Designing Connection: The Art of Food Hall Gathering Spaces

As the season of gratitude rolls in, we find ourselves reflecting on the spaces that bring people together - the ones that spark conversation, connection, and community. And few environments do that quite like a modern food hall.

From bustling local vendors to shared seating and flexible zones that shift from daytime workspaces to evening hangouts, food halls have redefined the way people gather. They’re not just about food, they’re about experience.

At Desired Designs, we love designing spaces that encourage people to slow down, connect, and enjoy the moment. This month, we’re celebrating one of our favorite recent projects that embodies exactly that spirit: Flava Neighborhood.

A Space That Feels Like Home, But Better

Located right here in Cleveland, Flava Neighborhood was envisioned as a community-driven destination - a place where local flavor meets modern hospitality.

But before it was Flava Neighborhood, the space was originally designed and branded as GlenVillage. Now, the client is reimagining the entire environment, and our team has been brought in to lead the redesign. From shaping the refreshed brand identity to rethinking the interior experience, we’re currently deep in the design and development phase. Renovations are planned in the coming months, and new vendors will be joining the lineup to help create a fresh, elevated experience for the community once complete.

While the project is still unfolding, the vision behind it is already vibrant. Our goal is simple: make every guest feel like they belong the moment they walk in. The concept centers around warmth, inclusivity, and energy - a lively mix of textures, lighting, and color that celebrates culture and connection.

Natural materials bring familiarity and comfort, while layered seating zones encourage people to stay, linger, and share a meal (or a memory). Every design choice, from the soft lighting to the locally inspired art, is intentionally crafted to invite people in and spark conversation.

Designing for Gratitude and Gathering

As designers, we know that the best spaces do more than look good; they make people feel something. And this time of year, that feeling is gratitude.

In food halls like Flava Neighborhood, design becomes a bridge between people. Our plans focus on creating an open, fluid layout that will naturally encourage community dining. The vision includes a variety of seating styles to support every kind of gathering - from quick catch-ups to long conversations over shared meals.

Even elements like acoustics and lighting are being thoughtfully considered in this design phase to ensure the space feels comfortable, warm, and inviting during busy hours once renovations begin.

The holidays are a reminder that design has the power to influence how we connect. When a space feels welcoming and intentional, it sets the stage for gratitude to naturally flow.

Looking Ahead: Designing for Human Connection

As commercial designers, our work always comes back to people: how they move, interact, and experience their surroundings. Food halls like Flava Neighborhood are a glimpse into the future of hospitality design; flexible, inclusive, and rooted in community.

Whether we’re designing a corporate space, boutique restaurant, or community hub, we carry that same mindset forward - crafting environments that inspire togetherness.

At the end of the day, great design doesn’t just shape spaces. It shapes moments, and those moments are what people remember most.

Whether you’re planning a new restaurant concept, reimagining a shared dining space, or building your own version of a community gathering spot, our team would love to bring your vision to life. Let’s design something that connects people, beautifully. Contact Desired Designs to start your next commercial project today.