As the hospitality industry settles into the swing of a new year, Maud Capet, an Associate Principal of OBMI, gives an insight into her predictions for hospitality design in 2025.
Technology is a tool, not the focal point
The overload of digital interaction in daily life has resulted in a growing need for mindful, tactile experiences. Guests at the world’s most luxurious hotels are seeking environments that allow them to unplug, connect with their senses, and feel more like with themselves again. Over recent years, technology has been a draw for hotels. But in 2025, technology will be treated as a tool, not as the focal point. Designers will aim to integrate it seamlessly, concealing it within the design to enhance usability without disrupting the sensory balance of a space.
Designing through the lens of local authenticity
Of course, the natural environment shapes design, from product design to architectural masterplans. From studying the climate and geography to understanding local materials, 2025 will see the prioritisation of elements that integrate harmoniously with the surroundings. Imagine a beachfront resort where distressed woods and stone sourced from nearby mountains reflect the rugged coastal landscape, or a desert retreat where sliding glass façades blur the lines between interior comfort and the vast, open outdoors.
History also plays an important role in designing with local authenticity in mind. Every location has a story, whether it’s the architectural heritage of a centuries-old city or the traditional craftsmanship of a rural region. Hospitality design will see these elements woven in, in new ways. For instance, bespoke furniture might feature hand-carved motifs inspired by local folklore, or textiles could echo the patterns of indigenous art.
Craftsmanship and sustainability
In an age of fast fashion and mass production, authenticity can be found in the handmade. This year, we will see developers, interior designers and architects championing local artisans, not just as a nod to cultural heritage but as a commitment to sustainability. Each handcrafted piece, whether a woven textile, a ceramic lamp, or a carved headboard, carries the story of the community that created it.
The role of AI in creative visualisation
Artificial intelligence is transforming how designers conceptualise spaces. At OBMI, we use AI tools to create dynamic visualisations that bring design narratives to life. These tools allow designers to push creative boundaries, imagining interiors that seamlessly blend contemporary aesthetics with local authenticity.
This year will demonstrate that AI doesn’t replace the designer; it amplifies creativity. It helps us visualise spaces more effectively while maintaining the integrity of the design narrative.
