Building spaces for belonging By Courtney Messersmith There’s been a shift. Walk into any hotel today to see it: The buzz of laptops in the lobby, a couple sharing drinks near a charging station, and a group of coworkers having a quick meeting on the couch by the window. Guest behaviors have evolved. The rise of remote work, blended travel, and the impacts of social … [Read more...] about The Thread of Human Connection
Design
Designing for Longevity
Why the smartest hotel investment might be outside By Megan Pierson Not long ago, hotel outdoor spaces were considered nice-to-have amenities, a pleasant patio or a pool deck that came alive for a few warm months each year. Today, those spaces have moved to center stage. As travel habits evolve, outdoor environments are emerging as one of the most powerful drivers of … [Read more...] about Designing for Longevity
Design as a Differentiator
How independent hotels can stand out through thoughtful design By Aaryan Patel and Jin Laxmidas Independent hoteliers continue to shape the character and diversity of America’s lodging industry. While branded hotels rely on uniformity to reinforce identity and recognition, independent properties have the freedom – and the opportunity – to distinguish themselves through … [Read more...] about Design as a Differentiator
It’s Not About the Trend; It’s About the Response
How hotels can adapt to ongoing industry trends and win over guests By Courtney Messersmith Many of the trends shaping hospitality in 2026 aren’t new. However, hotel guests are demanding something different from these same trends that have defined the industry for years. In 2026, the focus won’t be on what’s in vogue; rather, it will be on how quickly hotel owners and … [Read more...] about It’s Not About the Trend; It’s About the Response
Preserving the Past, Designing the Future
Redeveloping a heritage hotel in a historic district requires patience and respect. By Ankita Jain “We are obsessed with monuments and not with continuity. Preservation must be about keeping history alive, not freezing it in time,” architect Rahul Mehrotra once said. That sentiment lives at the heart of Alma San Juan – a project that has profoundly shaped how I think … [Read more...] about Preserving the Past, Designing the Future