2024

    stone pool surround with orange cushion and view across the hills

    Part 90: the art of transformative hospitality

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    Lucy Goddard of NCstudio discusses the power of Transformative Hospitality and it’s central role in informing a design process to positively impact guest experience… 

    Guide to Hotel Design

    The days of cookie-cutter hospitality are over. Welcome to a realm where every encounter presents an opportunity for profound transformation. Enter the world of transformative hospitality, where the boundaries between service and soulful connection blur, and guests are not merely passive visitors but voyagers on a journey of self-discovery. NCstudio are dedicated to creating resonant hospitality experiences, which connect, inspire and restore. 
Earlier this month, Studio Founder Lucy Goddard visited Hotel Corazón in Mallorca and dissected the power of transformative hospitality at this inspiring holistic resort.

    Lucy Goddard Founder NCstudio interior design and branding studio

    Image credit: NCstudio

    At its core, transformative hospitality is a symphony of empathy, understanding, and bespoke experiences tailored to the unique desire of each guest. It’s about delving deep into the psyche of travellers, unravelling their dreams, and weaving them into the very fabric of their stay. Here, emotional resonance reigns supreme. From the moment guests cross the threshold they’re enveloped in an embrace of genuine human connection. The team behind the scenes are not simply staff; they are storytellers, orchestrating narratives that linger on, long after check-out.

    But transformative hospitality is more than just a fleeting moment of luxury; it is a catalyst for personal evolution. Through curated experiences that transcend the mundane, guests are invited to embark on a journey of self-discovery, where each encounter becomes a stepping stone towards growth and enlightenment. This doesn’t stop at the hotel’s doorstep. Transformative hospitality extends its embrace to the surrounding community, championing local artisans, nurturing sustainable practices, and sowing seeds of positive change wherever it goes.

    natural colours and textures in guestroom at Hotel Corazon

    Image credit: Hotel Corazon

    At its essence, transformative hospitality is a holistic embrace of the human spirit. It’s about nurturing not just the body, but the mind, the soul, and the senses; creating an environment where guests are free to explore, to evolve, and to connect with the world around them in ways that they never thought possible. Earlier this month, we visited Hotel Corazón in Mallorca and dissected the power of transformative hospitality at this incredible holistic resort.

    Nestled amidst the sun-kissed shores and azure waters of Mallorca lies a secret oasis waiting to be explored by discerning travellers seeking an escape from the ordinary; a concept that defies convention and ignites the imagination. Welcome to Hotel Corazón – a multifaceted hotel concept that seamlessly blends the realms of hospitality, artistry, and nature into an unparalleled experience, beckoning creatives and wanderers alike to embark on a journey of discovery. The 15-room finca, farm, and restaurant wasn’t just a place to stay, it was a destination in its own right. Crafted with love and passion by visionary creators, photographer Kate Bellm and artist Edgar Lopez, alongside Deià based design studio Moredesign, this sanctuary pulsates with a raw, untamed energy that sparks inspiration at every turn. Pure magic.

    Step into a world where barefoot luxury dances hand in hand with unbridled authenticity. Hotel Corazón isn’t just a place to rest your head, it’s a sanctuary for the soul, and from the moment you enter into the lobby, you are enveloped in an atmosphere of understated glamour and refined aesthetics. Curated interiors with an eclectic blend of vintage charm and island craft set the stage for a truly unforgettable experience. Prepare to be transported to a realm where a wild spirit intertwines with luxury. But what truly sets Hotel Corazón apart was its unwavering commitment to storytelling and curation. From the meticulously crafted narrative that guided every aspect of the guest experience to the carefully curated content that sparks curiosity and wonder, every moment spent here was imbued with a sense of purpose and meaning. Here, there were no rules. The art of hospitality was elevated to new heights.

