Why Experience Centers Matter in a Digital World

In today's digital society, it’s easy to believe that everything can be purchased with the click of a button. From groceries to furniture to cars, online shopping has revolutionized convenience and accessibility. However, when it comes to products that define our most personal space—our homes—there’s something important about experiencing them in person.

This is where experience centers play an essential role. A brick-and-mortar facility offers more than just a physical display of products; it creates opportunities to connect with your choices on a sensory level. From the smooth curve of a faucet to the way light reflects off a beautifully crafted tile, an in-person experience allows interactions with our designs in ways that digital screens can’t replicate, which in turn makes you even more confident about every purchasing decision.

The emotional connection fostered in a meaningful brand or product experience is also significant. A home is not just a structure; it’s a sanctuary. People want to ensure that every product, from faucets to tiles, aligns with their vision and feels right for themselves and their family. A digital catalog may showcase dimensions, colors, and specifications, but it can’t replicate the experience of seeing how a product interacts with light or feeling how it fits into your hand.

Brand experience centers serve as the bridge between inspiration and realization - helping “make a home for everyone,” They aren’t just display areas—they’re collaborative hubs where designers, contractors, and homeowners come together to share ideas, refine plans, and bring visions to life. This hands-on experience fosters trust, sparks creativity, and empowers customers to make confident, informed decisions, turning their vision into a tangible outcome.

This is why LIXIL is excited to announce the grand opening of the LIXIL Water Experience Center in New York City on February 5—to bring this vision to life. By combining inspiration, collaboration, and innovation, the Water Experience Center reinforces our commitment to make better homes a reality for everyone, everywhere.

Even in a world dominated by online convenience, experience centers remind us of the importance of human connection and tactile experiences. Because at the heart of every product is a promise—not just to fill a house, but to create a home.

Written by Amie Milano - Leader, Client & Customer Experience

Amie is responsible for all aspects of Sales Learning and Development within the Sales Enablement and Operations team, including national product training, annual sales conference and LIXIL's sales incentive program. She also has led the opening of the LIXIL Water Experience Center in New York City, overseeing all operations & development of strategic customer programs and experiences.