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Hotel Management International Winter 2024
Editorial Editor Alex Summers
Sub-editor Pete Barden Production manager Dave Stanford Group art director Henrik Williams Designer Martin Faulkner
Commercial Client services executive Ruchita Marwaha
Publication manager David Chai
david.chai@
btmi.com
Hotel Management International (USPS 6243) is published quarterly by Business Trade Media International, a division of GlobalData, and is an offi cial publication of the European Hotel Managers Association.
Registered in England No 06212740. ISSN 2041-2452 © 2024
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hough we at HMI Towers appreciate you will likely receive this edition in the darkest days of winter, we are feeling somewhat evergreen. In an era where the world’s appreciation for nature has intensified, the hospitality industry is meeting this call with the growing trend of biophilia. More than just a visual enhancement, biophilic design in hotels integrates natural elements into every facet of the guest experience, creating environments that prioritise wellness and foster a deeper connection to nature. Andrea Valentino’s piece on page 13 dives into the nuances of biophilia with insights from Larry Traxler of Hilton and Damien Perrot of Accor, exploring how leading hotels are moving beyond superficial décor to embrace genuine, environment-cantered architecture and design.
No longer confined to simple greenery, biophilic principles now influence entire hotel ecosystems, including light, air and even the auditory ambiance of spaces. As Traxler notes, such designs can improve air quality, boost mood and even promote physical well-being by reducing stress and lowering blood pressure. For global players like Accor, where Perrot oversees design and innovation, biophilia is not just a trend but an essential part of meeting guest expectations for eco- conscious spaces that bring the outside world within. From Accor’s Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles to Hilton’s Botánika Osa Peninsula in Costa Rica, hotels worldwide are using nature to create unforgettable, multisensory experiences that inspire guests to unwind and reconnect. But the shift toward biophilia is also rooted in practicality and sustainability. Hoteliers are increasingly aware that designs echoing local ecosystems can reduce operational costs and environmental impact, from energy savings to reduced dependency on air conditioning. Our exploration of this trend reveals the complex balance between achieving visual appeal, sustainability and functionality in high- traffic hotel environments. This is no small task, requiring brands to maintain both global standards and a commitment to authentic local environments. The future of hospitality may be one of harmony – where guests feel rooted to both the natural world and the comforts of their temporary home.
Alex Summers, editor On the cover: Canopy By Hilton West Palm Beach Downtown
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