publication date: Sep 19, 2010
|
author/source: Harry Nobles & Cheryl Thompson,
What Is A Boutique Hotel?
Harry Nobles & Cheryl Thompson, September 2001
What specific attributes qualify a hotel for this
appellation? What makes one hotel a boutique while another is
not? We believe there are several characteristics that contribute
to the accurate application of the term. One is size. What is the
maximum number of rooms allowable for a boutique hotel? In our opinion,
and in the opinion of some others, 100 rooms seems to be the upper limit.
Is atmosphere a factor? We believe atmosphere is a
very important component of all boutique hotels. If atmosphere is
considered the sum total of the physical facilities and all the intangibles
that comprise a memorable hotel experience, this may be the single most
critical factor. Our definition of atmosphere includes decor,
ambience, personalized service, the attitude of management and staff, and
how all these ingredients must combine to create a genuine sense of intimacy.
An intimate atmosphere may be the one absolutely essential component without
which a hotel cannot be called boutique. In our opinion, the difficulty lies in
creating an atmosphere of intimacy without familiarity. We define
intimacy as caring, warm, personalized, yet totally professional.
Familiarity involves using guests' first name, hugs,
excessive hand shakes, and other physical contact.
The boutique environment also includes anticipating guests' needs and
desires rather than simply responding to a request. Knowing what a guest
wants, when they want it, and how they want it is a major difference
between good service and great service. The goal of any fine hotel,
boutique or otherwise, must be great service.
We suggest that a unique theme is one important component of
"boutiqueness". We are seeing a variety of interesting themes around the
country , ranging from a library concept in New York City
to a hotel in Washington, DC for guests interested in the occult.
We find this quite interesting and feel that a segment of the public will
respond positively. Our only question is where does a trend end and a fad
begin.
So, what is a real boutique hotel? Can you create a checklist of
very specific characteristics that will apply to every property? Can you
develop a profile that applies to all?
We suggest it is a hotel that makes guests happy to be there, makes them
feel special, makes them want to return soon, and makes them want to tell
others.
That description makes a boutique hotel sound like any other fine hotel,
only smaller, right?
As with many intangibles, "boutiqueness", like beauty may be in the
eye of the beholder.
So, what is a real boutique hotel? Can you create a checklist of very specific characteristics that will apply to every property? Can you develop a profile that applies to all?
We suggest it is a hotel that makes guests happy to be there, makes them feel special, makes them want to return soon, and makes them want to tell others.
That description makes a boutique hotel sound like any other fine hotel, only smaller, right?
As with many intangibles, “boutiqueness”, like beauty may be in the eye of the beholder.
