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Hotel lobby design ideas that make your lobby the heart of the hotel

There’s more to a great hotel than just a room. But what makes a hotel really stand out? It could be genuine hospitality, a great location, a nice restaurant or simply well-designed spaces that make you feel at home. Spaces that invite guests to slow down, settle in and relax. Most times, that experience begins in the lobby: a warm and versatile space that sets the tone for the stay, reflecting the hotel’s identity and works for everything from quick meetings to calm moments.
A light reception area with wooden furniture including  grey/white STOCKHOLM 2025 rattan armchairs and a blue sofa.

Check-in made simple

When guests arrive, the reception is usually their first stop. Here, the reception desk provides staff with a clear overview, using MITTZON sit-stand workstations together with practical storage cabinets to keep things organised behind the scenes. Right next to the reception, TONSTAD sideboard serves as a self-check-in station that offers guests flexibility to check in independently, alongside a pegboard display with maps and brochures to inspire local outings. Nearby, a luggage room keeps belongings tidy, safe and out of sight, helping everyone feel at ease, whether guests arrive early or aren’t quite ready to leave.

A natural spot to catch up

To cater to all types of guests, the lobby is designed to be a dynamic space that adapts to its visitors. For moments on the go, the meet and greet area becomes a great spot for checking emails, planning your itinerary or meeting with business clients. A combination of larger and smaller tables provides flexible surfaces for both quick calls or longer work sessions. In the background, TONSTAD cabinets add functionality and a personal touch to the space. With oak veneer finish and timeless design, they bring a subtle sense of nature – rooted in Swedish simplicity.

A welcoming spot to land

In every lobby, there’s sometimes a bit of time to wait – and that time matters. A cosy lounge gives guests a comfortable place to pause. With rattan armchairs and an oak veneer coffee table from the STOCKHOLM 2025 collection, you can set a warm, natural tone, while the bold-coloured sofa adds a statement. It’s a natural spot for pausing if you arrive early, are in between plans or just need a break. Focusing on comfort and care this way helps shape the initial impression of your hotel by showing that every detail is carefully considered and that guests are in good hands from the moment they arrive.

Details that make hospitality flow

In a busy lobby, small additions can make a big impact. A refreshment station offers more than just a drink – it creates a convenient place to slow down, enhances guest satisfaction while also supporting the flow of the space. A STOCKHOLM 2025 display cabinet turns a drink dispenser, glasses and carafes into an inviting self-service setup. Connected to the reception, a mini-shop made from TONSTAD storage combinations gives guests easy access to snacks on the go. While staff handle payments, the setup boosts both efficiency and sales, enhancing the overall guest experience.

Before you buy

These solutions contain a mix of articles developed for domestic and non-domestic use. Please verify that your purchases are compliant and suitable for the intended use in your area. Contact IKEA for Business for more information about range.