEPT’s. Their prediction for 2026? A rise in niche communities and the brands that intentionally build them.

Think:

🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️ Running clubs for Founders or Freelancers, paired with post-run co-working

 🏋 Gyms and wellness hubs centred on belonging (and shared work)

 🏙️ Offices offering not just food, but shared experiences: coffee/ matcha / food rituals, speaker events, curated introductions

 ♧ Offline clubs and gatherings designed for real connection

And the companies doubling down solely on efficiency and automation?

They’ll feel the impact: higher turnover, burnout, less innovation and the slow leak of great talent.

In 2026 and beyond, the spaces where we work and live will need to work harder to become more human.

Need a sparing partner to get it right? Reach out to us