Early consumer reaction to Motel 6’s first new prototype in a dozen years was favorable, the chain says.
“Motel 6, known for offering a clean, comfortable room for the lowest price of any national chain, is reinventing the economy lodging experience with this model†in Phoenix, the company claims.
“In early consumer feedback guests found the new prototype to have a modern, European boutique-style flair that they find both unexpected and appealing,†added Motel 6.
Said Olivier Poirot, CEO of Motel 6 and Studio 6:
“The ‘Phoenix’ prototype will set a new standard for economy hotels. By increasing the growth of both corporately-owned and franchised locations in our network, Motel 6 and Studio 6 are getting closer to achieving the goal of reaching 1,200 North American properties by 2010.â€
The Phoenix prototype was named after the mythical bird symbolizing rebirth and renewal, says the company.
“True to the spirit of Motel 6, the new design is simple, functional and straight to the point. Priestman Goode of London designed the room to optimize the use of space by combining multiple functions into a single piece of furniture to provide modern functionality,†according to the chain.
Major features include a new building exterior designed by BOKA Powell, a spacious lobby with a new 24-hour food and beverage vending market place, and a modern guestroom design that features bright accent colors.
The room includes ambient lighting, wood-effect flooring rather than carpet, and a 32-inch flat-screen TV. The TV is displayed on the entertainment unit which conceals the door-less wardrobe behind it, thus combining two needs into one unit.
The room also features pedestal beds with a new taupe-colored coverlet and pillow-top platform mattress. Guests will also notice the clean style and the upscale touch of the colored bed scarf that matches the accent wall color.
“The settee/banquette seating area is a new feature for Motel 6 that will set it apart from others in the economy sector,†says the company.
Report by David Wilkening
