Choice Creates New Look For Econo Lodge

SILVER SPRING, MD— Choice Hotels International reports that its new prototypes for its Econo Lodge brand include a first-ever “Inn & Suites” option for the brand as well as a non-traditional use of color, space and materials. Tim Shuy, vp and brand manager/economy brands for Choice, said that the new prototype costs, on average, 10% less to build than “a competitive lodging product.” The two new prototypes include an interior corridor, 64-room, three-story Econo Lodge and a 69-room, three-story Econo Lodge Inn & Suites. Both prototypes are designed to be built on one to 1.2 acres, with construction efficiencies designed to minimize costs. Guestrooms in the new Econo Lodge prototypes are 230 square feet, typical for the segment. Rooms, however, are reportedly uniquely configured to provide a sense of openness. Choice said that one of the most striking elements of the new design is the use of bright blue and gold hues for guestroom walls. Guest baths include either two separate compartments, designed to accommodate leisure travelers and group business, or a one-compartment bath option more suitable for markets catering to business travelers. The suite component, meanwhile, has amenities such as a pull-out sleeper sofa, in-room coffee maker, microwave, refrigerator, iron and ironing board. Suites must account for at least 10% of total rooms for a hotel to qualify for the “Inn & Suites” designation.