As 2024 came to a close, Hotel Management contacted several design experts to learn what hoteliers should expect in the coming year. Lisa A. Haude, senior vice president and director of interiors at LK Architecture (interiors division), shared her thoughts on what will change, adapt and be eliminated in hotel spaces in 2025.
What are a few major trends you expect to see in hotel design in 2025?
- Incorporating modern design that remains classic and timeless, but simultaneously simple and functional. This includes embracing technology that simplifies both the staff and guest experience.
- Sustainable design that is comfortable, climate-resistant, nature-inspired (i.e., natural wood finishes, stone materials), and biophilic will be top of mind.
- Utilizing more layered lighting will be crucial, allowing spaces to be more multifunctional, and transform from practical to cozy, imaginative and moody.
What trends do you see fading away?
Cool gray tones as a dominant color in design. While gray may still be used as an element, warm neutrals, accents, and natural elements will take center stage to evoke a cozy, inviting environment, complemented by deep, saturated tones as vibrant accents.
Monochromatic palettes with stark minimalistic/modern designs are on the decline, as adding texture, personality, and layers of color, pattern, and materiality is preferred to create a more welcoming environment. Instead, organic spaces that highlight form and function, sustainable, well-crafted materials that authentically tell a story, will be favored.
What do you think are the main factors that are driving these changes?
With the evolution of technology and its impact on our daily lives, I believe people are seeking a balance and harmony between nature and tech. There also seems to be a growing desire to incorporate more natural, authentic materials into spaces, or at least create the illusion of them, as we strive to blur the boundaries between the indoors and outdoors, seamlessly integrating the two. By incorporating patterns, textures and natural elements, we can foster that serene sense of being—a natural respite from the high-tech world we live in.
I also believe that balancing design and aesthetics with functionality is crucial, especially as our spaces become smaller or more multi-functional – while still maintaining a timeless, curated, and balanced feel.
What should hoteliers and designers do now to be ready for the new trends that are on the horizon?
As designers, it’s important to stay creative and adaptable, especially as budgets and timelines become more constrained. This approach will ensure that the designs align with the evolving trends in sustainability, technology and guest experience, while also delivering value.