There are many ways to analyze an interior space. One of those ways is preferential. Preferential relates to what preferences are discernable within a space and are they appropriate or inappropriate. The design is based around an identifiable brand, which is the all-famous fast food restaurant, McDonalds. The local yellow arches have received a makeover. In this design, the designer uses mostly the identifiable brand colors of McDonalds that are yellow, red, and white. It is also hard to distinguish a focal point within the space with all the different shades of yellows and reds. The materials chosen for this space are appropriate for the function of the space because they are materials that are easy to clean, although the materials are not what we are used to being in a McDonalds. The materials also are appropriate for updating this European McDonald’s into a chic modern/contemporary fast food restaurant. In the new interior, the typical (and uncomfortable) fixed plastic seating is gone, and instead we’re seeing upholstered banquettes, wood tables, and hanging lamps. They spruced up their entire dining area, creating more of a restaurant, instead of fast food feel. The color scheme chosen enhances the identifiable brand and the design, and is appropriate. We as Americans are so use to seeing the uncomfortable seating and “typical” interior that some of us might feel that the design before us is not functional. Although as time evolves, this new design is becoming the new face for McDonalds and leaving the old one behind. The McDonald’s space is very modern/ contemporary and open but what do you feel about this space? How do you think the space would be affected if it were not so modern/ contemporary? Do you feel the design is functional? Do you think the design should be used in other McDonalds? Like in America?
Image Source: http://www.contemporist.com/2008/09/19/interior-designs-for-mcdonalds-uk-by-shh/
Here are some other images I found of McDonalds! Enjoy!
One of the main reasons that McDonald’s is redesigning and rethinking the interior of their restaurants is because they want to change their image. With this in mind, I do believe that they are successful. They have changed the typical interior of a McDonald’s, making it more contemporary and inviting. Even in Louisville I have seen new renovations on older McDonald’s. They have become a space where you feel you can stay for a while and relax. However I am not sure if these new designs, such as the one pictured above, would be as big of a success here in the states. I definitely feel that the design is functional and even though it is different than what we are used to, I believe it works. However I do feel that these contemporary designs should remain in cities but not in more rural locations. A new modern design would work more in Europe because they tend to be more open towards new things. This specific design may not work for a McDonald’s off some random exit in the middle of nowhere. This is why I believe that yes, McDonald’s should continue to redesign their restaurants; however I believe that they should be designed for that specific location. This would help improve their image by changing their past way of thinking towards the interiors of their stores.
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