DESIGN CHALLENGE
This Hampton Inn had to overcome local Meeting Planners preconceived notions about the brand not meeting the expectations of the Washington DC business elite. While Hampton Inn is well regarded nationally as “a leading brand of quality, value-priced hotels,” in the Hilton family, we had to create a distinct environment within that context, within budget and still win over the DC meeting and travel decision makers.

THE SOLUTION
We exceeded Hampton standards without banking on cookie-cutter solutions and won accolades from Hilton management and hospitality industry observers who liken this Hampton Inn to a New York style boutique hotel.

Says Jeff Ornstein, who headed the design effort, “The quality we built into the design won over local planners who sold out all meeting space almost immediately after the opening – underscoring our ability to create great interiors that result in sales and profitability.”

To position the Brand for the DC influencials, J/Brice incorporated luxury motifs throughout. To create a powerful first impression that says quality, the design team specified a superbly lit soffeted ceiling in the lobby and combined it with marble flooring and rich mahogany millwork. The high-impact solution was within budget and brand parameters. The natural wood furnishings, gold-tone upholstery, textured wall coverings and granite front desk punctuate the quality message.

Sourcing distinctively styled furnishings was key. J/Brice chose – retro-styled restaurant seating and tables in stainless steel and mahogany with original upholstery patterns by Epic. “We created an environment that gives this Hampton Inn energy in concert with its locale and cuisine.”

Similarly, the guestrooms and suites rely on strong geometric shapes, fine fabrics, natural wood and custom carpeting to enhance the guest experience. Great design is, of course, in addition to the musts for today’s serious business traveler -- high-speed Internet access, free business services, in-room movie channels, and on-the-house breakfast completes the package.

The design is contemporary and powerful yet sumptuous - and profitable.