When it comes to interior design, there are significant contrasts between commercial and residential spaces. From flooring choices to furniture selection, each type of environment requires specific considerations to meet functional and aesthetic needs.
In this blog, we will dive into the aspects of commercial and residential interior design, highlighting the unique requirements and challenges associated.
Flooring
In the residential corner, we have the classic choices of hardwood/LVT or cozy carpets, spread throughout the home like a warm embrace. But over in the commercial arena, flooring becomes a traffic maestro, guiding people with precision.
It's all about helping folks find the reception desk or catching sight of that faraway hallway. And let's not forget our seniors who need sturdy, easy-to-clean, and hole-free floors that won't trip them up! For specialized settings like senior living facilities, too dark of flooring is avoided to prevent confusion among individuals with dementia.
Furniture
Picture this: you're strolling into a local furniture store, falling head over heels for that fabulous couch. Well, in the commercial space, we've got a bit of bad news. Those charming residential pieces won't cut it when it comes to high-traffic commercial use. Commercial-grade fabrics that meet fire code standards are essential for public spaces, offering durability, ease of cleaning, water resistance, and antimicrobial properties.
Senior living facilities have further considerations, such as ideal seat height, firm seating for easy access, and the inclusion of armrests to aid seniors in pushing up. Chairs in these spaces need to be sturdy and safe, avoiding swiveling or rolling mechanisms.
Walls
In residential design, paint is the go-to choice for walls. However, in high traffic areas of commercial spaces, paint may not hold up well against scuffing from luggage, wheelchairs, and carts. Instead, certain wallpapers that are durable enough to withstand heavy foot traffic are often employed.
Moreover, wall colors in commercial settings can serve as visual indicators, helping to identify door cut-ins, hallways, and other important areas.
Artwork & Lighting
Ah, the joy of choosing artwork and lighting for your home! But in the commercial realm, things get a bit trickier...
Artwork in commercial spaces often needs to align with the industry or business and can serve functional purposes. For instance, in senior living facilities, shadow boxes outside each room typically contain items and photos to help residents locate their rooms. Lighting choices in commercial spaces may also prioritize functionality and safety, such as using bright lighting in healthcare commercial spaces for easy tool detection.
ADA/Handicap Compliance
Unlike residential settings, commercial spaces must adhere to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) requirements. Say hello to multi-level reception desks, bars that cater to everyone, and restrooms with shower bars and railings.
These modifications and accommodations ensure that individuals with disabilities have equal access and opportunities within commercial environments, fostering inclusivity and removing barriers to participation.
By embracing these accessibility measures, commercial spaces go the extra mile to provide an inclusive experience for all individuals, regardless of their abilities or limitations. It's all about creating an environment that not only welcomes everyone with open arms but also empowers them to fully engage and enjoy all that the space has to offer.
Signage & Wayfinding
While signage and wayfinding are not typically necessary in residential design, they play a crucial role in commercial spaces.
In specialized environments like senior living communities, the importance of signage amplifies even further. Senior living facilities typically require an extensive number of signs to aid residents in finding their rooms, common areas, dining spaces, and other essential facilities. These signs go beyond mere functionality; they become a source of reassurance, providing a sense of familiarity and orientation for those who may face memory challenges or difficulty with spatial awareness.
Revealing the Allure of Commercial and Residential Design
Commercial and residential interior design diverge in various aspects, encompassing flooring choices, furniture selection, wall treatments, artwork, lighting, ADA compliance, and wayfinding.
Commercial spaces prioritize functionality, durability, safety, and compliance with specific regulations, while residential design leans more towards personal preferences and aesthetics. Understanding these differences is crucial for interior designers and individuals seeking to create spaces that cater to their specific needs and requirements.
Our lead designers at Alkemis take on the job of making commercial spaces meet all of their functionality requirements and their aesthetic goals. Click the 'Work With Us' tab on our website to start a conversation about your upcoming project!
From Masterplan to Masterpiece - We make sure your first impression is a good one.
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