NATIONAL REPORT— As the economy slowly sputters along, the hotel design pipeline keeps chugging along. Designers and architects who have spoken to HOTEL BUSINESS® in recent months are noting a steady spate of work, and are upbeat about the economy. They are also enjoying the fact that lodging companies see design as a key to success, particularly in the wake of boutique hotels popularity, with whom the big companies are competing. The fact that guests have higher standards about the level of comfort, technology and amenities they desire at hotels is boding well for architects and designers, despite soft economic times. These were just some of the key finds discovered by HOTEL BUSINESS® as part of its Top Designers & Architects Survey, due out August 21. Most of the firms that spoke with HOTEL BUSINESS® reported they were quite busy, citing a wide range of the types of projects with which they are involved: new construction, renovations, repositioning, restoration and convention-center hotels. These same firms also cited an increase in the amount of spa work they were doing, as well. One design executive also noted that his firm was doing more feasibility surveys, to gauge the economics of projects— a reflection of the downturn. However, all of the work hotel companies are giving designers and architects reflects their realization of the correlation between maintaining high standards and staying competitive in todays marketplace. They realize the key role design is playing in creating a loyal customer base. As another design executive noted, “Although there has been less development going on, renovations are always going on.” Designers and architects also noted a number of trends, including an increasing amount of conversions and renovations. Many felt this had much to do with the tight capital markets and said they found it easier to squeeze development dollars out of lenders for these types of projects as opposed to new developments. There is also a surge toward mixed-use projects, like the ones Ritz-Carlton is undertaking, said experts. Tech amenities, particularly high-speed Internet access; attention to detail as it relates to bringing a residential feel into the guestroom; a large, ergonomically correct work space; good lighting; and a spacious bath with a good shower experience are other trends this years designers and architects revealed as being key in providing an optimum experience for hotel guests. ** Catch the Top Designers & Architects Survey in the August 21 issue of HOTEL BUSINESS®.
