The UAE has become the new global icon of engineered urbanism, complete with its Western lifestyle, sandy beaches, and waterfront properties, according to an expert.

The country’s hospitality sector has outperformed other markets, said Daousser Chennoufi, chairman and architect of Draw Link Group, an architectural, interior design and fit out company.

In 2013, Dubai added about 2,780 new hotel rooms in the four-star and five-star categories, while the hospitality market is likely to reach $7.5 billion by 2016.

With the exponential boom in the hospitality sector, the design and architecture needs to be honed to a customer segment, be aesthetically timeless and durable, and fulfill the market’s desire for unique and memorable designs, he said.

As luxury hotels, new concepts and unique designs refresh year on year, Draw Link Group identifies four main interior design and architectural trends that will shape UAE’s hospitality sector this year.

Increase in the development of outdoor projects

With the recent boom in the hospitality market, UAE is seeing an increase in demand for appropriately designed outdoor urban developments such as the JBR beach walk and Jumeirah Corniche project.

Wood paneling, stone decorations, lush greenery are just some of the elements that will need to be deployed to improve outward city appearance while encouraging residents to a healthy lifestyle.

Focus on local and international styles

Creating an unforgettable guest experience involves much more than simply good interior design or a striking logo, particularly in today's competitive and product-flooded hospitality industry. More and more hotel owners realise that adding local and international art in their design scheme will improve guests’ perception of the place and create a genuine experience, said Chennoufi.

The UAE has transformed into a multinational platform for both business and leisure. As a result, interior and architecture design has emerged into an original mosaic that reflects the different nationalities and styles.

From small sculptures and photography to large-scale installations, integrating different styles into the design and architecture could be an easy way to success.

Design and fit-out – a complete one-stop shop

Hoteliers and investors now prefer a full interior design service, supply of products, fit-out and installation. This year will see a demand for suppliers who can offer a ‘package deal.’ Taking in design and build from one supplier is often the most cost-effective and quickest way to conduct a fit-out.

Deliver value for money

Customers are attracted to alignment with brands in this market, from Armani to Gucci. There is a certain attraction to the luxury that is affordable.

In fact architects have experienced an increased requirement to produce more bang for buck for clients without impacting its luxury. Ensuring that every dirham spent is allocated in the most impactful way will ensure continued success. - TradeArabia News Service