    morning light on orange sofa with book and coffee at The Rigg End

    Image credit: NCstudio

    Looking closer to home NCstudio presents a recent small scale hospitality scheme in the Yorkshire Dales; The Old Dairy. Surrounded by open fields, woodlands and unrivalled views, the scheme provided an extraordinary blend of nature’s serenity and captivating historic allure. A large stone barn conversation was transformed into five bedroom concept with entertainment at the heart, creating a space to reconnect with friends and a base from which to retreat around a roaring fire under big skies. The movement around slow and regenerative hospitality, a follow on from the slow food movement presents us with new opportunities to design spaces focussed on wellbeing, craftmanship and to embrace the locale.

    bedside light, linen and art in The Rigg End

    Image credit: NCstudio

    Our palette was inspired by the landscape with muted greens, earthy umbers and inky blues to reflect the views outside ensuring that guests felt a sense of connection and place. Activations focussed around local food, foraging and outdoor pursuits were encouraged, as well as exploration of the local rural setting and it’s characterful goats and livestock. Every stay intended to be a pilgrimage to the heart of creativity and nature.

    Main image credit: Hotel Corazon

    comfortable fireside seating in Homestead resort by EDGEiD

    Part 89: designing ‘third places’

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    Kari Bennett, the visionary CEO and Founder of the design firm EDGEiD, talks us through the importance of creating community to create truly liveable hospitality destinations…

    Guide to Hotel Design

    Shared experiences often begin with shared spaces. As a designer, I strongly believe that third places are immensely important in helping us to build stronger communities, improve collaboration, and cultivate meaningful connections. Below are three key ideas that guide us at EDGEiD on how best to create inviting third places through thoughtful design.

    Consider Your Community

    A third place is intended to be a gathering point outside of the home and workplace. It is an environment meant for relaxation and engagement with others. As I reflect on central gathering points I reminisce fondly over my time in Italy and their lively Piazzas. These Piazzas are nestled amidst the vibrant energy and bustling activity of a city. They are the heart and soul of the community and offer a shared space for people from all walks of life to converge. Piazzas transcend barriers of age, ethnicity, and background.

    As a designer, we should aim to bring heart and soul into the third places we design. The best way to do this is to consider the wants and needs of those who will be using these spaces. We must invite community members to participate in the design process. By opening a dialogue with the community designers, architects, and planners can ensure that their creations reflect the unique needs, values, and cultural heritage of the people they serve. Incorporate art, décor, and design elements that reflect the local community and its values. This can help foster a sense of ownership and pride among users. Community involvement leads to more inclusive and sustainable outcomes. This is the best way to craft a third space that hums with a familiar and inviting tune.

    restaurant and kitchen space in homestead resort Utah

    Image credit: EDGEiD

    Craft for Collaboration

    Our third spaces should be community hubs that foster collaboration. Collaboration is the spark of life. Much like moths drawn to a flame, we gravitate towards environments that resonate with our collective humanity, where creative energies are ignited, and collaboration flourishes. Our surroundings serve as a wellspring of inspiration. When we find ourselves in environments that are truly special and captivating, our creative energies burst, and our potential for inspiration knows no bounds. Vibrant and stimulating surroundings encourage open dialogue, experimentation, and the exploration of diverse ideas. Such environments nurture authentic connections, fostering a culture of trust and mutual support among collaborators. Conversely, uninspiring environments may stifle collaboration, hindering the potential for innovation.

    To design with collaboration in mind we must first consider the architectural layout. Openness in design can encourage spontaneous interactions and allow people to move around comfortably. Additionally, providing flexible furniture arrangements and varied seating options allows people to accommodate different group sizes and activities.

    chairs and cushions in front of shelving display and tv in common space of hotel

    Image credit: EDGEiD

    Integrating digital technologies and interactive tools into the built environment can further enhance collaboration by enabling real-time communication and collaboration among remote teams.

