Artifacting: A layer of design not to be missed
A truly complete design encompasses the entire experience. Four walls, a floor and a ceiling simply aren't enough to evoke a mood, inspire a feeling or embrace a brand. The concept of "themeing" has become passé and yet this layer of design is so important. The way we theme a space has changed. We are artifacting in a more authentic way.
By incorporating innovative, unique and dynamic elements into the artifacting we are encouraging guest interaction with the environment. This decor layer can also be used to further showcase and emphasize brand direction. In a subtle way, the brand statements are incorporated into the environmental surroundings reinforcing an essence of the brand.
If you're going for an industrial and eclectic theme mixing pieces to look as though they are a collection from over the years will translate to a more local and personal feeling throughout. Hand-painted wall murals add an authentic, raw element to the space, bringing originality and uniqueness to the brand. Paired with a couple salvaged wood doors hung on the wall in an original configuration and a custom designed cast iron pipe fixture, you're well on your way to dressing the space.
Perhaps a more minimalist, yet earthy approach speaks well for your brand. A well placed framed black and white, an aged wood console table and a few well-crafted pieces of pottery can make a huge statement. An oversized mirror is an inexpensive way to dress a vacant wall. And we should never underestimate the effect greenery will encompass within your guests overall experience.
Artifacting doesn't need to be and in fact I would argue shouldn't be purely decorative. Each well placed piece should serve a purpose. Who is viewing this piece? What level of engagement are your guests having with it? Today's features can be incorporated into simple craft paper menu boards held in place with a minimalist clip. These functional pieces become part of the overall decor and need to be cohesive with the brand throughout.
This final layer to creating a completed design can shape an entire guest experience. Although it's installation is often the final step in construction, the thought behind the decor should be developed early on, -- simultaneously with the conceptual design and brand direction. Because artifacting often involves scouring the salvage yards and antique shops, meeting with local artists or sourcing the perfect frame for a special piece of art, it takes time, a keen eye for detail and often some luck to find the perfect blend to enhance the overall design.