Measuring Sense of Interior Space through Symbolic Elements of Thematic Hotels in Bafra, North Cyprus

During the recent years the theory of ‘sense of place’ has become important for the designer since it indicates the uniqueness of any space and development of bonding towards this space. The concept has been studies through various levels whereas still there is not much study related to the interior space. Therefore this study focuses on the interior qualities and elements in the thematic hotels that are aimed to be designed with the specific purpose of creating unique and memorable space for people during their short stay. The study examines the degree of sense of interior spaces in the thematic hotels and the conceivable effects of symbolic aesthetics and elements inside the environment to discuss if they enhance the degree of sense of place or users satisfaction accordingly. To answer the problem, this study aims to identify the symbolic aesthetics elements in interior space of thematic hotels and learn the influence of these elements on defining the quality of space in user’s perception and their sense of place. For the aim of the study, the related literature on development of symbolic elements and forms and their perception in interior spaces, theories of sense of place and its measurements in the interior spaces of the chosen thematic hotels from all over the world has been studies. A pilot study has also been conducted in Bafra region of İskele City, North Cyprus that currently holds thematic hotels. A questionnaire survey has been conducted with 60 participant through the selected user group who spend short time period in the selected thematic hotels; Noah Ark hotel and Kaya Artemis. Findings of the case study showed that the use of symbolic forms and elements in those hotels have been easily perceived and identified by the users and this increased their sensual connection with the environment, which increased their sense of place. It is concluded that the symbolic elements carries meaning for the users and increasing their sense of place in a hotel environment. Keywords: Sense of place, thematic hotels, interior space, symbolism