The Boomer Room: Hotel design for the Ageless Traveler

Boomers, those of us born between 1946 and 1964, have dictated design trends since the invention of Pampers. With one-billion of us worldwide, we are a demographic juggernaut. When it comes to boomer-friendly hotel design, there are several principles on which to rely:

Design must accommodate our aging, but never be obvious. No one must be singled out by physical incapacity. Design that embarrasses is bad design. Jan Degenshein, architect for the renovation of the Hilton Hotel at Pearl River, New York, asserts, “Universal design must be just part of the architectural landscape.” We age differently, but we travel together, so design must seamlessly allow couples, girlfriend groups and business companions to unconsciously keep up with each other.

Design must provide a luxurious experience. We buy high-quality bedding from hoteliers to bring home. Conversely, we expect the high-quality amenities we have in our homes to be part of our hotel stay. Consider Toto’s Washlet, a commode seat that washes, dries and warms you, or its air tubs that provide relaxation without the trapped bacteria of jets. Mr. Steam’s Day Spa Package features aromatherapy, chromotherapy and music for the shower that creates the experience boomers seek.

Design for safety to accommodate the vision, hearing and balance issues of normal aging. Natural light for easy vision, counter height variation and hotel phones with large numbers are logical responses to the challenges of aging—yet, not obvious reminders of them. Mohawk Carpet will soon offer impact-attenuating carpet padding to lessen the potential for injury from falls and is welcome by boomers traveling with older parents.

Design that is sustainable and inclusive tells a great story that guests will share through social media. Ice Stone’s recycled glass and concrete countertops are unique, classy and green. Add heated floors, lighting at several levels, mirrors you can use sitting down, cabinets that can be lowered and you have a robust recipe for viral marketing.

Finally, watch for the trend in at-home healthcare to find its way into the hotel setting. Mr. Steam is outfitting showers with biofeedback components; Toto is attracting attention in Japan with smart commode seats that can analyze bodily functions. Cognifit, the brain fitness company, offers Personal Coach so guests can keep up their brain exercises from any hotel computer. MedApps allows guests to take their glucose levels from a portable Health Buddy and transmit the report to their doctor.

More often than not, all guests appreciate the features that emerge from universal design. Ever since Charles and Ray Eames designed the iconic Eames chair based on a molded leg splint for injured soldiers, disability has inspired creativity. Now, longevity has a chance to do the same.