Commercial vs. Residential Design: Key Differences by 2 Gariss Design Studio

By Ana Hasan – June 30,2025

At 2 Gariss Design Studio, we bring a fresh, innovative approach to both commercial and residential interior design. While the fundamentals of good design apply to both, the execution varies significantly. Whether you're launching a new business space or crafting your dream home, understanding these key differences will help you make informed decisions.

Here’s our expert perspective on what sets them apart:

1. Purpose & User Experience
🏡  Residential Design
  • Personalized for living: Designed around individual lifestyles, comfort, and emotional well-being.
  • Flexible spaces: Adaptable layouts for family growth, relaxation, and personal expression.
  • Aesthetic-driven: Choices reflect the homeowner’s personality : think cozy textures, warm lighting, and custom details.
🏢 Commercial Design
  • Function-first: Optimized for business operations, customer flow, and employee productivity.
  • Brand-centric: Every element (colours, furniture, layout) reinforces the company’s identity.
  • Scalability: Must accommodate growth, high foot traffic, and evolving needs.
2 Gariss Insight:
"A home tells your story; a commercial space tells your brand’s story."


2. Materials & Durability
🏡 Residential Design
  • Luxury & comfort: Soft fabrics, natural wood, and decorative finishes.
  • Lower wear-and-tear: Materials chosen for beauty rather than extreme durability.
🏢 Commercial Design
  • Built to last: Stain-resistant, scratch-proof, and easy-to-clean surfaces (e.g., commercial-grade vinyl, quartz counters).
  • Safety compliance: Fire-retardant materials, non-slip flooring, and ADA-friendly designs.
Example:
  • Residential: A velvet sofa for a living room.
  • Commercial: A reinforced, spill-proof sofa for a hotel lobby.

3. Budget & Project Timelines
🏡 Residential Design
  • Flexible budgets: Can range from budget-friendly DIY to high-end luxury.
  • More relaxed timelines: Phased renovations are common.
🏢 Commercial Design
  • ROI-focused: Every dollar must enhance customer experience or employee efficiency.
  • Strict deadlines: Delays can mean lost revenue—speed and precision are key.
2 Gariss Tip:
For commercial projects, we use modular designs and pre-approved vendor networks to stay on schedule.


4. Lighting & Atmosphere
🏡 Residential Design
  • Warm & inviting: Layered lighting (chandeliers, floor lamps, dimmers).
  • Natural light: Large windows and skylights for a healthy living environment.
🏢 Commercial Design
  • Task-oriented: Bright, uniform lighting for productivity (e.g., LED panels in offices).
  • Mood-setting: Strategic lighting to guide customer behavior (e.g., spotlighting retail displays).

5. Regulations & Compliance
🏡 Residential Design
  • Fewer restrictions (unless in a gated community or high-rise with strata rules).

🏢 Commercial Design Must Consider:
  • Building codes: Fire exits, ventilation, wheelchair accessibility.
  • Industry-specific rules: Health department approvals for restaurants, acoustic standards for coworking spaces.

2 Gariss Case Studies
Residential: A Mekarsari Anggun Bertam home featuring Modern English inspired with full height storage solutions and immaculate detailing.
                           
 

Commercial: Citadines Connect Cecil Georgetown Penang blends modern hospitality with local heritage, offering an Instagrammable stay where cultural-inspired design meets contemporary comfort : perfect for travelers seeking both style and immersive experiences.                     
                           

Let 2 Gariss Design Studio Bring Your Vision to Life

Whether it’s a home, office, retail space, or F&B outlet, we blend creativity with practicality.

📩 Contact us today for a  Consultation !


 

Jun 30,2025