New Construction & Conversions
Table of Contents
Descriptor Program Design Guidelines for New Members........................1
a500 Public Areas.........................................................................................36
Frequently Asked Questions.........................................................................2
Lobby........................................................................................................................ 36
General Provisions...........................................................................................4
Front Desk Area.................................................................................................... 44
Important Notices...........................................................................................4
Breakfast Area........................................................................................................47
a100 Plan, FF&E Submittal Requirements...................................................5
Cocktail Bar..............................................................................................................52
Preliminary Plans..................................................................................................... 6
Construction Documents (60-80%)................................................................. 7
Construction Documents (Final)....................................................................... 7
Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment........................................................................ 7
a200 New Construction ................................................................................9
Site Work.................................................................................................................. 10
Foundation............................................................................................................... 10
Structural Frame.................................................................................................... 10
Sound Proofing....................................................................................................... 10
Heating & Cooling................................................................................................. 10
Electrical.................................................................................................................... 10
Safety...........................................................................................................................11
Mechanical.................................................................................................................12
Plumbing....................................................................................................................12
Ceiling Height...........................................................................................................12
a300 Signage................................................................................................. 13
Signage for Exterior and Interior......................................................................13
a400 Exterior................................................................................................. 15
Exterior Buildings...................................................................................................15
Fencing.......................................................................................................................21
Landscaping............................................................................................................22
Other Exterior Facilities......................................................................................24
Outdoor Swimming Pool....................................................................................25
Parking Lot/Driveways........................................................................................29
Satellite Dish.............................................................................................................31
Stairways...................................................................................................................32
Trash Dumpster & Service Areas.....................................................................33
Vending Area.......................................................................................................... 34
Sundry Area............................................................................................................ 54
Business Center......................................................................................................55
Public Corridors.................................................................................................... 56
Elevators & Elevator Lobbies........................................................................... 60
Public Restrooms...................................................................................................63
Fitness Room...........................................................................................................67
Indoor Swimming Pool........................................................................................73
Guestroom Corridors...........................................................................................78
Interior Stairways...................................................................................................82
Pre-function Area................................................................................................. 84
Meeting Room/Board Room/Banquet Area...............................................87
Other Facilities........................................................................................................92
Vending Area.......................................................................................................... 95
Guest Laundry........................................................................................................ 98
Restaurant/Coffee Shop/Lounge...................................................................101
a600 Guestrooms........................................................................................105
Structure.................................................................................................................105
Standard Guestrooms & Guest Suites..........................................................110
Bath/Vanity Area................................................................................................. 127
a700 Executive Residency by Best Western℠......................................... 131
General Standards................................................................................................ 131
Exterior Grounds.................................................................................................. 132
Public Areas........................................................................................................... 133
Guestrooms & Guest Bath................................................................................ 136
a800 Conversion......................................................................................... 139
Safety....................................................................................................................... 139
Glossary of Terms........................................................................................140
Revised February 2016
Descriptor Program Design Guidelines for New Members*
Guidelines Structure
Best Western
These Descriptor Program Design Guidelines (the “Design Guidelines”)
establish and explain the requirements of the Best Western Descriptor
Program (the “Descriptor Program”). The Design Guidelines apply to
the three descriptors: Best Western®, Best Western Plus®, and Best
Western Premier®.
Best Western Properties have amenities and characteristics for guests
seeking more than satisfaction of basic travel needs. Properties have
furnishings, fixtures, and amenities that are modestly enhanced and
that are well coordinated in style and color. Guests can expect all of the
essentials for a pleasant stay. Properties must appear current in-style
and up-to-date with industry trends.
General Requirements
The Descriptor Program adopts an approach of reviewing the
physical characteristics and amenities of a Property. For all Properties,
furnishings are to be of commercial hospitality quality or better and
must be coordinated in design and finish. Mixing of furniture styles is
not acceptable unless prior written approval has been received from
the Best Western Design Department (“Design Department”). All plans,
finishes, furnishings, and specifications must be submitted to the Design
Department prior to implementation.
Best Western Plus
The Board of Directors may adopt policies that establish exceptions to
the Design Guidelines — alternate features or the consideration of other
features already existing at the Property. Exceptions at a Property must
be approved by the Design Department.
Best Western Premier
Descriptor Differentiation
The Descriptor Program is a marketing strategy that uses different names
to communicate to guests the types of hotel products and amenities to
expect at Best Western Properties. In addition to application of these
Design Guidelines, each Property will be evaluated based upon its
overall sense of style and ambiance.
1
Best Western Plus Properties provide guests with a more upscale
experience, emphasizing consistency of concept throughout. Properties
have upgraded enhancements and a crisp, well-appointed style and feel.
Furnishings are of high-quality, and all areas of the hotel are comfortable
and spacious. Amenities are of higher quality and more abundant in
both the guestrooms and public spaces, which are consistent with
guest expectations.
Best Western Premier Properties possess a conspicuous atmosphere
of refinement and style. Properties have an extremely well-executed
overall theme. All furnishings, fixtures, amenities, and facilities are of
the highest quality in the mid-scale category and provide guests with a
truly memorable product experience.
*These Guidelines apply only to conversion and new construction hotels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which areas are public areas and which are supplemental facilities?
Public Areas are interior areas that are standard at most hotels.
Supplemental Facilities are other areas that are offered based on a
hotel’s guest mix, operational needs, and descriptor requirements. Best
Western separates the areas as follows:
Public Areas:
Supplemental Facilities:
Breakfast Area
Guest Laundry
ElevatorsMeeting Room
Fitness Room
Pre-function Area
Front Desk Area
Other Facilities
Guestroom Corridors
Restaurant/Coffee Shop
LobbyLounge/Sundry Area
Business Center Swimming Pool
Public Corridors
Public Restrooms
Stairways
Vending Area(s)
Whom should I call with questions about these Design Guidelines?
