2022 Hospitality Interior Design Supplement

HOSPITALITY INTERIOR

Creative interior design:

The importance of storytelling

By Sarah Davison, Industry Reporter

How does your accommodation property look to the world?

On the importance of creating stunning visual impact, it’s said that a picture is worth a thousand words. But what stories do your accommodation interiors tell?

First, there was Instagram, and now Tik Tok is taking over the world of social media. As the travel industry sees a sharp rebound after the impacts of COVID-19 lockdowns, ‘Travel Tok’ has become the latest tool in holiday planning.

Small things have a big impact

In fact, studies have shown that having social media-worthy hotel interiors that inspire, create a mood or feeling and tell a story can very much influence guests’ accommodation choices.

It seems the ability to make flawless interior design choices has never been more important.

To illustrate, AccomNews found some of the world’s most distinct hotel room designs that certainly tell their own unique story.

The Harry Potter hotel

When the Hogwarts letter gets lost in the mail, guests can still experience the magical world of Harry Potter at the Georgia House Hotel in London.

The 19th-century hotel has transformed its lower-level accommodation offerings to closely resemble the sleeping chambers at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

Guests walk through a candlelit, portrait-lined hallway to find their room- while couples find their suite hidden behind a bookcase.

Featuring stained glass windows, four-poster beds, velvet drapes, and magical curiosities- even the biggest fans will be impressed with the hotel’s attention to detail.

Sculptural sensation

Guests escape the hustle and bustle and wrap up in a cocoon in London’s Mayfair when they stay in Room 215 at The Beaumont Hotel. It may appear like any other room, but it is actually an interactive piece of art.

ROOM at The Beaumont is the latest piece by British

sculptor Antony Gormley. For five years, the Turner Prizewinning artist worked on creating a single, exceptional room within the hotel.

“I take the body as our primary habitat,” Gormley said.

“ROOM contrasts a visible exterior of a body formed from large rectangular masses with an inner experience.

“The interior of ROOM is only 4 metres square but 10 metres high.”

Speaking of the design process, Gormley said he wanted the absence of light to reinforce the feeling of intimacy.

“I wanted to structure night as a preamble to sleeping and dreaming and reinforce the feeling of being fully enclosed, so the window only gives a view of the sky.

“At night, the shutters allow total enclosure and provide total blackout.

“The very subliminal levels of light allow me to sculpt darkness itself.

“My ambition for this work is that it should confront the monumental with the most personal, intimate experience.”

The suite itself is located inside a giant semi-abstract sculpture by Gormley, which dominates the facade of The Beaumont.

Accommodation fit for a Queen

The title ‘Queen’ is loosely used now-a-days, but if the crown fits you can stay at the Palace of Versailles.

Set within the perimeter of the palace grounds, the buildings of Le Grand Contrôle date back to 1788 and have been reimagined into a 14-room hotel.

Architect and designer Christophe Tollemer said the hotel’s interiors were inspired by the home of Marie Antionette.

Using period furniture sourced from antique vendors and lovingly restored, the suites are each distinct in their design.

With large, gold-gilded mirrors, wallpaper, and soft furnishings inspired by authentic 18thcentury patterns, Le Grand Contrôle invites guests to step back to a time of unbridled decadence.

While not all accommodation offerings can place themselves on the grounds of a castle, ensconce themselves in a sculpture or are inspired to create a ‘theme’. These hotels do show the power of storytelling within interior design.

Have a vision and tell a story:

• Include a nod to the history of your property or its location.

• Feature artworks or photographs of the local area and its characters.

• Make a stunning design statement with lighting, an incredible artwork, a custom piece of furniture, unique wallpaper, carpet or tiles.

• Consider telling the sustainability story of your brand.

Create a mood that guests will love:

• Know your market and create interiors that appeal to what your guests want and expect.

• Prioritise quality and provide luxury because guests expect more from their accommodation experience than they have at home.

• Consult design experts with because bad design is an expensive mistake.

Don’t be afraid to be different:

• From sourcing vintage pieces, to showcasing collectors’ items or even hosting potion classes, often it’s the small details that get guests talking.

• Create a place in your accommodation where guests can take the perfect ‘selfie’ or make a fun Tik Tok.

AccomNews consulted three leading industry experts for guidance on interior design inspiration for accommodation refurbishments in 2022.

Zahava Elenberg the Founder, of Move-in Studio, FF&E Specialists stressed the importance of seeking expert advice from industry leaders when looking to refurbish and fit out accommodation spaces.

What design lessons can you take from these iconic hotels?

Image courtesy of Gioia Wall Art

First impression is the last impression

“Because” she said, “a refurbishment is more than a simple design exercise, it requires both commercial know-how and experience to pull it all together on time and on budget.

“An FF&E specialist understands each part of the jigsaw and can offer guidance on the hierarchy of importance and where to allocate funds.

“Small things have a big impact, and a good FF&E designer knows how to incorporate the old with the new. It’s about understanding the brand, the desired outcome and curating the spaces with a holistic perspective.”

Turnkey or custom design, what would Ms Elenberg advise?

