How to Combine Functionality and Design in Lobby Spaces

Since lobbies are the first thing residents see before the rest of a building, it’s important to make that first impression count. While it is natural to pay a lot of attention to and invest resources in an exquisitely designed lobby, aesthetics alone are poor substitutes for functionality. Well-planned lobby spaces combine both aesthetics and function to leave a lasting impression on residents. 

Here are our three recommendations to combine function and design and take your lobby to the next level.

First things first - meet the needs of your residents

Creating value can be as simple as meeting the basic needs of the residents. It is easy to become carried away with the latest architectural furnishings that cost a fortune but don’t meet the basic necessities of residents. Basic amenities would do more to serve your residents than a lobby full of Roman columns. So what are these must-have amenities that set your lobby above the rest?

Unsurprisingly, the most important infrastructure for today’s residents is invisible. You can expect residents to be carrying at least one electronic device wherever they go. Having free and accessible WiFi enables residents to stay tuned to their social media, browse the web, or finish up on work while waiting in the lobby. Charging stations and electrical outlets sound simple but are greatly appreciated - we all know how it feels when our phone batteries are down to 5%.

Likewise, water dispensers or complimentary refreshments provide a similarly small yet luxurious comfort. And having clear and visible signage helps residents find their way quickly with little fuss. Additionally, an informational hub (whether it’s as sophisticated as a digital screen or as straightforward as a notice board) helps residents find the latest community developments within the building, while finding out local attractions or events to go to. 

Then comes nuance and personalization

Once your lobbies are equipped with the amenities above, you can look further into catering to the more specific needs of your residents. This can be achieved by first understanding the demographics of your residents, and consequently their underlying needs. Families would benefit from lounges that have play areas, game rooms, and reading areas or libraries to keep children occupied. Residents seeking to socialize could benefit from cafes to catch up with friends or bars to catch a few drinks before heading out in the evening. Working professionals or students would benefit from more tables and desks to set up their stations to work with ease throughout the day. 

Apart from demographics, the right choice of furniture can help you reinforce the ambiance you wish to create. To invoke a spacious atmosphere, consider a minimalist approach and tables with pedestal bases to make it easy to tuck into chairs. Keep pathways clear of furniture to reduce overcrowding and accommodate peak traffic throughout the day. If your lobby feels empty, you may consider art pieces or architectural designs to give the space some personality, provided they jive with the look and feel of the rest of the lobby. 

Besides the furniture, wall colors play a role in affecting a desired mood within a space. Neutral colors such as beige, grey or shades of white evoke a light and airy lobby, whereas cool colors like green, blue and purple help to create a serene and calming atmosphere. To create a space that feels cozier, choose colors that are dark and rich, such as deep warm reds, golden browns and dark forest greens. It’s important to keep in mind that the choice of colors for the walls and the furniture complement each other - furniture with striking colors and patterns against a muted backdrop would draw the wrong type of attention. Adjust your lighting settings to bring out the best character and elements of your lobby that you wish to convey.

Lobbies for the post-pandemic world

The recent pandemic has introduced many new social distancing practices that will likely become standard practice for the foreseeable future. However, social distancing and hygiene practices need not be at odds with the design of your lobby. Automated entryways and exits were already in practice prior to the pandemic, while better hygiene practices stave off not only COVID-19, but also a host of other harmful bacteria.

Multiple automated entry and exit points will be needed to spread pedestrian traffic across larger areas to increase social distancing and reduce risk of transmission. Digital authentication, such as voice activated protocols and contactless badges, don’t just prevent viruses and bacteria from spreading, but also increases building security by allowing for traceability. In the event of an outbreak, digitalization enables contact tracing at a moment’s notice. Temperature checks will be needed at entrance points while signage with reminders to stay safe will be a regular feature at most lobbies.

Wrapping it up

Conventions of lobby design need not focus on one aspect and neglect the other; functionality and design can go hand-in-hand to not only create visually stunning spaces, but also wow your residents further by catering to their needs. From ensuring basic amenities are present, to more subtle nuances such as the choice of furniture and wall colors, the sky (or ceiling) is the limit as far as creativity goes in marrying functionality and design. Similarly, post-pandemic practices in lobby areas can not only be assimilated, but also improve the security and functionality of lobby spaces.