For specific questions on the Design Guidelines, for assistance in bringing
any element into compliance, or any other renovation or design issue,
you should consult with a designer from the Design Department. The
name, telephone number, and email address of your Regional Design
Consultant is noted on your Property Scorecard, is available from your
RSM, or can be determined by calling the Design Department at 877337-4661. You can also contact the Regional Design Consultant for your
District by calling the Design Hotline at 877-337-4661.
How long should I expect to keep my casegoods and/or softgoods?
The industry standard for casegoods is seven to ten years, ten years
generally being the maximum. The overall condition of casegoods will
determine whether they need to be replaced. For softgoods, the industry
standard is four to six years; however, if bold colors or extreme design
elements are chosen, the design could be considered dated earlier. It is
recommended that you consult with your Regional Design Consultant
or the Design Department when selecting casegoods or softgoods. All
selections must be submitted for approval.
2
What is the Review Committee, how often do they meet, and do
any of the members have hotel operations or design/construction
experience?
The Board of Directors has established the Review Committee. The
Review committee is responsible for reviewing Property design and
brand compliance matters and deciding the matters based upon Boardestablished business rules. Generally, the Review Committee meets
every week, and per the Board of Director’s policy, a minimum of four
Review Committee members must be present at each meeting, with
at least three of those committee members having hotel operations
experience, and at least one having design/construction experience.
What if I don’t agree with the Review Committee’s decision and want
to appeal?
Once the Review Committee decides a matter, it is reviewed by the
District’s Director for approval. If the District’s Director agrees with the
decision, the Member is notified of the decision. If either the District’s
Director or the Member disagrees with the Review Committee’s decision,
the matter is presented to the Board of Directors for consideration.
Is there a reason Best Western’s Design Guidelines do not mirror
AAA’s?
When the Design Guidelines were created, many sources, including AAA
standards, research from hospitality firms, competitive analysis, and
input from the Best Western Governor’s Design Advisory Committee
(GDAC), were considered in order to ensure that the Design Guidelines
were competitive, relevant, fair, and met the expectations of our guests.
While the Design Guidelines take into consideration AAA’s threediamond guidelines, there are differences based on structural limitations
or other practical considerations. It is important to remember that these
Design Guidelines are minimum requirements, and Best Western does
not require Members to align with AAA’s three-diamond requirements.
Therefore, a property owner should always refer to the latest AAA
guidelines if achieving or maintaining a particular AAA diamond rating
is desired. Best Western recommends that you consult with your AAA
inspector if you have specific questions regarding your diamond rating.
Additionally, if you are given notice that your next AAA inspection may
adversely affect your current diamond rating, please consider contacting
the Design Department for assistance. You may compare Best Western’s
Design Guidelines with AAA’s by going to mybestwestern.com.
Frequently Asked Questions, continued
Why are some Design Guidelines different for new construction versus
conversion properties?
Conversion properties may not be able to meet the same construction
guidelines as those required for new construction because of preexisting structural limitations, such as ceiling height in corridors. While
a Property must meet all of the design requirements, we also recognize
that there are certain existing conditions that may not be changed.
I can get a great flat-panel television and other guestroom items
at a discount store for less money than the Best Western endorsed
vendors offer. Why wouldn’t I purchase there?
Best Western endorsed vendors offer products that are designed
and manufactured to meet commercial use and guests’ expectations
with a focus on the total costs of ownership of goods and services.
Acquisition cost is only one component of intelligent purchasing.
The lowest price is not always the lowest cost to your business.
Remember the old axiom, “Beware the cost of the lowest price.” Cost
of ownership, return on investment, exceeding guests’ expectations,
warranty, and customer service are relevant considerations.
Please call Best Western Supply at 800-528-3601 (1, 1) or go to
bestwesternsupply.com for more details regarding product selection,
quality, and warranty.
3
General Provisions
Important Notices
These Design Guidelines are a Regulatory Document as that term is
defined in Best Western’s Bylaws.
Note: Each section of the Design Guidelines is subject to the following
important notices.
The Design Guidelines are published and enforced in order to ensure
brand consistency and to establish and meet guest expectations at
each descriptor level with regard to design, construction, furnishings,
and amenities. Best Western requires that Members and Applicants
comply with each and every applicable Design Guideline. All design,
construction, and installation work performed must be professionally
executed. Failure to meet any Design Guideline may be cause for denial
or cancellation of Membership, whether or not the item that fails to
meet a Design Guidelines is indicated on the plans or specifications
submitted to Best Western for approval.
Each Best Western® branded property is independently owned and
operated. Best Western does not own, operate, manage, control, or
involve itself in the day-to-day operations of any Property.
This document provides guidelines to Applicants and Members in
the construction, renovation, and furnishing of hotels, motels, resort
properties, and additions to existing Properties. Copies of these Design
Guidelines are available to every Applicant, as well as existing Members
who are renovating or building additions to their properties or are eligible
to receive a design report. The Applicant or Member should furnish a
copy of or provide access to these Design Guidelines to all architects,
engineers, designers, decorators, general contractors, subcontractors,
and other involved parties prior to their commencing any services. In its
sole and absolute discretion, Best Western may elect to waive or grant
a variance to a specific Design Guideline based on a physical limitation,
market demand, where local and site conditions warrant, or on other
grounds. These waivers and variances do not supersede the Member’s
obligation to comply with jurisdictional codes and laws. Best Western’s
prior written approval is required for any exception to these Design
Guidelines. Failure to comply with any of these Design Guidelines may
make a Property ineligible for Best Western Membership or subject to
Membership cancellation.
All safety and security issues are the operational responsibility of each
hotel owner and operator.
Best Western does not require that all Properties look alike. The exterior
of the building, in particular, may reflect a level of individuality that
is consistent with the geographic location. However, there are certain
amenities and features that convey the Best Western image. This image
must be conveyed throughout the Property, including in the approach,
landscaping, building exterior, public spaces, and guestrooms.
