What is Anchoring?

As you step into the lobby of a well-designed hotel, almost without noticing, you are taken aback by an atmosphere that makes you feel like this is more than a temporary stop. It’s a curated experience that has been meticulously designed to engage you in the spirit and vibes of the destination. This is often the result of the design theory known as anchoring. It’s not just about the building structure; it is about creating an immersive environment that draws people in, captivates them, and elevates their stay. So, what exactly is anchoring, why is it essential, and how is it incorporated?

Simply put, anchoring refers to the thoughtful placement of key features or focal points within a space to establish a sense of identity, purpose, and coherence. It could be a 5-star restaurant, a unique amenity, or a sculpture or water feature. Anchoring establishes visual and experiential cues that guide guests through their journey, from the moment they step into the lobby to the time they retire to their rooms. These anchor points are for both the guests and visitors. They can also serve as reinforcement of local architecture and design.

Travelers often seek to immerse themselves in the local community when visiting a new destination, yearning to feel like a true member of the neighborhood and gain authentic insights into the city they’re exploring. Anchoring plays a pivotal role in bridging the gap between visitors and the community. The hotel becomes an integral part of the local scene by fostering connections with residents. While anchoring plays a vital role in hospitality, living environments, such as multi-family and senior living spaces, benefit from the same purpose-driven design and community that anchoring provides elsewhere.

This concept holds particular significance in living environments. When residents feel connected to their community, they take pride in their buildings and their neighborhood. Each time they return home or welcome guests, they should be enveloped in a feeling of pride and a sense of belonging. This approach extends to senior living facilities, where families entrust these spaces to provide their loved ones with care and support, enabling them to continue their lives while feeling integrated into the broader community. It is crucial for families to feel comfortable utilizing the facilities alongside their loved ones, fostering a sense of inclusivity.

The IBM Building

ANCHORING POINTS IN THE REAL WORLD

How can anchoring be incorporated in future developments? It is always beneficial to draw inspiration from past design and anchoring successes to learn what worked and why they were so successful. Take, for instance, the historic IBM building in Salt Lake City that is transforming into a multi-family complex. Here, the goal is for residents to appreciate the 1961 mid-century modern architecture, and invite the local community to share in the buildings unique charm. A local café situated in the lobby will serve as a welcoming anchor, easily accessible to both residents and visitors alike.

In another multi-family project one of the amenities provided, based on the community, is a dog spa providing strategic anchoring. By hosting events where local pet groomers set up shop in the dog spa, both residents and locals can access its services. This initiative fosters a sense of community as individuals come together with a shared purpose.

One of the best uses of anchoring can be found in the Singapore Airport. Although most people dread their time in airports, in Singapore, visitors and even locals flock to the well-designed anchor of thick green gardens surrounding the beautiful waterfall that cascades down from the dome-shaped roof. Most anchors are not as grand as the 120 foot waterfall in the Jewel Changi Airport in Singapore, however their lasting impression can be felt more subtly when bringing the community and guests together in a thoughtfully-designed hotel, apartment, or senior living facility. FFKR Architects designs each project with these key anchoring features in mind to generate a deep connection between people and their communities.