HYGGE is where business can be fun: the visitor controls the space, not the other way around. This center takes corporate hospitality in Hotel Pennsylvania to another level, re-conceptualizing the conference environment with its forward, “fresh air” approach. The ultimate goal was to rejuvenate the business center by implementing new technology and nontraditional areas. HYGGE's slogan is: “Business can be fun.” The hotel residents will unleash their best thinking by visiting HYGGE.
HYGGE is where business can be fun: the visitor controls the space, not the other way around. This center takes corporate hospitality in Hotel Pennsylvania to another level, re-conceptualizing the conference environment with its forward, “fresh air” approach. The ultimate goal was to rejuvenate the business center by implementing new technology and nontraditional areas. HYGGE's slogan is: “Business can be fun.” The hotel residents will unleash their best thinking by visiting HYGGE.
Many of the Hotel Pennsylvania's visitors are business travelers. Statistically, 79% of them admit their business travel experience is impactful on their overall job satisfaction. Since interior design is a consumer-oriented service, I wanted to prioritize customer satisfaction. Currently, the three largest generation groups comprising the business sector are millennials, Gen X and Baby Boomers. In an attempt to target these generation groups, I strived for the three pillars of corporate hospitality: offering options, providing privacy, and being innovative. Driven by the Norwegian concept of "hygge" - wellbeing, I sought to create an inspiring workspace. Focusing on the holistic design and wellbeing of the people, I strived to blur the lines between work and home where people can unleash their best thinking. Integrating various conference areas, with both modernized and traditional layouts, will provide visitors with autonomy and personalization. Adding "in-between" areas - breakout spaces, PC workstations, multi-functional areas, privacy pods, etc., will provide flexibility. In-between areas like booths allow for a mix of both the proximity and camaraderie of open space and the privacy all humans desire. Moving away from stationary, fixed and conventional business center models and rejuvenating Hotel Pennsylvania's conference center will give the area an opportunity to be completely transformed in 10, 20 and 30 years, with minimal to no environmental damage. Integrating technology, such as media units and digital screens, VR headsets, and many more will bring the center up-to-date with the tech world.
hYGGE CONFERENCE CENTER
4 / 3 / 2020
HYGGE is promoting the importance of leisure and “fresh air” environment that’s so fundamental for mental and physical well-being. The average person spends the majority of their life at work, and about half of the population cites work as their biggest stressor. Research across numerous industries has found that increased satisfaction at work is directly linked with increased productivity. Approaching wellness holistically, I took into consideration many factors. Ergonomics was a huge concern when considering FFF&E. Spending a lot of time in front of the technology requires the space and furnishings to accommodate the body. Integrating mindfulness, exercise, and meditation, will signal to the mind a feeling of energy and improve focus and performance.