Prepared by: Joshima V.M., University of Nizwa. Trends in Hotel Interiors-front desk INTD405 Modern Practices in Interior Design Prepared by: Joshima V.M., University of Nizwa.

Hotel reception desk The hotel registration desk serves as both a symbol of hospitality for the arriving guest and the operational nerve center for the hotel . Data processing is meant to be maintained at low visibility for reasons of hotel image and confidentiality.

Hotel reception desk The designer must be able to project the appropriate hospitality image while at the same time integrating all of the required technologies . The design of a front desk or registration desk can take many forms and be constructed with a variety of materials .

Front desk design considerations Regardless of the design vocabulary used or architectural style, certain important design considerations must be observed . The number of persons actively staffing the counter will dictate both the width and overall depth of the front desk. It is suggested that between 1.5 to 2.1m be allocated per staff workstation and that 1 workstation be allocated for every 125-150 rooms. For every additional 125-150 rooms, an additional workstation should be provided .

The front desk should be easily accessible from the main hotel entrance . "Easily accessible" implies clear visibility. Elevators servicing the hotel guest rooms should be visible from the front desk . This is not always feasible in extremely large hotels .

Special attention should be given to the fact that hotel guests may be physically challenged or chair bound . The overall height, writing surfaces, and overhangs should be designed to accommodate a hotel guest seated in a wheelchair.

The basic front desk design should avoid, wherever possible, visual obstructions that block sightlines or create blind spots. Accordingly, columns and high walls should be avoided .

Front desk facilities computer monitors with keyboards and printer Equipment and custom elements that are typically incorporated within the front desk include computer monitors with keyboards and printer room racks, reservation racks, information racks room status displays mail drawers, key drawers, file and cash drawers alpha guest listings, message-waiting display credit card imprinters, fax and telex, guest employee paging system, automatic wakeup system, electric receptacles, cable chases, alarm systems.

Dimensional standards As a rough guide, counter height more than 1200mm will create blind spots and makes the visitor completely unseen. Counter height is measured from the FFL to the top of the counter.

The desk height is measured from the finished floor to the underside of the desktop. 75cm Above the desk top should be a measurement of 25-30cm to reach the counter. This provides a private nook underneath the overhang for any monetary transactions or the handling of confidential paperwork.

Measuring from the finished floor to the underside of the ergonomic chair, the desired dimension should be no more than 37 to 45cm which will provide ideal sight lines to the visitor approaching the counter.

20cm high and 10cm deep recess as toe kick should be provided at the bottom of the desk. This will provide an enclosure for feet and wheelchair foot rests that will enable the visitor to get closer to the reception counter

A reception desk configuration will always require a standing zone for the person actively participating in a transaction at the counter, as well as a circulation zone behind for those wishing to walk past. A wheelchair turning diameter is 1.5m as a standard, but a minimum of a 60cm standing zone and a minimum 75cm circulation zone, a total of 1.5m should be provided as circulation zone.

Reception lighting The hotel lobby gives the first impression about the hotel. Lighting here must focus on detail as much as the overall design. It must compliment the architecture and provide a safe exterior to-interior transition. Should clearly show any level differences, or change of materials etc. Creative lighting techniques can be used to establish themes for the facility.

The registration area needs higher light levels to attract guests’ attention, while the balance of the lobby must be warm and welcoming. Consideration should be taken to light the front desk staff’s faces so they appear approachable.

Finishing materials Wood veneers Stones like marble, granite, limestone High pressure laminates Aluminum, stainless steel Glass- clear or frosted Engineered stones Fabric Leather