The rooms of Marriott’s all-suites brand are getting a facelift—thanks in part to West Elm. SpringHill Suites partnered with the retail manufacturer for “a little extra,” and an elevated design, says Lionel Sussman, vice president of global design strategies for Marriott, which resulted in four key pieces: a sofa that’s also a daybed with a trundle, a midcentury modern sculptural task chair, and floor and desk lamps. The only challenge was making sure the furniture could “survive the hospitality environments,” Sussman explains.
Other highlights of the nature-meets-art design include a piece of casework that doubles as a desk separating the sleep and work zones; regionally inspired artwork (each hotel is associated with a community arts program as well); and natural materials, unique textures, and a neutral palette with pops of color “inspired by the different seasons,” Sussman says.
According to SpringHill Suites vice president and global brand manager Loren Nalewanski, the domestic-style environment signals a departure from the bright aesthetic of the brand’s former guestrooms. The understated, more masculine palette allows for more zealous maintenance, with the unique artwork infusing the interior with an optimal balance of color.
“We took residential type elements and right-designed them for the hospitality space,” Nalewanski says. “It feels really comfortable and calming.”
The new collection is the result of a 15-month collaboration between the brands, and is already on display in SpringHill lobbies across the country. Guestroom décor is expected to be unveiled in 30 new hotels by the end of 2016.
