Interior Design: More Than Meets the Eye

How an all inclusive resort showed me that a good design isn’t just about the aesthetic

At first glance, interior design may seem all about creating visually appealing spaces. However, as I recently experienced, true design excellence encompasses far more than just aesthetics.

by Unsplash

During a stay at an all-inclusive resort, I couldn't quite put my finger on why the space felt disconnected, despite its outward beauty.

The first issue was flow and layout. While the hotel itself looked stunning, the placement of key amenities like the coffee shop, stores, and kids' club outside the main area disrupted the natural flow and connectivity of the space. Good design considers how we move through and experience a space holistically.

Secondly, the soul of the place felt lacking. Despite the staff's hard work, there was a disconnect, a absence of cohesive energy tying the experience together. Design isn't just about the physical elements, but creating an environment that resonates emotionally and spiritually.

Functionality was another area that fell short. Aesthetically pleasing textures and materials were chosen without considering durability and cleanability. From fabric chairs to decorative elements, these surfaces couldn't be easily maintained, diminishing both look and practicality over time.

This experience reminded me that truly great interior design must balance beauty with these often overlooked factors:

Flow & Layout: Purposeful positioning of spaces for intuitive navigation and experience.

Emotional Resonance: Crafting an environment that connects with users on a deeper, soulful level.

Functionality: Ensuring materials, textures and design elements are both beautiful and built for real-world human use.

by Unsplash

Aesthetics are crucial, but fall short without an underlying intention and consideration for how we inhabit and feel in a space. The role of an interior designer is to harmonize form and function, going beyond the surface to create sanctuaries that nourish the human experience.

So the next time you're in a space that just doesn't feel quite right, look beyond the aesthetics. The true artistry of interior design lies in those unseen details that transform a room into a resonant, rejuvenating atmosphere tailored to how we live.