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The future of Interior Design: A journey through the senses

Is Sensory Interior Design new?

Have you ever walked into a space and instantly felt at ease?

Or perhaps a place that overwhelmed you, without knowing exactly why?

Sensory interior design is all about these subconscious experiences. While the concept isn't entirely new, it has become more relevant than ever as we prioritize well-being, neuroscience, and immersive experiences.

The way we interact with our surroundings is evolving - beyond just aesthetics, we now consider how a space makes us feel.

Image source (left): 'Lucida Restaurant & Bar, Giza' by Shahira Fahmi, https://www.lovethatdesign.com

What’s driving this shift?

Think about the spaces where you feel most comfortable. Is it the warm lighting? The natural textures? The scent of fresh wood or calming essential oils? A combination of factors contributes to our emotional response to an environment. Here are some trends shaping the future of sensory interior create design:

  • Neuroaesthetic Design – What if science could help us design spaces that reduce stress and boost happiness? This approach combines neuroscience and aesthetics to shape our emotions through color, texture, and form.
  • Biophilic Design 2.0 – Do you feel more at ease in spaces with natural elements? This trend takes biophilic design beyond houseplants, incorporating entire nature-inspired ecosystems, from airflow to circadian lighting.
  • Adaptive & Smart Interiors – Imagine your home adjusting to your mood—softening the lighting after a long day or playing your favorite calming sounds. AI-driven interiors are making this a reality.
  • Tactile & Haptic Design – How often do you notice the textures around you? From soft fabrics to handcrafted surfaces, our sense of touch shapes our experience in profound ways.
  • Immersive & Experiential Design – Have you ever been inside a space that transported you to another world? Whether in a retail store or a wellness spa, sensory engagement and storytelling are key to unforgettable experiences.

Image source (right): 'Shvili Restaurant, Abu-Dhabi' by I2D Interior Décor LLC, https://www.lovethatdesign.com

The Five Senses in Interior Design

How do we create spaces that truly engage people? Sensory design focuses on activating our senses to craft meaningful experiences.

1. Sight

The colors, shapes, and lighting of a space can dramatically impact our mood. Do you feel energized in a bright, airy room? Or more relaxed in a dimly lit, cozy space?

2. Touch

Have you ever run your fingers across a textured wall or sunk into a plush velvet chair? The tactile elements in a space create a physical connection with the space.

3. Smell

Scents have the power to transport us. The smell of fresh coffee, blooming flowers, or the salty ocean air can trigger emotions and memories, making smell one of the most powerful tools in interior design.

4. Taste

Have you ever noticed how a beautifully designed restaurant enhances the dining experience?

5. Sound

Ever been in a space where the noise felt overwhelming? Or, on the flip side, where the subtle background music created the perfect atmosphere? Thoughtful acoustic design shapes how we experience a space.

Image source (left): 'Xi'an lyf Hotel, Xi An' by Shenzhen 31Design, https://www.lovethatdesign.com

A brief history: How did we get here?

Did you know that sensory design dates back to the 1950s? Artists from groups like ZERO in Europe and Gutai in Japan experimented with non-visual elements to enhance their work. By the 1960s, visionaries like Yoko Ono, Marina Abramović, and Doug Wheeler took things further, exploring how environments could stimulate all the senses.

In the 80s and 90s, sensory design had to compete with the rise of visual technology, but some artists fought back, pushing for multisensory experiences. La Monte Young and Marian Zazeela’s Dream House is a prime example—a space where sound, light, and movement blend into a full-body experience.

A prolific figure was Venton Panton (13 February 1926 – 5 September 1998), considered one of Denmark’s most influential 20th-century furniture and interior designers.

Panton believed that color could provoke emotions and shape experiences.

He used bold, monochromatic color schemes to create psychological and physical immersion, and his interiors were meant to engulf the user in a full sensory experience, where walls, floors, ceilings, and furniture blended into a seamless, emotional space.

Fast forward to today, and technology plays a new role.

Does it enhance our sensory experience, or is it numbing our senses?

That’s the big question designers are asking as they integrate AR, VR, and AI into immersive spaces.

Image source (right): ‘Spiegel Verlagshaus’ by Ponton, https://www.yellowtrace.com.au/

Sensory Design in action: A Restaurant Case Study

Imagine a high-end Nikkei cuisine restaurant (a fusion of Japanese and Peruvian flavors). How would sensory design shape the experience?

  • Sight: A dimly lit space with deep wood tones and sculptural installations, evoking intimacy and sophistication.
  • Touch: Smooth ceramic plates, textured walls, and polished natural stone tables.
  • Smell: A delicate mix of citrus, grilled seafood, and exotic spices filling the air.
  • Taste: A carefully curated balance of umami-rich flavors, bright tangy notes, and smooth textures.
  • Sound: Soft jazz mingling with the gentle hum of the open kitchen, creating an atmosphere of quiet energy.

Image source (left): Joline & Flo Concept Design

A sensory gem in London: Middle Eight Hotel

Looking for a space that fully embraces sensory design? Middle Eight Hotel, designed by Tonik Associates, is a 5-star London destination that balances luxury with sensory immersion.
Its library space is one of our favorite among the venues at Middle Eight (the Sycamore Restaurant, the QT Jazz Bar, the hotel bar, and the hotel rooms) the a warm, intimate atmosphere that makes you feel both inspired and at ease. Have you ever noticed how certain spaces make you feel more productive and creative? That’s the power of thoughtful design.
Image source: 'Middle Eight Hotel, London' by Tonik Associates, https://www.lovethatdesign.com

Why does Sensory Design matter to you?

Think about your own spaces - your home, your favorite café, the places you return to over and over. What about them makes you feel good?

Is it the lighting? The textures? The way they smell? Whether you realize it or not, sensory design plays a huge role in shaping your experiences.

As technology and design continue to evolve, one thing is clear: the future of interior design lies in how we integrate innovation to enhance our senses. By orchestrating a careful balance, technology has the power to elevate our environments, creating spaces that are not just functional but deeply enriching. From interactive lighting to adaptive acoustics, these advancements offer us new ways to connect with our surroundings and improve our well-being.

So, the question remains: Are we using technology to enhance our senses and well-being, or are we letting it diminish them?