Buying Rugs and Carpets For Hotels and The Travel / Hospitality Industries
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When buying rugs for the travel, hotel and hospitality industries, some of the most sought after decorative pieces are those items that exude a sense of luxury, comfort and well-being. In addition to comfort and beauty, the hospitality and hotel industries also need to comply with a host of safety standards and take into consideration things like acoustics, longevity, cost-effectiveness and, of course, there is a whole range of design considerations to be considered.
A modern rug in a suite in the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Atlanta.
When travelling and staying at different hotels. or while attending an event at a hospitality property, patrons depend on those facilities and staff members to pay attention to all the little details. If done well, that will ensure that their stay will be pleasant or that their event will go off without a hitch.
Everyone tends to notice an artfully folded towel, mints on the pillows and clean, comfortable bedding. But from a decor standpoint, very few pieces in a hotel or venue will have as much of an impact as the rugs and carpets.
An aerial view of the Beekman Hotel.
Area rugs in the hospitality industry have a high standard to meet. Most hotels have a certain aesthetic that they are working to achieve or a look that they are wanting to create. Therefore, all the different decorative components must come together to tell a compelling visual story to the hotel’s guests. Weather the hotel’s interior decorator will select to incorporate antique rugs, vintage rugs or modern rugs, they will all play a key role in creating the completed look and feel of the venue or suite.
Naturally, all the rugs sourced for the project must work together. The rugs must tie everything together from hallways to banquet rooms to suites both practically and visually. The area rugs used in the hotel and hospitality industry must be durable enough to withstand high foot traffic and frequent cleaning. But these hotel and hospitality rugs must also be up-to-date and have the ability to hide imperfections that a critical guest might notice. The hotel rugs also must be made of material that is feels pleasant underfoot and won’t be weighed down or ruined by any spills.
The desk at the Beekman Hotel in NYC.
When selecting rugs for a business / commercial use in hotels, the rugs chosen must be utilitarian and functional. That said, these rugs also have to create a feeling of comfort and home in a place where guests are often displaced from the things they love most. Extended stay hotels, for example, need to make guests feel like their room is more than just another hotel suite; they need it to feel like this is a place that a person can relax and reside for however long they need to.
Hotel suites are used for such a wide array of events that the rugs need to fit in with whatever theme or aesthetic fits the guests’ needs. They tell a story in a subtle, but meaningful way. The best rugs will do their job both visually and functionally, and may never get any credit for all the hard work they do.
Area rugs do not only create a sense of comfort and luxury in a hotel room. They also serve the important purpose of dampening sounds like footsteps so that guests on lower floors have the same experience as guests on higher floors. Hallway runner rugs similarly help reduce noise between rooms. They also help keep hotel guests from being disturbed by the comings and goings of fellow guests and staff alike.
Area rugs for the hospitality industry, particularly in large suites, hotel rooms or event rooms, can also play an important role in designating spaces. They can help guests visualize the transition from a living space in their room to the sleeping space, for example, further creating that sense of home they are looking for.
A modern lobby area rug at the Hilton Statler in Dallas.
It takes careful consideration when choosing a material for the perfect hotel rug. Wool rugs are a popular choice, because of the wool’s durability and ability to maintain its look and feel even when saturated with a large amount of liquid. Wool rugs can absorb up to 30% of their own weight and still maintain all of their best features. Wool is also an excellent insulator, and keeps hotel rooms warm without adding to the cost of heating. Pockets between the woolen fibers trap and hold heat, which is an energy and cost savings benefit.
Wool is also naturally flame retardant. Cotton, for example, can catch fire at 255° C. Polyester will melt between 252°- 292° C and nylon fibers melt between 160° -260° C. Wool, however, cannot melt and will not ignite below 570° C. This makes it safer even in a dangerous fire situation, because wool cannot stick to skin as synthetics will. Adding this safety benefit in addition to its insulating properties is another easy choice for most hotels and properties.
In the end, there are no real rules in creating the perfect interior to a guest hospitality industry property or hotel. Interior designers in the hospitality industry need to balance cost with function and frills. They also need to keep practical purpose and guest safety, as well as cost and efficiency all in mind when they are picking the perfect rug to buy for a hotel.
A Modern Area Rug in The The Wallich Residence in Singapore.
What are the considerations for area rugs for hotels and hospitality industry?
