Hybrid work has transformed how people approach their professional routines, and this has not gone unnoticed by the hospitality industry.
Hotels, which once catered exclusively to tourists and business travellers, are now seeing an opportunity to capitalise on the demand for flexible workspaces. With millions of employees working remotely, hotels are reimagining their spaces to serve as productive environments for professionals who may not have a dedicated office or simply prefer a change of scenery.
This shift offers hotels a way to monetise previously idle daytime spaces while creating new revenue streams.
Empty Rooms and Public Spaces
Traditionally, hotel rooms were occupied overnight, while many remained vacant during the day, aside from early check-ins or late check-outs. However, with the hybrid work model becoming more prevalent, hotels have started offering short-term “day use” packages, allowing professionals to use rooms as private, distraction-free workspaces.
These packages typically come with high-speed WiFi, ergonomic furniture, and often include amenities like coffee, snacks, and access to hotel services such as gyms and restaurants.
In addition to individual rooms, hotels are also monetising their lobbies, lounges, and other communal areas. These spaces are being transformed into coworking zones where individuals can book a desk or seating area, usually with an accompanying food and beverage (F&B) package. This model allows people to work comfortably for a few hours without the commitment of a long-term office lease.
Zoku Hotel, Amsterdam
A prime example of a hotel that has embraced hybrid work is Zoku Hotel in Amsterdam. Zoku is designed with the modern worker in mind, blending hospitality with coworking spaces. Guests can book a “Zoku Loft” for the day, which functions both as a living space and an office. Each loft is equipped with fast internet, office supplies, and a comfortable desk setup, offering professionals the privacy of a hotel room with the functionality of a home office.
Zoku also provides communal coworking spaces in its lobbies, which can be accessed by non-overnight guests. These areas feature open-plan workstations, meeting rooms, and lounge-style seating, making them ideal for freelancers, startups, or corporate teams needing a temporary workspace. The hotel also offers networking events and workshops, further integrating the work and hospitality experience.
The Hoxton, London
The Hoxton Hotel in London has also embraced this trend with its “Hoxton Work From Here” offering. This package provides professionals with access to stylish private rooms during the day, complete with all the amenities needed for a productive workday.
Additionally, their lobbies and cafes double as vibrant coworking spaces where professionals can plug in their laptops, enjoy coffee, and work alongside other remote workers.
The Hoxton’s concept has proven popular due to its flexible pricing structure and seamless integration of work and leisure. Whether guests are looking for a few hours of quiet work or an entire day, they can tailor the experience to fit their needs.
This flexibility appeals particularly to freelancers and remote employees who enjoy the social aspect of coworking but want the added benefits that a hotel offers, such as premium F&B services and a well-designed, comfortable environment.
The Conrad, Tokyo
The Conrad Hotel in Tokyo has introduced its own take on this trend with its “Workation” packages. These offers are targeted at professionals seeking a blend of work and leisure, providing rooms that function as day offices with panoramic views of the Tokyo skyline.
For individuals or teams, the Conrad’s public areas, such as its lounges and meeting rooms, have been adapted to support flexible work. Guests can book these areas by the hour or day, enjoying access to reliable WiFi, meeting facilities, and F&B services.
The hotel’s initiative highlights how even high-end, luxury properties are recognising the opportunity to monetise their spaces in new ways by tapping into the growing demand for flexible work environments.
Tailored F&B Packages
An essential component of these hotel work packages is the inclusion of tailored F&B options. Many hotels offer professionals the option to bundle their workspace rental with meal deals, snacks, or unlimited coffee and tea throughout the day.
This adds convenience for the user and serves as an additional revenue stream for the hotel. For instance, The Hoxton offers all-day dining options, allowing guests to stay nourished while they work without leaving the hotel premises.
Other hotels have taken a more flexible approach, allowing guests to purchase F&B credits that can be used throughout their stay, giving them access to a range of culinary options from in-house restaurants, cafes, or room service.
Hotel Lobbies
Hotels are also turning their once traditional lobbies into dynamic coworking spaces. These reimagined lobbies often include communal tables, private booths, and lounge-style seating. This open-plan layout enables professionals to work individually or in groups while maintaining a relaxed, collaborative atmosphere.
At The CitizenM Hotel chain, known for its affordable luxury and modern design, lobbies have been transformed into vibrant, tech-savvy coworking hubs. Each lobby offers fast WiFi, power outlets at every seat, and access to coffee and snacks from the hotel’s canteen. Guests and non-guests alike can drop in for a few hours of work, combining productivity with the lively, social feel of a hotel lounge.
The Benefits
For workers, the primary benefit of hotel-based workspaces is flexibility. Unlike traditional coworking spaces, which often require monthly memberships, hotels offer on-demand services that can be booked by the hour, day, or even longer. This model suits remote workers who may not need a permanent office but want a professional environment to escape the distractions of home.
Hotels also provide the advantage of convenience. Many business travellers prefer the option to work from their hotel room, avoiding the hassle of commuting to a separate office or coworking space. For local workers, hotels offer a refreshing alternative to working from home or a crowded café.
In Summary
The hospitality industry’s ability to adapt to the evolving nature of work is driving a new era of hotel services. By monetising empty rooms and repurposing public spaces as coworking zones, hotels are tapping into a growing market of remote and hybrid workers. Whether it’s a private room for focused work or a communal lounge for collaboration, hotels are positioning themselves as flexible work hubs.
This trend is gaining traction globally, with examples like Zoku in Amsterdam, The Hoxton in London, and The Conrad in Tokyo leading the way in offering hybrid work solutions tailored to today’s professionals.
As hybrid work becomes more entrenched, the relationship between hospitality and workspace is likely to deepen. For hotels, this represents an opportunity to diversify their services, while for professionals, it offers an appealing blend of work and leisure in some of the most sought-after locations.
