CAI-NJ December 2020

Refresh Your Facility with Resimercial Design Fundamentals By Carrie Fusella, Design Alternatives, Inc. FACILITY DESIGN

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T oday, facilities have very different expectations in terms of design features and amenities than they did five years ago. Interior designers have begun to implement various design strategies to meet the changing needs of facilities. In order to increase sales by creating a warm and inviting space which is also commercially functional and dura- ble, resimercial design has become a preferred design when renovating or creating a new public space. WHAT IS RESIMERCIAL? Resimercial design can be described as a layout, finish and/or furnishing style that brings together the feeling of home with the use of residential design aesthetic and commercial quality materials. It is also referred to as a hybrid of residential interior design and commercial design. Resimercial design values commercial quality products with residential-inspired features over the standardized feel of corporate furnishings and finishes.

KEY FEATURES TO FOCUS ON: Variability. Comfort and character are the driving forces in resimercial design, but many people define these aspects differently. From an open floor plan that helps to facilitate group activities, to a quiet secluded space where residents can drown out noise, to a relaxing informal area where people can sit and chat - each design style has a place in a public gathering environment. Longevity. This coming together of what were tradi- tionally two very different markets can largely be credited to contract furniture manufacturers taking cues from crafted hospitality and residential furniture. Residential furniture pro- vides softer lines and a combination of materials that have a more handcrafted feel. In contrast, commercial furniture has historically been bulkier and more monolithic in order to satisfy the functional requirements of high traffic wear and tear. Years ago, the majority of residential fabrics and furniture were not created for high-volume use and couldn’t CONT I NU E S ON PAGE 22

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