The Hotel Lobby is Dead, But the Lounge is Lighting Up

The Challenge

Hotels are under pressure to attract and retain millennials, a demographic that values immersive and social environments. Traditional hotel lobbies are no longer sufficient; they must evolve into dynamic spaces that engage guests and locals alike. Achieving this transformation requires integrating advanced technology seamlessly with bespoke design elements.

The Solution

To meet the demands of modern guests and create an unforgettable experience, W Hotel undertook a bold redesign of its lobby to emulate the vibrant atmosphere of Times Square. Led by project director Fergal Hayes of Starwood Hotels and supported by integration firm Mode:Green, the project aimed to blend iconic New York aesthetics with cutting-edge technology.

Mode:Green played a pivotal role in orchestrating the complex integration of LED lighting, custom speakers, and interactive displays throughout the lobby. Their expertise ensured that disparate technologies from various manufacturers worked harmoniously as a unified system. This included installing a seven-foot digital countdown clock and configuring 32 independent sound zones to accommodate different events and moods seamlessly.

Central to the success was Mode:Green’s ability to design an invisible automation system that enabled intuitive control of lights and audio via touchscreens. This allowed hotel staff to adjust settings instantly to match specific themes like Happy Hour or Morning, enhancing guest experience without disruption.

Throughout the project, Mode:Green collaborated closely with W Hotel’s design team, adapting swiftly to last-minute adjustments and challenges typical of large-scale construction projects. Their proactive approach ensured that the lobby-lounge was completed on time and launched flawlessly, meeting the high standards expected by the brand and its clientele.

By transforming its lobby into a social hub that merges sophisticated design with state-of-the-art technology, W Hotel successfully positioned itself as a leader in catering to the preferences of millennial guests. This strategic overhaul not only enhances guest satisfaction but also strengthens the hotel’s brand identity in a competitive market.