PHOTO: Marriott is testing the concept at its eco-conscious, extended-stay Element brand. (Photo via Flickr/Karen Bryan) In an effort to appeal to group travelers who may otherwise opt for an Airbnb stay, Marriott International is experimenting with communal hotel rooms.The unique design, which is being piloted within its recently-acquired eco-friendly, extended-stay Element brand, features four private bedrooms that lead to a shared space equipped with a kitchen, dining room and lounge area.Marriott envisions the room serving as a collaborative space for groups seeking privacy but it won't be limited to traveling groups.The room, which can accommodate anywhere from six to 16 guests at a time, is available to solo travelers who are open to meeting new people as well.Marriott to introduce communal hotel roomshttps://t.co/NWsMADfLRlpic.twitter.com/Fd9eAWswya— HotelBuyer (@HotelBuyer) February 15, 2017If successful, Marriott could construct one on each floor of the hotel. "Our lobbies have become more communal and social hubs, but we saw a need for something in between. There are a lot of opportunities for people to have their shared common space and be together but still have their private space," Marriott vice president Toni Stoeckl told the Daily Mail.READ MORE: What Will Marriott’s Hotel of the Future Look Like?"More and more our guests are telling us that they want more unique, shared spaces whether on the road for business or leisure."Stoeckl said business travelers want a space other than a conference room or hotel lobby or bar where they can meet and get work done and that traveling families are also seeking a balance between togetherness and privacy. According to PCMA.org, the company plans to test the new room concept at 23 of its Element properties around the world.Meanwhile, Marriott is enhancing its food and beverage offerings at its Aloft brand, focusing on healthy options and offering customized to-go pots that guests can order from a digital kiosk.Follow @_Pat_Clarke