Hospitality Jargon Explained

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Terminology

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A
Accessibility

The design of spaces and products to be usable by people with disabilities, adhering to relevant building codes and accessibility standards.

ADA Compliance

Ensuring that a space meets the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements for accessibility.

Aesthetics

The visual appeal and overall sensory experience of a space, encompassing factors like color, texture, lighting, and materiality.

Amenities

Additional features or services offered within a hospitality project, such as a spa, fitness center, or pool, designed to enhance the guest experience.

B
Brand Identity

The unique visual and messaging elements that represent a company or organization, translated into design elements within the hospitality project.

Budget

The allocated financial resources for a design project, encompassing construction, FF&E procurement, and other associated costs.

Built-in Furniture

Furniture that is permanently attached to a wall or structure, often custom-designed to optimize space and functionality.

C
Client

The individual or organization who commissions IGroup Design for a project, with specific goals and aspirations for the space.

Color Palette

The range of colors used in a design scheme, carefully selected to evoke desired emotions and create a cohesive aesthetic.

Conceptual Design

The initial phase of design, where ideas are explored through sketches, mood boards, and schematic drawings to establish a general direction.

D
Demolition

The process of removing existing structures or elements within a space to prepare for new construction or renovation.

Design Development

The process of refining the conceptual design into detailed plans and specifications, including architectural drawings, construction documents, and FF&E selections.

Door Hardware

The functional and decorative elements of doors, including handles, locks, hinges, and closers.

Drafting

The technical drawing process used to create detailed construction documents, such as floor plans, elevations, and sections.

F
FF&E

Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment. This encompasses all movable elements within a space, including furniture, lighting, artwork, and decorative accessories.

Finishes

The surface materials used in a space, such as paint, wallpaper, flooring, tile, and countertops, that contribute to the overall aesthetic and functionality.

Fire Code Compliance

Ensuring that a space adheres to fire safety regulations and incorporates necessary fire protection measures.

Functionality

The ability of a space to meet its intended purpose efficiently and effectively, considering factors like traffic flow, ergonomics, and accessibility.

Furniture Selection

The process of choosing furniture pieces that align with the design aesthetic, functionality needs, and budget constraints of the project.

G
Guest Experience

The overall impression and emotions a guest feels while interacting with a hospitality project, influenced by design elements, service quality, and overall ambiance.

H
Hospitality Design

The specialized field of design focused on creating spaces for hotels, restaurants, spas, and other hospitality businesses, tailored to enhance the guest experience.

I
Interior Design

The process of designing the interior of a space, including furniture, finishes, lighting, and FF&E selection, to create a functional and aesthetically pleasing environment.

J
J-Box

An electrical junction box used to connect multiple wires within a wall or ceiling.

Joist

A horizontal structural member that supports the floor or ceiling of a building.

K
Key Fob Access

A system utilizing key fobs or RFID cards for secure access control within corporate hospitality spaces, such as conference rooms or executive lounges.

Key Visuals

These are the most prominent and recognizable design elements used to represent a brand or project, often incorporated into corporate hospitality spaces to create a cohesive visual identity.

Kiosk

Self-service kiosks can be used in corporate hospitality settings for various purposes, such as check-in, ordering food and beverages, or accessing information.

Kitchen Design

This could be further specified as designing functional and visually appealing kitchens within corporate office spaces, catering areas, or break rooms, considering factors like ergonomic layouts, high-traffic use, and integration with technology (coffee machines, smart appliances).

Knockdown Furniture

This type of furniture is designed to be easily assembled and disassembled, potentially useful in corporate hospitality settings requiring flexibility or temporary setups.

L
Layout

The arrangement of furniture, fixtures, and other elements within a space, optimized for functionality, traffic flow, and visual appeal.

Lighting

The use of artificial and natural light to create a desired ambiance and functionality, considering factors like task lighting, accent lighting, and overall lighting design principles.

M
Millwork

Custom-made woodwork elements, such as cabinetry, trim, moldings, and architectural details, often used to enhance the aesthetics and functionality of a space.

Mood Board

A visual representation of the overall design direction, using images, colors, materials, and textures to convey the desired aesthetic and ambiance.

N
Natural Light

Daylight entering a space through windows or skylights, contributing to energy efficiency and occupant well-being.

Niche

A recessed space in a wall, often used to display artwork, sculptures, or other decorative elements.

Non-Load-Bearing Wall

A wall that does not support the weight of the building above it, offering more flexibility for design and layout changes.

Nook

A small, cozy space within a larger room, often used for reading, relaxing, or working.

O
Occupancy Permit

A permit issued by a local authority that allows a building to be occupied once construction and inspections are deemed complete.

Open Floor Plan

A design concept that minimizes dividing walls and creates a sense of spaciousness and visual connection between different areas within a space.

Organic Architecture

An architectural philosophy that emphasizes harmony with nature, using natural materials and forms to create buildings that blend seamlessly with their surroundings.

Ornamentation

Decorative elements added to a space to enhance its visual appeal, such as moldings, trim, and decorative finishes.

Outfitting

The process of selecting and installing furniture, fixtures, and equipment within a space, ensuring functionality and aesthetic cohesion.

Overhang

The horizontal projection of a roof or other structural element beyond the wall below.

P
Permitting

The process of obtaining legal approval for construction or renovation work, ensuring compliance with local building codes and regulations.

Procurement

The process of acquiring furniture, fixtures, and equipment for a project, involving vendor selection, cost negotiation, and quality control.

Project Scope

The defined boundaries and deliverables of a design project, including specific areas of focus, budget limitations, and timeline expectations.

R
Renderings

Digital images or animations that realistically depict a proposed design, providing a visual representation of the finished space for client approval.

S
Space Planning

The process of analyzing and arranging a physical space to optimize its functionality, aesthetics, and efficiency, considering factors like traffic flow, furniture placement, and code requirements.

Sustainability

The use of environmentally responsible design practices that minimize negative impacts, including energy efficiency, material selection, and water conservation strategies.

T
Textiles

Fabrics and other woven materials used in a space, such as upholstery, drapery, carpeting, and wall coverings, that contribute to the overall aesthetic and functionality.

Timeline

The schedule for completing a design project, outlining key milestones and deadlines for design development, construction, and FF&E procurement.

Traffic Flow

The movement of people through a space, considered during the design process to ensure smooth circulation and avoid congestion.

Turnkey Project

A project where a company manages the entire design and construction process, from initial concept to final completion.

V
Value Engineering

The process of analyzing and optimizing design elements to reduce costs while maintaining quality and functionality, often involving material substitutions, alternative construction methods, or FF&E value optimization.

Virtual Reality (VR)

A technology that creates a simulated, immersive experience of a space, allowing clients and designers to virtually walk through the proposed design and experience.


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