As designers deeply engaged in the vibrant realm of the hotel, tourism and real estate industry, our recent attendance at the 2024 SAHIC Latin America & Caribbean Hotel Investment Conference offered invaluable insights into the trajectory of the industry in the region and illuminated a pathway towards a future where technology and design converge to redefine the guest experience. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Lima, Peru, the conference provided insights from prominent members of the hotel investment community sharing their expertise, practical advice and the latest information on development, trends and best practices in the hotel investment industry.

For the 2024 SAHIC “Innovation vs. ROI” RoundTable, OBMI Principal and Board Director Liora Haymann joined fellow experts, Emilio Perez, Marriott International Senior Continent Leader – Global Design, Caribbean & South America; Ana Ramirez, Ancestral Handmade Hotels Co-founder and Wellness Hospitality Designer; Sandra Ro, Global Blockchain Business Council CEO; Gabriela Patocchi, EDSA Vice President; Luis Alberto Tito, BWH Hotels Hotel Development Director Latin America; Mariano Porcel de Saint Georges, Amadeus Regional Director of Sales South America & Panama; and Yasmine Martin, Estrategias Turisticas MiraMartin EIRL Owner & Founder, to examine and navigate leading strategies for hotel owners and operators to meet the expectations of Next-Gen Guests in terms of design and technology, while maximizing return on investment.

Haymann shared her key takeaways from her participation on the “Innovation vs. ROI” RoundTable. contemplating the evolution of hospitality through the lens of a hotel designer. Exploring trends and innovation to enhance efficiency and guest experiences from pioneering tech innovations to a renewed focus on wellness and sustainability, the journey ahead is both exhilarating and transformative.

1. Tech Innovations Driving ROI in HospitalityThe landscape of hospitality is undergoing a seismic shift propelled by groundbreaking technological advancements. From enhanced digital services to streamlined operational efficiency, hotels are harnessing the power of innovation to elevate the guest experience while optimizing costs.Enhanced Digital Services & Controls: Rooted in the ethos of human touch and empathy, hotels are embracing contactless solutions such as smart keyless door locks and AI-driven chatbots to deliver seamless and personalized experiences. At OBMI, we recognize the importance of striking a balance between the digital and personal touch, ensuring that luxury customers receive the utmost in immediate and hassle-free service.

2. Envisioning the Future: Tech Innovations in Hotel DesignAs designers, we envision a future where technology seamlessly integrates with immersive experiences and personalized environments, ushering in a new era of hospitality design. A Room That Changes to How I Feel: At OBMI, we’re pioneering the concept of the Room of the Future, where guests can customize their surroundings through virtual reality, adjusting everything from views to ambiance with a simple gesture. Immersive public spaces and F&B experiences further enhance guest engagement, transforming static environments into dynamic, interactive hubs of activity.Unique Architecture Forms & Locations: From organic, flowy shapes to innovative uses of remote destinations, the future of hotel architecture is marked by bold experimentation and boundary-pushing design. Whether it’s designing treehouse retreats or moveable hotels, we’re exploring new frontiers in hospitality that marry cutting-edge technology with unparalleled guest experiences.

3. Aligning Tech Innovation with Client MindsetsAs the hospitality industry embraces a generational mindset of wellness and sustainability, the role of technology in shaping guest experiences has never been more crucial.A Generational Mindset of Wellness & Sustainability: At OBMI, we advocate for a holistic approach to design that combines high and low-tech innovations to promote wellness and environmental stewardship. From geophilic shapes inspired by nature to eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient systems, every aspect of our designs is crafted with the well-being of both guests and the planet in mind.

   Greening – Regenerative/Cultural Integration: Our commitment to sustainability extends beyond mere design principles, encompassing a deep respect for local culture and environment. Whether it’s transforming desert landscapes into lush oases or repurposing historic buildings for modern hospitality, we strive to create spaces that not only embrace technology but also celebrate the rich tapestry of our surroundings.

In conclusion, the future of hospitality design is an exciting fusion of technology, innovation, and timeless human touch. As designers, we stand at the vanguard of this transformation, crafting spaces that inspire, delight, and leave a lasting impression on guests for years to come. Join us as we embark on this exhilarating journey towards a future where every hotel stay is an unforgettable experience, powered by the perfect blend of technology and design.

To learn more about navigating the Design & Tech Revolution in the Hospitality Sector contact [email protected] or connect with Liora Haymann through LinkedIn.