Insider: Lobby-ists Delight – New Hip Meeting Spots for Hotels Are On The Rise
By Andrew Freeman, President, Andrew Freeman & Company
Mr. Andrew Freeman
Spouses everywhere relax -- hooking up in the hotel lobby no longer carries a naughty connotation. Hotel lobbies are evolving into dynamic social centers for business and fun. With the ever-evolving use of technology in both work and leisure, many hotels are establishing “outlets” for people to access the web, addressing the needs for accessibility and comfort in a shared communal environment. By simply adding WiFi (complimentary of course) in your lobby, you are on the way to creating a whole new vibe in what might be a pretty dull space.
Hotel groups like Kimpton Hotels and Restaurants, Personality Hotels, Larkspur Hotels and Andre Balazs Properties top the list as the industry’s WiFi leaders. They are connected and they get it. Kimpton not only provides a fast and dependable connection, but it allows you to take it from the lobby to your room uninterrupted; offering two separate wifi networks—one for the lobby and another for the guest rooms. André Balazs properties offer free "click & go" WiFi in the lobby and pool areas. By adding WiFi to the lobby or even out by the pool, hotels create a new environment – sit by the fire, take a dip, sip a glass of wine – and check your email. Very civilized – don’t you think?
Many hotels are going even further and making their lobbies true destination venues. For me, there is nothing better –then arriving in a city and having a group of pals or business colleagues meet me in my hotel’s “Living Room” for some schmoozing, cocktailing and snacking. In my article "Lobby-ists Delight – New Hip Meeting Spots for Hotels Are On The Rise", in the Hotel Business Review, we examine and explore the potential of redefining hotel lobbies as unique venues for new guests, more press and added revenue. Start simply with WiFi and some comfy chairs –and take it to the next level with a chef, a mixologist, or a DJ – and bring your hotel to life in the lobby.
After all, doesn’t the whole hotel experience –start and end in the lobby – make it as memorable as possible.
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Sincerely,
Andrew Freeman
President
Andrew Freeman & Co.
andrew@andrewfreemanandco.com
