Indeed, in this day and age where the expression “storytelling” is bandied about quite liberally, we too felt it prudent to offer some clarity from our own perspective. The connection between storytelling and design is, in fact, rather self-evident. Much like the intricate weave of a novel, there exists a narrative being conveyed in every domain where we speak of design, be it in pictures or graphics, advertising campaigns, or indeed, architectural and interior spaces. Just as the timeless tales found in sacred texts possess the power to captivate, inspire, and move people in profound ways, so too, in the realm of design, does the essence of compelling narratives lie in their ability to transcend mere aesthetics and connect with individuals on both an emotional and an intellectual level.
At the very heart of every truly great design lies a compelling story simply waiting to be told. Much like an author who brings together characters, timelines, and themes to construct a narrative, a designer crafts a cohesive and meaningful experiential space for their audience. Elements of storytelling such as setting, conflict, and resolution can be translated into design principles to guide the creation of spaces that are both engaging and immersive. When designers are able to think like storytellers, considering the imaginings of their users and the emotions they hope to evoke, they can imbue their creations – be they a graphic surface or a physical space – with narrative depth, transforming ordinary areas into those that leave a lasting impression on those who experience them.
Allow me to elucidate with a couple of brief examples.
Consider, if you will, an advertisement for chocolate. Such an advertisement is not merely a promotion of a product; it is, in essence, an act of storytelling. Just as a novelist engages their reader through characters and plot, a graphic designer transforms the flavour, aroma, and the very sensation the chocolate imparts to the consumer into a visual narrative. Colours, typography, and visual elements coalesce to tell the story of the chocolate – the subject of the advertisement – appealing directly to the consumer’s emotions and, ultimately, guiding them towards a purchase. It offers the consumer an experience, you see. This experience, much like a well-crafted tale, arises from the coming together of specific elements:
–Setting: The environment in which the chocolate is presented establishes the very atmosphere of the story. For instance, a sunset atop a mountain might associate the chocolate with feelings of freedom and achievement, whilst a warm chocolate drink by a fireside might evoke notions of warmth, intimacy, and the comforts of home. The setting reflects the moment in which the chocolate is enjoyed and the emotions that accompany that moment.
–Conflict: As with any good story, a chocolate advertisement typically features some form of conflict. This conflict often manifests as a need or desire on the part of the consumer. For example, the need for a sweet indulgence at the end of a tiring day, or the search for a special chocolate for a celebration.
–Resolution: The resolution to this conflict is, naturally, the chocolate itself. The advertisement visually and aurally conveys how the chocolate satisfies this need, the gratification it provides to the consumer. The texture, taste, aroma, and packaging of the chocolate are all elements that support this resolution.
–Characters: In a chocolate advertisement, the characters often serve as a reflection of the consumer themselves. The advertisement might employ different characters to embody the emotions and experiences the consumer has whilst enjoying the chocolate. For instance, a group of friends or an individual indulging in a moment of solitary pleasure.
Consider an advertising graphic with the slogan “The taste of freedom, at the peak of the mountains,” depicting a mountaineer, having reached the summit, rejuvenating themselves by eating chocolate. Here, the setting (mountain peak), conflict (fatigue), resolution (chocolate), and character (mountaineer) form the narrative.
Or another, with the slogan “Every moment shared with your family is special,” depicting a family enjoying chocolate together around a table. Here, the setting (family table), conflict (the desire to spend quality time together), resolution (chocolate), and characters (family members) constitute the story.
In another instance, let us consider the design of a gymnasium that caters not only to physical well-being but also to mental health, appealing to individuals who enjoy challenging themselves and prefer to exercise within a community.
–Setting: The overall atmosphere of the gymnasium is energetic, motivating, and modern. Light colours, large mirrors, and an abundance of natural light create a sense of spaciousness and airiness. The walls feature motivational slogans and photographs of athletes.
–Conflict: The stresses of daily life, sedentary lifestyles, and unhealthy eating habits negatively impact people’s physical and mental health. This creates a search for an activity and a place to counteract these effects.
–Resolution: This gymnasium offers its customers a solution to these problems. With a variety of fitness, cardio, and strength equipment, group classes, and personal training services, it helps everyone achieve their individual goals. Spacious social areas also provide opportunities to relax after exercise and to connect with other members.
–Characters: The trainers guide the customers in an experienced and motivating manner. The other members support each other, forming a fitness community.
We shall leave the reflection of these elements in the spatial design for our subsequent piece, and reiterate: “A design with a strong narrative possesses the ability to transport users to a different world, igniting their imaginations and eliciting a specific range of emotions.”
Armeda