The past year has been a challenging one for the hotel industry. Closures due to COVID-19 have created instability in a traditionally lively market. However, this isn’t the only factor that is having an influence on hotel construction trends as the hospitality world begins to open up again. Competition from digital platforms that offer private home bookings was beginning to bite even before the pandemic and travellers now expect to have a different experience, conforming to higher expectations, when they stay. This is creating an evolution of design trends that integrate how customers want their stay to look and feel, as well as the values they expect hotel brands to work to.
- Environmentally sustainable practices. With consumer focus now squarely on supporting businesses with an eco edge, environmentally sustainable practices are an ongoing trend in hotel design. This affects everything, from aesthetics – bringing more nature and natural and recycled textures and fabrics into interiors – as well as the way a hotel is run. From installing solar panels to more efficient linen recycling hotels today are seeking out any and every opportunity to do things differently and in a way that is more green.
- Health consciousness and wellness. We have evolved from the days when a health-conscious property was one that provided a gym and a fruit basket. Focusing on improving the physical and mental health of guests during their stay through a range of design options and amenities is a big trend for 2021. In pandemic times this has seen many properties move to offering in-room exercise equipment that allows for social distancing while working out. Retreat spaces, gym upgrades, water purification options and new health spas are all likely to follow when COVID-19 conditions start to lift.
- Providing a more personalised experience. Personalisation of customer stays is not a new trend but it is one that is growing in strength. In particular, using technology to deliver seamless service and much more individual communication is proving to be a popular option. Online and tablet check-in options have already become much more widespread during the pandemic and are likely to continue thanks to the convenience this offers and the space it frees up in reception areas to add other features. Personalisation via tech can come via programmed in-room options – controlling everything from lighting to communication with hotel staff – as well as business space upgrades.
- Expanding as a cultural hub. Many hotels today are seeking to achieve a much more authentic connection with guests and this involves revealing more about the property and the location that it is in. Exposing guests to more local culture is a big trend and one that consumers are very responsive to. Whether that’s local food or music, art or spa services, it’s key for hotels to start looking at ways to integrate local infrastructure and show guests what a location is really all about.
Hotel design trends are evolving today, adapting not just to the changes brought by the pandemic but the need for a greater focus on sustainability, wellness, authenticity and personalisation too.
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