Enhancing Museum Experiences Through Multisensory Design: A Qualitative Study from Visitors’ and Curators’ Perspectives

With the rise of digital technologies and evolving visitor expectations, multisensory design has become a key factor in enhancing museum engagement. This qualitative study explores the impact of multisensory design on museum experiences through semi-structured interviews with twelve Generation Z visitors and one curator in China. Thematic analysis revealed that visitors are primarily driven by knowledge-seeking and leisure motives. In terms of multisensory design, although the visual experience is dominant, integrating multiple sensory channels can significantly enhance visitors' immersion and memory. The study also reveals an intense desire among visitors for interactive participation and emerging technologies, as well as the vital role of annotation quality and logical narrative in the overall experience. These insights provide empirical support for optimizing museum exhibition design, enhancing visitor experiences, and offering fresh perspectives for museum management and strategy. The findings enrich museum-related research and provide references for cultural institutions to meet public demands and enhance educational functions.