What is a Smart Hotel? 3 Key Automations to Incorporate ASAP
Smart hotels enhance guest experiences through connected technology and automation, integrating IoT and AI.
The development of smart hotels began in the late 1970s, evolving with technology advances over decades.
To upgrade to smart systems, engage vendors, secure stakeholder buy-in, and pilot projects before scaling.
Smart controls can significantly reduce operating costs and elevate guest experiences through automation and IoT.
Becoming a smart hotel aligns with eco-conscious values, benefiting sustainability branding and reducing energy use.
Upgrading a property with state-of-the-art automation is seen as expensive, complex, disruptive, and risky. But is that still true today?
What is a Smart Hotel?
A smart hotel is a hospitality property that uses connected technology and automation to create a more seamless, efficient, and personalized guest experience. Instead of relying only on traditional service methods, these hotels integrate the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and mobile-based systems into their operations.
History of Smart Hotels
The rise of smart hotels reflects decades of innovation aimed at enhancing guest experience using the latest and greatest technology. Some might say it began back in the late 1970s when VingCard introduced the mechanical hole-card lock and Elsafe followed with the first electronic in-room safe, simple technologies that made guest experience safer and easier.
By the early 2000s, the idea of “smart” hospitality was sparking across the industry. Electronic key cards and better in-room systems became standard, while pioneers like London’s Eccleston Square Hotel (2011) offered features such as fiber-optic Wi-Fi, VOIP phones, glass walls that turned opaque, and massage beds, all early examples of tech-driven guest immersion.
The 2010s ushered on the Internet of Things. Hotels began using connected devices to automate lighting, HVAC, and check-in. Cloud services enabled mobile check-ins, virtual concierge apps, and personalized in-room controls, while platforms like ALICE streamlined staff-guest communication.
Novelty soon followed. Japan’s Henn na Hotel gained fame in 2015 for robot staff, and YOTEL introduced robotic luggage porters and aircraft-inspired cabins. These innovations demonstrated both the potential and limits of automation, underscoring the need for human touch.
Today, smart also means sustainable. The Sinclair Hotel in Texas exemplifies this shift, using Power over Ethernet to cut energy use by up to 40%. The future of smart hotels lies in merging intelligent design with eco-conscious operations.
Smart Hotel Examples
Saint John’s Resort, Storytelling through Technology: I recently participated in the $40 million renovation of Saint John’s Resort. The level of sophistication we achieved—the seamless emotional storytelling woven into every space—would have been impossible with traditional technology. Through dynamic scenes and complex orchestrations, we integrated multiple protocols, lighting, and shading, while intuitive touchscreens and mobile apps gave staff and managers effortless control over events.
Elevation Hotel, Wireless Luxury Innovation: The Elevation Hotel, currently nearing completion, is another showcase of innovation. Its guest-room management system combines smart door locks, immersive lighting effects, climate control, and guest services in one platform. The property delivers a true luxury experience through smart wireless automation which was implemented without pulling a single wire nor touching walls and ceilings.
How to Upgrade to a Smart Hotel: Key Steps
Upgrading your property with state-of-the-art automation doesn’t have to be daunting. Start with these three proven steps:
- Understand the landscape: Smart tech may look complex, but it doesn’t have to be. Meet with vendors who offer open-standard solutions that integrate seamlessly across platforms—avoiding vendor lock-in. Clarify trade-offs between wireless vs. wired and cloud vs. on-premises options to select the right fit for your property.
- Align your stakeholders: Secure buy-in early by addressing common concerns head-on: ROI, complexity, reliability, and security. A united team makes the upgrade process smoother and faster.
- Pilot, then scale: Start small—test a few guest-rooms and public spaces. Gather feedback from staff and guests, refine the setup, then expand in phases to minimize operational disruption.
Benefits of Becoming a Smart Hotel
Smart controls are all-around transformative, reduce operating costs, elevate the guest experience, and strengthen sustainability branding—giving hotels a clear competitive edge. But when presenting to stakeholders, focusing on a few high-impact benefits resonates more than listing every possible gain. For most properties, these three pillars carry the strongest case:
- Cost Savings & Efficiency
- Smart HVAC, lighting, and shading automatically adjust to occupancy, cutting utility bills by up to 30%.
- IoT sensors catch issues early, reducing downtime and repair costs.
- Automated systems free staff from routine tasks, allowing them to focus on guest service.
- Elevated Guest Experience
- Guests easily control room settings (lighting, climate, curtains, entertainment) via app, tablet, or voice.
- Mobile keys and intuitive interfaces eliminate frustrations.
- Dynamic lighting scenes, climate presets, and smart ambiance create memorable stays.
- Sustainability & Branding
- Automated energy savings directly support ESG goals.
- Easier compliance with LEED, WELL, and regional sustainability standards.
- Eco-conscious travelers prefer hotels that align with their values.
Expert Tip: The Power of Bluetooth® Mesh
If I had to share one tip with a hotel professional, it would be this: Bluetooth® Mesh is the real game-changer for smart controls. As an open standard backed by the same non-profit driving billions of deployments worldwide, it’s industrial-grade, secure, and reliable—and it can cut the investment required to go smart by half.
Smart Hotel FAQS
Here are some questions people also ask me about smart hotels and the integration of smart technology for the hospitality sectors.
What is smart hotel technology in the hospitality industry?
Smart hotel technology uses connected IoT devices and smart room technology to improve the hotel experience for guests and operational efficiency for hoteliers. Features can include voice-activated controls, contactless check-ins, and smart thermostats.
How does smart hotel technology improve hotel operations?
By automating functions like room service, front desk tasks, and concierge services, hotels can streamline workflows. This frees staff to focus more on guest satisfaction and personalized services.
What are chatbots and virtual assistants used for in hotels?
Chatbots and virtual assistants handle real-time guest requests such as booking, room keys, or room temperature adjustments. They also provide personalized experiences by remembering guest preferences.
How do hotels use smart devices for revenue management?
Smart devices and property management systems (PMS) provide real-time data that helps optimize pricing and revenue management strategies. This ensures hoteliers make decisions that maximize occupancy and profits.
Why are eco-friendly smart devices important in hotel management?
Eco-friendly solutions like smart thermostats and automated air conditioning reduce energy use and lower a hotel’s environmental impact. They also align with guest expectations for sustainable hotel operations.
How does smart hospitality improve the customer experience?
Smart hospitality enhances the customer experience with personalized services, voice-controlled room features, and seamless contactless options. These advancements improve comfort and increase guest satisfaction.
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