4
The minimum requirements contained in these Design Guidelines
represent a minimum acceptable baseline for consideration for and
retention of Best Western Membership. They do not take into account
any unusual or unique circumstances of your operating environment.
You should consider these and all other factors that apply to your
Property when you build or upgrade.
Best Western does not assume and is not responsible for any liability
or damages arising from a failure to comply with any federal, state, or
local law, rule, or regulation. Each Applicant and each Member is solely
responsible for ensuring that any design, drawing, specification, or
other document submitted by an Applicant or Member to Best Western
complies with all federal, state, or local laws, rules, or regulations
(including, without limitation, the Americans with Disabilities Act). Any
approval given by Best Western is only with regard and reference to
these Design Guidelines and is without regard or reference to any legal
requirements.
These Design Guidelines and Best Western’s Rules and Regulations
require Best Western’s approval of design-related items such as furniture,
fixtures, and equipment, and designs, drawings, and specifications prior
to events such as purchase or the start of construction. This requirement
ensures that purchased products and construction projects comply
with Best Western’s requirements. By failing to submit items for prior
review, an Applicant or Member risks incurring additional expenses
later in order to conform to Best Western requirements, being denied
activation as a Best Western hotel, or having Membership/conditional
approval canceled.
a100 Plan and FF&E Submittal Requirements
Best Western’s Regulatory Documents require Members and Applicants
to submit all building plans for approval prior to beginning any site work
or construction. An indication of approval does not mean Best Western
has reviewed and approved each and every element.
This is a requirement for all new construction and conversion Membership
Applicants. In conjunction with the execution of the Best Western
Membership Application and Agreement and Terms of Conditional
Approval, and unless otherwise required in writing by Best Western, the
Applicant begins the review process by submitting preliminary plans,
which are examined for compliance with these Design Guidelines. Once
the Board of Directors has approved the Membership Application, a
plan review letter will be generated that addresses non-compliant
issues, offers suggestions related to guest comfort and convenience,
and discusses adherence to the Design Guidelines. Plan submittals
are divided into three review phases: Preliminary Plans, Construction
Documents (60-80%), and Construction Documents (final). If a project
requires more than three plan reviews, there will be a charge assessed
for each additional review. After the plans are complete and compliant,
a final review letter will be sent to the Voting Member.
Best Western’s Regulatory Documents also require review and
approval of all Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment (“FF&E”) prior to any
commitment to purchase. An indication of approval does not mean Best
Western has reviewed and approved each and every element.
5
a100 Plan and FF&E Submittal Requirements
This requirement enables the Design Department to ensure that the
interior design of each Property provides a fresh, inviting, and highquality atmosphere and meets all Best Western requirements. In
conjunction with the execution of the Best Western Membership
Application and Agreement and Terms of Conditional Approval, and
unless otherwise required in writing by Best Western, the Applicant
begins the FF&E review process by submitting preliminary samples and
specifications, which are examined for compliance with these Design
Guidelines. An FF&E review letter will be generated that addresses
non-compliant issues and offers suggestions related to the guest
comfort and convenience and adherence to the Design Guidelines. If a
project requires more than three FF&E reviews, there will be a charge
assessed for each additional review. After the color boards, layouts, and
specifications are complete and compliant, a final FF&E review letter
will be sent.
It shall be the responsibility of the owner/developer to comply with all
local, regional, state, and national statutes, regulations, and codes as
applied by the governing authority for renovation and/or construction.
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Preliminary Plans
General
The Voting Member is responsible for all items not submitted for Best Western approval.
All furnishings shall be commercial hospitality quality or better and must be coordinated in design and finish. Mixing of furniture styles
is not acceptable. All plans, finishes, furnishings, and specifications shall be submitted to the Design Department for approval prior to
implementation.
Site Survey
Shall include property boundaries, adjoining streets, grade elevations (contours), utilities, easements, building setbacks, existing conditions,
etc.
Plot Plan
Shall include walks, drives, and parking facilities adequate for the total number of guestrooms (show direction of vehicular traffic), and
number of vehicles to be accommodated in each parking area. The function of all buildings shall be indicated - existing, proposed, and
future. All significant dimensions, location of sign(s), all exterior lighting, and location of swimming pool shall be included. The plot plan
shall also indicate landscaping, including all hardscape and the property dumpster.
Amenities
Preliminary plans shall include the location of all recreational facilities, such as pool, tennis courts, sauna/steam room, exercise room, or
whirlpool/spa. The pool shall be shown, whether indoors or outdoors, and scaled in accurate dimensions, with a minimum surface area as
required by the Design Guidelines, with exercise room or a spa and sauna if required.
Lobby
The required square foot area for public use shall be provided. Public restrooms should be conveniently located for access from the lobby
in accordance with prevailing codes and laws. When applicable, an adjacent breakfast area shall be shown with seating as required.
Restaurant and/or If part of the Property is subject to inspection and/or renovation per Chapter V of Best Western’s Rules & Regulations, the location of
Cocktail Lounge
dining facilities and lounges shall be indicated and scaled with correct dimensions.
Meeting Rooms
Meeting, conference, or banquet rooms shall be shown in proper scale if they are included in the hotel or subject to inspection and/or
renovation per Chapter V of Best Western’s Rules & Regulations.
Building Floor
Plans
Floor Plans shall show all floors at 1/8” = 1’-0” scale and indicate the mix of unit types and show basic overall layouts. Unit Type Plans
shall show every unit type at 1/4” = 1’-0” scale to show accurate size, furniture layout, equipment placement, door swings, all floor, wall
and ceiling materials, all significant dimensions (exclusive of walls), and all other information necessary to illustrate the intent of the plan.
