Space in Hotels: Commodity or Canvas?

By
Hiba Araji, Design and Project Development Manager, Middle East, CIS, Central Asia
image of Hiba Araji with quote

In the evolving landscape of the hospitality industry, the concept of space within hotels has undergone a profound transformation.Traditionally viewed as a commodity, where the primary goal was to maximize occupancy and revenue per given area, space is now increasingly seen as a canvas. This canvas offers limitless opportunities for creating unique, memorable experiences that cater to the desires of today’s discerning travelers.

Historically, the hotel industry has approached space as a commodity. The focus was on optimizing the use of space to ensure maximum occupancy and profitability. Rooms were designed with efficiency in mind, often at the expense of character or uniqueness. Amenities and public spaces were standardized, reflecting a one-size-fits-all approach intended to appeal to a broader group of travelers.

The rise of social media has shifted consumer expectations, placing a premium on experiences, personalization, and uniqueness. In response, forward-thinking hoteliers began to view space not just as a physical entity to be optimized, but as a canvas for artistic expression and innovation. This paradigm shift recognizes that the value of hotel space lies not only in its physical dimensions but in its potential to create emotional connections, tell stories, a sensational experience and offer guests not just a place to stay, but an experience to remember.

Technology also plays a pivotal role in transforming hotel space from commodity to canvas. Digital tools and platforms enable hotels to offer personalized experiences, turning generic spaces into tailored environments that cater to individual preferences of each guest. Smart room technology is just an example of how technology can enhance the use of space, making it more interactive, adaptable, and engaging.

In today’s experience-driven economy, the most successful hotels are those that understand the power of space to create meaningful, memorable experiences that resonate on a personal level with their guests. The future of the hospitality industry lies in recognizing and embracing the potential of space as a medium for storytelling, innovation, and engagement, transcending its traditional role as a mere commodity.

Latest News