Restorative Potential of Hotel Lobbies: A Symbiotic Examination of Biophilic Design through Organized Complexity, and Attention Restoration Theory

Naz Bilgic MFA, University of Minnesota, Department of Design, Housing, Apparel, Interior Design
Genell W Ebbini Assistant Professor, University of Minnesota, Department of Design, Housing, Apparel, Interior Design

Urbanization has weakened human-nature relationships, which is vital for the well-being of individuals. Attention Restoration Theory (ART) suggests a connection with nature as a way of restoration from mental fatigue that individuals experience within their daily lives. Biophilic Design has emerged as a means to connect users of space with nature to support human health and well-being. Biophilic Design principles and elements include numerous attributes. Organized Complexity is one of the attributes of Biophilic Design. While complex spaces have variety and evoke excitement, the spatial organization adds coherency and order to complexity.

Research in this area has demonstrated a symbiotic relationship between ART and Biophilic Design for human health and well-being in the built environment. Restorative interior environments have been studied for the workplace, healthcare, and hospitality (spas, hotel rooms). However, the literature lacks examination of the restorative effects of hotel lobbies, the ‘heart’ of hotels, on the well-being of customers and service personnel.

In this experimental study, the researcher examined the interconnected relationships between Biophilic Design attribute (Organized Complexity), and ART features (being away, fascination, coherence, and compatibility). The goal was to examine the optimal application of Organized Complexity through evidence-based design. A participatory research method was used where study participants were immersed in hotel lobby designs though virtual reality. The restorative potential of the hotel lobby settings was evaluated using a perceived restorativeness scale.

Findings of this study will contribute to the larger body of knowledge in hospitality design; in particular, hotel lobbies. The significance of the study provides a conceptual framework of ‘best practices’ in designing restorative experiences using Biophilic Design through an ART perspective.

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