Opposite hand units need not be shown. If there are multiple sizes of one specific unit type then all variations shall be indicated. Not-toscale drawings or drawings not fully dimensioned will not be accepted.
Building
Elevations
Shall include architectural style, materials, etc.
Section
A fully detailed, dimensioned section taken through each building shall be furnished to illustrate the physical construction of floors,
ceilings, and walls, and shall not be smaller than 1/4’ = 1’-0”.
Special
Conditions
Details of “special conditions” are required when necessary to better illustrate the intent of a particular drawing.
Outline
Specifications
Shall state all materials, types of heating, ventilating and air conditioning systems, interior finishes, etc.
Room Count
Total room count shall be evident from the plans and be consistent with the Membership Application.
Guestroom
Layout
Guestrooms shall have the minimum clear wall-to-wall measurements excluding the bath, entry, and dressing areas, as required by the
Design Guidelines. Complete furniture placement is to be shown on plans, along with the total number of each room type.
All Facilities
All facilities subject to inspection and/or renovation per Chapter V of Best Western’s Rules & Regulations shall be included in
the preliminary drawings and outline specifications.
6
a100 Plan and FF&E Submittal Requirements
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Preliminary Plans continued
Design Intent
Shall include any additional details, drawings, or boilerplate specifications, whether complete or not, to clarify the design intent.
Engineering
Preliminary engineering documents shall be submitted for all disciplines. Mechanical, plumbing, and electrical plans are required.
Construction Documents (60-80%)
Revised Drawings
The site survey, plot plan, architectural plans, unit type, and elevations shall all be revised as indicated in the plan review letter generated
subsequent to the preliminary submittal, with all issues addressed to comply with Best Western requirements and Board of Directors
mandated conditions.
Building Sections
Building sections are required at not less than 1/4”= 1’0” scale (1:50 is permissible for Canadian properties) and should adequately describe
construction systems, Sound Transmission Classification (STC) ratings, and dimensions.
Details
Plan, elevation, and section details are required at not less than 1/4”= 1’0” scale (1:50 is permissible for Canadian properties) and should
adequately describe any areas not sufficiently clear on the architectural drawings, particularly the front desk, millwork, and stairways.
Revised
Specifications
Refined specifications to indicate HVAC equipment, interior finish schedules, door and window schedules, bathroom fixtures, etc. are
required.
Revised
Engineering
Refined engineering documents must be submitted for all disciplines and should at least include mechanical, plumbing, and electrical
plans.
Construction Documents (Final)
Plans must be submitted a minimum of 30 days prior to construction.
Final Drawings
The site survey, plot plan, architectural plans, unit type plans, and elevations must all be revised as indicated in the plan review letter
generated subsequent to the Construction Documents (60-80%) submittal.
Final Site Survey
A final site survey (civil plan) is required showing metes and bounds, setbacks, rights of way, adjoining streets, existing and finished grade
elevations (contours), utilities, easements, etc.
Final Plot Plan
A final plot plan is required and shall show specific grade elevations of floors, walkways, drives, terraces, pool, and other significant
features. The final plot plan also must adequately define parking facilities, driveway traffic flow, exterior walkways, landscaping, exterior
lighting, hardscape, swimming pool and decks, porte cochere, existing, proposed, and future structures, trash receptacle location, signage
type and location, etc.
Final Documents
The final construction documents must be sealed, signed, and dated in accordance with local and state jurisdiction requirements by the
registered/licensed Architect of Record and all trade professional designers and engineers for this project.
Document
Submission
By submitting these final documents to Best Western the Member or Applicant represents and warrants that the final documents comply
with all local, state, and federal laws, regulations, codes, ordinances, etc., and have been approved by the appropriate authorities.
After three written plan reviews of incomplete submissions, the plans will be set aside and a final notification will be sent indicating that
any additional reviews may require a fee.
All work shall be installed as shown on the approved drawings and specifications.
Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment
Failure to submit FF&E for approval may result in product replacement at cost of applicant and will delay activation.
FF&E
Specifications
7
All FF&E must be submitted for approval.
All FF&E specification information shall be submitted in a timely manner.
a100 Plan and FF&E Submittal Requirements
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment continued
Drawing Scale
Plans
Scaled, professionally drawn plans of all areas affected by the FF&E under review must be submitted. Acceptable scales are 1/4” or 1/8” =
1’0”. Note: Layout should show placement of lighting fixtures and lamps, mirrors, pictures, and appliances such as the TV, refrigerator, etc.
Scaled elevations, professionally drawn, are required for all public areas and rooms where millwork and custom casework is installed
(moldings, architectural panels, etc.). Acceptable scales are 1/4”, 1/2” or 3/8” = 1’0”.
FF&E Color
Boards
FF&E material samples must be assembled on a professionally prepared color board (24” x 36” maximum size) or virtual (electronic
format) colorboard.
Master Specs
A master specification manual is required. This will have pictures of each piece of furniture and the manufacturer’s cut sheet that lists
construction and specifications, as well as the size of each item.
Cut Sheets
Manufacturer’s specification cut sheets are required for each fabric, paint, or wall covering. Sheets are to be in the master specification
manual. Fire and durability ratings are required.
Submittals
Submissions must be complete with each part clearly marked with the Property name, number, and a contact name and phone number.
Contracted design firms should also be listed. Partial submissions will result in notification of an incomplete submission.
Partial
Renovations
Partial renovations require cut sheets and pictures of existing FF&E, as well as samples of existing finishes.
FF&E Changes
Any change to approved FF&E shall be re-submitted.
8
a100 Plan and FF&E Submittal Requirements
a200 New Construction
NEW CONSTRUCTION PROPERTIES AND ADDITIONS TO EXISTING
PROPERTIES MUST COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS IN THIS
SECTION 200. EXISTING PROPERTIES ARE NOT REQUIRED TO MEET
THE GUIDELINES IN THIS SECTION.
