Monthly Archives

January 2013

5 Factors To Consider When Purchasing Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment

January 18, 2013

1. Showcase Your Lobby. Create a great first impression and “wow” your guests with an interesting lobby design that incorporates a unique architectural element, columns, exotic woods, a mural or a dramatic fireplace. Today’s lobby serves as part business center, part meeting place, and part dining area, so it’s important to make it as multifunctional and dramatic as possible.

2. Keep Technology Cutting Edge. Guests expect the latest electronic gadgets, so offering high-speed internet access, including wireless, is essential throughout your hotel, along with plenty of data ports and electrical outlets. Extras like an entertainment center with a pivoting flat screen, high definition TV, a digital music and movie library available on demand, a stereo system or
MP3-compatible clock radio are rapidly becoming must-haves for today’s guests.

3. Beds & Bedding. From a comfortable place that provides a good night’s sleep to a luxurious area for reading, relaxing or working, the bed is the focal point of your guest rooms and deserves to be of high quality. Consider mattresses with higher coil counts and an extra-thick pillowtop for even more comfort. Top the bed with higher thread count linens, plush bedding and charming accent pillows for a soft, inviting look and feel. Offer a “menu” so guests can choose their favorite type of pillow for their sleeping style.

4. Case Goods. Keep both function and aesthetics in mind when selecting case goods to be sure the pieces look good together and accommodate guests’ needs. Coordinate finishes, colors and styles, along with accent pieces like cocktail tables in granite or metal to make a special design statement.

5. Lighting. Lighting is a relatively inexpensive way to add style, save energy, and bring any space to life. Explore ways to brighten work areas, soften lounge areas, or create a peaceful mood.

Not sure where to start? Contact us today!

How To Select A Designer For Your New Build, Renovation or Conversion Project

January 16, 2013

how to select a designer for your new build

Interior designers are a valuable resource for your new build, conversion or property renovation project. Interior designers have had extensive training in the various elements of modern and historical design, art and architecture. They have a basic foundation of knowledge that allows them to develop concepts in a variety of styles that range from traditional, contemporary, and eclectic or a combination of several styles. But not every designer’s talent is right for every project, so it is important that you evaluate them carefully based on the following criteria:

Experience. Along with expertise in fabrics, lighting and textures, your designer should understand structural elements, such as architecture, building codes, fire codes, plus electrical and HVAC systems. Also, consider designers who have worked on projects similar to yours. Take time to thoroughly review portfolios of their work.

Credentials. Ask about the designer’s educational background, including certifications and memberships, like the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) certificate. All NCIDQ certificate holders have been educated, trained and examined to protect public health, safety and welfare. When you hire an NCIDQ certificate holder, you hire a professional with proven knowledge, experience and proficiency in the latest interior design principles and practices, contract documents and administration and decision-making skills. In addition, ask about memberships held. A designer’s membership in the following associations should be important factors in your selection process:

  • American Society of Interior Designers (ASID)
  • International Interior Design Association (IIDA)
  • Network of the Hospitality Industry (NEWH)
  • Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) by the U.S. Green Building Council

Meeting Your Goals. Ideally, your designer should be firm on important issues, such as accountability, responsiveness, attention to detail, and meeting bottom-line results. Everyone has a budget, so no matter what the amount, your designer should help you get the best value and the highest quality possible. A first-rate designer will work hard to achieve your key design goals, perhaps by spreading the job out over time or suggesting alternative solutions for your project. Your designer will also manage the entire process, whether it involves space planning, lighting design, purchasing, ordering, selecting finishes or monitoring the construction and installation of the project.

Not sure where to start? Contact us today!

Smart Property Improvement

January 14, 2013

smart property improvement

With the economy finally getting back on track, it’s now easier to get the financing you need for rebranding, conversions, renovations or new construction projects. The time is right to get a property improvement plan (PIP) on the table. It is one of the most critical components in improving your guest experience and increasing revPAR.

Why a PIP? Why now?
The purpose of most PIPs is to keep properties in compliance with all existing and new brand standards. Franchisors want to protect their brands and the interests of their investors, as well as give guests the consistent, fully updated experiences they are looking for in today’s market. So, the question is, “How do you implement a PIP with as much efficiency (and as few headaches) as possible?”

Know your numbers
Taking time to understand the bid process and construction planning is essential. Start by making a side-by-side comparison of potential resources and their bids to be sure all feature the same scope and details. Here are some helpful tips to consider:

  • Don’t assume the lowest bid is the best price. Does it include all the same elements of the higher bids?
  • Avoid skimping on quality of goods and materials in order to save money. Most branded hotels have specific products that must be used so there may be little variation in pricing. But if there is, take into consideration the lifecycles of goods and their replacement value. For example, will the lower-priced draperies fade in sunlight and need to be replaced more often?
  • Be sure each bidder has policies in place regarding workers’ interaction with guests, on-the-job conduct, smoking/lunch breaks, radio playing, trash disposal, cleanup, etc.

Work with experienced hospitality professionals to maximize ROI
Implementing a PIP can be an expensive proposition. When renovations involve construction, it’s critical to contract with professionals that specialize in executing hospitality projects. They will understand the importance of keeping your property fully operational during the project and will develop specific strategies for isolating the construction phase of the project for minimal impact on your property and your guests.

With the ultimate goal of achieving and maintaining high brand standards, you might want to employ a turnkey partner to execute the PIP. By turning your PIP over to these experts, you can concentrate on increasing your bookings and satisfying guests, while leaving the details of property improvement to them.

The benefits are enticing …

  • Elimination of the headaches you don’t want and the freedom to focus on running your business
  • Minimization of the impact of the renovation on your budget, your staff, and your guests
  • Quality improvement and cost savings

A turnkey partner focused on the hospitality market must have the experience, resources and talent to execute your project efficiently and cost-effectively.

What to look for in a turnkey PIP partner

A partner who has a deep understanding of your brand, your property and your business will have the knowledge required to execute your PIP in the most professional and efficient manner. You’ll also be able to take advantage of the economies of scale this partner offers, from FF&E options to inspection services and ADA compliance. Here are more factors to consider when making your decision:

  • Choose a partner with the right expertise. Look for award-winning design and brand-strengthening solutions that are in line with your property’s and brand’s unique needs.
  • Be sure the firm you are considering can deliver your brand consistently, whether it is working on one property or across multiple properties.
  • Evaluate project management expertise. A favorable track record isn’t created overnight – it’s built over time, with strong relationships that continue long after a project is completed.
  • Ensure that your partner produces a design that fits your overall budget and timeline requirements.
  • Look for clear indicators of innovation and cutting-edge technology, like an online design center.

A full-circle, 360° approach will offer the most value and expertise for the money because every aspect of the project is covered, from project financial management and design development through procurement and implementation.

 

Only American Hotel Register Company provides 360° OS&E and FF&E solutions for the hospitality industry.

The Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites in Normal, IL, recently won the 2012 Holiday Inn Express Renovation of the Year award at the Annual IHG Conference. This was just one example of the hundreds of projects that was managed by American Hotel’s FF&E Solutions team in 2012. As a result of the collaborative efforts of American Hotel and IHG, this hotel is experiencing its highest occupancy rates in 12 years.

 So, whether it’s one room or one thousand, or whether you’re planning a renovation, conversion or new build, you’ll find our experts will go above and beyond your expectations. Join the industry’s top management companies and hoteliers – choose American Hotel for your next project.

 360° solutions, with world-class service designed around you

Not sure where to start? Contact us today!