The hotel industry has always been driven by innovation, which is a result of the constant need to remain relevant and to excite customers with new products and services to create unique experiences.
XOTELS has compiled a list of hotels to inspire you. These are hotels that embrace innovation and use creative methods to provide top-notch services to their customers.
Get inspired by our list of innovative and creative hotel concepts!
BUNK Hotel
BUNK Hotels is a bridge between Hotels and Hostels. Smart positioning allows them to capture a large chunk of demand from different audiences. Their two locations (Amsterdam and Utrecht) are both in former churches. The rooms are a mix of private and shared wooden pods. The original spaces can be transformed into beautiful concepts by using creative thinking while preserving historical elements.
What makes them different?
The unique hybrid concept is their pay-off.
Reimagining the possibilities of space, materials, and art. The two churches have been transformed into a perfect gathering place for travelers. The central hub, as seen in the picture above, is made of wood repurposed from church benches.
It is an excellent way to divide a large area. The wall can be used as a bar if you have one or even incorporated into the kitchen.
The beautiful church windows, as well as the Quellhorst Organ (which is still in use!) built in 1813, are also worth mentioning. The building has remained a central part.
Artwork is prominently displayed: Throughout the building, you will find beautiful and quirky pieces of art that not only attract the eye but also elevate the experience.
Our tips?
Re-invent the hotel space with innovative materials that will elevate the aesthetics and maximize the overall use of the area.
As BUNK did, try to bridge gaps between concepts to appeal to a wide audience while creating a compelling, innovative hotel concept.
They can increase revenue by focusing on the art of their design.
Paris j’Adore Hotel & Spa
Paris j’Adore Hotel & Spa is a true jewel in the city of Paris. This is the perfect choice for the wealthy traveler who wants to enjoy a romantic weekend in the city of love.
Everything is considered to ensure that every guest has a memorable experience.
What makes these stand out?
The whole concept, including services, decor, and products on offer, is catered to fit the high-end romantic travel audience (ultra-segmentation). This results in a quirky and unique design embracing a Parisian style that stands out amongst the crowd.
Consider the following design details:
Swing hanging on the wall.
A luxuriously-sized Jacuzzi in the room.
The use of soft, warm, and flowing materials and decorative items throughout the property is reminiscent of the Parisian style.
Our tips?
Choose segments that are valuable (and align with your concept) and offer them niche products (e.g., Romantic packages for couples or family packages that cater to multiple generations.
For the upper segments, if you don’t meet the wants and needs of those who are looking for the perfect getaway for high-end travelers, it is a missed revenue opportunity.
Incorporate local culture and design in your hotel to give it a “local” feel.
Marienhage Boutique Hotel
The look and feel can be greatly improved by using innovative architecture. Hotel Marienhage in Eindhoven certainly is no exception.
The landmark building, which was once a monastery, has been transformed into a stylish boutique hotel located in the center of Eindhoven in The Netherlands. This is a perfect boutique MICE venue, offering everything in one place, from a boutique to a repurposed monumental church for events and meetings. The versatility of the venue is evident, as it can host a variety of events, including weddings, business meetings, private dinners, and exhibitions.
What makes them different?
Design that is eye-catching and reflects the historic significance of the property.
Branding that is strong and makes guests feel as if they are at a unique hotel.
Our tips?
Keep your brand identity consistent. If you change too much, it can lead to a disjointed guest experience.
Don’t lose sight of the brand philosophy you want to convey by adding pieces and pieces without any thought.
Create an authentic brand story by using the history of your asset.
Add quirky elements that reference the past. Marienhage, for example, uses apples in the decor to refer to the forbidden fruit. The use of dark wood and gold elements is also a tribute to the heritage of the building.
To complete the experience, brand your room types the same way. You can give different designs and categories of rooms creative names, just as Marienhage has done: Blue Virgin. Epic Eden. Heavenly White. Modern Monk. Monastery Mystery.
You can use all of the tips above to either purchase a brand-new hotel or renovate your existing asset into a completely new concept.
The Green Elephant Hostel & Spa
The Green Elephant, which was recently awarded the Hostel of the Year award, is an excellent example of an innovative concept in the management area. This concept is a leader in the luxury Glostel/ Poshtel space, whether it’s their creative twist on pods and private room, their choice of products and services, or even their overall approach to hotel management.
The hostels are unique in that they incorporate wellness and well-being into the hostel concept, making facilities that would normally only be found at higher-end hotels available to budget-conscious travelers. The eco-spa includes wellness treatments, saunas, foot baths, and buckets of showers. There is also an ice wall and an infrared panel. The hostel’s food is geared towards guests’ health and wellness, with healthy, eco-friendly options. The hostel is a leader in the price range by focusing on and providing services and products that cater to this segment.
Budget-conscious travelers are also becoming overwhelmed by generic products and services available on the market. They are seeking more variety at lower prices. The Green Elephant is a great example of an organization that delivers on its promise to bring variety and excitement to the market.
What makes them different?
The hostels’ creative and practical solution to the generic sleeping arrangements.
Choose an innovative hybrid concept, combining affordable accommodation and luxury amenities (spa and well-being, a wide selection of high-quality services, and high-level furnishings).
The addition of wellness (which has traditionally been reserved for the high-end segment) to a hostel opens up new markets and breaks down barriers. It allows for an in-depth dive into serving a market that is concerned about their wellbeing, aligning with everything from healthy eating trends, eco materials, and practices to exercise and relaxing activities.
Zoku
The concept of Zoku is a clever combination of living and working areas, with ample space to work either in your room or the many social spaces that are available.
There is no need to be stuck in a dull co-working room or meeting space without a view. All social and working areas are located at the top of the building, with unobstructed views of Amsterdam.
The rooms are equipped with all the amenities you would need for a working and living environment. The modular design of the rooms is a clever and refreshing way to separate living and working spaces. Even gymnastic rings are suspended from the ceiling, giving you the opportunity to exercise. What else is there to do?
