In our Leisure Insight feature for this month, Holly Hallam, Managing Director of DesignLSM takes some time out to discuss with us some of the fundamental principles designers should keep in mind when creating new venues to ensure wellness remains at the heart of the experience.
In today’s forever-changing world, the way we design and experience spaces are evolving at a rapid pace. Whether it’s a retail store, leisure or hospitality venue, businesses and designers are increasingly recognising the importance of integrating wellness principles into interior concepts, particularly since the pandemic. Creating an environment that fosters wellbeing can attract and retain customers, boost employee morale, and ultimately contribute to the success of an establishment.
The mindset of consumers has undoubtedly changed, as we see people becoming more driven by their own value systems. Addressing this, brands are now adopting a more authentic, personal approach, communicating their core ethics and beliefs through their marketing communications, whilst gaining a greater understanding of the needs and desires of guests to elevate their in-person experiences to connect and engage on a deeper emotional level.
One of the fundamental principles of designing a wellness-focused venue is the incorporation of natural elements which have a calming and rejuvenating effect on the human mind and body. To bring the outdoors inside, integrate materials like wood, stone and natural textiles into your design and layer the space with indoor plants which will not only improve air quality, but also add a sense of tranquillity, making it feel more inviting and home-like.
The spatial layout of a venue plays a significant role in the overall guest experience – a cluttered or disorganised environment can create stress and discomfort for visitors. Instead, strategically planning the space with an open and unobstructed layout that allows for easy navigation and a smooth flow of foot traffic to avoid congestion or bottlenecks and alleviate guest frustration. Dividing your space into distinct zones or areas is a fantastic way to address the differing needs of guests and consequently designing with purpose. For example, creating a designated rest area in a retail store will allow customers to take a break and re-charge, or you could integrate intimate, cosy nooks in a hotel front of house space for guests to unwind.
Lighting has a profound impact on our mood and should be carefully considered and curated to reduce stress and create a relaxing atmosphere. When designing your venue, consider ways to maximise the use of natural light, incorporating large windows or skylights – this not only reduces energy costs but also promotes a sense of connection to the outdoors. Install adjustable lighting fixtures that allow you to control the intensity and colour temperature, with cooler lighting during the day, for example, to create a refreshing and vibrant atmosphere and warm, softer lighting as the day transitions to evening, to create intimate and ambient environments. Circadian lighting systems that mimic the natural changes in light throughout the day are also becoming increasingly popular, particularly in hotels, and are integrated to enhance energy levels of both customers and staff.
The choice of colours and materials play a crucial role in interior design. Selecting an appropriate palette will set the tone for your establishment and intentionally evoke certain emotions. Soft, muted colors like pastels and earthy tones can create a calming, timeless environment, whilst the use of bolder, brighter colours can inject energy and positivity into a space, which can be incorporated into the wall and surface finishes, furnishings, or dressing and artwork. Dopamine décor in particular is a current interior design trend that is centred on the intentional use of vibrant colours, tactile textures and bold prints to create an exciting, mood-boosting setting that is full of personality and character. Incorporate textures that invite touch and interaction building upon the sensory experience for guests – consider using textiles like organic cotton or natural wool for upholstery and furnishings.
Noise pollution can be a significant source of stress for people in retail and hospitality venues. Strategically placing sound-absorbing materials such as acoustic panels, curtains, or carpets and carefully choosing background music, can create a more pleasant and atmospheric experience, enhancing guests’ concentration whilst mitigating adverse effects.
Incorporating curved and playful forms in interior design enhances the guest experience by fostering a sense of comfort and harmony. Softening the rigid lines of spaces and furnishings, curves are inherently inviting and create a flow that encourages natural movement and exploration, making guests feel welcomed and relaxed. Moreover, curved forms evoke a sense of organic beauty; mimicking elements found in nature and can be demonstrated through curved furniture, architectural elements, or decorative accents.
The role of the interior designer continues to progress, according to both consumer and client demands. We shouldn’t underestimate the responsibility we play in generating a feeling of inner wellbeing for everyone who visits the spaces that we have an influence upon. Taking a holistic approach and gaining an in-depth understanding of the guest’s needs and desires before designing will continue to allow us to deliver beautiful spaces that provide immersive experiences to support healthy physical and mental wellbeing.