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.

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 capability is meant to be maintained at low visibility for reasons of hotel image and confidentiality. 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 . Regardless of the design vocabulary used or architectural style, certain important design considerations must be observed .

1 . The number of persons actively staffing the counterlike facility will dictate both the width and overall depth of the front desk. It is suggested that between 5-7 ft be allocated per staff workstation and that one workstation be allocated for every 125-150 rooms. For every additional 125-150 rooms, an additional workstation should be provided . Peak check-in/check-out loads could require even more staff workstations .

2 . The front desk should be easily accessible from and to the main hotel entrance . "Easily accessible" strongly implies clear visibility.

3 . Elevators servicing the hotel guest rooms should be readily visible from the front desk . This is not always feasible in extremely large hotels .

4 . The front desk should be designed in such a way as to take into consideration the various users it will accommodate . Special attention should be given to the fact that hotel guests may be physically challenged or chairbound . The overall height, writing surfaces, and overhangs should be designed to accommodate a hotel guest seated in a wheelchair.

5 . 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 .

6 . Equipment and custom elements that are typically incorporated within the front desk include computer monitors/CRTs with keyboards and printer, room racks, reservation racks, information racks, room status displays, mail drawers, key 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, and file and cash drawers .

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 exteriorto- interior transition. 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.