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 !