Sanjeev Nanda Highlights The Role of Art and Design in Elevating Guest Experiences

Subham Kumar

24 Mar 2025 — 3 min read

Sanjeev Nanda

Hotels today are more than just places to stay, they are immersive experiences that shape guest perceptions through aesthetics. From grand lobbies to carefully curated artwork, the design of a hotel influences emotions, relaxation, and overall satisfaction. The strategic use of art, architecture, and interior design helps hotels create a distinct identity, setting them apart from competitors.

Sanjeev Nanda, a hospitality leader known for his expertise in luxury hotel experiences, emphasizes that design is not just about beauty but also about creating memorable and engaging atmospheres. “A well-designed hotel tells a story, evokes emotions, and ensures guests leave with lasting impressions,” says Nanda.

The Impact of Art on Hotel Branding

Art is a powerful tool that enhances hotel branding, making spaces visually appealing and unique. Carefully curated art collections, murals, and sculptures contribute to a hotel’s identity, giving it a personality that resonates with guests. A study from the Cornell University School of Hotel Administration found that hotels with unique art collections are often seen as more creative and prestigious.

Many hotels collaborate with local artists to showcase cultural authenticity, ensuring that their aesthetic reflects the location’s history and heritage. Some luxury establishments even host rotating art exhibitions to offer fresh experiences to returning guests. This approach not only enriches the ambiance but also builds a stronger connection with visitors.

Nanda states, “Art in hospitality is more than decoration; it is an experience that tells a story and connects guests to the space. By integrating art into branding, hotels can create an emotional link with their visitors, making them feel part of something special.”

How Architecture and Interior Design Shape Guest Experience

A well-designed guest experience is crucial for building customer loyalty, boosting revenue, and enhancing a business’s reputation. A positive experience encourages repeat visits, increases spending on additional services, and leads to favourable online reviews, which attract new customers. In a competitive market, exceptional guest experiences help businesses stand out and create lasting impressions. The structure and layout of a hotel play a vital role in shaping guest perceptions, with elements like lighting, spatial design, and furniture placement influencing mood and comfort. Open, airy designs evoke a sense of freedom, while enclosed spaces offer intimacy and exclusivity. Choices between minimalism and opulence also shape guest expectations, some prefer sleek, modern aesthetics, while others appreciate intricate and grand interiors.

Luxury hotels often invest in custom furniture, statement chandeliers, and grand entrances to create a striking first impression. “The first few moments a guest spends in a hotel lobby set the tone for their entire stay,” says Sanjeev Nanda. “Every design choice, from the height of ceilings to the material of the floors, plays a role in defining that experience.”

The Business Benefits of Aesthetic Investments

Investing in art and design is not just about aesthetics; it has tangible business benefits. Visually stunning hotels naturally attract social media attention, leading to organic marketing and word-of-mouth promotion.

A unique architectural style or carefully designed interiors can also justify premium pricing, as guests are willing to pay more for an aesthetically enriching experience. Moreover, hotels that focus on strong visual branding see higher guest retention rates, as visitors are more likely to return to spaces, they find beautiful and comfortable. In today’s competitive hospitality industry, a hotel that stands out visually will always have a competitive edge and design is an investment with long-term returns.

Art, architecture, and design are fundamental to shaping a hotel’s character and guest experience. Beyond decoration, they serve as strategic assets that enhance branding, attract guests, and boost revenue. As Sanjeev Nanda aptly puts it, “Design is not an afterthought; it is the heart of a hotel’s identity. The right aesthetic choices can turn a simple stay into an unforgettable journey.” Hoteliers looking to remain competitive should rethink their approach to design, ensuring their spaces are not only functional but also inspiring and emotionally engaging.