From 7 Billion to 8 Billion: On World Population Day, DG Explores the Future of Human-Centered Commercial Space Design

July 11, 2025 — World Population Day.

As humanity steps into a new era with a population surpassing 8 billion, this milestone reflects more than just growth in numbers. It signifies a profound shift in the diversity of needs, lifestyles, and consumer mindsets.

At this critical moment, DG Display Showcase—drawing on over two decades of expertise in commercial space design—poses a vital question for the industry:

When people become the true center of commercial logic, how will human-centered design reshape the future of retail spaces?

The Rise of a New Generation of Consumers

As global consumption patterns evolve, Gen Z and Millennials have become the dominant purchasing force. Born in the digital age, they possess a heightened sensitivity to information and a stronger sense of personal values. Their expectations go beyond material goods—they seek meaning and experience behind every purchase.

At DG, we have observed:

Emotional connection and brand attitude drive purchasing behavior. Over 70% of young consumers now research a brand’s stance on sustainability, social responsibility, and cultural value before buying.

Personalization and self-expression define identity. Customized, limited-edition, and unique products and spaces are far more appealing.

Immersive experiences are becoming mainstream. Shoppers are no longer focused on “what they bought,” but rather “what they experienced” and “whether it’s worth sharing.”

This new generation of consumers is transforming commercial spaces from mere points of sale into platforms for conveying brand values.

Redefining Space: From Product Display to Emotional Scenes

Traditional retail logic has emphasized functionality and efficiency—showcases as containers for goods, and store layouts designed for smooth traffic and fast transactions. But in today’s emotional economy, such approaches fall short of engaging hearts.

DG Display Showcase believes the future of commercial space design must return to human-centered thinking—reconstructing experiences through four key dimensions:

1. Narrative

Spaces should tell stories, not just display products. Display showcases are no longer isolated elements, but integral to the brand’s narrative. Through lighting, materials, and structure, a space should be something people can “read.”

2. Multi-Sensory Experience

Immersive environments must engage more than the eyes. Scent systems aligned with the brand, tactile material samples, ambient soundscapes, and interactive digital elements work together to create deep, memorable impressions.

3. Interactivity

“Do Not Touch” is becoming obsolete. Today’s consumers want hands-on experiences. For instance, DG developed an interactive movement display table for a luxury watch brand, allowing customers to explore the craftsmanship behind the timepieces. In museum projects, we integrate touchscreens to strengthen engagement with exhibits.

4. Community

commercial space design are increasingly becoming venues for cultural and social interaction. Brand salons, lounges, and art corners—so-called “non-transaction zones”—play a growing role in building customer loyalty. These are not just retail spaces, but hubs of brand culture.

From showcase manufacturing to full-scale space design, DG Master of Display Showcase has always upheld a human-first philosophy. Great design starts with understanding people—not just aesthetics and craftsmanship, but also emotional resonance and brand expression.

In the luxury retail sector, we help clients translate brand DNA into spatial language, creating environments with both visual impact and business value. In museum and cultural projects, we let the artifacts speak for themselves—using ultra-clear glass, precision lighting, and minimalist structures to create seamless viewing experiences.

The growth of the global population is both a challenge and an opportunity. As generations shift, the world of commercial spaces is moving toward a future that’s more human, more emotional, and more individualized.

At DG Display Showcase, we believe human-centered design is not just a concept—it is the very future of commercial space design.

With expertise and craftsmanship, we will continue to create meaningful, story-rich, and emotionally resonant commercial spaces—for every unique “you” among the 8 billion.