    Most importantly, is designing a space people feel comfortable in. Incorporate elements of biophilic design, such as natural light, greenery and organic shapes. Plants and natural lighting help to create a refreshing environment that can boost creativity and promote feelings of calm and tranquility. Additionally, choose colours and décor that promote a sense of openness, warmth, and inspiration. Vibrant and stimulating surroundings encourage open dialogue.

    tented hotel guestroom

    Image credit: EDGEiD

    Nurture Connection

    As an adult juggling work, family, hobbies and the everyday hustle, I find myself immersed in a world brimming with limitless A.I. potential and experiences that sometimes prioritise efficiency over genuine human connection. In this rapidly evolving landscape, the mantra seems to be ‘faster, not better’. Yet amidst the clamour for speed, there’s an undeniable yearning for authenticity, for something tangible and real.

    Automated phone calls and self-checkout systems may streamline tasks, but they lack the warmth and empathy of human interaction. We crave meaningful connections, the simple gesture of someone asking about our day, the opportunity to engage with new faces and share experiences. During a time where connecting with others is becoming more and more difficult, third places are essential. These spaces are the heart and soul of design. Crafting the soul of a space entails caring deeply about the entirety of the experience, not just isolated elements. It resides in the meticulous attention to detail, woven seamlessly into every facet.

    hotel lobby corner seating with art and decorative details

    Image credit: EDGEiD

    These spaces ultimately must cultivate connection. As designers it is paramount that these shared spaces are neutral ground and welcoming to individuals from all backgrounds. Design the space to be accessible to everyone including those with physical disabilities. This type of environment can encourage sharing of different perspectives and foster a sense of belonging, understanding and mutual respect among community members. If possible, include a café or snack area. Food and drinks are natural conversation starters and can make the space feel more welcoming and communal. Prioritize interaction within the space before its official opening, allowing for adjustments to be made based on user feedback and observation.

    hotel public area with seating, plants and art

    Image credit: EDGEiD

    At EDGEiD, we conceive spaces that reflect our very essence. These environments serve as an extension of our identity, evoking a tangible sense of belonging. Through design, we strive to encapsulate this essence, allowing others to share in its resonance. We aim not only for visitors to perceive spaces as we envision them but to also feel the profound connection etched into their very fabric.

    The hallmark of success lies in designing spaces that facilitate connection for people, embracing diversity, creating tangible experiences that engage all senses. Public spaces serve as vibrant hubs that symbolise the heart and soul of a community, fostering inclusivity and unity. Collaboration thrives in environments that inspire creativity and authentic connections, highlighting the crucial role of surroundings in shaping collaborative efforts. Finally, amidst the fast-paced world prioritising efficiency, there is a resounding call for authentic human connection, reminding us of the profound impact of genuine interactions in our lives. By prioritising community, embracing collaboration, and fostering genuine connections, we can create spaces that resonate with people’s identities and foster a sense of belonging, enriching the human experience.

    Main image credit: EDGEiD

    bathroom with white freestanding bath and crosswater mirror and lights

    Part 88: shifting expectations and hotel bathroom design

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    Tom Burdon, Director of Specification Sales & Projects at Bathroom Brands Group throws the focus on the shifting shapes and expectations in the hotel bathroom, along with some Crosswater design solutions…

    Guide to Hotel Design

    As hotel bathroom expectations evolve, the impact of design enhancing guest experience is not to be underestimated. Bathroom Brands Group works closely with hotels to specify products, putting luxury at the forefront of every project. More than simply functional spaces, hotel bathrooms are increasingly expected to be sanctuaries where guests can enjoy a relaxing experience and elevated escapism, and both boutique and brand hotels are seamlessly merging wellness and practicality in these spaces.

