From Theory to Practice: How Hotels Apply the Third Place Concept

What makes people return to a hotel, even when they don't need a room?

While traditional hospitality focuses primarily on lodging, a growing number of properties are positioning their spaces as venues for remote work, socializing, and community events. This approach aligns with the sociological concept of the "Third Place".

Several hotel brands illustrate how this concept can be applied in practice.

1. Ace Hotel: Turning Hospitality into a Creative Community

Ace Hotel is known for transforming its public spaces into cultural gathering places. Instead of limiting its lobby to hotel guests, the hotel regularly hosts free public arts programming, live music performances, exhibitions, and creative events.

These experiences attract local residents alongside travelers, creating a vibrant atmosphere throughout the day and evening. By giving people reasons to visit beyond booking a room, Ace Hotel builds stronger community connections while increasing activity across its restaurants, cafés, and event spaces.

Why it works: The hotel is a cultural destination, encouraging repeat visits from both guests and locals.

2. CitizenM: Designing the Lobby as a Living Room

CitizenM has redefined what a hotel lobby can be. Instead of a traditional reception area, guests enter a vibrant communal living room filled with iconic Vitra furniture, colorful pop art, comfortable seating, and flexible workspaces.

Open 24 hours a day, these spaces are designed for everything from remote work and casual meetings to social gatherings and relaxation. Technology streamlines check-in and other routine processes, allowing staff to spend more time interacting with guests rather than handling administrative tasks.

Why it works: Thoughtful design encourages people to stay longer, while technology supports a more people-centered guest experience.

3. 21c Museum Hotel: Where Hospitality Meets Local Culture

21c Museum Hotel takes the Third Place concept a step further by combining hospitality with contemporary art and community engagement. Depending on the property, galleries, lounges, and fitness facilities are accessible to hotel guests and designated club members, making the hotel a destination beyond overnight stays.

Visitors can explore curated exhibitions, attend cultural events, or simply enjoy the shared spaces. This integration of art and hospitality creates meaningful connections between travelers and the local community.

Why it works: By celebrating local culture and opening key public spaces beyond overnight guests, the hotel becomes part of the city's everyday life.

The Common Thread

Although each hotel has its own identity, they share the same philosophy: creating spaces that people choose to return to because they enjoy spending time there. By embracing concepts such as the Third Place and establishing accessible public spaces, these hotels integrate themselves directly into the daily routines of the surrounding community.