RESEARCH
Boutique hotels have open-ended design options but require specific attention to certain aspects. To best understand the important and impactful features and develop a successful and intentional design, I conducted serveral literature reviews focused on different topics that can be applied to the design of the Aurora Hotel. Below are two of the articles I reviewed with specific takeaways from each that I applied to the design of the Aurora Hotel.
1. "Understanding the Value of Boutique Hotels" by Daniel F. Wheeler (2006).
This article was a great resource to understand the general features that create a boutique hotel and what will set it apart from conventional hotels. Two main characteristics of a boutique hotel, that seemed consistent among all, are (1) small and (2) specialized.
Other qualitative elements to be considered in a boutique hotel are: stylish, amenity oriented, smaller spaces, and intimacy.
Takeaway: Travelers will look to boutique hotels for an intimate and personal experience with easy access to hotel amenities. It should be designed in a way that feels 'all inclusive' to the guests but not exclusive to the community.
2. "The Boutique and Lifestyle Hotel Report 2014" by Sue McKenney (2014).
Important characteristics of a boutique hotel go beyond the visual appearance and the functionality to users.
Boutique hotels possess a quality of making their guests feel important and recognized. Providing self-fulfillment to guests is essential to bring customers into the space - this is acknowledging the psychological needs of guests.
It is essential to recognize that today people are more willing to invest their time and money into experiences that are aimed at benefitting their well-being.
Takeaway: Emphasizing high levels of personal comfort, warmth, intimacing, and enhancing a desired mood or aesthetic are important elements to portray through design. It is also valuable to design for all people, so every individual feels important and recognized through inclusive and universal design!