How do you balance aesthetics and function when planning a space for a client?

As a commercial designer, you have to create spaces that meet the needs and preferences of your clients, while also reflecting their brand identity and values. But how do you balance aesthetics and function when planning a space for a client? In this article, we will share some tips and strategies to help you achieve this goal.

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1 Understand the purpose

Before you start designing, you need to understand the purpose of the space and how it will be used. What are the goals and objectives of your client? Who are their target audience and customers? How do they want to communicate their message and image? What are the activities and tasks that will take place in the space? These questions will help you define the function and scope of the project, as well as the budget and timeline.

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Greta Burandt Kennedy

Designer
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In commercial design, preparation is everything. You will be given data and demographics, and run your own. "If you build it they will come" is a nice idea but it can be a costly mistake. Know the stakeholders, understand the strategy, and bring something to the table they have not considered. The client may have different priorities than the customer using their space and mining those priorities up front will build client confidence. If your client is building a large multi-family project far from a park or greenbelt - do they need a 5-tub dog wash where they could add a golf simulator, pilates reformer, or a card room? Have they hired a marketing firm? They should be in design review so the larger brand message moves forward.

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2 Involve the client

Another key step is to involve the client in the design process and get their feedback and input. This will help you align your vision with theirs and avoid any misunderstandings or conflicts. You can use different tools and methods to communicate your ideas and concepts, such as mood boards, sketches, 3D models, renderings, or samples. You can also ask the client to share their preferences, inspirations, and expectations, as well as any constraints or challenges they face.

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3 Consider the context

The context of the space is also an important factor to consider when balancing aesthetics and function. You have to take into account the location, size, shape, orientation, and layout of the space, as well as the existing features, elements, and infrastructure. You also have to consider the environmental, social, and cultural aspects of the space, such as the climate, lighting, noise, traffic, regulations, and trends. These factors will influence your design decisions and solutions, as well as the materials, colors, textures, and finishes you choose.

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Natalie Ouma

Director/Lead Designer at NAOSTUDIOS
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There is a foundational design principle which is: Form follows function. This is to say that certain shapes and volumes naturally promote certain behaviors. So if you are looking to gather poeple circular elements promote that. If you are looking for a sense of grandeur tall ceiling can do that. I once reviewed a piece of student work that had a triangular room.My goodness! What an uncomfortable thing. Acute angles have a way of bringing discomfort. If you are looking for good book on this Francis Chang has a fantastic series on Form,Space and Order.

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4 Optimize the layout

The layout of the space is one of the most crucial aspects of design, as it affects the functionality, efficiency, and flow of the space. You have to plan the layout according to the purpose, activities, and users of the space, as well as the context and constraints. You have to create zones, pathways, and focal points that facilitate the movement, interaction, and comfort of the users. You also have to optimize the use of space and avoid any wasted or underutilized areas.

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5 Incorporate flexibility

Flexibility is another key principle to balance aesthetics and function in commercial design. You have to design spaces that can adapt to changing needs, demands, and situations, as well as different users and purposes. You can incorporate flexibility by using modular, movable, or multifunctional furniture, fixtures, and partitions. You can also use adjustable, dimmable, or smart lighting systems, as well as adaptable or reversible materials and finishes.

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6 Add personality

Finally, you have to add personality and character to the space to make it stand out and reflect your client's brand identity and values. You can do this by using colors, patterns, graphics, artworks, or accessories that match your client's style, theme, and message. You can also use custom-made or unique elements that showcase your client's products, services, or achievements. You can also create a mood or atmosphere that appeals to your client's target audience and customers.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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How do you balance aesthetics and function when planning a space for a client?

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3

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1 Understand the purpose

2 Involve the client

3 Consider the context

4 Optimize the layout

5 Incorporate flexibility

6 Add personality

7 Here’s what else to consider

Commercial Design

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How do you balance aesthetics and function when planning a space for a client?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Understand the purpose

2 Involve the client

3 Consider the context

4 Optimize the layout

5 Incorporate flexibility

6 Add personality

7 Here’s what else to consider

Commercial Design

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