- Flexible lobby spaces
As a result of the challenges faced by the hospitality industry during the pandemic, architects and designers are creating flexible spaces to be prepared to cope with the unexpected. Hotel lobbies are also becoming combined-use spaces, with less emphasis on the front desk and more on transforming into gathering spaces for conventions and events.
- Hotels as galleries
Art in hotels is no longer a mere backdrop to a headboard or an accessory in lobbies and walkways. The infusion of art in hospitality has become a way to add an identity to hotels to help create an experience for a busy traveller who lacks time to explore the city and local galleries.
- Sustainability is the new normal
The rise of the eco-traveller tribe has led hotels to focus on sustainable design experiences, services, and food. Architects are designing green spaces such as gardens and rooftop terraces as an extension to bars, restaurants, and gathering spaces.
- Wellness spaces for the “bleisure” traveller
Health and wellness are primary concerns for a “bleisure” traveller who extends their business trip to allow for a few days of leisure time. Hotels are redesigning guest rooms to provide a more extensive, spa-like bathroom area and in-room fitness and exercise equipment. The new fitness centres incorporate yoga spaces and meditation rooms as well.
- Catering to the digital nomads
During the pandemic, we got a feel of the “working from anywhere,” or WFA approach. Going forward, more and more of us will combine remote and on-site work. These digital nomads will likely book longer hotel stays and seek hotels supporting their needs. Hotels are offering more communal work areas in the lobby and larger business centres.
