The Existence of Thematic Interior Elements as Simulation that Create Shopping Experience

Abstract

A shopping mall design is inseparable from the creation of simulations to evoke certain impressions or conditions so that mall goers can perceive the shopping mall as an exciting place to be. Interior elements as simulation that are based on the thematic concept of the mall also play a part in creating the configuration of the simulations. The existence of interior as a simulation system has raised the research question of how an unbecoming, inauthentic condition can be turned into spaces that are enjoyed by visitors ? This research is focused on two points, the analysis on the physical condition of simulation inside the interior and visitors’ perception regarding this subject. The object of study in this research is the Indonesian shopping malls, done with the case study method. It was concluded that interior elements are the smallest unit of simulation, both with dynamic and static features. These elements create a unit of spatial simulation system. Different spatial simulation generate a cluster of interlinked simulation system that creates a complete simulation, which is the shopping mall itself. On the other hand, from the visitors’ perception a simulation system can be seen as the main factor that creates an ideal atmosphere, one that evokes modes of existence as well as being a complementary element in doing an activity which can create functional and experiential benefit.