Different textures as seen through our eyes engage our senses and convey the feel of a space.  The level of formality or hospitality is often conveyed subliminally in the same way.  
Examples here illustrate very different approaches and formats.  Notice how natural or artificial light informs and formats one's perspectives of the textured surfaces...

The rhythm of natural light, placement of walls and furnishings and access spatially or psychologically to the outside expand our experience and inform us of our surroundings.
The path is either implied or clearly defined.  We feel most comfortable when a space or a series of spaces are understandable and intuitive to us. 
These images demonstrate different levels of visual or actual access to...