Applicants and Members are responsible for strict compliance with all
applicable federal, state, provincial, and local codes, laws, ordinances,
rules, and regulations relating to design, construction, furnishing,
and operation. For U.S. Properties, this includes the Americans with
Disabilities Act (“ADA”).
Best Western’s approval of construction documents does not indicate
approval of any technical, architectural, or engineering factors, nor does
it verify that drawings or specifications conform to prevailing building
codes, laws, ordinances, or other requirements. Best Western ASSUMES
NO LIABILITY AS A RESULT OF THE REVIEW OR APPROVAL OF
CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS OR FOR ANY DAMAGES, COSTS, OR
EXPENSES SUSTAINED IN CONNECTION WITH THE CONSTRUCTION
OR OPERATION OF THE MOTEL, HOTEL, OR RESORT OR ANY
RELATED FACILITIES. These Guidelines do not constitute construction
standards. Compliance with these Guidelines does not guarantee Best
Western Membership.
Members and Applicants renovating existing properties or building
additions shall reasonably act to reduce the impact of such construction
projects on the guests’ experience. This should include staging project
phases, educating staff on status and the impact of the project
on amenities, screening and isolating work to provide a pleasant
environment, and providing creative programs to compensate the guest
for any inconveniences or loss of amenities. It is recommended that a
display of the planned renovations be available, showing renderings,
colorboards, and estimated completion dates.
Best Western cannot provide specific guidance to any Applicant or Member
on ADA compliance. For information on the ADA, please contact the Office
of the Americans with Disabilities Act in the Civil Rights Division of the
U.S. Department of Justice; P.O. Box 66118, Washington, DC 20035-6118
(1-800-514-0301). The ADA website can be found online at ada.gov.
9
a200 New Construction
Additions to Existing Properties
Additions, alterations, or repairs may be made to any building or
structure without requiring the existing building or structure to comply
with all the requirements of these Design Guidelines, provided that,
the addition, alteration, or repair conforms to that required for a new
building or structure. Each Applicant or Member shall undertake the
necessary investigation into the existing building, equipment, system,
or structure in order to determine the suitability of the proposed
addition or alteration prior to the start of development or as a part of
the development proposal.
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Site Work
Building Location
All buildings shall be located to offer the best possible visibility from main roads or streets.
Public entrances to the Property shall be conveniently located for approach by vehicular traffic.
Separate service entrances to the main building are required.
Civil Engineering
Cuts, fills, leveling, and grading shall be designed and executed as required by acceptable engineering and prevailing codes, rules,
regulations, laws, and ordinances.
Finishing, grading, slopes, drainage equipment, and retaining walls shall be established in accordance with the Civil Engineering plans.
Exterior Lighting
Exterior lighting, for guest convenience, shall at least meet the minimum criteria as recommended by the Illuminating Engineering Society
(I.E.S.). Lighting shall be adequate, with no dark or dimly lit areas.
Signage Location
All properties are required to display a standard, on-premise Best Western identification sign. Please refer to the Brand Identity Manual for
specific requirements and guidelines. Placement, size, and type of proposed signs as well as subsequent sign changes must be approved
by the Brand Identity Administration and must follow current Best Western sign specifications.
Adequate directional signage is required to enable guests to easily enter and exit the site.
Foundation
Foundations shall be adequately described on the structural drawings.
Structural Frame
Steel stud construction is acceptable. Drawings shall note gauge and on-center spacing for bearing and non-bearing walls at first and
upper-level floors.
Wood framed construction is acceptable where allowed by prevailing codes.
Modular-type construction will be considered if it is of good quality and if complete specifications are submitted with the preliminary
submittal, and prior approval is given.
Sound Proofing
Sufficient soundproofing to achieve at least 50 STC (Sound Transmission Class) between guest units (walls and floors) and between guest
units and corridors shall be provided with a verifiable testing source reference number, such as Underwriters Laboratories (U.L.), Gypsum
Association (GA) or other approved testing facility. Special consideration shall be given to soundproofing guestrooms situated below or
above banquet rooms, restaurant and lounge areas, etc., and to those Properties located near airports or highway interchanges.
Heating & Cooling
PTAC’s are not acceptable in any public areas. Central air/heating is required.
Electrical
Electrical receptacles are to be centered 15” to 18” above finished floor surface except for the required GFCI outlet in the vanity area, unless
another height is required by code and above desk and nightstands.
10
a200 New Construction
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Electrical continued
Electrical, television, and telephone wall boxes in common walls of adjoining guestrooms shall be offset a minimum of 24” and installed in a
manner to prevent sound transmission.
A duplex outlet and a data port must be readily accessible from the desk or parsons table and may not already be in use. (Alternatively,
wireless Internet connectivity may be provided.)
Master television antenna or cable system shall be provided.
Electrical and antenna/cable outlets for the television shall be centered 15” to 18” above the finished floor surface. Receptacles designed
for fixed dedicated use, e.g., guestroom light fixtures, television, appliances (such as a refrigerator or microwave), HVAC, shall be located so
as to conceal them from direct guest view.
Excessive, loose, or untidy wiring is not acceptable. Exposed wire molding, conduit, and electrical boxes are not acceptable in any areas
typically accessible by the guest.
Visible electrical, telephone, and cable television service from the street to the building is acceptable. Boxes are not acceptable in any
areas typically accessible by the guest.
Table lamps or hard-wired wall lamps are required. Floor lamps are acceptable where appropriate. Wall-mount lamps with cord covers do
not comply.
Safety
Best Western Members shall comply with all prevailing laws, ordinances and regulations relating to fire safety.
Each guestroom shall be equipped with a smoke detector/fire alarm, hardwired to the building electrical system on a dedicated circuit.
