| Title |
A Study on the Characteristics of Branded Environments in Hotel Spaces |
| Keywords |
Branded Hotel ; Branded Environment ; Space Branding |
| Abstract |
Nowadays, space branding becomes more important since it reflects and synthesizes the diverse experiences of the consumer. The objective of the research is to present the new possibilities that space branding offers by analyzing the brand strategy and the design characteristics of branded hotels, which are being projected as constructed branded environments. By integrating the brand with visible or invisible elements of the hotel, such as unique space planning, service, and consumer experience, a branded hotel can be a good vehicle to reflect fast changing consumer lifestyles and trends; it enables the consumer to experience brands in his or her everyday life, and it conveys the overall image of the brand by considering the consumer's multi-sensual experiences. The study processed with theoretical research which is related to the hotel space and branded environment. Four brands were selected with distinct business area and brand strategy, and studied to analyze the strategy and the characteristics of the branded environment in a branded hotel. In particular, the case study attempted to evaluate the distinctiveness of the branded hotel's spatial design by comparing each brand's representative flagship store with the hotel. As a result, four characteristics of branded environments in branded hotels were identified, namely, strengthen brand image, consistent brand strategy, extend brand perception, spatialize brand experience. Armani emphasizes their consistent brand image by applying similar design methods in both retail stores and hotel spaces. IKEA, in contrast, applies not their design identity but their brand concepts like practicality, efficiency, and low prices. Pantone gives an expanded brand experience by using synesthetic sensual stimulation using their color system. Missoni mixes and composes their patterns and materials in a three-dimensional manner and strengthens design possibilities and spatiality. This study suggests specific design methods to construct a branded environment in a branded hotel and offers new strategic directions for space branding. |