What's the most significant factor to impact the selection of hotel seating in recent years? Laptop computers. As they've become smaller, lighter and faster, laptops have earned a place as an almost mandatory accessory for business travelers intent on setting up an office-to-go and a convenience for leisure travelers who want to connect with folks back home via e-mail.
The impact of laptop-toting travelers stretches from the guest-room to the lobby to the conference room. And it's not just affecting desk chairs. Laptops are changing the way planners and designers look at everything, from guestroom recliners to lobby sofas.
"The most significant trend we're seeing is the specification of an ergonomic task chair where we used to see a more decorative side chair in years past," said Jenny Ray McCloskey, director of design for HVSCompass Interior Design.
But not everyone who travels with a laptop computer chooses to set up shop on the guestroom desk. Some prefer to stretch out and relax while working.
When you look at specifying a lounge chair, it needs to be durable, but it also needs to be comfortable for hotel seating. It's more than a place for someone to kick back and relax. You even sit in a lounge chair to work while I watch a little TV.
The impact of laptop computers has led to a design revolution of sorts, where designers are paying particular attention to guestroom work space.
One latest trends that is affecting guestrooms is the addition of high-speed Internet for the business traveler. To provide this amenity, designer have researched the appropriate ergonomic chair, increased the size of the desk and have specified the correct lamp for appropriate size and function. This has also required review of the space planning for correct location and function for all these elements.
The preponderance of laptop computers affects seating groupings, too. Scott Wiseman, vice president for Accor North America, said lobby seating configurations in Accor's Sofitel properties are designed to offer options that appeal to single travelers, business groups, leisure guests and any combination of those. There's also a growing trend toward including a set-up--desk and chair and/or height-appropriate coffee table--for laptop users.
"That's even more important now with Wi-Fi," Wiseman said. "People are working all the time in our lobbies."
In style
Another trend? Style. Angela Denney, design director/hospitality and restaurant studio for FRCH Design Worldwide, said hotel seating is leaning toward a sleeker, cleaner look--sort of what was popular in the '60s with a twist.
"What was once retro is starting to come back," Denney said. "Think Palm Springs and Frank Sinatra. The essence of the time is there, but it's refined."
The enthusiasm with which any given brand embraces a trend depends on a number of factors. That's one reason why it's important for hotel operators, owners and developers to include designers in the decision-making process at the start of the project, according to Denney.
"Usually, they'll have specifications in mind," Denney said. "Whether it's new construction or a renovation, that determines the way to go. We work with them on concept development, talk about their budget and help them set goals for individual areas."
Denney said in addition to style trends, factors that come into play include the image of the property, its location and regional influences, guest profile and even the personal likes and dislikes of the property owner.
Make it last
Once style direction is determined, the next step is selecting fabric that will stand up to the test of time. Technology, in the form of manufacturing techniques and treatment options, has increased the range of options. Denny said it's possible to specify fabric that will last for five to seven years, even in high-traffic areas.
What's another trick to enhance longevity? Specify that chair cushions be upholstered on both sides. When routine wear and tear takes its toll on one side, housekeeping can simply flip the cushion. That option might be particularly appealing to hoteliers who manage properties frequented by families.
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