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In the ever-evolving world of hospitality design, where comfort and aesthetics converge, we investigate the fusion of indoor and outdoor spaces. This trend not only creates an opportunity for venues to utilise outdoor spaces for additional revenue, but it also results in immersive and memorable guest experiences.

Above: Mickeys Beach Bar with Protocol Furniture

Michael Caines’ Mickeys Beach Bar and Restaurant is a perfect example of a hospitality destination that sits in harmony with its surroundings. The multi-purpose chairs by Protocol had to consider salt spray, storms, wind, sun exposure, humidity, and sand, and be stylish enough to use indoors. The indoor bench seating has been upholstered in soft pastels to create a cohesive space and the impression of being in the open air.

Demi Cassie, marketing manager at Protocol said, “Embracing the local environment and culture are key considerations in the design of outdoor spaces. We are working with more projects where the outdoor furniture can also be used indoors making it multi-purposeful. Since the post-covid outdoor dining boom, we have also seen an increase in restaurants and hospitality venues utilizing terraces, pavements, and rooftop spaces. It’s a great way to boost covers but also give customers choices for how they want to dine”.

Cassie adds “Outdoor eating is not limited to having beautiful views. Today we see restaurants making use of every inch of outdoor space whether they are a large chain like as Costa Coffee or smaller urban eateries like Eggslut”.

Above: Protocol Furniture at left Eggslut, and right Costa Coffee

This emphasis on nature isn’t limited to outdoor spaces alone as its influence spills into the interiors, where natural elements are intentionally incorporated into the design. Wynyard Hall’s Glass House illustrates this beautifully, as the interior space features botanical accents, earthy colours, and a design that mimics the calm of the surrounding countryside.

Above: Wynyard Hall – The Glass House with Protocol Furniture

There are many ways beyond plants to incorporate biophilia into interior design. Wallcoverings and fabrics play a pivotal role in bringing the essence of the natural world indoors, as they are a great vehicle to combine colour, texture, and pattern into interiors.

We caught up with Rose Campbell head of design and marketing at Newmor Wallcoverings as they too have seen an increasing emphasis on incorporating biophilic elements, she said, “We see a definite focus on wellbeing in all types of commercial spaces – whether that’s enhancing guest experience in hospitality or improving the ambience in office design. This focus translates directly to utilising biophilic design by incorporating organic palettes, using textures of stone, wood, and botanicals, to installing patterns inspired by landscapes, fauna, and flora”.

She adds “The Roast restaurant in London is a wonderful celebration of flora, as you are emersed in floral beauty from the moment you climb the stairs or enter the lift, to the point you are seated to enjoy your meal”.

Above: Roast, London with Newmor bespoke digital print and Herringbone stocked collection

Using botanical prints on window film is also a great way of connecting indoor and outdoor spaces, or just a way of incorporating outdoor inspiration within interiors whilst maximising light.

Above: Newmor digital design in Hotel Puro Warsaw, and Watercolour Botanical Green window film in office.

It’s important to remember that biophilia is not limited to green and earthy hues. It’s a celebration of nature in all its glorious palettes, whether that’s ocean blues or vibrant florals. The newly opened Japanese restaurant Kibou, located in the very heart of Cambridge is a fine example of an interior encapsulating the vibrance and glamour of Japanese style.

ILIV’s contract design manager Emily Arch said, “Designing fabrics for hospitality spaces isn’t just about aesthetics; it can be used as an opportunity to bring the invigorating outdoors inside. Our fabrics are more than mere adornments – they’re a tool for brightening spaces and promoting positive mental health. With every weave and pattern, we redefine interiors, creating environments that resonate with vitality and well- being.”

Above: ILIV fabrics used in Kibou Restaurant, Cambridge

Whilst the Kibou Restaurant chose ILIV’s Orientalis collection to create an intimate Japanese inspired interior, their Kanbina collection has a distinct Chinoiserie flare encapsulating the rich style of Asian culture with a modern on-trend twist. A firm favourite with designers wanting to bring the outdoors in is, ILIV’s Exotic Garden – perfect for lifting spirits and inviting brightness and colour indoors, with a selection of fun botanical and geometric prints.