Carbon monoxide detectors (as described below) in: (a) all guest rooms; (b) all rooms and enclosed spaces where fuel is burned; (c) all
rooms and enclosed spaces sharing a wall, floor, or ceiling with an enclosed space where fuel is burned; and (d) all rooms and enclosed
spaces next to, above, or below a vent pipe for equipment or appliances that burns fuel.
The carbon monoxide detector must receive primary power from the building’s wiring, where such wiring is served from a commercial
source and receive power from a battery when primary power is interrupted. Otherwise, the carbon monoxide detectors may be batteryoperated or plugged into an electrical outlet with a battery backup and not controlled by a switch. The carbon monoxide detector may be
combined with a smoke detector.
The carbon monoxide detector must have been tested and certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory that is OSHA/CCOHSapproved and pursuant to the requirements of the American National standards Institute (“ANSI”) or Canadian Standards Association
(“CSA”) and Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (“UL”), as set forth in either UL2034 or UL2075, or successor standards. If combined with a
smoke detector, it must also comply with UL217 for smoke detectors.
“Fuel” means any type of fuel, including but not limited to natural gas, oil, coal, charcoal, petroleum, propane, gasoline, and wood;
“Equipment or appliances that burn fuel” means any equipment, appliance, or other source that burns any type of fuel, including but not
limited to heaters, hot water heaters, furnaces, fireplaces, wood-burning stoves, gas stoves and dryers, pool and spa heaters, generators,
and grills.
Carbon monoxide detectors shall comply with all prevailing laws, ordinances and regulations pertaining to carbon monoxide detectors and
alarms, and to the extent there is a conflict between these Best Western International, Inc. requirements and any state, federal, or local law,
the more stringent requirement shall apply to any room or space.
11
a200 New Construction
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Mechanical
Guestrooms shall each have individual air conditioning and heating units or a central system with a thermostatically controlled temperature
switch accessible to the guest. Guestrooms shall be provided with heating and cooling on a year-round basis.
Electric radiant or gas-fired space heaters are not permitted.
Individual room (through wall packaged terminal air conditioning) units shall be located at the lowest possible position on the exterior
wall for ease of operation and maintenance and so that they do not create a hazard inside or outside the room. Controls shall be easily
accessible for the guests. A standard commercial unit designed for hotel use is required. Split system and other HVAC systems may be
acceptable with prior approval of the Design Department.
All toilet rooms shall have adequate, quiet, well-maintained forced-exhaust ventilation that is fire-rated, protected, and installed to avoid
room-to-room sound transmission. Toilet rooms having operable windows need not have mechanical ventilation unless required by codes.
When an exhaust fan is provided, it may be wired to the light switch.
Plumbing
Water system/sanitary drainage shall meet all prevailing codes.
Water supply shall be provided at adequate pressures to all parts of the building and be designed for 100% occupancy.
A circulating hot water system shall provide constant hot water, on demand, at not less than 105 degrees Fahrenheit at all faucets. Note:
Most Health Code requirements dictate a minimum hot water temperature of 180 degrees Fahrenheit for the final rinse phase of the
dishwashing process. If desired or required, this may be accomplished through an additional booster heater.
Lavatories, water closets, and urinals shall be made of vitreous china or porcelain-covered cast iron.
Gel coat fiberglass or acrylic tubs are not permitted. Cast iron or approved equal is required. 10 year manufacturer’s warranty for
hospitality use required. Enclosure is required to be ceramic tile, solid surface, natural stone, or a pre-approved equal.
Plumbing fixtures, piping, and mixing valves shall be of commercial grade.
Ceiling Height
New construction: 9’ - 0” minimum for all floors. (Exception: Guestroom corridors and public corridors: 8’-0” minimum.) Refer to each
applicable category for ceiling requirements in a specific area.
12
a200 New Construction
a300 Signage
a301 Signage for Exterior and Interior
Best Western logo signage shall be submitted to the Best Western Brand Identity Department for approval.
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Property
Refer to the Best Western Brand Identity Manual for required signage.
Signage
Signage to provide clear and essential information.
Uncoordinated mixture of advertisements, billboards, signage and window/door decals (except for Best Western decals), opaque decal
signage on glass, hand lettered signs, and unprofessional signs are not acceptable.
Exposed screws or fasteners are not acceptable.
General, Directional, Public & Guestroom
Shall provide cohesive informational, directional signs to easily direct guests to the lobby, vending, ice, and all other service facilities
(where applicable), and guestrooms. The signage package shall be high-quality decorative, coordinating with decor of hotel, and
consistent throughout the Property.
Recommendation: High-quality signage that accents the Property’s architecture or landscaping design theme.
Shall provide cohesive, directional parking entrance signs as needed to direct guests to the Property.
Shall provide cohesive informational, directional, and guestroom sign package.
The signage package shall be high-quality decorative, coordinating with decor of hotel, and consistent throughout the Property. The signs
must be uniform in type and size, professionally produced, and consistent with exterior and interior finishes.
Note: Room numbers must be at 62” on center, to the side of guestroom door. The prevailing accessibility code(s) must always be
considered.
Recommendation: Themed signage.
Room directional signs and floor numbers shall be displayed at the main entry point of each floor (e.g., opposite the main staircase or
elevator bank).
Prior to implementation, all signs that display the Best Western name, logo, trademark, slogans, etc., must be reviewed and approved by
Best Western Brand Identity Administration, or purchased from an endorsed vendor.
Handwritten, computer-generated, taped-up, or pinned notices are not acceptable throughout Property.
A visual border on all signage is required with contrast in color, style, or dimension.
13
a300 Signage - a301 Signage for Exterior and Interior
Individual signs must be constructed with
a combination of two or more high-quality
materials, e.g., resin, metal, natural materials,
etc.
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
General, Directional, Public & Guestroom continued
If signage is required on glass, professionally cut vinyl graphics are acceptable as a minimum standard. Opaque decals on glass are not
acceptable in any situation.
