The hospitality industry has faced drastic changes since COVID-19 that many businesses struggle to follow. Demands such as sustainable design and services, technological advancement, well-being design and exclusive areas are expectations set for hotels and restaurant businesses. Below we explore design trends in 2022 expected to carry into 2023.

1. Ambience through wellness design

Copenhagen’s SAS Royal Hotel – Credit to Nathalie Clotier

Ambience has a new term in the hospitality industry. For hotels, it’s incorporating wellness design in spas, gyms or guest rooms. Tinto Architecture explores the five senses when creating ambience in hotel design, ‘80% of our perception is influenced by what we can see.’ In order words, ensure interior design and lighting is aesthetically pleasing.

For restaurants, demand for social or exclusive areas, aside from fine dining, is emerging, allowing groups of people to socialise in their time comfortably.

2. Back to authentic flavours and experiences

Credit to Stocksy United

Good news for the hospitality market! Genuine experiences and authentic flavours take a preference over social media-hyped spaces.

For hotels, introducing unique and niche experiences during the guests’ stay becomes a priority, whilst restaurants can cook menus that experiment with authentic flavours and tastes.

However, it doesn’t mean interior decor is compromised. Interior architecture and design still play an essence in social presence, with marketing looking to thrive in 2023.

3. Feature Ceiling 

Crowne Plaza Hotel in New Zealand – Credit to KayneMaile

The ceiling was once unexplored and decorated simply using chandeliers and suspended art features. However, inventive ceiling design is now being proposed and is a great way to grab attention.

Feature ceiling design in hotels at the entrance, corridor or can act as a space divider. In restaurants, custom ceiling offers a luxury interior setting. It can also be a focal point if designed near a bar or featured in the bathrooms. A popular choice of material is reflective metal and glass.

4. Biophilic design

Credit to Yabu Pushelberg

Biophilic design is growing in the hospitality sector. A significant motivation is achieving sustainable design and its positive psychological effect on humanity. Customers are aware of the health and environmental benefits of biophilic designed interiors, therefore, are willing to pay more to become part of the experience.

5. Technology

Robot Cafe Henn na Hotel –  Credit to Yell Robot

Technology has rapidly evolved and integrated into hospitality. AI robots being one, may soon resolve the staff shortage faced by the industry. We are already witnessing robot waiters, automotive check-in and robot bartenders.

Henn na Hotel in Japan is the first AI-operated hotel with no staff onsite. Their bold approach sets an example to global hotel operators, whereas some AI designs proposed are questionable.

With stiff competition from Airbnb offering home accommodation, boutique and big hotel operators must step up and offer unique services. For restaurants, it’s about balancing authenticity, business brand and customer demands.

At Supra Design, we offer interior architecture and design, and branding services to hotel and restaurant businesses. Book a complimentary meeting with us and see how we can help.