"Today's tourists are "looking for a point of view," interior designer André Fu explained at the Fortune Brainstorm Design conference in Macau on Tuesday. In other words, they are looking for a specific atmosphere or design ethos in choosing where to stay or eat. And, Fu explained, this even extends to the luxury hotel space. "Luxury is not about the fabrics. It's not about the marble. It's about feeling. It's about connection. It's about the emotion that you get when you're in a space," he said."
""When you have that feeling that this is a space that's designed around you, rather than you being just a particle in that environment-that sense of resonance is so invaluable," Fu said. "And I guess that level of connection...is what designers are thriving for these days." Swire Hotels deputy chairman Toby Smith agreed that travel patterns were changing. "We're finding that people are extending their trip. They've got a business trip, and they might extend the trip by a day or so to really explore the city or the location they happen to be in," he said."
Younger millennial and Gen-Z tourists prioritize unique experiences over standardized, cookie-cutter hotels. These travelers seek a clear point of view and a specific atmosphere or design ethos when choosing accommodations and dining. Luxury is defined by feeling, emotional connection, and resonance rather than by materials like fabrics or marble. Designers aim to craft spaces that feel designed around the guest to foster that connection. Travel patterns show longer stays and greater interest in exploring locations, creating opportunities for personalized services. Hospitality brands are adapting by expanding experiential, youth-oriented concepts such as Houses not Hotels.
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