Through guest and hotel owner insights, InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has created a new prototype for its Holiday Inn Express brand. This updated look is being developed for the brand’s portfolio of hotels in the U.S. and Canada.
The Holiday Inn Express brand worked with an owner advisory board, conducted focus groups with guests, and completed competitive analysis and research to update its prototype design, which combines fresh, dynamic, and focused elements.

With a revitalized, contemporary look, the guestrooms will boast a functional and flexible workspace, storage units to maximize space, moveable seating, and neutral décor.
“We worked very closely with a number of our key owners to develop the updated prototype design for Holiday Inn Express to ensure that it is efficient to build and operate and will deliver strong financial returns,” says Joel Eisemann, chief development officer for IHG. “Engaging with both our owners and our guests is a key part of our strategy as we evolve our brands.”
The updated prototype design will also provide owners with a full set of architecture, engineering, and interior design construction documents for the first time, which will be available late Q2 this year. Some of the other operating efficiencies for the evolved prototype include a modular design, durable materials, and finishes with a lower maintenance, flexible use of space in the lobby, and LED lighting to reduce energy costs.
