7 SENSES
A Deeper Connection to Space
Seven senses?
These are the obvious Sight, Sound, Smell, Taste and Touch. Plus (6) Emotion and Phenomenological experience: How a space makes you feel. And the most fascinating of all (7): Vestibular (movement) and proprioception (body position). These last two senses are the foundation for orienting yourself in a space and being self-conscious within an environment.
A brilliant example is Alison’s recent submission for the Amsterdam Light Festival, which will feature large-scale light-art installations on, along, and in the canals of the Dutch capital. The shape is moving, like a baby within a womb, the viewers are seeing images of themselves, and their surroundings, while questioning their own responses.
Spaces are more than just walls, furniture, and lighting. They shape our emotions, memories, and experiences. Alison Tordoff’s Seven Senses Methodology takes interior design beyond aesthetics, tapping into how we truly experience our environment. By embracing all seven senses, her designs create immersive, unforgettable spaces that evoke powerful feelings and connections.
Alison’s work at the Langdale Estate, for example, illustrates brilliantly the Seven Senses of Design. She was involved in the complete refurbishment to the leisure club in order to update the reception, café/bar, gym, changing rooms and swimming pool, and provide new state of the art spa facilities.
SIGHT
The Power of Visual Harmony
The first impression of a space is often visual. Colours, light, textures, and spatial arrangement guide our emotions and perceptions. Through careful curation, Alison ensures each element contributes to a cohesive and visually impactful experience.
SOUND
The Atmosphere of Acoustics
Sound defines how a space feels. Whether it’s the echo in a grand hall, the gentle hum of nature, or the soft acoustics of a quiet retreat, Alison considers auditory elements to enhance ambiance and mood.
SMELL
The Invisible Memory Maker
Scent is deeply tied to memory and emotion. Subtle yet intentional fragrances, from natural materials to curated scents, can transport us, making a space feel more inviting, luxurious, or comforting.
The Foundations of Alison’s Work
Alison’s design approach has always been doing things a little differently, which ultimately adds an element of surprise and delight. It’s how to see the world from a new perspective, it’s how you should work. There’s no point in following the crowd, otherwise you won’t stand out.
Using the senses in design is all about being human-centric and how we interact with the spaces and our environment. Which is where health and wellbeing comes into play as well. Alison has long incorporated Biophilic Design into her projects. You think this is a new trend? It’s been around since the1980’s, but like all good design, it’s something you appreciate subliminally, while ALL your senses are totally clued into it.
Biophilic Design is an understanding of how human beings connect with their environments. By integrating natural elements, thoughtful compositions, and multisensory engagement, Alison’s work goes beyond aesthetics. It becomes the experience.