Hospitality Interior Design Trends: Creating Healthy Hotel Spaces

fitness in hotel interior design

In a post-pandemic world, the health and wellness amenities offered are a key deciding factor for when travelers are deciding on which hotel to stay at.  

In fact, 50% of travelers feel it’s important that their travel stays address their mental or physical wellness in some way, shape, or form. 

This shift in hospitality interior design trends underscores a growing preference for hotels that offer amenities such as fitness centers, spa facilities, mindfulness programs, and nutritious dining options. 

These considerations reflect a broader trend where travelers seek not just comfort and convenience, but also holistic experiences that nurture their overall health and wellness during their stay.

6 Health and Wellness Hospitality Interior Design Trends 

In an era where travel is increasingly intertwined with health and wellness, hotels are innovating to meet the evolving expectations of their guests.

When it comes to current hotel furniture and design trends to pay attention to, here are 6 for health and wellness:

  1. In-Room Fitness Equipment

  2. Health Technology

  3. Multi-Functional Items

  4. Wellness Enhancers

  5. Mental health

  6. Sustainable Cleaning Products 

 

1. IN-ROOM FITNESS EQUIPMENT

When was the last time you used a hotel gym while traveling? Do you make a fitness center part of your decision, but once you get there can't be bothered to go? Your guest probably have the same experience. 

Almost half of all guests intend to use the on-site gym, but fewer than 50% follow through.

Consider bringing fitness directly to your guests in your hotel interior design. 

A new category of guestrooms focused on in-room fitness has emerged at the forefront of hospitality interior design trends. Being away from home shouldn’t mean putting exercise, diet, or other health routines on hold. A high-quality hotel will provide all the things they need for a comfortable, productive stay.

Still others are fitness junkies whose workouts rarely cease no matter where they go. 

Room design can still be compact while making room for basic fitness equipment:

  • Exercise bikes

  • Yoga mats

  • Resistance bands

  • Core-strengthening balls  

Remember: some people feel uncomfortable working out around others. Others traveling for business want to unwind on the treadmill without worrying about the boss stepping on the next machine. In-room equipment lets guests feel the burn on their terms and in private.

2. HEALTH TECHNOLOGY

People don't check into hotel rooms to watch cable. Guests want the convenience of watching what they want when they want – just like at home. 

Get ready for robust wall mounts and ample space for accommodating large flat-screen TVs and monitors. Provide them with streaming options for their favorite Beachbody, pilates, or aerobics exercise programs.

This could be as in depth as an in-room digital fitness kiosk, complete with a touchscreen, that is capable of monitoring 

  • Fitness activity

  • Heart rate

  • Rest time

  • Caloric intake

  • And more 

Or as simple as a pull-out bike with a heart monitor. Guests should be able to (with your hotel’s smart device or their own) click or press and get to work.

3. MULTI-FUNCTIONAL ITEMS

You may be thinking of ergonomic desks, which are excellent. But think even beyond that. 

  • Could the coat rack double as a makeshift pull-up bar?

  • Could the luggage bench also function as a weight bench? 

Everyday objects are designed to serve multiple functions within your trendy plan. And, as with any compact space, make sure to utilize vertical space as well.

4. WELLNESS ENHANCERS

There’s more to wellness than just working out – a physical and emotional science behind feeling good. Even lights play a role in this: 

  • Circadian rhythm lighting regulates the sleep-promoting hormone melatonin to address jet lag and boost long-term energy
  • Pulsing blue wake-up lights rouse the senses without jarring the guest

Also, well-known standards like HEPA air purification and water filtration systems rid the internal environment of allergens, mold, bacteria, and other contaminants

5. MENTAL HEALTH

Mental health considerations are crucial when it comes to hospitality interior design trends. Elements that prioritize mental wellness can significantly enhance guest experiences. 

Incorporating natural light, calming color schemes and biophilic elements such as indoor plants not only beautify spaces but also foster a sense of tranquility. Research indicates that exposure to nature–inspired elements can reduce stress levels and promote relaxation, making guests feel more at ease during their stay.

Innovative enhancements, such as vitamin C-infused showers, elevate the guest experience. Some hotels even offer adult coloring books as a unique amenity, allowing guests to unwind and tap into their creativity during their stay.

6. SUSTAINABLE CLEANING PRODUCTS

While pursuing their own health, many hotel guests also intensely value the environment’s health. Choose an environmentally friendly hotel furniture manufacturer/vendor that opts for: 

  • Recycled materials

  • Minimal waste

  • Low chemicals

  • Low toxins 

In the U.S., the Toxic Substances Control Act controls the use of chemicals in furniture manufacturing. Those dangerous chemicals (some linked to genetic mutations) are still used in many overseas products.

 

How can hotels effectively balance the integration of in-room fitness equipment with the overall aesthetics and functionality of the room?

Hotels can achieve a balance by selecting sleek, space-efficient fitness equipment that complements the room’s design. This involves choosing items with modern, unobtrusive designs and integrating them into existing furniture or fixtures. For instance, a foldable exercise bike can be stored discreetly when not in use, and a yoga mat can be rolled up and stored in a dedicated cabinet. Additionally, hotels can use color schemes and materials that match the room's decor to ensure the equipment blends seamlessly with the overall aesthetic. Consulting with interior designers who specialize in multifunctional spaces can also help create a cohesive look that doesn’t compromise on functionality.

What are some specific examples of health technology solutions that hotels have successfully implemented beyond digital fitness kiosks and streaming options?

Hotels have explored several innovative health technology solutions. For example, some properties use smart mirrors that provide real-time fitness feedback and virtual workout classes. Others have installed advanced sleep technology, such as beds with adjustable firmness settings and integrated sleep tracking systems. Certain hotels also offer air quality monitors and personalized climate control systems to optimize the guest’s environment based on their preferences and health needs. These solutions enhance the guest experience by providing tailored health and wellness features beyond traditional fitness options.

What are the potential challenges or drawbacks hotels might face when implementing multi-functional items and wellness enhancers, and how can these be mitigated?

One challenge with multi-functional items is ensuring that they are both practical and comfortable for guests. For instance, a luggage bench that doubles as a weight bench might be less comfortable as a seating option. To mitigate this, hotels should prioritize high-quality, ergonomic designs and test the functionality of these items to ensure they meet guest needs. As for wellness enhancers, such as circadian lighting or vitamin C-infused showers, hotels must carefully manage the installation and maintenance costs while ensuring these features deliver tangible benefits. Regular guest feedback and maintenance checks can help address any issues and improve the overall effectiveness of these enhancements.

 

Hospitality Interior Design Trends: Embracing Health-Conscious Choices

Incorporating these trends into your hotel’s design not only meets the growing demand for wellness-focused amenities but also elevates the guest experience. The result is a space that supports both physical and mental wellness, setting your hotel apart as a leader in the evolving landscape of hospitality. In a world where health and comfort go hand in hand, your thoughtful design can make all the difference.

 

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This article was recently update to reflect current industry trends.