November, 2019
We know how to create that all important ‘guest experience’ is key when proposing design ideas for hotel interiors. In the hospitality industry, being satisfactory is not enough, because there are so many other hotels that people can choose to go to next time. Here are a few ideas that might help:
1. Consider biophilic design
The concept of biophilic design isn’t just the domain of the commercial office. This approach refers to a design idea that improves connectivity between the inside space and the natural world. When you consider hotels are often places where people want to relax, or where events are run to bring out creativity in staff, this concept makes perfect sense. Biophilic design is often attributed to increasing productivity and creativity, and of course being closer to nature also has a relaxing side to it.
Considering natural light is important but where there are restrictions a lot can be done with glass. Natural materials and living walls, even a small water feature will go a long way to creating the right ambience as well as pictures of the natural world.
For the flooring, it may not be practical to have wooden floors, this may even portray the wrong image. While broadloom carpet is always popular in the hotel industry, there is a lot to be said for luxury vinyl tiles in wood effect to give the feel of a natural environment, but with all the maintenance advantages of vinyl flooring.
Carpet tiles are obviously very practical for corridors and bedrooms, as they can be easily moved around, of course there are a number of designs here that keep to a more biophilic theme.
2. Perhaps be bold
If there are no restrictions based on brand guidelines, it is worth remembering that guest may decide on a hotel they know little about, based on the images they see on a website. Guests want to be wowed when they walk into a hotel. Boring designs won’t help with that, so being brave, and choosing a theme that’s memorable, could be a great way to increase guest bookings. We recently did an article on how important bold colours are in an office, stimulating positive reactions from employees – the same could be said for a hotel lobby.
3. Pick the right flooring
Hotel guests, whether staying there for work or leisure purposes, want to feel at comfortable when they return for the day. Choose flooring that is comfortable and inviting, but also practical is key. It will need to be cleaned every day and made to look spotless.
Consider DDA responsibilities throughout the hotel itself but also in the flooring. Obviously think of fire retardant properties and in certain areas it is very wise to think of anti-slip precautions. In summary, we know from research that the key factors that influence decisions on hotel flooring are quality, comfort, acoustic and noise reduction properties, maintenance, price, hygiene and aesthetics. Having considered all these aspects means the choice will be the right one.
4. Is the layout right?
The layout of any room or space contributes hugely to whether it has good feng shui, which, broadly, means the art of placement. This can all contribute to a positive experience and is another aspect when looking at design ideas for hotel interiors.
Consider simple but interesting accessories that get people talking and go for lighting that makes a statement, whether that be an impressive chandelier or a modern floor lamps. Also, create cosy corners. The small elements of a room’s design are just as appreciated as bold features. Finally, stick to the five colour tone palette rule, and maybe include a bit of black to accentuate the colour you go for.