This article is the third and last in the series of “Restaurant, Bar and Hotel Architecture.” Here we will focus on hotel architecture and design. The hotel business is growing worldwide. Trends in the industry are changing with the passage of time. Hotels are the actual foundation of the tourism industry. Most destinations offer fabulous views and
exciting adventures. But people need a place to rest, relax and enjoy their stay. The architectural design of hotels affects people living in specific areas. Sustainable design and architecture will result in job opportunities and infrastructure required by the community. Conversely, bad design and architecture will exploit both the environment and the people. In order to design an incredible hotel, you must know the basics of hotel design.

If we could choose the most important factor contributing to guest satisfaction in the hospitality field, it would be hotel architecture and design. The design and layout of your hotel tell a story and defines the visitors’ experience during their stay. Today, hotels are no longer just a place to lay your head at night. Instead, it is a place that provides guests with the opportunity to experience the culture of the location they are visiting, and to relax at the end of a busy day.

To run a successful hotel today, you must consider more than aesthetics and functionality. Proper luxury architecture and design take into consideration all aspects of the guest’s stay; not only physical but also emotional. The ultimate goal of the hotel’s exterior and interior design should be to create a unique and unforgettable experience for the traveler.

Here are a few key elements for designing successful hotel architecture and design:

1. Tell a Story – the modern philosophy of hotel design is all about telling a story. When designing a hotel, it is important to create a unique concept, which shapes the identity of the hotel and the guest experience.  Be sure that the forms, materials, and functionality of different spaces throughout the hotel reflect your concept and design inspiration.

In your hotel concept, consider things like:

• The hotel’s architecture and design concept.
• Hotel facilities, such as wellness facilities or restaurant and food branding.
• The Signature Experience that the hotel offers to its guests.
• Operational procedures should align with the main idea.
• Hotel branding and communication strategies.

2. Reflect the Location and External Elements– Climate and the conditions of the geographical location should be one of the most important factors in the hotel’s architecture and design. The weather conditions in your location will greatly determine how the outdoor sections of the hotel will look and how they will relate to the interior sections.

When designing a hotel, it is important to consider the orientation of the buildings and how the sun moves around them. The design of the different zones, the functions, as well as the choice of textures, colors, and materials, should be inspired by the hotel’s
collaboration with the sun and its surroundings.

3. Make a Great First Impression –  during the hotel architecture and design process, the architect must consider a few key areas of the hotel’s interior. The entrance of the hotel is the first reception point for the guests. This is what shapes the client’s first impression of the hotel, so it is crucial to positively impact the visitor from the first few seconds.

Make sure that the aesthetics of the entrance are aligned with the hotel concept. The hotel’s entrance should allow the easy passage of visitors and staff. The entrance should be easily found from the street. Weary travelers should not have to struggle to find the entrance.
The design and layout of the reception area should provide a sense of intimacy which gives the visitor the confirmation that they’ve made the right choice in selecting the hotel.

The lobby area should be the focal point of your property. Visitors will gather in this space and the unique design and aesthetics will encourage them to take photos and share them on social media. This will give you free advertisement and attract more clients.

4. Pay Attention to the Guest Room Design – the hotel room is the place where travelers sleep, relax, and make the decision whether they’ve made the right hotel choice. The hotel’s story should be reflected in the small details and elements that make up the room.  It makes sense to divide the room into functional zones, such as a sleeping, relaxation space, or recreation area.

A spacious shower, comfortable bed, as well as adequate storage space, are absolute musts of a pleasant hotel stay. Having a place for luggage, clothes and other items will accommodate your guests in a favorable way.

5. Design Common Areas for Experiences – The hotel’s socialization and activities areas, such as breakfast and lounge areas, the restaurant, or the pool, are all essential elements that contribute to the overall experience of the visitor.

All the common areas should reflect the branding of the hotel and provide a fun and lively experience for the guests. When designing these areas, focus on both the functional and aesthetic needs of the clients who may come from various cultures with different life experiences. Have them share common experiences and live through the story you are telling.

The floor plan should include separate areas for fun, relaxation, socialization, and dining. It should be easy for people to interact and create memories. It should flow effortlessly throughout the hotel creating a visually appealing experience.

Guest rooms, or suites, are the most fundamental consideration when hotel planning, as they take up the bulk of the space within the facility.  They account for the majority of the guest experience throughout the duration of their stay. The design of individual guest rooms is driven by the clientele. Mostly all hotels provide a variety of room types which include rooms with either one king or queen bed, rooms with two double or twin beds, and suites of different configurations. Hotel room layouts also typically include private bathrooms, storage closets, and a variety of furniture such as televisions, nightstands, lounge chairs, dressers, etc.

Although the bed is the focal point when planning a hotel room layout, it is important to consider other areas of the room as well. A lounge area complete with a workspace and a vanity enhances the guest’s experience.

You must provide ease of mobility in the room while ensuring privacy and safety.
When a guest enters a hotel room, they are surveying the room to confirm the adequacy of the accommodations. All guests want a unique experience and a standard of upkeep and maintenance. A layout that delivers and amplifies these qualities will generate positive first
impressions and lead to your hotel’s success.

When designing a successful hotel, you need to keep every detail in mind. The right hotel architecture and design will lead to contented guest experiences. They in turn will leave positive reviews which will ultimately bring in more business.

We at Scarano Architect, PLLC can help you tell a story and present a unique hotel result that will guarantee a top-notch experience for every visitor. Contact us today or visit our website for more information.