CRAFTING HOTEL EXPERIENCES
Grand Hotel Birmingham, by Robert Angell Design International
Welcome to my discussion of hotel interior design— an industry where expertise, creativity, and a sharp eye for detail come together to shape unforgettable guest experiences. This dynamic field is a blend of residential comfort and commercial functionality, where imagination, value and durability drive every decision.
Each project offers a unique opportunity, where location and demographic is key in driving the brief; from a trendy city getaway or a peaceful coastal hideaway. It is the catalyst for creating spaces that not only meet but exceed the expectations of travellers seeking something special.
The best part of designing a hotel is undoubtedly the opportunity to be creative and imaginative in the design development of the interior experience.
You get to craft spaces that inspire, relax or delight guests in a either a homely or unique experience. There is the opportunity to create a narrative for the guests’ journey, from the lobby to the guest rooms.
During my time with Robert Angell Design International, I worked on renowned projects like the Grand Hotel in Birmingham, several Hilton Hotels in London & also the Hilton Vienna Plaza in the capital city of Vienna, Austria. From bespoke furnishings to clever lighting solutions, every element was carefully detailed to create an immersive guest experience which is reflected in the striking and award-winning outcome.
Grand Hotel Birmingham, by Robert Angell Design International
The constant goal in hotel design is striking the balance between aesthetics, budget and durability. It's like solving a puzzle where every piece needs to fit seamlessly together. This puzzle begins with planning and operational strategy to ensure the business success. Following this, you have to design within a budget and ensure components are practical and durable to be used in a space that is treated much unlike a home. Design applications and processes are considered for time efficient turn arounds, easy fixes to ensure efficiency of the room use. After design, being involved throughout the construction and procurement process is the only way to ensure the quality and design intent is maintained.
My journey in this industry began in Newcastle, NSW in 2012, where I had the opportunity at EJE Architecture to design the Birubi Beach Hotel. The food & beverage design of Birubi was closely linked to the indigenous land, and the accommodation was designed to be made in containers abroad and installed on the sand dunes. This was my first experience travelling overseas to Guangzhou China where I experienced a hands-on approach to value managing design and selecting local finishes.
What is it that makes a hotel successful? The balance of art and science.
Hilton Vienna Plaza, by Robert Angell Design International
