Selecting the right hospitality furniture - REMI Network
The evolution of hotel design is intrinsically linked to the guests’ stay and relates to the overall hotel experience. The furniture direction and style often completes and solidifies this evolution.
There are three main criteria for selecting the correct hospitality furniture: placement, style and durability.
Placement
Expectations of a sensory experience as soon as a guest steps through a hotel’s front doors are commonplace. Gone are the austere chairs and loveseats placed inexplicably at the entry and missing elsewhere. There’s less concern for creating pretty vignettes than ensuring comfort, flexibility and delight not only for the guest but for hotel staff as well.
The expectation today is that public spaces in hotels seamlessly function as living rooms, waiting areas, cocktail lounges, business centres and private getaways. Creating these zones in a lobby is only achievable with the right furniture placement. Arranging a large sectional with low backed chairs in the centre of the room is an invitation for all to enjoy. Locating a raised bar top with barstools adjacent to reception provides business travellers both visibility and privacy without commitment. Placing a communal table in a restaurant is a signal of participation and community.
Style
Style of hospitality furniture is instrumental not only in this zoning but also as a reinforcement of a hotel’s personality. A wingback chair says something a low sling chair does not. The key is to understand the message.
Hotel designers almost always custom design rather than select furniture for a hotel from a retailer. When dealing with a standard sized guestroom, for instance, space is paramount and custom furniture is necessary to ensure the right scale. In a lobby or restaurant, scale is crucial in conveying the right relationship each piece of furniture has to one another. For example, making sure a side table is designed to the correct height so that a guest sitting on an adjacent sofa can easily lean over and rest their drink on it is an absolute must.
Durability
The life cycle of a hotel is between five and 10 years. This means furniture must last not only stylistically but stand up to a tremendous amount of wear and tear during this period.
To ensure furniture will stand the test of time, designers need to understand how each piece is typically made and how the space in which the furniture will be placed will be used. This information helps a designer choose the right type of furniture fabric, colour, texture and grade. Of course, there needs to be a balance between aesthetics and durability. Durability should be incorporated in such a way that doesn’t detract from the overall look and feel of the furniture and space.
Adèle Rankin is a senior associate at B+H CHIL Design. She specializes in the planning, design, documentation and management of major hospitality and residential projects.
What types of beds do you need for your hotel?
Choosing the right beds for your hotel is essential to provide your guests with a comfortable and restful sleep. Here are some of the most popular options for hotel beds:
1. Standard Double Bed: A standard double bed is a cost-effective option that can accommodate up to two guests. It usually measures 54 inches wide and 75 inches long.
2. Queen Bed: A queen-sized bed is slightly larger than a double bed, measuring 60 inches wide and 80 inches long. It can comfortably accommodate two guests and is suitable for couples and families.
3. King Bed: A king-sized bed is the most spacious option, measuring 76 inches wide and 80 inches long. It can accommodate up to three guests and is ideal for families.
4. Twin Bed: A twin bed is a single bed that is suitable for solo travelers or children. It measures 38 inches wide and 75 inches long.
5. Sofa Bed: A sofa bed is a versatile option that can be used as a sofa during the day and a bed at night. It is ideal for small hotel rooms and can accommodate up to two guests.
When choosing beds for your hotel, consider the size of your rooms, the needs of your guests, and your budget. Investing in high-quality, durable beds is a smart choice that can ensure your guests have a pleasant and comfortable stay.
What type of armchairs or chairs should you buy for your hotel?
When it comes to furnishing your hotel, choosing the right armchairs or chairs is crucial. You want to provide your guests with comfortable seating options that not only look great but can also withstand the wear and tear of daily use.
First and foremost, look for chairs that are made from high-quality materials. Solid wood or metal frames and durable upholstery materials like leather or vinyl are great options. These materials can withstand regular use and are easy to clean and maintain.
Consider the style and design of the chairs as well. You want to choose chairs that complement the overall aesthetic of your hotel. Whether you are going for a modern, minimalist look or a classic, traditional style, there are chairs available to fit your needs.
Comfort is also key when selecting chairs for your hotel. Look for chairs with supportive backs and comfortable cushions. This will ensure that your guests can relax and unwind in their rooms or common areas.
Finally, don’t forget about durability. Your hotel chairs will be used frequently, so you want to choose options that can withstand the test of time. Investing in high-quality, durable chairs may cost more upfront, but it will save you money in the long run by reducing the need for frequent replacements.
In conclusion, when choosing armchairs or chairs for your hotel, focus on quality materials, design, comfort, and durability. By doing so, you can provide your guests with a comfortable and stylish seating option that will last for years to come.