Bobbie Brown, design manager at Avro|KO Miami, is set to attend Hotec Design, an annual conference presented by Questex, the parent company of Hotel Management. At the conference—scheduled this year for June 16-18 at the Fairmont Scottsdale (Ariz.) Princess—buyers meet one-on-one with hospitality-focused suppliers to learn about new products and services and to keep up-to-date on emerging trends.
Ahead of the conference, Brown discussed the evolution of luxury hospitality, the growth of biophilic design and how one-on-one meetings can help grow business.
1. What are you most excited about for your company in 2025 (and beyond)?
I’m most excited about the continued growth of our Miami studio—not just in scale, but in the depth of talent, collaboration, and impact we’re making. Our team has been evolving in such an inspiring way, tackling larger, more complex projects while staying true to the creative and strategic vision that sets us apart. Miami’s design scene is dynamic, and we’re embracing that energy, strengthening our presence in the market, and pushing the boundaries of hospitality and F&B design.
2. What are some of the biggest design-related changes you’ve seen in the hotel industry over the past year?
One of the biggest shifts we’ve seen in hotel design over the past year is the evolution of luxury—moving away from purely aesthetic opulence toward experiences that feel more personalized, immersive, and locally rooted. As we work across top-tier luxury to high-end lifestyle and boutique hotels, there’s a growing need to strike the right balance—ensuring a sense of exclusivity while maintaining approachability. Storytelling through materiality, bespoke details, and curated guest experiences has become a priority, creating spaces that feel both elevated and inviting.
3. What are some trends you think will have staying power beyond 2025?
Wellness and sustainability are no longer add-ons—they’re fundamental to hospitality design. Hotels are integrating wellness seamlessly, not just in spas but throughout the entire guest experience—through biophilic design, mindful lighting and spaces that promote relaxation and connection. Sustainability is also evolving from just material choices to a more holistic approach, considering longevity, energy efficiency and adaptive reuse. Guests are becoming more conscious of these elements, and brands that prioritize them in an authentic way will have lasting impact.
4. What do you hope to accomplish at Hotec this year?
This year at Hotec, I’m looking forward to strengthening relationships—both with existing industry partners and new connections who share our vision for innovative, experience-driven hospitality design. It’s always valuable to step away from day-to-day project work and engage in conversations that challenge and inspire fresh ideas. I hope to walk away with new collaborations, insights into where the industry is headed, and opportunities that will help continue growing our Miami studio’s presence in the luxury and lifestyle hospitality space.
Hotec Design will take place June 16-18 at the Fairmont Scottsdale (Ariz.) Princess. Applications are open for buyers and suppliers.