One of the characteristics that unites many boutique hotels is the buildings they occupy.
Whilst the majority of new chain hotels are often built from scratch, or simply updated from previous hotels, many boutiques choose to operate from historic or unusual premises. Often, the type of building the hotel is in informs the design, facilities and services. Its the building and its location that often provides the draw for guests.
Private houses
Many boutiques have been created from private houses. In cities, its often the town house that undergoes renovation, with owners keeping key design features such as moulded ceilings and stained glass windows. Older houses have rooms with fantastic proportions, making them ideal hotel rooms and their central location is very attractive to holiday makers and business travellers alike. Rural homes, chalets or lake-side villas also give the guest a true feeling of home-from-home, whilst providing a luxurious retreat.
Listed buildings
Listed buildings in the UK and their equivalents around the world are popular choices with boutique hotel owners. This is because they have a wealth of original features and are...