In the 'new normal', hotel rooms are no longer (only) for sleeping. They have become places to spend time. Starting with technology, which is shaping the traveller's experience. Even before entering the room, the experience is already smart: the guest can access the room without a key, using a code or an app. Within the room, digital controls allow temperature, light and power to be adjusted and programmed via a smartphone or tablet. It is thanks to a tablet already present in the accommodation that guests can consult hotel services, play music and make special requests. In addition, a quick scan of a QR code enables communication with hotel staff in real time. And even room service robots, which make personalised deliveries, are appearing in some hotels.

In terms of design, the increasingly hi-tech orientation of rooms often results in the use of an eclectic style. Original furniture, unpredictable colour combinations and works of art from different epochs and styles coexist in harmony thanks to a contemporary leitmotif, e.g. careful lighting designed according to the criteria of colour matching and lighting technology.

The watchword for many establishments is to express exclusivity not so much in 'luxury', but by departing from repetitiveness and standards, promoting customised rooms that, thanks to this 'home away from home' mood, are no longer intended solely for sleeping, but also for spending leisure time or working.

Luxury hotels also strive to provide their guests with a unique and comfortable experience through the new creation of micro-rooms, small but luxurious, functional and efficient even with the removal of unnecessary amenities such as drawers or bathtubs. The extra detail? Mixology in the room: thanks to a special kit that allows guests to create their own customised drink.

Sustainability is also high on the list of key features of luxury rooms. Many hotels are achieving global LEED certification, which assesses the eco-friendliness of the building by considering water efficiency and indoor environmental quality. No more disposable plastic bottles, cutlery, containers or toiletries in the rooms, but compostable alternatives.

To save energy, the rooms have sensors that switch off the power supply when no movement is detected for a certain period of time.

Host 2023 - at fieramilano from 13 to 17 October - will be the best place to discover the key trends of the hotel room of tomorrow.