The hospitality industry is constantly changing to keep up with market expectations. To keep up with demand, hotels continuously look for ways to improve the guest experience. As 2017 comes to a close, here are some hospitality design trends on the rise in 2018.
Creating Authentic Experience
There’s been a growing importance of locally sourced everything. Not only does this apply to food and retail, it also includes art and decor. Hotels are moving away from the generic and shifting towards creating authentic experiences. In part to the rise of Air BnB, guests are wanting to fully experience the locale, and not just the amenities the hotel has to offer.
At the BR&P designed Embassy Suites Hotel & Convention Center in Denton, TX, inspiration has been drawn from the local Denton art scene and the University of North Texas. For example, the lobby will include custom light fixtures made from musical instruments, and flexible seating spaces to allow for pop-up musical performances and art exhibitions.
The BR&P designed Aloft Hotel in Glendale, AZ
Other brands include the Aloft Hotel brand, which embraces the music industry as one of its key branding pillars. At its W XYZ bar, Aloft hosts live performances by local musicians. BR&P recently completed the design for an Aloft Hotel in Glendale, AZ located near the University of Phoenix Stadium and Westgate Entertainment District with construction expected to begin late this year. Another brand that features local flavors is Cambria Hotel & Suites. At their restaurants and bars, locally inspired dishes and local craft brews are featured.
Connecting Nature to Health: Biophilic Design
In 2018, expect to see more biophilic design. This is based on the theory of biophilia, which is the connection between humans, the natural world and how that can link to our health, well-being and productivity. Some design principles include increased exposure to daylight, having rooms with views of nature, the use of sustainably sourced materials, living “green” walls and natural patterns in the architecture.
The BR&P designed Embassy Suites Hotel in Denton, TX has many biophilic design features
Hotels jumping on the trend are experiencing better air quality and lower energy costs. Biophilic design also reduces stress and can improve guest mood, leading to positive guest reviews. The Embassy Suites Hotel in Denton, TX will feature a 23-foot high living wall in the lobby. The hotel also showcases natural patterns within its design. One of these patterns is in a decorative wall between the business center and lobby. The wall, constructed of patterned glass, is made to look like the rings of a tree trunk. Another feature is the decorative covering behind the front desk, which is designed to look like a microscopic view of a leaf.
Evolution of the Lobby
Hotels are shifting their focus from the guest room towards the lobby, since guests often receive their initial impression here. In 2018, the traditional front desk will continue to go by the wayside. One prediction is that the front desk will be replaced by sofa check-ins handled by staff using tablets, while guests sip comfortably on their beverage of choice. Hotels are also wanting to move their guest out of their room and into lobbies, which are being used as hubs of social activity, entertainment, co-working and business networking.
The Tru by Hilton lobby is called the Hive and has a designated “play” zone.
BR&P is in the process of designing a Home2 Suites in Queensbury, NY and in Springfield, MO. All Home2 Suites properties feature a community space called the “Oasis,” where guests can work, gather with friends or grab a snack or quick meal. BR&P is also designing a Tru by Hilton in Camillus, NY. Tru’s lobbies have a designated “play” zone, complete with a pool table, stadium-style seating, oversized board games and local craft beer.
Renovations
Negative reviews and social media can create major damage to a hotel’s reputation. That’s why it’s more important than ever for hotels to constantly look for ways to improve themselves. One of those ways is to stay fresh and current with renovations. In 2018, hotels in the process of renovating will focus their efforts on rooms, food and beverage areas, lobbies and meeting spaces.
Before and after of the lobby at the Lodge of Four Seasons in Lake Ozark, MO. BR&P provided design layout and reconfiguration for the registration area, administration offices, the bar, and the public restrooms.
Renovations BR&P are currently working on include a renovation of the Embassy Suites Austin-Central in Austin, TX, a renovation of the Hyatt Place in Glendale, CO and a renovation of a LaQuinta Inn in Louisville, KY.
Looking to keep your space on trend? Call us at 417-865-6100 or visit our website www.brpae.com for more information.
Also in the November Newsletter: Top 10 Reasons We’re Thankful for Springfield, MO BR&P Welcomes Brenda Horn