Westin Hotels & Resorts considers biophilic design part of its ethos, using natural elements to enhance the wellness experience for guests at its properties.
“Westin’s design philosophy draws inspiration from the concept of biophilia, which finds that people have a biological need to connect with nature physically, mentally and socially,” said George Fleck, VP, global brand management & marketing, Westin, Renaissance, Le Meridien. “Biophilic design can increase guest satisfaction—but that’s not all. Access to nature, even in indoor environments, has a positive influence on behavior, emotionally and psychologically, allowing a deeper sense of well-being. Implementing these wellness offerings on a design level was an easy decision. Guests will see and feel biophilic design everywhere, from vertical gardens in our public spaces, to the incorporation of natural colors and textures in our guest rooms, to the use of imagery that brings the outside in. We’re continuing to innovate in this space as well, with the long-term rollout of in-room lighting enhancements. Guests will begin seeing cast shadow lighting at room entrances, and measured lighting placed behind the bed’s headboard to symbolically and physically replicate sunrise and sunset with gradual light intensification and recession that eases guests into the next part of their day.”
The five-story, 116-room The Westin Buffalo in Buffalo, NY, incorporates planted walls, soaring banks of windows and exposed wooden beams into its common areas. Its guestrooms offer carpets, walls and art suffused with earthy tones and replicating patterns of nature.
The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort showcases a custom living wall and vertical garden that brings the island’s flora and fauna indoors, while colors found in nature inspired the sophisticated palette coupled with natural materials and patterns that add textural layers to the interior design.
Inspired by Westin’s biophilic design principles, as well as the surrounding natural backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, the architecturally innovative The Westin Denver International Airport is designed entirely with walls of towering, shimmering glass and features two green living walls in its sleek common area. The unique architecture is complemented by the contemporary artwork featured throughout the hotel, funded by Denver’s Public Art’s Program.
The Westin Turtle Bay Resort & Spa, Mauritius embraces the island’s lush and tropical elements, creating a serene and elegant atmosphere that allows guests to experience the surrounding natural beauty.
The design of The Westin at The Woodlands is inspired by its central waterfront location and Westin’s biophilic design principles. The property has plenty of natural light and features stone and glass accents.