    Tom Burdon Bathroom Brands Group

    Image credit: Bathroom Brands Group

    Blurring the boundaries between luxury design and functionality has become a feature of contemporary bathroom design and it’s important to strike a balance between creating a bathroom that is visually impactful yet practical. Guest expectations on both a design and experiential level are becoming more and more, so hotel designers are pushing the boundaries. Seamlessly blending luxurious materials, sophisticated fixtures, and innovative features, designers are striving to create spaces that inspire guests and encourage interaction, while serving practical needs. Achieving this delicate balance is crucial in ensuring that guests feel indulged from the moment they step into the bathroom. When we work on specifications for luxury hotels, as with recent Ennismore, Montcalm, Hilton and Gotham openings, we strive to meet practical requirements while offering inspiration, as hotel bathroom projects are open to design innovation and consideration.

    patterned floor tiles below double vanity with round mirrors and lights from Crosswater

    Image credit: Crosswater

    Should we be injecting more personality into hotel bathroom designs? Absolutely. Hotel bathrooms offer the perfect opportunity to inject character and personality and push the boundaries of design. Embracing bold colours, distinctive textures, and unique materials can transform a functional necessity into a memorable part of the guest experience. Furniture and basins in an extensive colour palette, from pastel tones to chic earthy hues, the options are endless, allowing each hotel to showcase its distinct style.

    Form and function find equal balance with bathroom lighting that significantly impacts the overall ambience, functionality, and aesthetics of a hotel bathroom and elevates a guest’s sensory experience. When creating a spa-like haven, soft warm lighting is essential to create the right atmosphere. Thoughtfully designed lighting is being used more and more to accentuate luxury design features in hotel bathrooms, such as textured furniture and brassware. It can be used to cleverly draw attention to the finer details that define the space, rather than simply being a practical solution.

    moss green mottled shower and bathroom floor with pebble shaped illuminated mirror

    Image credit: Crosswater

    Illuminated mirrors are useful but can also be used to make a design statement. New Crosswater mirrors are available in various shape and size options so designers can choose mirrors that complement warm and cool metallic tones to match brassware and other accessories.

    The wellness trend for creating a spa-like hotel bathroom aesthetic is continuing to gain momentum and it’s here to stay. Beyond providing basic amenities, hotels are increasingly incorporating elements that promote relaxation and well-being, such as spacious showers with rainfall heads, luxurious baths, and ambient lighting, all becoming staples of modern bathroom design, promising a sense of tranquillity and serenity.

    Hotel designers are often looking to maximise space without sacrificing aesthetic appeal. Crosswater designs offer clever storage solutions and space-saving fixtures, ensuring hotel bathroom space is utilised effectively. Smart storage solutions and modular furniture, clever design touches and space-saving bathroom fittings – think wall-hung basins, vanity units, and toilets – work well in hotel bathrooms as they enable additional floor space, giving the illusion of a bigger room.

    Exclusive luxury and democratising design are both key elements in hotel bathroom design moving forward. Crosswater’s distinctive style for the next generation of bathroom design is characterised by meticulous design, high-performance materials and premium details. Offering luxury finishes, full bathroom solutions and an extensive range of colours – from brassware to furniture – our commitment to design helps hotel designers elevate the guest experience to new heights, leaving a lasting impression of an unforgettable experience.

    Bathroom Brands Group is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.

    Main image credit: Bathroom Brands Group

    entrance to The Municipal with statement stretwork chandelier in the centre

    Part 87: harnessing the use of light for public areas

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    Public spaces are the first areas guests are exposed to, so expectations need to be met from the outset to craft the desired emotional responses. We caught up with hospitality lighting experts Northern Lights to uncover what goes in to creating a successful lighting scheme for public spaces…

    Guide to Hotel Design

    When it comes to lighting requirements, every hotel is different. The lighting scheme needs to be expertly tailored to suit the hotel’s unique demands and architecture.

    lobby at Oatlands Park hotel with statement chandelier by Northern Lights

    Image caption: Oatlands Park Hotel | Image credit: Northern Lights

    A unique experience
    The hotel foyer or lobby instantly symbolises the level of quality the hotel sets out to deliver. Bespoke lighting is commissioned to set the tone and deliver a unique experience, incorporating exquisite materials such as glass, crystal and alabaster and often complex structures and shapes. Lobby lighting plays an integral part in reinforcing the hotel brand’s concept and appeal, and making guests feel instantly welcomed and positive about their stay. Buildings that benefit from vaulted ceilings and large open spaces can accommodate dramatic, large-scale lighting solutions that set the tone for a luxurious and unique experience.

