The Art of Hospitality: Designing Spaces That Inspire and Connect

Have you ever walked into a space and felt instantly at ease—as if it were designed just for you? Or perhaps the opposite, where a space seemed to push you away, leaving you feeling out of place? The spaces we inhabit hold incredible power, shaping our emotions, connections, and even our sense of belonging. Today, we’re diving deep into this idea with Ryan Anderson, the Vice President of Global Research and Planning at MillerKnoll, in a cozy fireside chat that promises to challenge the way you think about hospitality and design.

Ryan brings over 30 years of expertise in creating environments that don’t just look good but feel right—spaces that foster connection and comfort while leaving a lasting impression. So, grab a coffee, settle in, and let’s explore the art and science of designing spaces that inspire and connect.

Hospitality Beyond Aesthetics

With over 30 years of experience in furniture and textiles, Ryan brought incredible insights to our conversation. He shared that hospitality isn’t just about beautiful spaces and creating meaningful experiences. “Every space has a purpose,” he said, pointing out how the design of a hotel lobby or a café can transform how guests and staff connect. “Hospitality is a place-based phenomenon,” he added, emphasizing that great design can elevate both personal experiences and business outcomes.

Introduction of the concept of loving strangers

Ryan introduced the concept of “philoxenia”—the ancient Greek term for loving strangers. “Hospitality starts with making others feel safe and cared for,” he said. For instance, he shared how a simple gesture, like personalizing room amenities for a guest’s preferences, can create moments of genuine connection.

Takeaways

• The design of spaces significantly impacts our emotions and relationships.
• Cultural experiences shape our understanding of hospitality.
• Great hospitality is about sincere care for others.
• Place attachment is formed through our experiences in spaces.
• Design can either foster or hinder a sense of belonging.
• Sensory experiences play a crucial role in comfort.
• Sustainability in design promotes well-being for people and the planet.
• Technology should enhance, not replace, human connections.
• Inclusion is essential for creating positive first impressions.
• Employees should be treated as valued customers in hospitality.

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