Lifestyle hotels: providing a resort-within-a-city experience. Photo Credit: Adobe stock/GVS
Lifestyle hotels offer a distinctive atmosphere, incorporating contemporary design, vibrant interiors and innovative concepts. They are of increasing appeal to MICE organisers and attendees seeking an immersive and memorable moment beyond traditional hotel settings.
The 294-room M Social Suzhou marketed itself as the first luxury lifestyle hotel in China when it opened in April. Its GM, Patrick Chmielewski, said that lifestyle hotels are matching the changing needs and expectations of guests and event professionals, who are looking for unique experiences inspired by local culture.
“We keep up with current trends in the hospitality industry, including [combining] local art, culture and design to offer that unique experience not available at other properties,” said Chmielewski.
“The hotel is inspired by the picturesque views of nearby Jinji Lake combined with a modern industrial-chic design that caters to the tastes of the young, urban and savvy traveller.”
He believed that such hotels fulfil an increasing trend where MICE attendees want to travel to a vibrant destination, to enjoy a ‘mini vacation’ in addition to their business schedule.
“When corporate planners choose a hotel for their meetings and events, they often opt for a place in a prime location that offers convenience and nearby amenities with entertainment, culture, unique cuisine and other activities outside of work,” he said.
Adapt and interact
Flexible event spaces with the emphasis on social interaction are another lifestyle draw, according to Mark Meaney, GM of Conrad Seoul.
“Lifestyle hotels typically have flexible event spaces that can be customised to suit various types of events,” he said. “They often feature multi-functional areas that can be adapted to accommodate different event formats, whether it's a conference, exhibition or social gathering. Other spaces include stylish lounges, rooftop bars and co-working spaces, where event attendees can network, socialise, and unwind. These spaces foster a more relaxed and informal environment, encouraging meaningful connections among participants.”
The integration of advanced technology is another feature too. As Meaney outlined, lifestyle hotels offer state-of-the-art AV equipment, high-speed internet connectivity, and interactive tools that enhance the event experience and facilitate seamless communication and collaboration.
F&B options play a significant role too. These hotels often feature trendy restaurants, innovative dining concepts, and specialty bars. They emphasise curated menus, artisanal ingredients and creative presentations, catering to diverse culinary preferences and providing a memorable dining experience for event attendees.
Health and happiness
In the UK, The Londoner described itself as ‘the world's first super boutique hotel’ when it opened in London just under two years ago. Sophie Crann, senior PR & marketing manager at the property, said that event planners, particularly those in the incentive market, are choosing lifestyle hotels as they understand that the day does not stop when the meetings do.
“They want to be able to add other elements to their programmes, giving their clients a full ‘resort’ experience,” she said. “We aim to create memorable experiences for event bookers, ensuring a personalised touch. This could be a team building dinner, or nurturing that competitive spirit with a pub quiz in Joshua’s [a gin bar]. We also recognise the importance of holistic wellbeing and provide a world-class gym and spa, as well as the option to create a bespoke programme of wellness events from yoga classes to running clubs, to help guests relax and rejuvenate during their stay.”
ParkRoyal Collection Pickering Singapore recently introduced eco-wellness experiences – from a rooftop urban farm with farm-to-table and farm-to-bar concepts, conscious dining F&B menus, to sleep ritual turndown amenities.
“We also prioritise guests’ physical and mental well-being with monthly ‘Stay Fit’ weekend classes including yoga, zumba and meditation,” said a spokesperson for ParkRoyal Collection Pickering.