    A bespoke statement light developed by Northern Lights turns the central pillar into an experiential focal point at Hilton London Croydon

    Image caption: Hilton London Croydon | Image credit: Northern Lights

    Maintaining the concept
    “Statement lighting within public areas provides an opportunity for the operator and designer to originate and realise designs which can harmonise with the aesthetic of the space. We’re able to help our clients achieve a level of consistency within such unique pieces through a variety of techniques,” explained Michael Jackson, Head of Design at Northern Lights.

    “We have an extensive catalogue of finishes and often create custom finishes to match other elements in the scheme. From hand-applied artisan patinas to matching to project-specific RAL colours, we have the ability to replicate colours and finishes in various materials,” continued Jackson. ” This enables a homogenous coordination of design elements across the interior scheme, allowing hotels to achieve brand consistency. This can also be achieved through material and shade selection, shapes, detailing and trims. These techniques enable designers to develop uniqueness throughout the lighting scheme whilst retaining a design approach that connects the different public area spaces.”

    natural light in central atrium of Municipal Liverpool

    Image caption: Municipal Liverpool | Image credit: Northern Lights

    Incorporate natural light
    Incorporating natural light sources into the overall lighting scheme requires careful attention to detail. How and where light spills into the different areas at different times of the day impacts how the rest of the lighting needs to be approached. Considering colour temperature and even distribution of all lighting sources allows control over how the spaces are perceived and used by guests throughout their stay.

    Adapting to multi-function layouts
    Rigid, defined spaces separating lobby, reception, bar and relaxing areas are evolving into more open, multi-functional spaces. Lighting controls allow hotel staff to adjust or set lighting to fit with the different uses at different times of day. For example, using cooler lighting and maximising natural daylight from skylights and windows is ideal for breakfast, where more intimate, warmer lighting can be used along with dimming controls later in the day to encourage guests to relax in the bar, restaurant or lounge areas.

    Corridors leading to the spa at Sopwell House

    Image caption: Sopwell House | Image credit: Michael Franke

    Hallway lighting
    Creating illuminated pathways promotes spatial awareness of the hotel as guests navigate through corridors that connect each part of the building. Wall lighting and lamps in these areas create a sense of comfort and connection. These spaces need to balance, providing enough light in darker hallways where no natural light is present, with aesthetic and emotional layers to maintain the overall ambience and feel of the hotel.

    Invest in quality
    Functionality must go together with visual appeal in every area of the hotel. Material choices and design integrity are equally as important as aesthetics when designing lighting for high-demand hospitality settings. Using robust, durable materials selected specifically for hotels will ensure longevity. Designs can be approached in a way that makes them easy to clean, maintain, and parts to be repaired or replaced; an important factor for hotel operators that can sometimes be overlooked.

    suspended square lighting design by Northern Lights above a table in the entrance to The Municipal

    Image caption: the Municipal | Image credit: Northern Lights

    Balance lighting functions
    Task lighting is essential for hotel staff to carry out functional tasks, such as the reception area, or reading corners for guests to relax. Task lighting is often associated with spotlights and other minimal functional lighting solutions. However desk lamps and hanging pendants with considered brightness levels can provide functionality with additional visual appeal. Ambient lighting provides the primary source of light for public spaces through a mixture of chandeliers, pendants and wall lights, adding depth, warmth and the core visual appeal. Accent lighting is used to draw focus to architectural details, décor and art pieces, celebrating beauty within. Layering of these lighting types and incorporating both diffused and directional solutions creates balanced, harmonious lighting scheme.

    Northern Lights is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.

    Main image credit: Northern Lights