In the world of hospitality, creating a luxurious and inviting ambience is paramount. Beyond just aesthetics, today's guests seek an immersive experience that tantalises their senses and evokes a sense of comfort and opulence. One crucial element that plays a pivotal role in achieving this is the choice of materials and finishes used in hotel interiors. These elements are the tactile foundation upon which a hotel's design story is built. Keeping up with the context, Ar. Anil Badan, Founder and Principal Architect of Studio B Architects shares his insights on the significance of materials and finishes in crafting hotel interiors.

Materials: Foundation of Tactile Luxury 

Materials are the base upon which the entire aesthetics of the hotel interior is built. The selection of materials goes far beyond aesthetics as it is an art form that integrates functionality and visual appeal. Modern hotels often blend a variety of materials to create a harmonious and visually striking atmosphere. For instance, the use of natural stones like marble in hotel lobbies exudes elegance and offers a tactile experience. They provide a visual and sensory connection to nature, infusing a sense of tranquillity and luxury. One of our projects, the Taj Convention Center at Agra uses marble throughout the hotel to create a lavish yet modern setting. Another material that can be used is wood as it serves as a sustainable choice and adds warmth and character to hotel interiors.

Finishes: Art of Refinement

Finishes are the surface treatments applied to materials that play a crucial role in enhancing the tactile luxury of a hotel interior. They add depth, texture, and visual interest to various surfaces transforming interiors to new heights of elegance. For instance, the use of metallic finishes in hotel interiors creates an air of opulence while making guests feel immersed in luxury. Our project Radisson Blu at Dharamshala incorporates various glossy finishes that create a sense of minimalism while aligning with the overall theme. Moreover, wall finishes also contribute to the overall tactile experience of interiors. For instance, textured wallpapers can create depth and interest in a space while inviting guests to experience a sensory experience. 

Creating a Harmonious Balance

While the use of luxurious materials and finishes can elevate a hotel’s interior, achieving the right balance is essential. An excess of luxury can be daunting for guests, whereas a lack of it can result in them feeling unimpressed. Each material and finish should complement and enhance the others to create a unified design scheme. For instance, Fort Rajwada in Jaisalmer creates a harmonious balance of materials and finishes aligning with the local Rajasthani theme. 

Power of Lighting

Embedded within the context, the significance of materials and finishes can be elevated through lighting. Proper lighting can enhance the tactile qualities bringing them to life in a captivating way. Ambient lighting can create a warm and inviting atmosphere highlighting the texture and details of materials, adding depth and visual interest to the space. Moreover, accent lighting can create dramatic effects amplifying the luxurious aspects of the hotel interior.

The selection of materials and finishes is a cornerstone in the creation of modern hotel interiors. These elements not only contribute to the tactile luxury but also play a pivotal role in crafting a cohesive and harmonious design. The role of materials and finishes in modern hotel interiors cannot be overstated as they are the keys to unlocking a truly exceptional guest experience.