Hilton, Marriott investing millions in hotel renovations

Just as one of Wichita's largest hotels is in the final stages of a renovation project, another one across town is about to start.

General managers at both properties say the work is needed to keep the surroundings looking fresh -- particularly to returning guests.
$1.8 million project is scheduled to start Monday.

Both hotels are, among other things, replacing wall coverings and installing sconces to brighten guest room hallways.

"There are so many women travelers, you've got to make sure they are feeling comfortable," says Michael Phipps, general manager at the Hilton. "And a lit hallway is important."

There's new carpeting for hallways and rooms in the Hilton. And beds in all 302 guest rooms will be replaced with the beds specially designed for the hotel chain.

New "Marriott beds" are on order for the Marriott Wichita, along with plans to renovate the Presidential Suite and Concierge Lounge, including new furniture and a plasma TV. And there are plans to renovate the hotel's restaurant.

"If you had hundreds of people going through your house and into your bedrooms each day, you would get a little wear and tear," says Michelle Ruffin-Stein, general manager at the Marriott. "So we like to keep everything fresh."

Mike Casey, vice president for marketing with the says all business owners need to periodically invest money in their facilities, and hoteliers are no different.

"Bravo for them, they are looking at what their competition is doing, they're looking at what their customers want, that's just smart business," he says.

Typically, hotels replace furniture every seven to 10 years and renovate public spaces every 10 to 15 years.

Phipps says deciding what changes to make and when is usually a matter of listening to the public.

"I like steak and kidney pie, but I don't think that just because I like it that it should be the only thing on the menu," he says.

Source: REACH KEN VANDRUFF at 266-6172 or on the Web at kvandruff@bizjournals.com - American City Business Journals Inc