NEWH - September 2009 - (Page 16)

case study Cambria Suites Positive Feedback Designing from the guest perspective By Donald Griner The project Cambria Suites by Choice Hotels International opened five new properties in the last month in Denver; Madison, Wisconsin; Traverse City, Michigan; Minneapolis; and Indianapolis, Indiana, bringing the total portfolio to 18 hotels. Above, clockwise from top: Two views of the lobby, the bar, and a guestroom at a Cambria Suites. Donald Griner is the senior director, design and construction, for Choice Hotels International Design Approach The brand is working on some exciting new custom projects in Los Angeles and Seattle, which will incorporate regionalized design features. Our last wave of openings featured new design elements such as a lobby fireplace and regional stone exterior. Regardless of whether the design is prototypical, regional, or custom urban, the design concept was to create a comfortable and modern, but not “over-theedge” atmosphere, appealing to the professional “striver” mindset. Elegance and casual sophistication emanate from the eclectic décor, including contemporary aspects defined by the non-traditional use and placement of materials, textures, and color. Dramatic interior architecture and irregular geometry complement the décor to create spaces where guests truly talk about the design. One of my favorite experiences in the hotel is to watch the expression of delight and surprise on guests’ faces as they peer up into the two-story lobby and pan across the public spaces upon check-in. However, even the unique curb appeal of the exteriors starts the memorable guest experience as they drive-in before check-in. Results Thoughtful amenities and comforts in both the spacious suites and active public spaces have been universally valued by the guests, and design aspects of the hotel are quoted in numerous reviews from leading 16 september 2009 www.newh.org tel 800.593.NEWH hotel traveler review website TripAdvisor. Cambria Suites has received four national design awards in the last two years, reflecting its stylish appeal. However, the true testimony of the popularity of the brand’s design comes from the guests themselves and the resulting property rankings in the markets they are located. Cambria Suites hotels are ranked as a top 10 hotel in 12 markets, including the top hotel in six of those markets. Responses from the Cambria Suites guests themselves from TripAdvisor.com: “Bold modern sizzle” “All I can saw is WOW!” “Very modern, comfortable, stylish” “I’ve made the Cambria Suites my second home” “Hip, upscale coffee shop & bar” “Refreshing and welcoming” “Best workout room I have seen in a hotel of any class” “Interesting boutique hotel vibe” “No expense was spared for the décor” “Design and attention to detail made us feel like we could have paid double” Creating inspirational designs that both “wows” and comforts road weary travelers should be the mission of all designers in the hospitality industry, and this clearly shows that innovative and thoughtful design truly can delight a wider range of guests. I www.cambriasuites.com http://www.TripAdvisor.com http://www.cambriasuites.com http://www.newh.org

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of NEWH - September 2009

NEWH - September 2009
Contents
News
Sustainability: POV
Design 101
Case Study: Project
Case Study: Product
Have you Seen?
Product Know-How: Fabrics
On the Scene
Cover Story: NLP
Project: Langham Shanghai
Project: Founding Farmers
New Members
Save the Date
Partner Profiles

NEWH - September 2009