Travelers used to Marriott Courtyard’s overstuffed leather chairs, matronly drapes, and gigantic granite fronts desks are in for a real shock.
The hotel chain, which caters to business travelers, is about to undergo a major makeover in an effort to lure younger, hipper guests.
Say goodbye to the heavy draped dark lobbies and hello to open and airy spaces dotted with sleek, contemporary furniture, including furniture upholstered in soft fabrics featuring vibrant colors; marble-topped tables; real hardwood flooring; colored Italian glass pendant lamps; and a Starbucks-like counter that doubles as a lively cocktail bar, according to hotel executives.
The massive makeover also includes a new multi-use lobby that emphasizes technology, style and service. Which means Courtyard’s traditional breakfast buffet will soon be a thing of the past. In the coming months the old buffets will be replaced by new Starbucks-style cafe that will sell fancy caffeinated concoctions and healthy snacks.
Marriott bigwigs say they are striving to make Courtyard properties better resemble an upscale home rather than a modestly priced hotel. To accomplish this goal the hotel is going high tech. Look for more power outlets and large, semicircular booths, each with a flat-screen TV built into it to be part of the revamped lobbies. The new gathering spaces will also feature separate home-theater areas equipped with 56-inch flat-screen TVs.
Another high-tech addition will be placed near the hotel’s check-in areas. It will include a large TV that will display local information, such as weather, traffic, airport delays, and directions to and descriptions of area restaurants. Content can be accessed by touching the screen. The hotel will also be adding two computers specifically for printing out airline boarding passes to minimize guest’s wait time at the airport.
Finally, Marriott is adding a unique addition to its outdoor gathering spaces. Courtyard’s new “outdoor hangout” will be decorated with European furniture, a fire pit, Japanese pottery and outdoor speakers. Hotel executives say they hope the space will encourage socializing between its younger guests.
According to Marriott officials, the new renovations will be completed at 25 of its properties by the end of the year with the rest scheduled to be done by 2010.
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