We get calls regularly from owners, developers, architects, and designers asking for AAA/MOBIL ratings advice and assistance on projects scheduled to open in 2-4 years.
Our advice is always the same: 'design and build for the long- term'. In previous articles, discussions with clients, and at seminars, I have often addressed the ever increasing physical and guest service standards. For many years the changes have been steadily rising. In my opinion and experience, the 4 or 5 Star/Diamond rated property of just 3-4 years ago often earns only a 3 Star/Diamond rating. The pace of change now is even more rapid. The changes apply to both the physical facilities and the level of guest services expected. Like new cars or computers, a new hotel or resort can be almost obsolete when it opens.
In our attempt to continue providing the most current and useful advice, we have found that meeting, or even exceeding, current standards is no longer sufficient. We now work with clients to anticipate what the standards will be in 3-4 years, and design and build for that time frame. Designing and building according to current guest expectations and ratings almost guarantees that a new or renovated property will be approaching obsolesce very quickly.
