The Evolution of Experiential Design

When considering interior design, we often think of how a space looks. This has been the case for most of history. A well-designed home had beautiful furniture, balanced colours, and elegant decorations.

But today, interior design goes beyond aesthetics and function.

It’s about how a space feels and shapes the experiences of the people using it.

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How Interior Design Became More Than Just Aesthetics

This shift from purely aesthetic design to experiential design didn’t happen overnight. It’s the result of centuries of change, influenced by new ways of living, advancements in psychology, and even technology.

If you’ve ever walked into a space and felt instantly at ease or, on the flip side, uncomfortable without knowing why, you’ve experienced the power of experiential design.

Let’s journey through the history of interior design to see how we got here and how you can apply these ideas to create a home that truly reflects your personality.

The Early Days: Beauty Over Function

If we go back in time, interior design was primarily a status symbol. In ancient Egypt, homes were decorated with rich textiles, intricate carvings, and gold accents to show wealth and power.

The more elaborate the design, the more important the owner appeared.

This trend continued through the centuries. For example, the Victorian era (1800s) was all about excess. Heavily patterned wallpaper, carved wooden furniture, and rooms overflowing with decorations.

Little thought was given to how these spaces made people feel or how they functioned in everyday life.

Imagine walking into a Victorian-style home today. Every inch is covered with patterned fabrics, dark wood furniture, and elaborate drapes blocking the sunlight. It might look impressive, but would you want to live there?

The Shift Begins: Form Meets Function (20th Century)

The early 20th century saw a major shift in interior design. Architects and designers began questioning whether a beautiful space was successful if it wasn’t functional. This era saw the rise of modernism, which focused on simplicity, open spaces, and practical layouts.

One of the biggest influences was the Bauhaus movement (1919–1933), which introduced the idea that design should serve a purpose. Instead of rooms filled with unnecessary decorations, Bauhaus homes featured clean lines, minimal furniture, and airy spaces.

This period also saw the rise of mid-century modern design (1940s–1960s), which brought in more organic shapes, warm wood tones, and an emphasis on comfort. People started caring about how their home looked and how it worked for their lifestyle.

Consider a cosy 1950s home with an open-plan kitchen and living room. This design made it easier for families to cook, eat, and spend time together—a clear shift from the closed-off, formal spaces of the past.

Beyond Function: The Birth of Experiential Design (Late 20th Century–Today)

By the late 20th century, designers and homeowners began to realize that function alone wasn’t enough. A home could be practical, but if it didn’t feel inviting, the design was considered unsuccessful. This realization led to experiential design, which considers how a space looks and functions and how it impacts mood, emotions, and behaviour.

One of the biggest influences on this shift was environmental psychology, the study of how physical spaces affect people’s well-being. Designers began asking:

• How does lighting impact relaxation?
• How do certain colours affect emotions?
• How can a home be designed to reduce stress and increase happiness?

The answers to these questions led to new interior design trends focused on well-being. Concepts like biophilic design (bringing nature indoors), open floor plans, and personalized interiors became popular.

Related article Designed for Wellness

How Experiential Design Can Transform Your Home

So, what does this mean for you? If you’ve ever struggled to make your home feel like you, it might be because you’re focusing too much on aesthetics and not enough on the experience of the space.

Here are some ways to bring experiential design into your own home:

1. Use Colour to Set the Mood

Colours aren’t just about style, also they influence emotions.

• Blue tones create a sense of calm (great for bedrooms).
• Green brings a refreshing, natural feel (ideal for home offices).
• Warm tones like orange and yellow add energy (perfect for social spaces).

If you’ve ever felt restless in a bright red room or instantly relaxed in a soft blue one, you’ve experienced how colour affects mood.

Related article The Psychology of Interior Design

2. Design for Comfort and Flow

A room should feel natural to move through. If you’re constantly bumping into furniture or struggling to find a comfortable place to sit, the design isn’t working.

• Arrange furniture to create clear walking paths.
• Choose seating that invites relaxation rather than just looking stylish.
• Consider how you use a space. If you love reading, ensure good lighting and a cosy chair.

Think of a living room where the TV is too far from the couch, making it hard to relax. Simply shifting the furniture can change the entire feel of the space.

Related article How to Assess a Space for Experiential Design

3. Bring Nature Indoors

Biophilic design, incorporating natural elements into interiors, has been shown to reduce stress and improve well-being.

• Add houseplants for a touch of greenery.
• Use natural light whenever possible.
• Choose materials like wood, leather, and stone to create a warm, organic feel.

Have you ever noticed how a room with plants feels more alive? Even a single potted plant can make a space feel more inviting.

4. Personalize Your Space

Your home should tell your story. Instead of copying trends, focus on elements that reflect your personality and interests.

• Display meaningful artwork or photos.
• Arrange books, souvenirs, or collectables that make you happy.
• Choose colours and textures that make you feel at home.

If you love travelling, why not decorate with maps, travel souvenirs, or colours inspired by your favourite destinations?

Final Thoughts: Your Home, Your Experience

Experiential design is more than a trend—it’s a way to create spaces that support and reflect the people living in them. Instead of just choosing furniture and colours that look nice, think about how they make you feel.

By considering colour psychology, comfort, nature, and personalization, you can transform any space into a home that’s not only beautiful but also deeply meaningful.

So next time you’re rearranging a room or choosing a new paint colour, ask yourself: Does this space reflect who I am? If the answer is yes, you’re already on your way to designing a home that’s more than just aesthetically pleasing, it is experiential. 

If not and you are ready to take the guesswork out of your interior design, download my FREE Experiential Design Templates and start designing with confidence.