If you are looking to renovate your hotel property, how you design your new spaces and what furnishings you choose depends, in part, on whether your property is a franchise for a major hotel chain or an independent boutique hotel.
Both types of hotels have their advantages and challenges, and it's wise to sit down an consider these factors before you jump into your renovation project.
, in part, on whether your property is a franchise for a major hotel chain or an independent boutique hotel.
Both types of hotels have their advantages and challenges, and it's wise to sit down an consider these factors before you jump into your renovation project.
Renovating Franchise Hotels vs. Boutique Hotels: What Do You Need to Consider?
While any hotel has to follow local building and safety codes, a franchise hotel may have additional regulations when it comes to design over and above the branding requirements.
For instance, the franchisor may require more sophisticated locks on guest room doors than are mandated in the building code or may require that the restaurant be located in a specific place on the property.
It's important to keep in mind that while franchisors impose a number of standards on their franchisees, they also offer a number of benefits.
Franchise Fees
Although a franchise pays fees to be associated with the franchisor, they generally get marketing and other support, such as a central reservation number or being part of a central brand website.
Boutique hotels may have more creative freedom, but they have to start at ground zero in building their brand and customer reputation.
Design Considerations
If your hotel is a franchise of a major hotel chain, you likely have certain parameters you are required to follow when it comes to renovations. These may include color scheme, design style and sometimes even placement.
The franchisor wants all of its properties to have a cohesive look and to live up to the quality standards it promises in its advertising. This can be helpful after the renovations are completed, as guests will want to come experience the new look of a brand they are already familiar with.
With a boutique hotel, you have the freedom to choose the furnishings and details of the renovation. You also get to choose the vendors you use and can reward local merchants with your business.
On the flip side, a franchisor may have interior designers on staff that can be brought in to do all of the "heavy lifting" when it comes to choosing materials, finding vendors and contractors and drawing up the layout. This can save you and your staff a lot of time and money.
Looking For Help When Renovating?
We’re happy to help bring your designs to life -- whether it be for a franchise hotel or a boutique hotel. From design to installation, we’re ready to help create spaces that thrill guests.
