Studio Munge: Multi-layered Solutions to Changing Needs
We recently spoke to Alessandro Munge of Studio Munge about his recent projects, as well as what the future holds for the world of hospitality design.
Due to the many changes in how we interact, what do you think will be priorities and considerations for designing hospitality in the future?
I think some of those changes are temporary, while others are transitional, some may be permanent. Our strength comes from experiencing the world, witnessing patterns, understanding tribes and human behaviour. While the situation has forced us in physical isolation to protect each other, I still believe humans to be social explorers by nature. People will go back to restaurants; they will travel the world seeking new adventures. However, we will all behave differently, perhaps a little more cautiously.
Hospitality design is about creating a multilayered meaningful, and purposeful solution. This experience should engage the guest on a much deeper level while supporting the ever-evolving operational needs. For example, thoughtfully designed vestibules in restaurants like Amal’s are practical solutions to control flow, facilitating the increase in takeout orders while protecting the dining experience. We are also reinforcing a variation in degrees of privacy – offering a wide range of versatile seating options to suit different parties and their comfort level. Alongside increased sanitation protocols, this guarantees a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Technology has allowed our teams and brands to completely reinvent the check-in experience leaving behind long wait lines and overcrowded desks when it comes to hotels. Through their personal devices, reservation stations or greeted by a host, the guest is in control and experiences a more fluid check-in. We also always think about hotel rooms as more than such.
Even when dealing with narrow spaces, we take great pride in planning and curating the space with custom pieces that will accommodate comfortable extended stays integrating lounging, working, dining and entertaining. All designs firms will have their take on new solutions; I envision spaces to be a little more edited with less clutter. We are minimizing accessories to focus on just the right amount of articles to meet the guests’ needs. The guest experience has to rely now more than ever on exciting amenities for leisure travellers and flexibility on interior programming for business travellers accomodating all needs. The pressure on good design will be more evident in the future than ever before!