Design of Hotel Lobbies
Hotel Lobby Design Trends
Once upon a time, visitors would pass through the hotel lobby on their way to the elevator bank or reception. However, a lot has changed throughout time. As people spend more time in the common areas of hotels and less time in their rooms, guests’ behavior has changed. This shift is evident in the design of modern hotel lobby spaces, which are now larger, more multipurpose areas with more facilities. With an emphasis on dining and bar spaces, we examine the most recent developments in hotel lobby design that address the evolving demands of modern hotels in this piece.
An Overview of the Hotel Lobby’s History
The origins of the hotel as we know it today may be found in early 19th-century London, when the growth of railways led to an exponential increase in the number of tourists visiting the city. In an upscale, nightclub-like setting, the foyer was the place to be seen and be seen at the time. As a result of the increase in commerce and tourism, there were an increasing number of newly constructed hotels by the century’s conclusion. In general, their lobbies were designed with little decoration and functioned primarily as waiting places. Hotel corporations didn’t start rethinking their lobby designs until the end of the 20th century, when more and more guests started utilizing them as casual gathering places.
The Hotel Lobby Of Today
The hotel lobby of today serves as a gathering area for social interaction rather than just something to pass through. Lobbies are crafted to showcase many lifestyles and cultures by featuring co-working spaces, informal dining options, bars, and gathering spaces that encourage visitors to stay and mingle. They frequently function as standalone destinations. As hotels fight for the loyalty of their guests, lobbies also set the tone for a long-term engagement with customers. They serve as work zones in addition to frequently serving as cafés, dining places, and bars. Modern hotel lobby design must combine aesthetics and functionality to make a lasting first impression, welcome visitors, and communicate the brand. It is expected that these demanding workspaces will serve a variety of purposes.
The Fundamentals of Designing Hotel Lobbies
Offering all-day dining and a bar is one of the finest methods for hotel management to achieve their goal of drawing guests out of their rooms and into public places where they will remain and keep money within the hotel’s walls. This can be achieved by designating distinct areas for socializing, adding cozy seats in restaurants and lobby areas, and adding enticing biophilic components.
Establishing Social “Zones”
These days, lobby furniture is arranged and designed to facilitate co-working by allowing visitors to organize groups of different sizes. In order to facilitate conversation, furniture is frequently arranged in groups in the lobby, dining areas, and bar sections. By choosing furniture for the lobby with high backs, you can create a secluded work area that feels both closed off from the rest of the space and open at the same time.
Modern Technology
Both business and leisure travelers are taken into consideration while designing hotel lobbies. Whether a visitor is enjoying a cocktail, brunch, or a snack, there is nearly always a chance to connect these days. The digital technology in the modern lobby is easily accessible, user-friendly, and up to date. There are many outlets and more Wi-Fi available, especially in the dining and drinking areas.
The “Lounge Lifestyle”
Interior designers have been choosing to create a home-away-from-home vibe in lobbies to attract more tourists. They frequently resemble contemporary families or large rooms. This is accomplished by transforming standard hospitality furniture into cozy, inviting seating that begs visitors to stay awhile. Contemporary lobby furnishings are typically comfortable yet personalized, giving visitors a sense of being in their own living room. It’s more likely that you’ll notice cozy accents, curated and customized artwork, and a fireplace lounge in the bar area.
A welcoming breakfast area with restaurant-style furniture makes it easy for visitors to unwind while sipping coffee and reading the newspaper in the morning. Nothing is better for guests eager to unwind after a long day of work than a cozy bar area with approachable furniture.
Biophilic Components
The ability to re-establish a connection with nature in a world where technology rules is frequently a welcomed feature of the contemporary lobby experience. The idea that people are innately drawn to nature is the foundation of biophilia. Because we have evolved to rely on nature for both survival and fulfillment, we are hardwired to seek anything natural and organic. Research has demonstrated that having a view of the outdoors, even when indoors, reduces blood pressure and boosts productivity.
The idea has been used into hotel lobby design. Nearly every element of their interiors, including the casework and furnishings for hospitality, the materials and finishes, the lighting, and the acoustics, can include biophilia. The utilization of organic materials like wood, stone, and bamboo, as well as vegetation, water, and natural light, are examples of elements found in the natural world. The end effect is an atmosphere within that encourages relaxation and lowers stress levels.
In urban hotels especially, biophilic design principles are often used to the lobby design. The experience of guests can be enhanced with live landscape murals, sculptural flower arrangements, water features, potted plants, and lobby furniture covered in floral or animal pattern fabrics.