Hotels & interior design, a strong bond

In the very competitive hospitality industry, differentiation is key. Interior design is the best way for hoteliers to achieve it.

The experience of discovering a new place. The anticipation of living -for a few days at least- in a different way of life. The need of change, of breaking the rhythm. All these are what discerning travelers are looking for. Both when they choose their next destination and when they choose their next hotel.

Sani Dunes Lobby by Nimand Architects

The “Sense of place”

A hotel, in order to be appealing, has to trigger emotions. It has to be different and it has to help its guests feel connected with the place they are visiting. It has to give them a “sense of place”. Interior design is the most effective way for hoteliers to achieve that. Interior designers working hand in hand with the architects can capture the culture and history of a place, as well as its impact on the senses. When arriving somewhere travelers need to identify with their new location. They need to tap into the culture of the place, and if they can do that even from the comfort of their room that is already a huge plus.

The fabrics used, the color palette, the materials, the smells, even the signs and the symbols. All these can evoke emotions and trigger one’s imagination. They all convey a “sense of place” that help the guest orientate better, connect with the place and also with the hotel.
Sani Porto Reception by Nimand Architects

“Sense of place” and a feeling of familiarity, a delicate balance

Interior design can create feelings of familiarity and comfort, a sense of belonging. Achieving this delicate balance between the new and the familiar is quite a challenge.  Providing a “home away from home” atmosphere that helps guests unwind and relax is always a plus. Elements like high quality upholstery and linens ameliorate the guest’s experience without ruining the hotel’s “sense of place”. To the contrary. The Sani Dunes Hotel, in Halkidiki Greece, just like every hospitality installation delivered by Nimand Architects, is a very good example of how luxury, simplicity and a discreet sense of place can coexist through interior design. Its architecture is absolutely integrated into the location’s topography, while its interior design follows the Mediterranean aesthetic principles of using natural materials and handmade pieces of furniture, created by expert craftsmen. This is the key to differentiation.