Date of Award

5-2025

Degree Type

Creative Project

Degree Name

Master of Fine Arts (MFA)

Department

Interior Design

Committee Chair(s)

Susie Tibbitts (Committee Chair)

Committee

Susie Tibbitts

Committee

Holly Murdock

Committee

Terry Powers

Abstract

There is a growing trend in the hospitality industry toward a more accurate cultural representation within hotel properties. Cultural accuracy within hospitality not only allows for a more exciting and unique travel experience for guests, but helps to preserve and sustain local communities and traditions.

Building upon research gained through first hand observation, interviews, and academic sources, this thesis aims to explore the integration of global hospitality brands within regionally specific cultures. The resulting conceptual projects integrate a fictional hospitality brand named Josephine into boutique hotel experiences in New Orleans, Louisiana, and the old town of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Al-Balad. Drawing upon cultural and historical research in each region, the projects showcase design from two different approaches. The New Orleans location was designed around the architectural and stylistic approaches of the Spanish, while the Al-Balad location showcases Islamic patterning and ancient Red Sea building practices as its basis of design.

The successful execution of both of these designs provides insight into cultural influences in hospitality design in the future. From this research, interior designers can create a consistent model with their clients to build a road map that is settled enough for efficiency and sustainability in building, while embracing regionalism and culturally appropriate design themes.

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