There are so many things facilities managers can learn from luxury hotels. Whether you, as a facilities manager, learn something positive or negative really depends upon your state of mind, and also what the hotel has to offer. Even if you don’t stay in that luxury hotel, there’s something to be learned just by walking through the lobby or speaking to a guest or manager (or another facilities manager). By the way, we’ve written about facilities managers before, and you might like: How Window Film Empowers Facilities Managers.

How’s the air conditioning?

Maybe there is no air conditioning, or maybe the air is blowing cold here and hot over there, or there are hot or cold spots in the lobby and other areas of the hotel. How about the rooms? Are there differences in temperatures near the windows? Of course we’d like to suggest window film to even out the temperatures and create a zen feeling, which is very luxe. The best thing about window film is, if applied correctly, you don’t even know it’s there.

What’s it like getting in and out of the hotel?

Is it easy to drive into the hotel? Is there a valet to help you park the car and take your suitcases? There should be adequate signage so guests know where to enter and exit if it’s not immediately obvious. What does walking into the hotel feel like? Hotels should make their guests feel special immediately. If the person who checks you in is talking on their cell phone that’s an immediate red flag that your visit might not be very special. A hotel entry is something that facilities managers take seriously. By the way, here are some of the Best Luxury Hotels in the World, from Conde Nast.

Does the lobby take your breath away?

Many luxury hotels have a floral centerpiece or oversized sculptural piece that lets you know you’re privileged to be there. A few seating areas might allow for impromptu meetings where you can have guests sit before going out for the evening. And if the furniture looks modern, that’s an added bonus. Some hotels offer special happy hour treats such as a glass of wine and snacks. Checking in should be easy and not take too long. Many hotels now offer their own apps so guests can check in easily, while using their phone to unlock their rooms. The lobby above is from the Fairmont Hotel in San Francisco.

What are the rooms like?

In your room, some of the amenities could include a small mini-frig filled with champagne, chocolate mints on the pillow, an extra large set of pillows with silk covers, and a leather binder of local activities. Does the hotel have its own branded soap and shampoo, and perhaps a robe to wear? Sometimes cooling sheets can make guests feel treasured, too. Naturally, the bed should be the perfect softness. Also, an easy way to contact the concierge is another luxurious touch.

What are the luxury amenities?

Is there a pool and exercise room and what is the privacy like? You don’t want to feel too exposed when you’re swimming or working out. Here’s another place where some window film can feel both modern and add to the sense of privacy. If there are windows or glass partitions separating the pool or workout area from the rest of the hotel, why not add some window film for privacy?

Still have questions?

We have answers! Your coworkers or fellow facilities managers might help you decide which window film to choose, or you could give us a call! We also have an Estimate Form that you can use (for the Bay Area). We seriously love what we do, so call us and we’ll give you advice on however you’re considering to use window film! And we talk to many people every day, so it doesn’t hurt to give us a call. We’d love to help you choose the best film. We work all over the greater San Francisco Bay Area, from San Jose to the East Bay to the San Mateo Peninsula and Marin–and have expanded into southern California (Costa Mesa) and Scottsdale, Arizona, too! Give us a call at our San Francisco location at 415.623.8700.