The multifaceted role of architects in the hospitality sector
The great idea of Le Balzac Hotel, Paris: In the basement spa, the wellness area embraces the spirit of the Land of the Rising Sun. Behind the wooden panels and traditional Japanese washi paper, artificial lighting recreates the ambience of a sunrise.
The architect, artisan of the hospitality sector: creating, reinventing and sustaining
In the world of cafés, hotels, and restaurants (CHR), architecture goes far beyond simply designing a functional space. It serves as the connecting thread between an investor’s vision, guest expectations, and practical constraints, bringing a unique place to life. Each project is a delicate balance of budget, timeline, regulations, and creativity, where the architect plays a central role—not just as a designer but also as a coordinator. This position requires broad shoulders, the ability to juggle countless tasks at once, and the confidence to stand firm in one’s convictions.
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The cornerstones of a successful project
Everything begins with mastering the essentials: budget, timeline, and scope of work. These three pillars form the foundation of any well-executed project.
Budget is often the most sensitive aspect. The architect must quickly assess costs at every stage of the project and propose solutions that balance feasibility, quality, and the identity of the establishment. This requires constant communication with the client to adjust priorities while respecting available resources. Having access to FIGURZ tools is invaluable for architects who may not always know the exact cost of every element that makes up a hospitality space.
Timeline is equally crucial in the CHR sector. Every day of delay can result in significant financial losses, especially for hotels and restaurants where an on-time opening is critical. The architect must coordinate all stakeholders—from contractors to suppliers—to ensure that each phase progresses as planned. Safeguards must be in place to prevent last-minute rushes, which inevitably lead to oversights and shortened planning phases.
Scope of work must be clearly defined from the outset. This means establishing the role of each project participant to avoid misunderstandings and ensure smooth coordination between design, execution, and delivery. Anticipating installation phases and facilitating interactions between contractors who will work simultaneously is also crucial.
Capturing the soul of the project
Every hospitality establishment tells a story—that of its owner or brand, its location, its clientele, and its heritage. The architect must listen carefully to capture these elements and translate them into the design.
Location plays a key role. A hotel in the heart of Paris will not have the same needs as a seaside resort or a countryside restaurant. The surroundings dictate the atmosphere, infrastructure, and guest expectations. Ignoring this can lead to costly post-design additions that disrupt the budget.
Target clientele is just as important. A business hotel will be designed differently from one catering to families or high-end tourists. The establishment’s positioning determines the flexibility available for innovation. Understanding these factors allows for a design that harmonizes with both its environment and target audience.
Support for success: the role of the AMO
For architects, especially those new to the CHR sector, working with an Assistant to the Project Owner (AMO) is a major advantage. The AMO acts as a strategic advisor throughout the project, helping to analyze client needs, set a realistic budget, and prioritize key elements for long-term success.
By working closely with the architect, the AMO facilitates coordination among all stakeholders while providing in-depth expertise on industry specifics. This includes navigating complex regulations, anticipating operational constraints, and optimizing resources. For an architect entering this demanding market, such support helps avoid costly mistakes and ensures a smooth project execution from concept to completion.
The architect as a versatile professional
In the CHR sector, an architect must wear multiple hats. They need the creativity to design aesthetically pleasing and functional spaces while mastering all technical aspects. Lighting, acoustics, and ventilation systems must be carefully integrated to ensure optimal guest comfort. Partnering with experts in operational management adds value by reducing risks (e.g., ensuring that all service utensils fit into the storage units).
An architect’s expertise also extends to their network. Working with reliable, well-regarded suppliers guarantees not only high-quality furnishings and materials but also long-term durability—critical in a sector where furniture, lighting, and materials endure heavy use. Considering maintenance during the design phase is essential, ensuring that repairs can be made without requiring complete replacements.
Compliance with regulations and safety standards for public buildings
Hospitality establishments fall under the category of buildings open to the public (ERP), which means they must meet strict safety standards. Hotels (classified as Type O) and restaurants (Type N) have precise requirements regarding accessibility, evacuation routes, fire prevention, and material selection. These compliance factors must be anticipated, as they have a significant impact on costs.
The architect plays a key role in ensuring adherence to these regulations, working alongside control agencies to guarantee compliance at every stage. This expertise not only ensures guest safety but also provides peace of mind to owners and hotel managers, who are ultimately responsible.
Designing for long-term
Hospitality spaces face intensive use. Guests, despite their value, do not always treat facilities with care. Spending time in similar establishments reveals the extent of wear and tear. Architects must prioritize durable materials and contract-grade products designed to withstand heavy usage while maintaining their aesthetic appeal.
However, durability is not just about material resilience. It also involves designing flexible spaces that can be adapted without major renovations. A hotel room, for example, might need to serve as an interview space, a showroom, or a negotiation room. This adaptability extends the lifespan of the establishment while reducing its environmental footprint.
Conclusion
Being an architect in the CHR sector is more than just a profession—it is a multifaceted challenge requiring versatility, sensitivity, and technical expertise. Each project is an opportunity to create spaces where design, functionality, and durability coexist in perfect balance.
In a world where guest experience is the top priority, the architect is a fundamental contributor to the success of cafés, hotels, and restaurants—crafting spaces that leave lasting impressions and stand the test of time. The key is to create beauty under all circumstances while adapting to given constraints.
FIGURZ supports architects by providing FF&E budget insights based on project characteristics, ensuring they stay on track and avoid unexpected costs.
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