ATLANTA—InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has introduced the Staybridge Suites brand’s new Urban Guestroom Design, created specifically for future hotel developments in urban markets. The new design attempts to address the need for owners to maximize land use more efficiently in urban locations where the hotel footprint is generally smaller compared to suburban properties, according to the company. The announcement was made at IHG’s 2015 Americas Owners Conference in San Francisco.
The Urban Guestroom Design was developed for both studios and one-bedroom suites. The new design aims to deliver on the authentic Staybridge Suites brand experience, offering guests comfortable and spacious apartment-style accommodations, plenty of storage and fully equipped kitchens, according to IHG.
To maximize the space within the suites, all of the elements included in the new Urban Guestroom Design have multiple uses. In both room types, there is a separate work and dining area. The desk is mobile, so it can be moved throughout the suite based on guests’ preference. The standard desk hutch was removed in order to take full advantage of the space and replaced with a built-in cubby and shelves that is mounted to the wall, making it easier for our guests to unpack and have the space to work and relax.
Heather Balsley, SVP, Americas brand management, IHG said, “Historically, extended-stay hotels catered to travelers staying for weeks or months at a time, often in suburban locations. In recent years, we have seen the demand for extended-stay accommodations in city-center locations grow rapidly. Therefore, we created the Staybridge Suites brand’s Urban Guestroom Design as a way to bring the brand to life with a smaller footprint for owners looking to develop in these urban markets which often have a much higher barrier to entry.”
The Staybridge Suites brand currently has 106 hotels in the global pipeline, many of which are located in urban locations. The new design was used to create the framework of the guestroom layout in the Staybridge Suites located in Downtown Denver, which is currently in development. The 111-room conversion property is expected to open at the end of 2016 and is being developed by AAA Hotel Developers.