The hotel lobby as social space

The hotel lobby first of all used to be a place to check in and out and to obtain information. Nowadays the welcome area in the hotel is much more than that. The hotel lobby has permanently transformed from a neutral public space to an inviting and multifunctional social space.

SOCIAL INTERACTION

After a long period of lockdowns, hotels notice in their guests a clear and growing need for human contact. In the design of the lobby this can be found in an open and transparent lay-out, with an accessible interior which stimulates the contact with and between visitors. Different meeting spots invite to socialize and spend time together. From intimate seats and comfortable lounge areas to big main tables and a trendy hotel bar. In addition to the mutual interaction between guests and the contact with the hotel staff, more and more hotels focus as well on the social interaction with the local inhabitants. That way, the hotel lobby becomes a true social hub, where guests feel part of the specific hotel experience with a unique perception of the location.

FEELING OF HOME

Today’s hotel lobby has an interior that radiates a warm welcome and a relaxed atmosphere. Provided with a lot of comfort and luxury it gives guests a pleasant feeling of home right away. Couches and chairs to lay back and relax on can be found anywhere. Spaces are furnished in a relaxed living room style, decorated with lots of green and stylish accessories. Soft, caressable fabrics and luxury rugs finish this and strengthen the homely atmosphere. The creation of a unique experience remains important in this regard; despite this familiar feeling of home it still gives guests the sensation of being away from home for a bit.

MULTIFUNCTIONAL ENVIRONMENT

Whether it’s for work or to relax, the new hotel lobby is adjusted to the various target groups the hotel services. This involves a multifunctional environment which takes into account the different wishes and needs. We find multiple kind of spaces with different functions next to each other for example. From co-working spaces, conference tables and phone boots to lounge areas, relaxing seats and hang-outs. Fast operating wifi and a sufficient amount of sockets are go without saying in these spaces. For the younger generation and tech-savvy visitors there are, besides the optional to physically check-in, also possibilities to check in with their smartphone.

FLOORS FOR THE HOTEL LOBBY

Flooring solutions for the new hotel lobby show a combinations of different kinds of flooring. On the one hand there is a lot of demand for soft and hybrid flooring (like our woven vinyl from ntgrate) or rugs which strengthen the warm and homely atmosphere. On the other hand LVT-floors with warm wood patterns or natural stone optic is popular. Due to their wear resistant and maintenance friendly properties there are ideal for areas with lots of circulation like the entrance and fixed walking routes. Furthermore, LVT is increasingly being used because of its extensive design possibilities. Think of the use of laying patterns to highlight certain areas of the lobby and create a unique experience. For an ultimate customized experience floors (and interior materials) with custom design possibilities remain the perfect solution for the hotel interior.

Images a.o.:

HEYLIGERS architects | Project Holiday Inn Voorburg