Your lobby is your first impression for your customers and as they say, you can never get a second chance at a first impression. First impressions are the most lasting. Have you ever heard any of these sayings?
We know that they ring true when it comes to meeting new people, but it is also true when it comes to your hotel or commercial space. Your lobby’s need for a well-thought out design cannot be understated. How can your lobby be designed so as to be the perfect welcome for your customers?
LOOK AT YOUR SPACE: Balance is key in this regard. Too large, and the area seems stark and cold. Too cramped and your guests will not want to linger.
MAKE IT RELAXING: This is not where you are going to want to have stark lighting. Choose yellow light instead of white and use wall lights to focus on key areas. Adding plants and other natural elements can go a long way to creating a peaceful ambience from the second your guest steps through the door.
MAKE IT COMFORTABLE: Travelling, while exciting, can be sometimes exhausting. When entering your lobby, it should be very easy to navigate and for your guests to be able to locate key amenities. Additionally, comfortable furniture will not only provide a relaxing place to wait, but will add an inviting ambience to the entire area.
KNOW YOUR GUESTS: Who is your typical guest? Is it families? Business travellers? Older ones? A hotel that attracts mostly families should not have a lot of breakable or sharp items in the lobby. On the other hand, a lobby that attracts higher-end business clients should clearly communicate luxury from the moment your customer enters the building.
ALIGN YOUR DESIGN WITH YOUR CORPORATE BRANDING: The colours, the lighting, the furniture – it all should reflect your corporate branding and will tell your guests what kind of stay to expect. A lobby that is neglected or bland will result in low expectations, or worse, disengagement from your guest.
What do you think? What is the most important feature for a welcoming lobby?
