Lobbies are the physical structures that welcome us to a hotel and signal that, after a long journey, we have finally arrived. As COVID-19 vaccines roll out and travel restrictions gradually lift around the world, we can begin to see travel more clearly on the horizon. For many around the world, after months without travel, that moment of first setting foot into a hotel again will be one for the books.
A shared space for distinctive architectural and design elements, popular hotel amenities, and the meeting point before or after setting out on an adventure, the lobby is the heartbeat of a hotel. As Hilton explores the ways hotel lobby design continues to evolve and what will stay after a year of change, one thing is for sure – the feelings that first entering a hotel evoke will remain the same.
To drum up excitement for that next trip, whenever that may be, here are some of the most unforgettable Hilton hotel lobbies around the world and what you can expect when you arrive.
The Candler Hotel Atlanta, Curio Collection by Hilton (Atlanta, GA)
Art enthusiasts, history buffs and laymen alike will appreciate the grandiose lobby of The Candler Hotel Atlanta, Curio Collection by Hilton. Originally built in 1906 by businessman Asa Griggs Candler as Central Bank & Trust – Atlanta’s first steel skyscraper – the 17-story high-rise hotel is on the National Register of Historic Places. The hotel honors its past by retaining the building’s original lobby featuring picturesque, hand-carved marble staircases embellished with the hotel’s iconic winged lion, along with two original Tiffany glass windows. The Beaux-Arts style draws upon the principles of French neoclassicism, incorporating Gothic and Renaissance elements for an architectural design seldom found in hotels today.
Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers (Abu Dhabi, U.A.E.)
The arrival moment at Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers is a multisensory experience. A breathtaking panorama awaits arriving guests, paired with the fragrant aroma of bakhour, the traditional Arabic incense for welcoming visitors on special occasions which is infused throughout the lobby area. The vast 12-meter-high ceiling, with over 20-meters-long frameless glazing, allows for unparalleled panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf, in addition to ocean-inspired water features and extensive integrated paving. Expecting to be dazzled when you enter a hotel? The 12 crystal ball sculptures featured in the lobby lounge and pre-function area of the conference center comprise more than 100,000 pieces of crystal trimmings. The overall sense of the space and quality of light contributes to one of the most unique hotel arrival experiences in the world.
Waldorf Astoria Bangkok (Bangkok, Thailand)
Timeless Waldorf Astoria elegance meets contemporary chic at Waldorf Astoria Bangkok. Upon entering the Lower Lobby, guests are transported into a world of serenity set against an 8-meter-high lobby lined in pristine white Carrara marble. The space exudes residential warmth and comfort with bespoke wall-hung glowing pendants and an abundance of table lamps and candle stands, as well as custom furnishing in mineral azure blue and dusty sand color palettes introduced by internationally celebrated André Fu and his Hong Kong-based design studio AFSO. A walk across the white marble floor leads guests to the elevator to the Upper Lobby where guests are greeted by a pair of symmetrical floor-to-ceiling burnished bronze screens, wrought into an intricate lattice that intertwines the iconic Art Deco motifs that pay homage to the Waldorf Astoria brand’s flagship property in New York.
Hilton Munich Airport (Munich, Germany)
Guests will find a hotel lobby experience unlike any other at this futuristic airport hotel. Located between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 of the Munich airport, Hilton Munich Airport is a calm and peaceful oasis that separates guests from the notorious noisy airport hustle and bustle. The towering, light-filled atrium greets guests during the approach to the hotel and continues to wow upon entrance. The one-of-a-kind design includes all-around glass with metal beams incorporated throughout, numerous pieces of modern art, and innovative glass-encased potted flowers in the main lobby area and garden space. Looking to grab a drink or a quick bite? Head towards the 18-meter-high palm trees where you’ll find the Nightflight Bar, the go-to venue for travelers between flights and hotel guests alike.
Hilton Barra Rio de Janeiro (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil)
Top architects, interior designers and landscape artists played a pivotal role in creating a space where guests are embraced by their surroundings at Hilton Barra Rio de Janeiro. Most notably, in the hotel lobby. At 120 feet high, the lobby space is an impressive showroom, perfect for showcasing the natural settings that Rio is known for. The furniture and décor emulate the city’s natural flair and stylish identity in the form of contemporary architecture and design, with the style and feel of the local culture. As the centerpiece of the hotel, the lobby, when illuminated in the evening, acts as a gigantic glass box shining light throughout the property.
Homewood Suites by Hilton Salt Lake City-Downtown (Salt Lake City, UT)
The gateway to Utah’s capital, the recently renovated Homewood Suites by Hilton Salt Lake City-Downtown is the lens through which guests can appreciate what makes Utah singular. The hotel features a beautiful cosmopolitan lobby with large bay windows granting natural light and scenic views of downtown. The space is decorated with stunning contemporary art which highlights the local area and features unique Utah history while retaining the sophistication of its décor. The most eye-catching feature is a one-of-a-kind red paper mâché suspended from the lobby’s 20-foot ceiling that portrays a cloud illuminated by a Utah sunset.
St. Louis Union Station Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton (St. Louis, MO)
Catch a glimpse of a time when travel was considered an art at St. Louis Union Station Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton. Adorned with sweeping archways, frescos, gold leaf detailing, mosaics and glass windows, the hotel lobby retains the opulent architecture and décor of its famous Grand Hall that has made it a St. Louis icon since 1894. In the evening, the hotel lobby flaunts its more modern side as the sweeping arches transform into a lightshow of 3D video vignettes, from flying birds to aquarium scenes.
West Hotel Sydney, Curio Collection by Hilton (Sydney, Australia)
Distinctively independent in character and full of designer touches, West Hotel Sydney, Curio Collection by Hilton’s lobby is one that will not be easily forgotten. Nestled between the iconic Darling Harbor and up-and-coming Barangaroo neighborhood, the hotel is perfect for guests looking for the best of both worlds. Fans of biophilia design concepts will appreciate the centerpiece of the hotel, the stunning central open-air ‘jungle’ atrium with luscious foliage and sparkling festoon lights, creating an urban oasis where guests can escape the busy city life and be dazzled by the hotel’s edgy sophistication.
Tru by Hilton Franklin Cool Springs Nashville (Franklin, TN)
There are more than 175 Tru by Hilton locations across the United States and Canada, but no matter which one you visit, you will be greeted with a lobby that’s unlike any other hotel in the Hilton portfolio. Tru by Hilton Franklin Cool Springs Nashville is conveniently located 20 minutes from downtown Nashville and only 10 minutes from historic downtown Franklin. The hotel features a lively, reimagined lobby with space to work, a game zone, lounge area and 24/7 market. The game area features a pool table and tons of board games for guests to enjoy, and a bespoke, locally inspired mural highlights the area’s top local attractions.
In addition to enjoying these beautiful lobbies, members of Hilton’s guest-loyalty program, Hilton Honors, can receive instant benefits and rewards. Members can choose to pay in a combination of Points and money, as well as enjoy discounted rates when booking direct through Hilton.com or the Hilton Honors App. Plus, Hilton Honors members can earn even more Points on their next stay when they register for the Points Unlimited promotion. Not yet a member? It’s free and easy to enroll at HiltonHonors.com.