Not every hotel needs a complete overhaul. If the rooms are in good condition but the décor is looking tired, a few changes could make a noticeable difference. However, if the bathrooms are outdated or the layout no longer works, a more extensive refurbishment might be necessary.
Knowing where to start is often the first hurdle. In this article, we’ll look at what soft and full hotel refurbishments involve, how they differ and what to think about before deciding which is right for your property.
What is a soft hotel refurbishment?
A soft refurbishment is mainly about updating how a hotel looks and feels, rather than changing the building itself. It’s worth considering if your property is generally in good shape but could do with a refresh.
Work might include new carpets, curtains, furniture and lighting, along with redecorating bedrooms, corridors and communal areas.
Because there’s little need for major building work, a soft refurbishment will usually cost less and take less time to complete. You may also be able to keep more of the hotel open while work takes place, which is particularly important if you can’t afford to lose too many bookings.
What does a full hotel refurbishment involve?
Sometimes, changing the décor simply isn’t enough. If parts of your hotel are showing their age or no longer work as they should, you may need to look at a full refurbishment.
This could mean replacing bathrooms, updating plumbing and electrics, changing room layouts or making significant improvements to shared facilities.
Naturally, this type of work takes longer and costs more. It can also mean closing off entire floors or sections of the hotel while contractors are on site. However, it gives you the opportunity to tackle problems that would otherwise remain hidden behind a fresh coat of paint.
What’s the difference between soft refurbishment and a full refurbishment?
There are four main differences worth considering:
- Cost: A soft refurbishment is generally cheaper, while a full refurbishment involves a greater upfront investment.
- Timescales: Redecorating and replacing furnishings is usually quicker than carrying out extensive building work.
- Disruption: You may be able to keep rooms available during a soft refurbishment. Larger projects often require temporary closures.
- Extent of work: Soft refurbishments improve existing interiors, while full refurbishments can also address outdated facilities and impractical layouts.
Which refurbishment is right for your hotel?
Take a good look at what actually needs improving. Are guests commenting on tired bedrooms and worn carpets, or are you dealing with ageing bathrooms and maintenance problems?
It’s also worth thinking about your longer-term plans. If you’re happy with the hotel’s layout and facilities, a soft refurbishment could give it a new lease of life without unnecessary expense.
On the other hand, if you’re planning significant changes to the property, investing in a full refurbishment may make more sense.
And don’t forget the practicalities. Your available budget, occupancy levels and ability to close rooms will all play a part in what you can realistically achieve.
Planning a hotel refurbishment?
Whether you’re considering a soft refurbishment or something more extensive, IH Group can help you plan the work around your property’s requirements.
Get in touch with our team to discuss your hotel refurbishment plans and how we can help.