Choosing the right area rugs for hotels and the hospitality industry involves several important considerations to ensure they meet the unique needs of this environment:
- Durability: Area rugs in hotels experience heavy foot traffic, so durability is paramount. Opt for rugs made from high-quality materials like wool, nylon, or polypropylene that can withstand frequent use without showing signs of wear and tear. Additionally, consider rugs with stain-resistant treatments to help maintain their appearance over time.
- Easy Maintenance: Hospitality environments require rugs that are easy to clean and maintain. Look for rugs with low pile heights, which are easier to vacuum and less likely to trap dirt and debris. Choose materials that can be spot-cleaned or professionally cleaned as needed to keep them looking fresh and inviting.
- Safety: Safety is a top priority in hotels, so select rugs with non-slip backings or add rug pads underneath to prevent them from sliding on slick surfaces. Ensure that rugs comply with fire safety regulations and are made from flame-resistant materials to minimize the risk of accidents.
- Aesthetics: Area rugs play a crucial role in enhancing the overall design and ambiance of hotel spaces. Choose rugs that complement the existing decor, whether it’s classic elegance, modern chic, or boutique charm. Consider factors such as color, pattern, and texture to create a cohesive and inviting atmosphere for guests.
- Size and Placement: Determine the appropriate size and placement of rugs based on the layout and function of the space. Use rugs to define seating areas, create visual interest, or add warmth to entryways and corridors. Ensure that rugs are proportionate to the scale of the room and leave enough clearance around furniture for ease of movement.
- Budget: Consider the budget constraints when selecting area rugs for hotels. Balance quality, durability, and aesthetics with cost-effective options that meet the requirements of the project. Explore different suppliers and manufacturers to find the best value for the desired quality and style.
- Customization: For a truly unique touch, consider customizing area rugs to reflect the branding and identity of the hotel. Work with rug manufacturers to create bespoke designs, colors, and sizes that align with the hotel’s theme and brand image, providing guests with a memorable and personalized experience.
By carefully considering these factors, hotels and the hospitality industry can select area rugs that not only enhance the visual appeal of their spaces but also meet the practical needs of their guests and staff.
How do you select area rugs for a hotel?
Selecting area rugs for a hotel involves several important steps to ensure that the rugs meet the functional, aesthetic, and budgetary requirements of the establishment.
Here are some of the main criteria:
- Assess Functional Needs: Consider the specific areas within the hotel where rugs are needed and the functional requirements for each space. For example, rugs in high-traffic areas like lobbies, corridors, and entranceways should prioritize durability and ease of maintenance, while rugs in guest rooms may focus more on comfort and aesthetics.
- Determine Size and Shape: Measure the dimensions of the areas where rugs will be placed to determine the appropriate size and shape. Consider the layout of furniture and foot traffic patterns to ensure that rugs fit seamlessly into the space without obstructing movement or causing tripping hazards.
- Choose Materials Wisely: Select materials that are suitable for the intended use and environment. For high-traffic areas, opt for durable materials like wool, nylon, or polypropylene that can withstand frequent use and cleaning. In guest rooms, prioritize comfort and softness with plush materials like wool or cotton.
- Consider Maintenance Requirements: Evaluate the maintenance needs of the chosen materials and select rugs that are easy to clean and maintain. Look for stain-resistant treatments, low-pile constructions, and materials that can be spot-cleaned or professionally cleaned as needed to keep rugs looking fresh and inviting.
- Match Aesthetics to Decor: Coordinate the design and color of rugs with the overall decor and ambiance of the hotel. Choose rugs that complement existing furnishings, wall colors, and decorative elements to create a cohesive and harmonious environment. Consider factors such as pattern, texture, and scale to enhance the visual appeal of each space.
- Ensure Safety: Prioritize safety by selecting rugs with non-slip backings or adding rug pads underneath to prevent slipping and tripping hazards. Ensure that rugs comply with fire safety regulations and are made from flame-resistant materials to minimize the risk of accidents.
- Explore Customization Options: Consider customizing area rugs to reflect the branding and identity of the hotel. Work with rug manufacturers to create bespoke designs, colors, and sizes that align with the hotel’s theme and brand image, providing guests with a memorable and personalized experience.
- Evaluate Budget Constraints: Balance quality, durability, and aesthetics with budgetary considerations when selecting area rugs for the hotel. Explore different suppliers and manufacturers to find cost-effective options that meet the desired specifications without compromising on quality or style.
By following these steps and considering the functional, aesthetic, and budgetary needs of the hotel, you can select area rugs that enhance the overall guest experience and contribute to the success of the establishment.
