Tempo Beat | Spring 2021

This month’s release of the Tempo Developer pack offers numerous design updates and programming additions. Working with our friends over at NELSON, our design agency partner, the following op-ed style insights provide some behind the scenes commentary on how we’ve worked through two elements – the guest room and outdoor space.

Reframed Rituals

The events of last year have fundamentally changed the way consumers engage with environments. Hotel brands and owners are finding that we must embrace a new, innovative mindset to better prepare for the future. The industry needs to anticipate consumer needs and how we will bring to life an entirely new level of responsibility, especially as we regain a sense of normalcy. From checkout and concierge, to breakfast buffets and fitness spaces, brands must optimize, amplify, reinvent, and even evolve familiar rituals to better cater to guests’ changing lifestyles.

Reframe: The Guest Room

With the expected long-term increase in remote workers and greater sensitivity to crowded public spaces, many speculate that the role of the guest room will expand beyond a comfortable night’s sleep. Tempo is anticipating that this could potentially shift traveler profiles and lifestyles and the work done early on to build flexible room accommodations where guests can work, exercise, and even entertain is positioned appropriately.

• So Fresh & So Clean. Tempo recognizes that the guest focus on cleanliness will continue to be amplified in the years to come. Within the Brand, guests will see the visible and invisible signals that keep guests’ minds at ease – from a fresh scent to uncluttered surfaces – the design intent is thoughtful. Having open shelving and removing drawers where dirt and dust can hide will go a long way in this effort.
• Wandering Workers. There is no disputing that the pandemic has redefined the workplace. Guest rooms support potential behavioral shifts with flexible work-ready amenities. Access to natural light, oversized windows and the combination of mirrors, task-like furniture, and long, flat surfaces allow guests the opportunity to spread out and get comfortable. The spacious “Get Ready Zone” provides the perfect destination for guests to accomplish a variety of tasks and activities with flexible seating, storage, and work options.
• Elevating Conveniences. Even before the global pandemic, the Tempo target demographic moved through life with an on-the-go mentality. “When consumers adjusted to stay-at-home orders, historic indulgences became expected amenities – from grocery delivery to virtual doctor’s visits – the presumption of elevated conveniences became second-nature. These learned behaviors will change the way users interact with an environment; every touchpoint of a guest journey needs to be frictionless,” says Rachael Leson, Senior Interior Designer, NELSON Worldwide. Post-COVID-19 consumers will have higher expectations for on-demand needs. Adding to the Brand’s recipe for success, the open plan public areas are designed to allow for community and convenient adjacency of coffee, grab & go retail, and food & beverage so guests can keep their on-the-go pace and maintain ease.

Reframe: The Rooftop & Patio Experience

Food and beverage outlets traditionally have been more than just a place to eat. For this particular area, space to optimize the experience is important. For restaurants and patio spaces alike, they are typically where people gather, connect, and spend time with loved ones. “The opportunity to bring engaging, sensory experiences back into dining is something the restaurant industry will focus on post-pandemic. Brands have the opportunity to differentiate themselves in the marketplace by offering unique spaces to elevate programming,” says Aaron Ruef, Director of Restaurant Experiences, NELSON Worldwide.

• Feeling Fresh. The penchant for fresh air will not fade post-pandemic. Consider investing in larger outdoor or four-season spaces for guests to relax and unwind. From fireside s’mores to cornhole tournaments, these hubs of connection will become the new crown jewel that should be positioned to attract guests. Investing in outdoor seating and heating elements that extend the usability of these exterior spaces will be critical to extending their value.
• Powered Up. With the influx of remote workers, dedicated outdoor communal and dining space must also be functional. Include plenty of electrical outlets, strong Wi-Fi connection, and multi-functional seating giving guests a practical space to plug and play throughout the day.
• Permanently Temporary. Rooftop and outdoor spaces can also be a great foundation for pop-ups and temporary events, from wine tastings to winterized dining igloos.
• Exclusive Programming. Experiential outdoor spaces can also be an opportunity for unique guest programming during quieter, daytime hours. Consider virtual and in-person cooking classes, seasonal tastings, catered experiences, and pop-up concepts, any opportunity to interact with guests outside of peak hours.

The Tempo brand will continue to look for ways to optimize the experience across the entire guest journey. For now, we encourage you to think about how your interior design, architecture, and project teams are partnering with the Brand to bringing these areas to life.