Daniel Schneider on redefining hotel and restaurant design in the modern age
Monoplan, an architecture and interior design firm based in Zurich with offices in Germany and Greece, works on projects worldwide. Their approach to designing hotels and restaurants begins with defining the "guest journey"—the way guests move through and experience spaces. The goal is to create an emotional and positive experience that aligns with guest expectations for functionality, flow, and aesthetics. These expectations vary widely, whether for a guest at a two-star hotel or a luxury resort, and it’s crucial to address them effectively. Additionally, the often-overlooked functionality of back-of-house areas plays a significant role in the overall guest experience.
Budget constraints inevitably shape the design process, limiting the extent of creative freedom. The vast array of choices available, from off-the-shelf items to custom-made pieces, can be overwhelming. For example, a conference room with 400 chairs might require standard stock items, while a unique design calls for a custom piece. Understanding the target audience is essential, as it guides decisions about design, materials, colors, surfaces, and digital integration. The specific needs of different hotel types, such as family hotels versus honeymoon destinations, dictate these choices.
The industry has been dramatically transformed by digitalization and the pandemic, with artificial intelligence now playing a significant role in the design process. Traditionally, the process started with a briefing and progressed through ideas, development, and visualization. However, AI has flipped this sequence. Now, visualizations can be generated instantly, and if they meet client approval, the design team works backward to select materials and set the budget. This shift creates new challenges, particularly in ensuring that the promises made by these AI-driven visualizations can be fulfilled in the final product.
In this new landscape, Monoplan must navigate the tension between the rapid, high-expectation visualizations provided by AI and the practical realities of bringing these designs to life. The firm's commitment to delivering on these promises, despite the challenges introduced by AI and budget constraints, is crucial to their continued success in creating unique and functional spaces that resonate with guests.
