The role of design in wellness and sustainability is becoming increasingly important, as Laura Huerta, our Interior Design Director, and Enrique Quirós Domínguez, Specification Manager at Sonae Arauco discussed in our videopodcast, Espacios que Hablan. In this episode, they delved into how design decisions, especially in the hotel industry, have evolved to go far beyond aesthetics or budget, as they now focus on health, comfort and environmental impact.
A shift in priorities beyond cost
During the episode, Enrique highlights how the priorities of the industry have shifted over time: “Something that was mainly a matter of cost-efficiency has also become a trend, and what that has caused is that cost becomes secondary when there’s demand for that product.” This shift has led to a new approach where the health of both people and the planet takes center stage in the design process.
Interior and hospitality design now face new expectations: materials free from volatile compounds, environments free from harmful substances, proper lighting, controlled acoustics, and a stronger connection with nature. All of this is part of what is now understood as “conscious design.”
This new outlook has created an approach increasingly valued not only by public administrations but also by end users.
Design as a catalyst for well-being
While cost is still a factor to consider, it no longer dominates the conversation. This perspective encourages designers, developers, and brands to seek solutions that balance beauty, durability, and environmental responsibility. It’s about creating spaces that not only have visual impact but also genuinely care for the people who inhabit them.
As mentioned in the episode, “Now some platforms let you know if a hotel is sustainable,” with filters and certifications that highlight sustainable hotels, reflecting a clear trend in traveler preferences. Today, offering luxury is no longer enough, guests increasingly value whether a space contributes positively to their health, rest, and connection to the environment.
📺 Watch this excerpt on YouTube and dive into this discussion about the future of luxury hotel interior design.
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