From what I’ve read: Night Hospitality & Public Environments
The evolving climate and changes in lifestyles are fostering a growing interest in night activities. This trend is prompting the redesign of hospitality and public spaces with features focused on night-time, aiming to ensure safety and create distinct experiences.
Delta is an interactive wayfinding installation created by design studio Void for an Oslo neighbourhood development. The rivers of light encourage pedestrians to explore new paths and alleyways
Opportunity: As global temperatures rise, work schedules, especially for outdoor jobs, are likely to start later in the day or earlier in the morning. This shift necessitates improved night-time navigation and hospitality options. Additionally, social activities outside the home are rebounding to levels seen before the pandemic, fueled by an increase in tourism and Gen Z's growing interest in night venues.
Urban development, a major factor contributing to light pollution, is pushing designers to explore new lighting solutions. These solutions aim to protect night-time wildlife while meeting the changing requirements of city residents. As a result, we're seeing more investment in night-time directional aids and architecture that prioritizes enjoyment and public safety. Our STEPIC Future Innovations report for 2026 offers more insights on adapting to these nocturnal lifestyle changes.
Key Insights:
Research by Technavio suggests that the global market for pubs, bars, and clubs is poised for growth, with an expected increase of $31.46 billion and a CAGR of 5.09% from 2023 to 2027. This growth in the night economy is spurred by changing work patterns, a boom in tourism, and Gen Z's renewed interest in night-time socializing.
In China, the night economy is increasingly viewed as crucial to domestic recovery. In Guangxi, for instance, significant investment in night-time activities like markets and fairs is anticipated to generate revenue of 1 trillion yuan in 2023, as per China Daily.
Under Canvas Lake Powell-Grand Staircase, Utah is the first lodging to be certified by DarkSky International in August 2023. Here artificial lighting is kept to an absolute minimum to create the best conditions for star-gazing. Guests are given telescopes, blankets and hot cocoa for outdoor astrology evenings
Actionable Strategies:
Embrace Restorative Darkness: Invest in dark hues and materials that convey safety, comfort, and closeness. Opt for subdued lighting that aligns with biological rhythms to create ambiance, and enhance sleep and energy cycles.
Strategic Lighting for Navigation: Safe and inviting night-time public spaces require thoughtful lighting. This includes environmentally sensitive lighting solutions that aid in navigation without disrupting nocturnal wildlife. Architectural lighting, motion-sensing, and color-changing lights will be crucial in developing appealing, multi-sensory spaces that address environmental concerns.
Adapting Spaces for Changing Lifestyles: Adopt a flexible approach to space usage, transitioning from day to night to accommodate evolving needs and work schedules. Examples include department stores doubling as cultural venues or underpasses becoming open-air dance spaces.
