What is Experiential Interior Design?

Experiential interior design, often referred to as experience design, is all about creating spaces that deeply resonate with people. It's not just about making a room look nice or function well; it's about crafting environments that stir emotions, influence behavior, and tell a story. 

Immersive Atmospheres

When designers take an experiential approach, they consider how each element of a space impacts our senses and emotions. This means thinking about how the lighting, colors, textures, and even smells affect how we feel and behave in a given space. For example, imagine walking into a coffee shop that not only looks cozy and inviting but also smells like freshly brewed coffee and sounds like soft jazz playing in the background. This immersive experience encourages you to stay longer, chat with friends, and maybe even order another cup.

Purposeful Design Goals

Experiential design isn't just about creating pleasant atmospheres; it's also about achieving specific goals. Whether it's increasing productivity in an office, fostering brand loyalty in a retail store, or reducing stress in a healthcare facility, experiential design aims to meet the needs and desires of both users and owners alike. By understanding how people interact with their surroundings, designers can shape spaces that fulfill these objectives while delighting the senses and sparking joy.

Human-Centered Priorities

At its core, experiential design prioritizes human experiences above all else. It's about creating spaces that not only look good but also feel good to be in. Whether you're navigating a museum exhibit, checking into a hotel, or shopping in a store, experiential design seeks to enhance every aspect of the user journey, making it more engaging, enjoyable, and memorable.

How can experience design benefit your next project? This design approach shines brightest in hospitality and commercial spaces. Your designer will craft your space to speak to the five senses of the user. As an owner, it is important for your guests to have a memorable experience and to understand and connect with your brand. This connection drives repeat business and lifelong customers. It is this meaningful first encounter that is fostered by experiential design.

We relied heavily on experiential design with our project for the Young Living Customer Experience. The entire space is dedicated to guests experiencing this brand with their five senses, sparking greater consumer loyalty. Customers can smell and touch the oils on the large display. They can see and hear how the oils are made in the distillery. The Customer Experience Center even has food samples on-site to appeal to the tastes of their guests. Experiential design made Young Living’s product come alive for their consumers in the Customer Experience Center. Reach out and see what it can do for your next hospitality or commercial space. We can’t wait to hear from you!

XOXO,

Kate Sonza