Cells can form compartments via liquid–liquid phase separation (LLPS) into droplet-like biomolecular condensates. But how surface tension of condensates reshape—and are reshaped by—surrounding structures remains obscure. I will outline a computational framework for how capillary forces at condensate interfaces deform chromatin and how such elastocapillary interactions may influence local organization. In the second part, I will focus on phase separation in nonequilibrium active matter, where activity continually inject energy, modify morphology and dynamic behavior. Together, these principles connect surface tension, solid mechanics and activity to the emergence of pattern formation across soft and active matter.