Individually mounted numbers or painted numbers are not acceptable.
Front Desk
If provided, plaques, awards, etc. at and behind the front desk shall be coordinated with the lobby decor. Placement of the signs shall be
coordinated with other items on the same wall, excluding the back wall.
Best Western logo and/or Property name not acceptable in lieu of artwork behind the front desk.
Meeting Room
Signage to provide clear and provide essential information regarding activity/schedule.
Meeting-in-progress signage must be located at entry doors.
Pre-function Area
Signage shall provide clear and essential information.
Interior Stairways
Signage shall indicate floor, vending, and ice locations and lobby location, where applicable.
Floors shall be numbered with 6” high reflective numbers located 5’ above the floor at interior of stairwell. Signs shall be consistent in
design type and color with corridor signage.
If signage is required on glass, professionally cut vinyl graphics are acceptable as a minimum standard.
Pool & Fitness
A coordinated, professionally produced sign indicating the hours of operation shall be posted outside of the room.
All signage to comply with local code. Professionally produced signage shall be provided and state hours of operations outside of the
space.
Public & Guestroom Corridor
Signage shall indicate room, vending and ice (where applicable), and lobby locations.
Corridor and guestroom signage shall be a minimum of 3” x 5” or 4” x 4” without a logo.
If a logo is used, corridor and guestroom signage shall be a minimum of 3” x 8” or 24 square inches.
Room numbers shall be presented on a single panel that is professionally produced.
Other Facilities
Room function shall be indicated where applicable.
14
a300 Signage - a301 Signage for Exterior and Interior
Design Guidelines
New construction and conversion Properties are required to comply with the guidelines in Sections 300 through 500.
If a Guideline is applicable to new construction Properties only, it is noted below.
a400 Exterior
a401 Exterior Buildings – Structural, Furnishings, Finishes & Equipment
All physical aspects of the Property, such as accessibility, desirability, and attractiveness, will be taken into consideration in the evaluation of each
Property.
Structural Requirements
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Architecture
Dated or budget exterior design or a design that ties the property to another hotel affiliation will require redesign.
The architecture of each facility shall present a pleasing, quality appearance, fit in with the surrounding area, and be well maintained.
There shall be outstanding coordination
amongst all elements on the grounds, e.g.,
architectural finishes, monument signs,
fencing, out buildings, etc.
Building architecture shall feature
well executed high-quality classic or
contemporary elements. Architecture to
feature a signature element.
The buildings must have finishes and detailing that present a cohesive architectural style or theme or reflect regional architecture or
historical styling.
All buildings shall be in coordinating styles except for freestanding facilities such as a restaurant or lounge that has a separate identity
from the hotel.
Buildings in varying styles are not acceptable.
Shall include signature architectural detailing
with a professionally conceived lighting
concept that complements the property.
Architectural Elements
All detailing shall be high-quality, properly scaled, and coordinated with the buildings’ style and colors.
Thin metal columns are not acceptable.
15
a400 Exterior - a401 Exterior Buildings – Structural, Furnishings, Finishes & Equipment
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Color Scheme
Exterior colors shall be current in appearance and in keeping with the style of the buildings.
All buildings shall be in coordinating colors, except for freestanding facilities, such as a restaurant or lounge that has a separate identity
from the hotel.
The building shall be finished with a minimum of three colors or three coordinating materials or textures for walls, trim, and visible pitched
roofs.
Wall
Brick, stone, stucco, or high-quality high relief textured siding is required.
Recommendation: Specialty finishes.
Exterior finishes are to include decorative accent materials, such as stone veneer, masonry,
wood, glass, metalwork, etc. A plain, uniform stucco exterior is not acceptable.
Decorative block, such as split-face or fluted block, may be acceptable if pre-approved by the Design Department.
All sides of a building and its adjacent structures shall be architecturally comparable and aesthetically pleasing.
Exposed or painted concrete block, T-111 plywood siding, Masonite siding, and dated storefront systems having opaque insert panels are
not acceptable.
Unique architectural concept or finishes is required.
Provide breaks along flat facades of building with protruding building sections extending
beyond the flat facade.
Roofline
The following are acceptable:
Pitched roof in shingles, standing seam
metal, or tile; Roofline of varying heights or
added features such as gables, dormers or
cupolas.
Parapet roof in a finish that coordinates with
the building, having varying heights or other
decorative elements.
Pitched roof buildings should have varying planes to eliminate the appearance of
excessively large areas. Fascia lines should vary to accentuate steps in the building wall
plane and create an interesting facade.
Flat roof buildings should have raised parapets to screen rooftop equipment or structures
that are not intended to be part of the elevation. Parapet heights should vary to define
changes in the wall plane and provide an interesting facade.
Not acceptable:
• Dated, thin-edged flat rooflines;
• Plain, uninterrupted, pitched, mansard, or parapet roof on buildings or wings;
• The roof in a style or color that does not coordinate with the building; or
• Multiple roof styles that do not coordinate with each other.
16
a400 Exterior - a401 Exterior Buildings – Structural, Furnishings, Finishes & Equipment
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Porte Cochere
A one or two lane porte cochere is required
at the main lobby entrance unless limited by
space due to prevailing codes or easements.
A two lane porte cochere is required at the main lobby entrance.
New construction or new porte cochere: A two-lane porte cochere with an 18’ minimum width driveway, with a minimum clear height of 14’
is required.
The scale and architectural elements of the
porte cochere must be in proportion and
in keeping with the design of the lobby
building.
The porte cochere should be an architecturally unique or significant visual element and
be harmonious with the building architecture and should incorporate building specialty
finishes.
Thin support columns and undersized elements are not acceptable. Fabric awnings used as a porte cochere is not acceptable.
Pavers or stamped concrete or similar quality materials, appropriate in scale, are to be used under the porte cochere.
