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Hospitality design isn’t just about aesthetics. The spaces developers create today determine how efficiently a property can operate, how much revenue it can generate, and how well it meets the evolving expectations of tomorrow’s travelers.
As resorts prepare for 2026 and beyond, here are five design trends developers should prioritize to ensure both guest appeal and long-term asset value.
Flexible, Multi-Use Spaces
Today’s guests expect spaces that serve more than one purpose. Lobbies that double as co-working lounges, F&B outlets that can flex between casual dining and event space, and guestrooms designed for longer stays all maximize utility.
Why it matters: Flexible design improves revenue per square foot while creating guest experiences that adapt to different travel segments — from families to digital nomads.
Sustainability Built Into the Blueprint
Eco-conscious design isn’t a luxury anymore — it’s table stakes. From energy-efficient HVAC systems to solar-ready rooftops and water-saving fixtures, developers are integrating sustainability from day one.
Why it matters: Green design reduces operating costs, aligns with ESG priorities, and enhances brand reputation in increasingly eco-conscious markets.
Seamless Technology Integration
Guests expect frictionless technology: mobile check-in, digital keys, and in-room smart controls. But these features work best when designed into the infrastructure rather than bolted on later.
Why it matters: Technology-forward design improves labor efficiency, enhances the guest experience, and future-proofs the property against rapid innovation cycles.
Outdoor Living and Wellness Amenities
Post-pandemic, demand for outdoor and wellness-focused spaces has skyrocketed. Developers are prioritizing open-air dining, rooftop lounges, fitness/wellness centers, and integration with natural surroundings — especially in resort destinations.
Why it matters: Wellness-oriented amenities drive rate premiums, extend average length of stay, and cater to high-value traveler segments.
Experiences Over Standardization
Cookie-cutter rooms and generic layouts are losing appeal. Developers who prioritize unique, locally inspired design elements and experiential features (e.g., chef’s kitchens, themed suites, interactive kids’ zones) stand out in a crowded market.
Why it matters: Distinctive design builds brand equity, fuels organic marketing through guest advocacy, and supports repeat visitation.
The Bottom Line
Hospitality design in 2026 isn’t just about building beautiful spaces. It’s about balancing guest expectations, operational efficiency, and long-term asset value.
At Brittain Resorts & Hotels, we work closely with developers and owners to ensure design decisions today align with the needs of tomorrow — creating resorts that are both profitable and unforgettable.
Want to explore design strategies that maximize ROI in the next era of hospitality? Connect with Brittain Resorts & Hotels to learn how our development and management expertise can guide your next project.