What's possible when hoteliers reframe their approach and role within a design initiative? Here's a story about a historic property and ownership group that recommitted itself to its city through an immersive reinvention for both the hotel and its operations model. The results: a 15% uptick in occupancy and a whopping 282% increase in revenues associated with its restaurant and catering. We'll explore a few staff-to-guest connection strategies that evolved from this simple and cost-effective mind shift. Why this matters? We're in a new age where great design alone isn't enough to woo consumers. READ MORE

This article describes the redevelopment of historical buildings into new hotels. The design of hotels is especially suited to fit into older buildings which have lost their original purpose as the various functions of hotels are quite flexible and don't need to be the same all the time. The architect Dirk Lohan discusses the wonderful experiences travelers can have by staying at such hotels which have become quite ubiquitous. He features five unique historical hotels around the world and expresses the hope that this trend will continue to give the travelling public more choices for memorable experiences. READ MORE

Today's travelers are looking for engaging guest experiences that offer an authentic connection to the local community. For many national brands, this means designing unique hotel environments that feel rooted in each location. From the food they serve, to the art they display, to the entertainment they provide, we take a look at how hotel flags are infusing local influences into their designs to create one-of-a-kind experiences deeply-rooted in a sense of place. READ MORE

Expecting the unexpected: With significant competition to attract travelers and their getaway dollars, hotels are working hard to become destinations and offer something authentic and original to their guests beckoning them to visit. One design strategy for enhancing the travelers experience is to look to nature and outside surroundings, integrating the locale and culture into the interiors of the hotel space. Combining nature with beauty, wellness, uniqueness and healthy food creates an opportunity for each property to be a sought after destination. There is an ongoing effort in hotel design to attract guests by pulling the outside in and creating harmony with the local environment. READ MORE

In its multiple shades of brown, the Middle East is an enticing region. Its asymmetries, its complementarities, its heritages are host to proud nations and cultures. Tourism and Hospitality is a differentiated and peculiar industry, critical to build stronger, wealthier and more cohesive societies. Different phases of development, different strategies and visions equate to different levels of output, sophistication and development, both at social and at business levels. Also at the operational and sales level. How does the present look? What are we doing to improve it? Which challenges are we facing and which opportunities are we to capture? How may an optimized Tourism and Hospitality future be? READ MORE