Spending more upfront to save in the long run
For any hotel owner or developer, there’s a critical decision to make when renovating or building a hotel: whether to spend money now to protect the longevity of the asset’s value or save money to be prepared for potential downturns, like COVID-19. As the focus remains on both constructing new hotels and renovating existing ones, owners must carefully choose where to allocate their funds for hospitality design. One area that presents both a cost-saving and an investment opportunity is the interior finishes, specifically millwork and casegoods.
While investing in quality millwork and casegoods might seem too expensive upfront, it ultimately pays off by providing durability, enhancing the aesthetic appeal, and reducing the need for frequent replacements if sustainable materials are used.
QUALITY MILLWORK AND CASEGOODS
For owners planning to keep a property long term, investing in high-quality millwork and casegoods ensures they stand the test of time. If the millwork doesn’t last, more money will be spent over time to replace these products. This not only increases long-term costs but also disrupts operations and inconveniences hotel guests. Choosing high-quality millwork and casegoods from the beginning ensures a more durable and reliable investment, which translates to consistent performance, a better guest experience, and ultimately, significant savings over time.
Indirect costs should also be considered. If an owner chooses a lower quality millworker who fails to deliver on their promises, the hotelier will have to invest valuable time, which could be spent on other priorities, to find replacements. Without thorough screening, it’s impossible to know the quality of materials used, whether the product was manufactured in a state-of-the-art facility, or the level of experience and knowledge of the millworker.
MILLWORK’S COMPLEXITY
Millwork also encompasses a series of meticulous and essential steps that ensure its longevity and quality, so it’s important to remember millwork is more than a simple cabinet or bar. From precise field dimensioning to accurate procurement of materials, every phase requires expertise and meticulous attention to detail. Proper custom cutting and professional installation are crucial to achieving the perfect fit and finish, preventing costly adjustments or replacements down the line. This approach not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also guarantees durability, saving money in the long run.
The installation of custom millwork is an important step that can make or break a project. High-quality millwork deserves equally high-quality installation to ensure proper function and perfect fit. This is especially crucial in high-traffic areas like hotel lobbies, reception desks, and guest rooms, where precision and durability are paramount. A well-trained installer brings a level of precision and expertise that ensures every piece of millwork is correctly aligned and securely fitted. This reduces the risk of future issues such as warping, gaps, or misalignments, which can detract from the overall aesthetic and functionality of the space. Skilled installers understand the intricacies of the materials they work with and can adapt to the unique challenges each project presents.
Using the right millwork elements in a hotel also can improve the customer experience. Well-constructed millwork offers an enhanced design and cohesive flow throughout the entire space and is sturdy enough to withstand daily wear and tear. Hotel owners who continue to create a stable customer experience over time will gain repeat customers and improve the overall guest experience.
Ultimately, the idea is to invest in quality now and reap the rewards later. Choosing quality products, suppliers, and vendors may seem expensive at first, but spending that money upfront protects the overall cost. Beyond providing great products and services, hotel owners should focus on creating a positive experience that makes a lasting impact on their guests. Investing mindfully in high-quality millwork and casegoods will pay dividends in the form of enhanced durability, guest satisfaction, and long-term savings.
