WHAT ’ S HOT DESIGN
WHAT ’ S HOT DESIGN
Bode rooms have communal living rooms and kitchen spaces .
Hotel
HANGOUTS
H ang out with your friends in your own living room , or have a beer and join a card game in a communal hub : Some of the newest urban hotels are being designed with floorplans that focus on group travel , gathering and socializing . The intimate public spaces provide a place for groups to congregate and guests to mingle , and the guest rooms can be configured to accommodate those traveling together .
“ In the traditional lobby , people walk past each other ,” says California investor Philip Bates , who last year launched
Bode , a hotel brand that caters to groups traveling together such as alumni reunions , bachelor parties and company work teams .
Bode opened its first location in Nashville in November ; a property in Chattanooga , Tennessee , was slated to open in April . That state was targeted because it is centrally located and attracts groups for work , concerts , sporting events and other occasions , Bates says . Next up are Southern California locations Palm Springs , Indian Wells and Orange County .
In catering to groups , Bode offers floor plans with two to five bedrooms and common living areas and kitchens , aimed at families , friends and work teams . Independent travelers can opt for a traditional accommodation — the hotels will be built with about 110 rooms , Bates says . In Nashville , groups congregate in the communal “ Hub ” for a cocktails and snacks . “ Guests aren ’ t shy ,” Bates says . “ People are open ; they feel like they ’ re part of something .”
Hilton is taking a similar approach to communal space with the launch of its Motto brand , announced in late 2018 .
38 hotelsmag . com June 2019