What Are Hoteliers Renovating First?

Modernizing furniture, updating technology, improving bathrooms, changing signage- hotel owners are faced with MANY options when it comes to renovations. With so many areas that could be renovated, which ones are prioritized? Lately, trends have shown that hoteliers are looking to renovate publicly used spaces (lobby, workout facility, restaurants) first.

Why renovate common areas?

Hotel guests literally stay in hotels for a place to sleep (usually), so why are hotel owners renovating public spaces instead of guestrooms? The answer is pretty simple- many guests, especially millennials, are spending less time in their rooms and more time in common spaces. Because of this, hotels are diverting their renovation budgets towards better lounges and restaurant spaces. Making these spaces more communal will encourage guests to stay at the hotel and, ultimately, spend more money.

How are they being renovated?

Areas that may have once been overlooked, like fitness centers, lobbies and F&B outlets, are now getting quite a bit of renovation attention. Fitness centers are expanding, with the addition of more workout equipment and multiple large screen televisions. A few years ago, the Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile completed a $2 million fitness center renovation, expanding from 2,200 square feet to 9,000 square feet. Hotel F&B spaces are being updated for multi-use purposes. Rather than only serving breakfast, the spaces can be converted to a full-service bar and restaurant.

Hotels are always looking for ways to improve their guests’ experiences! Which space would you update first? Share with us below!

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