“As an FF&E specialist we know these two are not mutually exclusive, in fact, the best outcome is a combination of both.

“A good turnkey provider works in collaboration with the design team and has the internal skillset to provide both custom design applications for furniture, styling and layouts in tandem with all of the logistical and commercial considerations.

“This allows for a resolved, design-driven and commercially viable outcome.”

How does the future of accommodation design look?

“Environmentally sustainable principles are directing the narrative around design.

“We see this influencing the choice of materials, end-of-life initiatives and underpinning grass roots support for local design and manufacture across all aspects of FF&E.

“That sense of place and community is really important when it comes to successful accommodation design; when you are in Melbourne you want to know you are in Melbourne; if you’re in New York, you want to know you are in New York.

“The days of a homogenised approach to accommodation design are in the past.

“And with increased competition in the domestic market, we find our clients are looking for a more authentic and idiosyncratic solution.”

Importantly, Ms Elenberg points out that for operators seeking to provide a unique experience for guests, it is essential they employ a design-led FF&E industry specialist to ensure they maximize their investment and get the most out of the process.

She said: “Only leaders in this field will truly understand the way design can impact a space, and the very real emotional experience a guest has when they engage with that space for the first time.

“There is an increased design literacy among guests when it comes to accommodation options, it’s not just about cost anymore.

“You only get one shot to make an impression, and an FF&E expert understands how to balance all of these considerations.”

Connie Chen, Founder and Director of Gioia Wall Art observed that accommodation guests mostly want to feel relaxed, comfortable and at peace in a space and says art can help create that mood.

“Choosing artwork with calming tones and styles can relax guests but they also want to feel pampered. They want to experience a touch of luxury that is elevated from their environment at home and the right choice of art can bring another level of sophistication and refinement to a space.”

“Yes, it is! Design can be hard but when you allow professionals to help it can pay off, especially if you want to achieve a strong and cohesive design.

“An artwork team will advise on the best pieces of art for each space. They help you to achieve your design brief, work within your budget and take the hard work out of browsing through collections for hours.”

What exactly do art design professionals do?

“Quite simply they transform your ideas and vision into a beautifully functioning accommodation space.

“Their advice considers your décor, furniture, colour scheme and the style of the space, and they listen to what you wish to achieve. They take notice of the details that are crucial to getting it right.

“After all, artworks can anchor a room and pull together the whole design of a space.” P07

To get this just right, is it important to use an art team that specialises in the accommodation industry?

Images courtesy of Move-In, Photography by Lisa Cohen, Project Home Richmond

Zahava Elenberg, Founder, Move-in Studio

Photography Lisa Cohen Project Home Richmond @homeapartmentsau

Why a skilled FF&E project partner is the key to success

Move-in specialises in design driven and commercially minded turnkey design & outfitting services Australia wide.

Working collaboratively with architects, interior designers, developers, project managers, builders, brands and endusers, Move-in understand the complexity of multi-room projects.

With over 20 years of experience, they deliver outstanding results for new developments and refurbishments across all market sectors.

With offices in Melbourne, Sydney and the Gold Coast, the team covers a diverse skill set. Move-in deliver creatively inspired and commercially guided FF&E for their clients and are emphatic about a collaborative approach and an early working partnership. Here's why.

Commercial Viability

As an FF&E partner, Move-in offer assistance and guidance from the concept and feasibility stage, collaborating with the design and development team to ensure the FF&E selections are considered and aligned with project budgets from the outset.

Streamlined Logistics

Move-in manage all aspects of the supply chain from prototyping and manufacturing to final installation under a single agreement. Their highly experienced team are adept in planning and managing all on-

site scenarios. Being involved from an early stage means a streamlined and cost-efficient process.

Layered Design

Move-in thrive in placemaking through considered design, furniture selections, styling and artwork, and aim to create social spaces that encourage community engagement.

Being involved in a project from the beginning ensures the design intent is articulated and incorporated into the FF&E, creating layers and a sense of place, comfort and individuality which is the cornerstone of a project’s success.

With a highly qualified interior design team, Move-in work through every aspect of the project from overall design concept to the detailed styling and accessories that give a project character.

Experiential Useability

Move-in ensures the FF&E suits the project specifications and understands the value of quality and fit-for-purpose selections for commercial applications.

They design FF&E solutions for the end user while allowing for operational and housekeeping requirements.

An intimate understanding of the project from start to finish by a skilled project partner, results in an efficient outcome for operations and a better guest experience.

Get in touch with the team to discuss your next project, enquiries@move-in.com.au

When choosing art what are the most important considerations?

“Colour and the style of décor in a space. Then think about how you want your guests to feel.”

What about statement pieces?

“The most impressive statement pieces are abstract art and portraiture. Bold colours and large-sized wall art always make a statement in a room.”

What are the latest art trends for accommodations?

“The latest artwork trends include Indigenous art, pastel colours, native flora and fauna, overblown florals, inspiration art - anything that evokes a feeling of joy!

“Also, Palm Springs/midcentury style art is trending. You will notice these art trends directly align with the emotion most accommodation properties wish to achieve, a feeling of peace, comfort, joy, luxury and excitement.”

