Renovating to Retain Market Share, Not Drive Rate Increases
In the world of hospitality, change is inevitable. Guest expectations continue to evolve, technology drives innovation, design trends shift, and new competitors open. An investment within your business is not just a strategy to increase room rates or increase profit.
Guest amenities including complimentary Wi-Fi, USBC ports, and Smart TVs were once considered unique selling points that could be promoted to attract new travellers: they are now an expectation. The rise of bleisure travel and working remotely means that accommodation operators are needing to adapt to the varied needs of their guests: can a table and chairs easily adapt to a comfortable workplace if needed or is the Wi-Fi connectivity and speed sufficient for an online meeting.
Renovating hotel rooms is no longer about driving increased revenue or upselling your guest amenities – it is about retaining market share by staying relevant, providing authentic experiences, and understanding the changing needs and desires of today’s travellers.
Hotels and motels are more than just places to rest; they are where memories are created, they have become remote working environments, and guests are increasingly seeking local experiences. Refreshing the look and feel of your guest rooms and amenities ensures the priorities of today’s travellers stay front and centre. Here's how thoughtful renovations can breathe new life into your accommodation experience without focusing solely on profit.
Technology Integration
Today’s travellers expect seamless digital experiences. Smart TVs, fast Wi-Fi, USBC charging ports, and integrated room controls are no longer luxuries – they are standard features that ensures your property stays current.
Modern Design Trends
Updating decor and room layouts does not mean incorporating fleeting design trends; it is about understanding the aesthetics that resonate with contemporary travellers. Clean lines, multi-functional furniture, and seamless technology integration are not just stylish – they are practical and future-proof.
There will always be exceptions to this strategy, particularly if you are creating a uniquely themed accommodation experience: maybe it’s a chic vintage ‘70s motel, you occupy a historical art deco building and want to incorporate a complementary interior design approach, you may be situated in an outback region and your guests are seeking an authentic country experience, or you have created an off-grid accommodation offer and your guests are expecting to be offline during their time with you. Have fun, but always ensure you are including quality furnishings that offer the flexibility to accommodate the needs of today’s guests.
Sustainability & Eco-Friendly Practices
Incorporating sustainable materials, energy-efficient lighting, and water-saving fixtures reflects a growing awareness of our environmental impact. These changes resonate deeply with eco-conscious guests and show your commitment to ensuring a better tomorrow.
Enhanced Comfort
Soft bedding, adjustable lighting, and ergonomic furniture are timeless features that prioritise the wellbeing of your guests. Renovations focused on comfort show that you value the experiences of your visitors more than the additional room revenue you may be able to generate.
Local Flavour & Authenticity
Refreshing your rooms is an opportunity to highlight the uniqueness of your location and become a storyteller. Through the inclusion of locally sourced artwork, materials, and design elements, you can create a sense of place and offer guests a deeper connection to the destination and your accommodation experience.
Accessibility & Inclusivity
Design updates should embrace diversity and accessibility, ensuring every guest feels welcome. From wheelchair-friendly layouts to sensory-sensitive lighting, inclusive renovations build trust and loyalty, while building an audience of positive advocates within their own communities.
Renovating for relevance is not just a business decision; it is an act of hospitality. It reflects that you care, are proud of the accommodation experience you have developed, and are making a commitment to the maintaining of high guest satisfaction. As the hospitality industry continues to evolve, staying current helps you remain a vital part of your guests’ travels - creating a lasting impression that will retain their loyalty, ensure your guests remain trusted third-party advocates, and, ultimately, make a positive contribution to your profitability.
