Building Democracy and Pluralism in Hospitality through Architecture and Technology

I have had a blast this year- as someone who has spent nearly three decades in this business, this was the year my team Muthu Krishna Amlan Roy Anirban Roy and I have had the unique opportunity to partner with hotel owners to imagine brainstorm, improve not just their assets but also their operational efficiency, revenue streams, talent development, and organizational culture. In this role, Its been a blend of sales, business development, and consulting, and building an intense relationship with the projects team.

I’ve often reflected on the interconnectedness of two critical components: hotel architecture and technology, Both play a vital role in fostering democracy, inclusivity, and pluralism within the hospitality ecosystem.

The Democratic Power of Hotel Architecture

Hotel architecture is not just about aesthetics or about functionality - its about shaping experiences for guests, enabling particiation. A well designed hotel is a space where guests and staff and stakeholders feel included and valued. A great example of this is the Vivanta by Taj, Whitefield, where i first saw these inclusive design principles via open reception desks. By replacing traditional, rigid counters with fluid, amoebic boundaries, the design fosters a sense of approachability and collaboration. WOW Architects | Warner Wong Design

Another example of this is the Moxy Hotel in Bengaluru, which is challenging traditional notions of hotel design with its innovative bar reception concept.

The reception at Moxy isn’t just a check-in counter - it’s a social hub. Integrating the bar with the reception, the hotel is clearly positioning itself to hipsters, while also fostering a sense of community and again encouraging interactions between travelers locals and staff. Youre not just guest youre a participant in the shared experience of a hotelier!

Pluralism Point im trying to make is that Indians by nature are argumentative, and society will seek pluralistic spaces - taking a leaf from Amartya Sen - design facilitates meaningful exchanges, reinforcing the democratic principles of inclusivity and dialogue that are key to thriving, diverse communities. Through architecture, Moxy / Vivanta by Taj Whitefield brings Sen’s philosophy to life, creating not just a hotel but a hub for human connection and shared experiences.

Democratic Values: Architecture can reflect the principles of openness and equality. Hotels that prioritize sustainability, community spaces, and local integration send a powerful message about inclusivity and respect for pluralistic values.

Technology as a Digital Parallel

If you ask me to state ONE reason I enjoy my work at the #Tamara - its transparency -and language, which is enabled inside GPM (Hotel Project Management) - we have a proprietery platform that serves as a digital parallel, fostering inclusivity and participation in both strategic and operational processes.

GPM brings together diverse teams—managers, owners, consultants, and vendors - on a unified platform, breaking down silos and encouraging collaboration. On various projects

1. Collaborative Operations: GPM’s features, such as real-time discussions, task management, and integrations, empower teams to work cohesively. Everyone, from top executives to front-line staff, has a voice in decision-making, reflecting the democratic ideals of inclusivity and transparency.
2. Smashing the Glib Talk: By communicating, your point of view, (not necessarily english articulation) at the Tamara. you can make your point, through data, logic, rationale, in any style, so long there is a valid point, it will be transparent and clear. offering visibility, GPM ensures fairness and accountability at all levels. This transparency mirrors the principles of democratic governance, where every stakeholder is informed and involved.
3. Breaking Technological Barriers: GPM’s open API and compatibility across multiple platforms (iOS, Android, Windows, and Mac) ensure accessibility for all users. This inclusivity prevents technological exclusion and allows diverse teams to participate fully in operational processes.

The convergence

Architecture creates inclusive physical spaces that encourage participation and connection, while technology democratizes access to operational tools and decision-making processes. For hotel owners, this dual approach offers tangible benefits:

• Enhanced Guest Experience: Inclusive designs and transparent operations create welcoming spaces where guests feel valued.
• Empowered Teams: Collaborative tools and thoughtfully designed workspaces foster engagement and innovation among staff.
• Sustainable Growth: By embracing pluralism and inclusivity, hotels strengthen their ties to local communities, enhancing reputation and profitability.

Reflections as a hotelier

I see the transformative power of democracy, pluralism, Freedom of speech, by merging architecture and technology firsthand. When thoughtfully implemented, these elements create hotels that are not just places of lodging but hubs of connection, creativity, and shared experiences.

Democracy and pluralism aren’t just abstract ideals - they are very real, and to be honest, they are the building blocks of successful, future-ready hotels, and in turn communities and socieities