What spaces are you most proud of?

“We are always proud when we see stylists and designers using our wall art to complete a newly renovated space, it’s hard to pick just one, but seeing the connection between

the art and other elements of the space really shows that they go hand in hand in making a space feel whole and aesthetically pleasing.”

On refurbishments, Connie advised: “Keep your artwork consistent and complementary to the overall design and colour scheme of the space. She said: “Keep it calm and relaxed, nothing too provocative or ‘out there’ so it will appeal to the majority.

“Landscape, abstract, botanical floral pieces of art will always

be a good choice when it comes to timeless appeal.

“Always choose wall art proportionate to the size of the space and the furniture, not too small or large. The positioning of wall art on a wall can also greatly affect the overall feel and look of a room.

Finally, for those on a budget, she added: “Pick out the focal wall in a space because you don’t have to put artwork on every blank wall. Less can be more.

“Opting for a stretched canvas print without the outer

frame is an affordable way to achieve the right look and stay within your budget.”

On the importance of interior design, Ali Zulfiqar Director of Linen and Towels Pty Ltd quoted an old saying that he feels is a perfect fit for the hospitality industry.

“First impression is the last impression.”

In his opinion, it is new, fresh linen that always impresses guests and adds an extra level of luxury to the interior design of any room.

He also advised that it’s very important to make sure the colour choice of your linen complements the overall theme of a room.

What should accommodation providers consider when choosing linen?

“Quality, durability, and price are the most important factors for our customers when they purchase new linen.

An accommodation provider’s ultimate goal should be to impress their guests who always demand soft, fresh and clean linen.”

What about linen care, do you have any tips to make washing easier?

“Yes. Poly Cotton Sheets are easier to iron and provide more durability as well.”

Images courtesy of Gioia Wall Art

Image courtesy of Move-In, Photography Cox Architecture, Project The Sebel Yarrawonga

Gioia Wall Art

Adding value to Australian accommodation businesses

Introducing Gioia Wall Art to the Australian accommodation and hospitality industry.

Gioia Wall Art is a boutique artwork store that prides itself on making affordable premium Australian wall art easily available to all.

In an exciting move, Gioia Wall Art has now opened up to the hospitality and accommodation sector for the very first time.

Founded in 2018, the Gioia Wall Art website offers a huge body of distinctive wall art from a wide variety of artists to suit a diverse range of interiors. The art has been selected by Gioia’s design team and the frames are hand-crafted in the team’s Melbourne workshop.

Connie Chen, the Founder, and Director of Gioia Wall Art says: “We’ve handpicked over 100 of Australia’s most talented artists so we can offer more than 5000 curated artworks for our customers to choose from on our website.

“Our ‘on trend’ wall art has been carefully selected to suit a range of tastes, styles, moods and interiors. Choose from deeply moving Aboriginal pieces, to serene ocean and beach views, or from uplifting botanicals to calming abstracts and energising urban scenes.

“Our business model allows us to offer this astonishing range

What do Gioia Wall Art customers say?

Aboriginal artists are producing some of the most innovative and sought-after art pieces in the world, which may evoke reverence in your guests and inspire cultural appreciation and education for tourists.

standards, or even a nod to your in-house cuisine and can create a sense of authenticity and prestige among guests.

property’s interior design style and brand, while appealing to guests’ eclectic tastes can be a lengthy and difficult task!

That’s why, Gioia Wall Art provides a quick and easy way to choose and purchase artworks that refresh a space and please guests:

• The Gioia Wall Art website offers expert guidance on colour, design, and size, with lots of helpful tips to get it right.

• Simple search options allow browsing by colour, artist, or popular designs.

My Great Great Grandmother’s Land By Azeza Possum

“Absolutely love this beautiful Aboriginal artwork and the deeper meaning it holds.”

Beyond emotional value, well-chosen art can put your establishment’s values on display. Heritage art pieces may evoke tradition, high

of extraordinary, high-quality artworks at very affordable prices.

“We know that accommodation managers are busy keeping their guests happy and so our website makes it easier than ever to quickly find perfect wall art for all types of hospitality accommodation spaces.”

Old Village Stairs

“We have built our little steel framed cabin over the last two years. Still lots to do to finish it. But this wall art suits so well and adds to creating a lovely little homely environment. Pretty sure people will notice it when they visit. And it will be a talking point.”

– Jennifer S.

Consider this, well-chosen wall art is a powerful way to impress and inspire guests throughout their stay and “no art might be better than bad art” but great art will most certainly add value to an accommodation experience. However, choosing great art that perfectly complements a

• Gioia’s expert art team present only beautiful art that will enhance most spaces.

Gioia Wall Art also offers:

• Museum quality fine art print and framing at affordable prices.

• Hand painted artwork.

• A wide variety of sizes and many can be customised to suit all rooms.

• Multiple framing options and frame colours to choose from.

What about ordering?

It’s never been easier to order online, art is delivered with FREE shipping Australia wide.

For more information email, support@gioia.com.au or visit gioia.com.au

– Jackie W.