How to Improve Your Hotel Lobby

How to Improve Your Hotel Lobby

Your hotel lobby is more than just a waiting area. It’s the first impression guests have of your brand, and it sets the tone for their entire stay. A well-designed, welcoming lobby can boost guest satisfaction, encourage positive reviews, and even generate additional revenue.

In this article, we’ll explore practical ways to improve your hotel lobby, with suggestions for display solutions that enhance both form and function.


1. Create a Strong First Impression

When guests walk through the door, the atmosphere should immediately reflect your hotel's character - whether it’s sleek and modern, cosy and boutique, or classic and luxurious.

Tips:

  • Ensure the space is clean, uncluttered and smells pleasant
  • Use consistent branding across all signage, colour schemes, and printed materials
  • Incorporate ambient lighting and natural elements like plants or artwork for a warm, comfortable feel
"60% of UK travelers said that good service would make them more likely to revisit a hotel" [1]

2. Design with Flow and Function in Mind

A good lobby layout allows guests to move intuitively from the entrance to the reception desk, seating areas, and lifts or corridors.

Tips:

  • Use floor signage or clear wayfinding displays to direct traffic
  • Avoid obstacles or bulky furniture in high-traffic areas
  • Offer a variety of seating options (such as solo seats, sofas, and workspace corners) to cater to different guest needs

3. Hotel Reception Ideas to Improve the Front Desk Area

Looking for fresh hotel reception ideas? The reception desk should feel approachable, efficient, and reflective of your hotel's personality.

Tips:

  • Make sure staff have space to operate smoothly and stay organised
  • Include sign holders or digital displays at reception for important information. Use touchscreens or tablets for self check ins
  • Consider backlit signage behind the desk for visual impact

4. Use Displays to Inform and Engage Guests

POS displays can serve more than just marketing. They can genuinely improve the hotel guest experience by offering useful, relevant information.

Ideas:

  • Leaflet Holders: Use brochure displays with information about local attractions, events, dining options, and transport services
  • Digital Displays: Showcase weather updates, flight times, social media feeds, or promotions
  • Sign Holders: Clearly communicate health and safety information, rules, or directions to amenities like the gym or spa

Make sure displays are updated regularly and in good condition. Tired or outdated hotel signage can quickly detract from the overall impression.


5. Add Personal Touches

Creating a sense of welcome is all about the details. Consider what might delight or reassure your guests as they arrive.

Ideas:

  • Offer complimentary drinks or snacks in a neat display tray
  • Add a chalkboard or digital screen with a warm welcome message or daily tip
  • Include a curated selection of local artwork or photography for an authentic, place-based feel

6. Keep It Tidy, Always

Even the most beautifully-designed lobby loses its impact if it’s cluttered or messy.

Tips:

  • Use display stands and organisers to keep promotional material neatly presented
  • Provide a clear, well-labelled space for luggage storage if needed
  • Assign regular cleaning and tidying checks throughout the day

Final Thoughts

Improving your hotel lobby doesn’t always require a major refurbishment. Small, smart changes can make a huge difference!

By using smart design and practical hotel display solutions, you will impress your guests when they arrive. You will also create a space that shows your brand values and helps your operations run smoothly.

Want to upgrade your lobby displays? Explore our range of sign holders, leaflet holders, and digital display solutions. They're perfect for modern hotel environments.


References


1. ‘Travel Dreams UK’ (2025), Amadeus, https://www.amadeus-hospitality.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/TD-Infographic-UK.pdf