The hospitality industry is experiencing a welcome resurgence! As hotels reopened their doors after 2020 closures, they also embraced innovation to prioritize guest and staff safety.
Many hotels are now approaching their next round of renovations after the pandemic-induced hiatus. As they plan their remodel, it’s crucial to consider the evolving expectations of travelers who may have heightened hygiene concerns following the lockdown years.
Here at IGroup Design, we’ve analyzed these concerns and envisioned guest-centric design solutions that promote a sense of well-being throughout their stay.
Designing for Well-Being & Peace of Mind
While hygiene remains a priority, the focus has shifted towards designing spaces that promote well-being and peace of mind for guests. This includes incorporating elements that foster a sense of connection and community, while also providing opportunities for relaxation and personal rejuvenation.
Throughout The Property
- Wellness-Focused Design: Introduce natural light, indoor plants, and sustainable materials to promote a healthy atmosphere.
- High Air Quality: Many hotels invest in advanced air filtration systems to promote clean air circulation.
- Clean Lines and Easy-to-Clean Surfaces: Simple furniture designs and high-quality materials create a visual cue of cleanliness.
- Informative Signage: Utilize clear branding and signage to educate guests about your enhanced housekeeping protocols.
Streamlined Guest Journey
Front Desk:
- Maintain the option for face-to-face interaction or mobile/virtual check-in.
- Promote keyless entry technology for a contactless experience. In addition to hygiene reasons, many people prefer this method and have grown used to it.
Lobby:
- Design with flexible furniture that allows for comfortable social interaction while accommodating smaller groups.
- Utilize creative solutions like bookcases or greenery to provide space division without visual barriers.
- Offer touchless elevator call systems and clear signage to navigate the space safely.
Guest Rooms:
- Opt for beautiful and hygienic materials like antimicrobial fabrics.
- Offer hard surfaces that are easy to clean and disinfect for guest peace of mind.
- Consider removing rarely laundered decorative items like bed scarves and accent pillows.
- Implement hands-free amenities like voice-activated controls or foot/arm-operated options for added convenience.
- Integrate air filtration systems into guest rooms for enhanced comfort.
Dining Options:
- Provide a variety of grab-and-go options for flexible dining preferences.
- Revitalize room service as a personalized and safe dining choice.
- Explore digital menus or mobile menu access to minimize physical touchpoints.
- Rearrange tables for safe social distancing and offer intimate seating arrangements.
Meeting & Event Spaces:
- Cater to smaller meetings with venues offering outdoor access for fresh air breaks.
- Maximize outdoor spaces for events, including courtyards, lawns, and pool areas.
- Offer high-quality teleconferencing technology for hybrid or virtual events.
Inviting Outdoor Amenities:
- Design creative outdoor seating arrangements with social distancing in mind.
- Utilize tools like shades, misters, or heaters to make outdoor spaces comfortable year-round.
- Create inviting seating areas to encourage small groups or individuals to relax outside.
- Enhance outdoor air quality with strategically placed plants.
Adapting Fitness Options:
- Cater to guests who prefer private workouts with in-room equipment or outdoor exercise opportunities.
- Offer yoga or spin classes outdoors to leverage fresh air during workouts.
- Provide running guides, in-room fitness videos, and bike rental options for guest convenience.
- Consider delivering weights, resistance bands, and yoga mats to rooms upon request.
Pool Access & Safety:
- Implement a reservation system for pool access and loungers to manage occupancy and ensure social distancing.
- Create spacing between poolside loungers and consider time limits per guest to manage capacity.
Embrace Innovation for the Future
These design trends are not just shaping the future of hotels, they are the current new standard. Hotels are prioritizing innovative design solutions that combine comfort and safety, catering to guests who crave both novel experiences and a sense of security in the post-pandemic world.
Partnering with You
We at IGroup Design are committed to helping you create a welcoming and safe environment for your guests. Contact us today to explore design solutions that will put your hotel at the forefront of post-pandemic hospitality.
Want more ideas on how to enhance your guest´s sense of well-being? We’re here to help! Email us at hello@igroupdesign.com
