Life is But a Stage: Themed Environments

The line between design of public spaces in the hospitality industry and the entertainment industry is fading. Illustrated and implemented so eloquently by the Grand Master, Walt Disney, theming of hospitality projects has now evolved into a prevalent method of designing projects throughout the world.

A themed resort, entertainment or gaming destination will often orient toward a specific lifestyle, unique cultural differences or attempt to create a depiction of historical or fictional environments, working to create unique attributes and experiences for a visitor.

Themes can be created around about anything: cities, countries, landmarks, lifestyle choices, cultures, local activities, heritage, history, legends, folklore, or fictional stories and places. Egyptian, Old World, Mediterranean, Mayan, Deco, frontier, nautical, medieval, sports, science fiction, outer space, prehistoric, fantasy and other themes are samples of the vast array of experiences a project elaborate upon.

A themed development offers distinctions from one property to another, while attracting potential visitors with a strong identity. Often developed for a particular niche, activities can be offered reinforcing a specific theme. Utilizing the natural terrain to influence a themed project can compliment surroundings, while creating a sense of community or enhancing unique local or regional attributes. Theming also aids in maintaining continuity throughout the development of a project, especially one created in phases. Fascinating experiences, in turn, create a reason for return visits and great word of mouth advertising.

Designing a themed project requires an intensive effort. Visions must be generated from the outset of a project, maintained through the completion and into the implementation of services. Everyone including the property owner, development group and design team of architectural, interior designers, landscape and graphic professionals, on to sales, marketing and management must be involved to remain on-track and for a project to become a resounding success. Projects of this nature require expertise on every level.

Project design and development

Concept development, renderings and illustrations, consultation, estimating and budgeting, art direction, materials planning, supervision, construction drawings, color boards, engineering, 3D-modeling, scaled models and drafting

Interior environments

Space planning, interior finish, furniture, equipment, lighting, and accessory specifications, procurement and installation

Custom fabrication

Interior and architectural details, scenery, exterior environments, play areas, exhibits, and fantasy sculptures, fountains, water features and other special effects

Scenic art and decoration

Murals, backdrops, draperies, banners, graphic displays, signage, custom finishes, props and special lighting effects are all necessary

Production services

Field support supervision become an integral part of this design process

Urban environments so often lack pleasing pedestrian experiences. As a result, artificial environments designed to escape the mundane emerge. Theming touches almost every commercial venue and seems a necessary for differentiating businesses in a competitive business environment.

Themed developments offer mini-trips, virtually "Going where no man has gone before," as a means of escape from every day pressures and consumers have come expect unique experiences. "Take me away Scotti," is their mantra.

Hospitality project development teams are responsible for making this happen and creating an illusion that is real, fun and safe.

- Dezignaré