Hotelle

Hotelle is a term used in hospitality discourse to describe a compact, modular lodging unit that operates as a micro-hotel. It is intended to provide private sleeping spaces and essential amenities within a smaller footprint than traditional hotels, often leveraging rapid assembly and flexible layouts. The concept emphasizes efficient use of urban space, streamlined operations, and affordability, making it suitable for dense city centers, transit hubs, and event venues.

Etymology and typology. The word hotelle blends the familiar word hotel with the diminutive suffix -elle, signaling a smaller-scale lodging option. Hotelles can take various forms, including modular containers, prefab units, or reconfigured commercial spaces. They typically feature compact private rooms, shared or compact en-suite facilities, digital check-in, and standardized service levels to support scalable operations across multiple locations.

Design and operations. Key design goals for hotelles include space optimization, energy efficiency, and ease of maintenance. Rooms are often modular, with adaptable furniture and integrated technology for self-service experiences. Operations focus on lean staffing, centralized management, and a consistent guest experience across properties. Some implementations emphasize sustainability, such as low-energy HVAC systems, water-saving fixtures, and local material use.

Applications and reception. Hotelles are marketed for travelers seeking affordable, convenient stays in urban areas, as well as for pop-up hospitality at events or in places undergoing rapid turnover of visitors. Critics raise concerns about quality consistency, regulatory compliance, and their impact on housing markets. Supporters point to flexible development, reduced construction waste, and the potential to bring lodging to underserved locations.

See also: Boutique hotel, capsule hotel, micro-hotel, modular construction.