The lower end of the star-rating spectrum has been heating up lately in design terms. Just because room prices aren’t sky-high doesn’t mean guests don’t have a strong preference for interesting design. Accor’s new, 311-key Ibis Adelaide (the largest Ibis in Australia) is taking that design mandate seriously.
Based on the prototype created by Atelier Archange, the design melds an ultra-streamlined look with a sense of whimsy. Multi-colored LED lights in the staircase make a dramatic first impression. Timber-clad barrel lights in the lobby are also colored and add accents to the neutral shell. In the guestrooms, which also feature a neutral theme, artwork by the street artist Ghostpatrol gives a unique, modern flavor.
“It was really exciting and inspiring to work with an artist like Ghostpatro,” said Nathan Frost, the hotel’s general manager. “His work pushes social boundaries much like ibis Adelaide is pushing the boundaries of the economy hotel sector. Our staff are wearing Converse, graffiti art hangs in the rooms and we have the latest Samsung in-room technology. The hotel represents an exciting new phase of economy hotels in Australia, making the experience both fun and unexpected.”
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