In the second episode of Espacios que hablan, our video podcast for interior design lovers, we dive with Laura Huerta, Interior Design Director at U Interior Design, into a fascinating conversation with one of the most prominent figures in the hotel industry: Loly Figueroa.
From her beginnings at the Palladium Group in the Canary Islands to leading iconic projects in Ibiza and Tenerife, Loly Figueroa has left her trace on some of the most exclusive hotels in the world.
In this episode, Loly shared with us her experience on how to lead a hotel to success, sharing valuable tips and secrets that only someone with her experience could reveal. Here are her eight key steps in hotel repositioning:
- Detailed analysis of operational challenges: The first step is to thoroughly understand the issues and challenges facing a hotel. This analysis helps identify key areas for improvement, from staff efficiency to guest experience.
- Collaboration between interior design and operational management: It is essential that interior design is aligned with the hotel’s operational management. Collaboration between designers and managers is crucial to ensure that solutions are practical and effective.
- Functional design: Develop a design that solves the identified operational problems. A good example of this is the redesign of the lobby of the Ushuaïa Ibiza Hotel, which improved customer flow during check-in and check-out.
- Technological innovation: Technology plays a vital role in operational efficiency. Loly highlights how technological solutions, such as interactive screens and apps, can transform the customer experience and optimize internal processes.
- Flexible spaces: Create versatile spaces that adapt to different uses. Flexibility in design allows spaces to adjust to the changing needs of guests and staff.
- Selection of materials and furnishings: Choosing durable and functional materials and furnishings is critical. The quality and durability of these elements is essential to minimize operating costs and maintain design aesthetics.
- Continuous feedback: Maintain constant communication to adjust and improve the design based on the feedback received. This process ensures that the project evolves and meets the client’s expectations.
- Effective implementation: Follow up thoroughly on the implementation of the design to ensure that the project objectives are met. Attention to detail in this phase is crucial to the ultimate success of the design.
Loly Figueroa also fondly recalled her two favorite anecdotes in relation to her most outstanding projects, such as with the Hard Rock Hotel Tenerife, which she describes as one of the most intense experiences of her career. She recalls the pressure of meeting tight deadlines and the satisfaction of seeing how the hotel became a landmark on the island. From climbing endless stairs on the scaffolding to organizing the opening event with the iconic guitar smashing ceremony, every challenge became an opportunity to innovate.
Another anecdote she shared in this episode concerns the Ushuaïa Ibiza Hotel. Here, Loly details the process of transforming this iconic hotel into a benchmark of luxury and entertainment. Her focus on lobby design, incorporating innovative elements such as a DJ booth and advanced technology, demonstrates how good design can elevate a brand’s image to infinity.
‘I remember the moment of validation of the rooms by Hard Rock International.‘ – Loly Figueroa
Throughout the episode, Loly shares some valuable lessons for those just starting out in the hotel interior design field:
- Clear planning and anticipation of problems: Meticulous planning and anticipation of potential problems are essential to the success of any project. Loly emphasizes the importance of having a clear vision and being prepared for unforeseen events.
- The importance of work-life balance: Balancing professional and personal life is one of the biggest challenges in this industry. Loly teaches us how time organization is key to maintaining a healthy balance.
- Adapting to trends: Hotel design must adapt to trends to stay relevant. Loly reminds us that keeping up with the latest trends and technologies is key to delivering exceptional guest experiences.
Finally, Laura Huerta and Loly Figueroa reflect on how interior design can make a difference in the hotel industry, as design not only creates beautiful spaces, but also aligns the hotel’s image with its values and objectives. Good design helps to stand out in a competitive market and deliver a unique guest experience.
If you missed the episode, you can watch it here.
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