Design Solutions for a Truly Inviting Hotel Entrance | Lillian Connors

In the hotel industry, first impressions really count, and making your entrance attractive and inviting will surely grab your guests' interest. Hotel entrances are the first defining point for your guests' experience. In just a few seconds, they will soak in the atmosphere and decide whether they like it or not. The goal is to create a high impact entrance that will give your customers a hint of what they can expect once they enter the establishment.

In the past, hotel entrances were neglected as they only served as a passageway to the hotel, but now, the hotel owners are becoming aware that entrances are an important part of the experience and service they offer. An original and inviting entrance is something that will leave a lasting impression in the customers' minds and they'll be more likely to remember it for future visits and even refer it to their friends or business partners.

Colours

When it comes to decorating the interior, one of the key elements is the colour choice, but it also has a powerful impact on the exterior as well. By choosing the right exterior colour for your entrance, you can make a bold statement that defines the way you want to present your hotel. For instance, if you go with cool and calming colours like blue, teal or turquoise, you'll be creating a tropical, seaside feel; white and off-white shades will give it an air of elegance and luxury, and warm, bold colours and gem tones will give it an air of an exotic and unique abode. The trick is to stay consistent with the interior décor so the two designs don't clash, but form a cohesive whole.

Sheltered entrance

As a hotel owner, your top priority is to accommodate your guests as best as possible and one of the ways of doing so is to make them feel sheltered as soon as they arrive. Right at the entrance, your guests will need a place to put their luggage and wait for transportation, and whether it's a cold, rainy day or a hot and sunny afternoon, they'll need protection from the elements.

Canopies and coverings offer exactly this, but they also serve as an interesting design feature at the entrance. Choose the one that compliments the whole style of your hotel and is an extension of the building itself.

High-quality driveway

The hospitality industry is very competitive and hotels are always looking for ways to differ from others and gain advantage. Entrances have the power to create a strong statement but they'll hardly be effective if the driveway and flooring are not in top condition. Both inside and outside, flooring is the foundation of the establishment and deserves the best possible care. The flooring needs to be durable and low maintenance, as well as stain and moisture resistant. The best way to protect your concrete flooring at the entrance and keep it in good condition is to use durable concrete sealers that offer waterproof coating, stain resistance and preserve the concrete structural integrity.

Plants

You can never go wrong by incorporating greenery into your design. Plants and colourful flowers can quickly transform and enliven your hotel entrance. Without it, it may look quite sparse and dry, but if you choose to frame your entrance with beautiful plants that give off a pleasant scent, your guests will feel invited and welcomed.

Lighting

Using lighting is a versatile designing tool that can be utilized in myriads of ways to create any desired goal. To start with, it's very practical as guests would hardly be able to identify the hotel itself if it's not well lit with a shining sign, and for safety reasons as well. Design-wise, choosing the right type of lighting and its position, can make a tremendous impact on the hotel's curb appeal.

For example, spotlights add a modern touch to the entrance while also providing a strong light source. Artistic or antique light fixtures are an excellent choice for an independent hotel, while walk-on floor lights beautifully trim the pathways to the entrance.

Unlike other types of businesses, hotels rely heavily on appearance to make a lasting and memorable first impression, so an impressive entrance is a must. By drawing the eye of your guests to the tasteful design of your front door and offering premium service, you'll be able to attract the customers and keep them coming back.