Today, a new generation of hoteliers operate a wide range of smaller hotel properties in big cities throughout the country. As such, renovating historic boutique hotels and keeping them in pristine condition will keep guests returning time after time.
Boutique hotels first appeared in the mid-80s in San Francisco and London. When the Bedford Hotel came on the scene in America’s most popular tourist destination in San Francisco, California, it gave travelers choices that were no longer limited to the large chains, or big expensive hotels such as the Fairmont Hotel or the St. Francis.
Soon after the Bedford, boutique hotel groups such as the Kimpton, Joie de Vivre, and Thompson Hotels began renovating historic boutique hotels to create unique guest experiences to travelers from near and far.
Travelers who choose to stay at boutique hotels are banking on a single, unforgettable experience. One of the primary ways hoteliers can stand out is by investing in interior design and decoration. Hotels built in the early 1900s are poised to be converted into historic boutique hotels, especially, if they are designated landmarks.
Keep these design principles in mind when renovating historic boutique hotels
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Historic properties can retain their relevance in today’s technologically driven world
The appeal of historic hotel properties is strong because landmark properties have rich stories from bygone years. Even though guests want to become a part of those stories they expect modern-day amenities. Examples of these conveniences include built-in connection ports to guest room furniture will provide guests with the ability to connect their smartphones and tablets anytime they choose.
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Blend vintage and new elements into new furniture designs to create one-of-a-kind guest experiences
Contemporary furniture mixed with antique pieces sends a clear signal to guests they’re staying in a modern boutique hotel, located in a historic setting, giving them the best of both worlds at every turn.
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Sprinkle the property with thoughtful details to enhance the boutique hotel experience
Hoteliers and designers charged with renovating historic boutique hotels want to draw inspiration from the history of the property whether it is a designated landmark or located in a national park. Keep in mind that guests expect original touches in boutique hotels. Incorporating local stories and whimsical design elements will surprise and delight your guests.
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Reflect the natural environment surrounding your hotel property into the interior built environment with Northland’s custom crafted furniture lines
Lake Yellowstone Hotel located inside Yellowstone National Park is a national landmark property that recently underwent renovations. Northland furnished new guest rooms with headboards featuring down facing puck-lights, nightstands, activity tables, and refrigerator cabinets all designed with hand-distressed alder.
Don’t be afraid to invest in an older hotel property, especially if it’s designated a landmark and can be converted into a boutique hotel
The design challenges inherent to historic properties are surmountable, and even the most dilapidated properties are frequently candidates for restoring them to glory. The result is a modern hotel infused with a narrative that sparks your guest’s imagination and remembrance to create a one-of-a-kind experience.
The cachet of staying in a historic boutique hotel property can make for an unforgettable guest experience. When you embrace a hotel’s past and restore its glamor, guests feel the magic.
