Creating Memorable Brand Experiences & Commercial Spaces With Stone
There's nothing like being transported away. To a different place. A different time. Back to childhood.
It's a feeling often associated with vacations and holiday traditions. Except now, it's one that more and more businesses are harnessing through the creation of memorable spaces and experiences to help differentiate their brand story.
Stores, restaurants, and even curated living communities are all exploring the benefits of incorporating timeless materials and thoughtful design to transform their commercial spaces, fostering intrinsic value that resonates deeply with people’s emotions, and developing greater, more meaningful brand connections.
Textures, colors, shapes (and how they're applied) have become powerful ways to tap into senses and emotions. Architects and interior designers have transitioned to the boardroom, working alongside the likes of CMOs and creative directors to curate these memorable spaces from inception. As brands become more sophisticated, no detail is too small or overlooked in creating an immersive and memorable experience for their customers.
Here's how you can use stone to create truly unforgettable settings for your customers for long-lasting connections and an instantly recognizable experience.
How Global Brands Set the Scene
The application of architectural design and materials to mirror emotions or senses is a tried and tested strategy, but it's steadily becoming more refined and successful. And you only need to look to some of the world's biggest and most renowned brands for a glimpse of this in action.
Apple's expansive, minimalist storefronts use a variety of materials including flooded glass walls, natural wood and stone to focus on this idea of innovation and potential - made possible through their products.
RH – Restoration Hardware continues to redefine their customers experience well beyond just offering beautiful stores that feature their high-end furniture. Its most recent ambition, RH England, a 400-year-old landmark estate designed by preeminent British architect Sir John Soane captures the imagination of what is possible. Around every corner, history and design meet in perfect harmony, including the timeless works of master masons featuring stone, brick and hand carved limestone details.
Then there's the titan of immersive experiences: Disney. Their parks, stores, offices, and practically everything they touch are designed to offer a new perspective on the world. Now, this pioneering brand is introducing "Storyliving by Disney." These carefully crafted communities will be designed by Disney Imagineers to create beautiful havens that welcomes residents with inviting architecture, unique community amenities and Disney’s touch on immersive living experiences.
In short: first impressions count. And if anyone understands just how much, it's the architects and designers driving these modern brand experiences.
Exploring Your Masonry Options: Stone, Limestone and Brick
While the adage says not to judge a book by its cover, first impressions are crucial. Creating an inviting and visually appealing environment is key to building long-term customer relationships and surpassing initial expectations.
Here are 3 examples of how the types of stonework and materials can alter perspective - and experiences - within commercial spaces.
The Spa
When it comes to creating a sanctuary of luxury and rejuvenation, luxury hotel spas offer an exquisite array of wellness treatments and serene experiences tailored for the discerning guest. The prime element people seek is a feeling of relaxation.
Spas are a prime example of the immersive experience, and target all of the senses. Soothing music, regenerative scents, healthy foods, restorative treatments - and of course, stunning visuals.
Ideal product: Creative Mines-Marble Kings. This contemporary limestone instantly evokes a sense of calm. Available in two color palettes, including Bright Horizon which features a balance of soft whites with hints of grey undertones, and Warmvibe with its pleasing light earthy tones sets the tone for health, relaxation, and tranquility. Marble Kings come in a large format 12” x 24” with available corners that are 12" High, 11" long return, 3" short return to provide the appearance of a full bed depth natural stone.
The Outdoor Recreation Store
The anything's possible store. The let's get away for the weekend and reconnect with nature store. Seasoned rock climbers or once a year campers, these environments spark a sense of adventure and possibility.
Ideal product: Creative Mines-Peak Ledge. This textured ledge stone mimics rocky mountainsides but with a more modern, cutting-edge touch. It's available in a wide range of natural color palettes from chalky whites to olive browns, and its rectilinear shapes and straight edges create a distinct shadow play, especially when dry stacked.
A Touch of European Charm- Welcome Center
Incorporating stone and brick into the design of this community welcome center has infused it with the warmth and charm reminiscent of an Italian hillside structure. The textured stone walls and rich, earthy brickwork echo the rustic elegance found in Tuscany, creating a welcoming and timeless atmosphere. The use of these natural materials not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also fosters a sense of history and tradition. The interplay of light and shadow on the varied surfaces adds depth and character, inviting visitors to experience a blend of old-world charm and modern functionality.
Ideal product: Creative Mines Butternut Orchard Limestone has a warm, sunlit color palette with hues ranging from bleached goldenrod and custard to browned-butter. Uneven edges and varied rectangular shapes soften the formality of this ashlar profile.
Laying the Foundation For Your Commercial Spaces
Today's consumers look for authentic connections, lifestyle experiences, and memorable moments with their brands of choice. And those that are the most successful understand the critical role of in-person spaces to bring these to life.
With the right stone, materials, and architectural application, you can build instantly recognizable spaces for an instantly recognizable brand. And establish long-lasting connections with your customers.
If you're looking to construct a truly unforgettable experience, we can help with that. Our team of crafters and visionaries at Creative Mines work closely with the building and architectural communities each and every day - exploring new concepts, producing quality stone veneer and masonry products, and delivering materials that stand the test of time.