Note: Pavers may be inappropriate in cold climates.
Building Entrances
Main guest entry shall include signature architectural detailing and features.
All secondary guest entrances shall be covered by a coordinating, high-quality awning or overhang, subject to Design Department
approval. The scale and architectural elements of the awning or overhang must be in proportion and in keeping with the design of the
building.
If provided, the roof, tower, overhang, or canopy must coordinate in style and color with the building exterior.
An upper balcony or walkway may be an acceptable cover.
Walkways
First floor and upper-floor walkways must have a minimum 5’-0” clear width, unobstructed by landscaping, parked cars, light posts,
heating/cooling units, fixtures, etc.
First floor walkways to be a minimum 7”-0” it abuts parking spaces or wheel stops need to
be utilized.
The walkway finish shall be non-slip concrete at a minimum. Painted concrete is not acceptable because it is high maintenance.
Recommendation: Stained concrete that coordinates with the buildings, stamped concrete, exposed aggregate concrete, or quality rubber
or rubberized finish.
High-quality, coordinating walk-off mats are acceptable at entries only.
Indoor/outdoor carpet is not acceptable.
At building entrances, provide stained
concrete, stamped concrete, or exposed
aggregate concrete that coordinates with
the building design. (New construction only.)
17
a400 Exterior - a401 Exterior Buildings – Structural, Furnishings, Finishes & Equipment
At building entrances, provide stained
concrete, stamped concrete, or exposed
aggregate concrete that coordinates with
the building design.
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Ceiling / Overhang
Shall be vinyl, aluminum soffit, or painted or stained concrete.
Other finishes may be used if approved by the Design Department.
Pressed cellulose (e.g., Tectum) ceiling is not acceptable.
Guestroom Balconies
The wall, floor, and ceiling finishes must be consistent with those of the building exterior.
Indoor/outdoor carpet is not acceptable.
Recommendation: Stained concrete that coordinates with the buildings, stamped concrete, exposed aggregate concrete, or quality rubber
or rubberized finish.
Guestroom Balcony Furniture
Provide a minimum of two chairs and a side table on balconies 4’ deep by 8’ wide or
greater.
Balcony furniture to be exterior commercial grade wood or metal chairs and side table.
Molded plastic furniture is not allowed.
Breezeways
The wall, floor, and ceiling finishes must be consistent with those at the adjacent walkways.
Recommendation: Stained concrete that coordinates with the buildings, stamped concrete,
exposed aggregate concrete, or quality rubber or rubberized finish.
Architecturally significant detailing at
columns is required, e.g., well-scaled corbels,
bases, capitals, or decorative outdoor
drapery panels. Corridors and breezeways
must be finished with stained concrete,
stamped concrete, or exposed aggregate
concrete that coordinates with the building
design.
Roof connecting two structures – coordinate with exterior corridor.
Vending machines must not restrict passage and must be in an alcove area. Refer to “Vending Area” for requirements.
Laundry machines are not acceptable in breezeways. Refer to Guest Laundry section for requirements.
Railings
Shall be wrought iron, painted or powder
coat tubular metal, high impact PVC, brick,
or stucco.
Recommendation: Architecturally significant
or unique upgraded railing system.
Railings shall be high-quality architecturally significant, pre-finished aluminum, powder
coated or better.
Railings must coordinate in color and style with the buildings’ exterior design.
18
a400 Exterior - a401 Exterior Buildings – Structural, Furnishings, Finishes & Equipment
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Exterior Corridors
Architecturally significant detailing at columns required, e.g., well-scaled corbels, bases,
capitals, or decorative outdoor drapery panels. Corridors and breezeways must be finished
with stained concrete, stamped concrete, or exposed aggregate concrete that coordinates
with the building design.
Provide stone, tile or other decorative hard surface flooring. Indoor/outdoor carpet is not acceptable
Doors
Must coordinate in style and color with the building exterior. See individual interior area sections for door and lock requirements.
Windows
Windows and frames must enhance the building’s architecture.
All guestroom windows that open shall have a lock, which secures the window in a closed position.
Outdated, unfinished aluminum style storefront windows having opaque insert panels above or below, are not acceptable.
Heating & Cooling
Guestroom PTAC units shall have a louvered or architectural grille that coordinates with exterior materials and finishes.
Equipment
All rooftop mechanical equipment must be screened from view. The screening must coordinate with the building style.
Ground-level equipment must be screened from view. Electrical boxes or meters should be screened as much as possible, provided such
screening meets local code.
Ample screening between service yards and exterior guest areas must be provided.
Lighting
Light fixtures must be current in appearance and coordinate with the building’s architecture.
A minimum of 5 foot candles is required at walkways.
A minimum of 10 foot candles is required at building entrances, breezeways, and the porte cochere.
Bare bulb light fixtures are not acceptable.
Ample, well positioned, commercial-quality lighting enhancing the architecture and landscape shall be provided.
Shall include decorative landscape lighting that is professionally designed and installed.
Porte Cochere: Provide quality recessed or decorative ceiling mounted lighting
Electrical
All wiring and electrical conduit shall be screened from view, except electrical, telephone, and cable television service from the street to
the building.
19
a400 Exterior - a401 Exterior Buildings – Structural, Furnishings, Finishes & Equipment
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Furniture
If provided, outdoor furniture must be of
commercial quality and coordinated with the
building and other furniture.
Recommendation: Upgraded “site
furnishings.”
Outdoor furniture must be of commercial quality and coordinate with the building and other
furniture.
Site furnishings to be provided at exterior patios or other gathering spaces and arranged to
blend with the landscaping design. No cast plastic furniture is allowed.
Site furnishings should be high-quality; exterior grade cast aluminum, finished high-quality
wood, or concrete with style and theme that is coordinated with the building and site
architecture.
Trash Containers
Commercial, large-scale trash cans that complement the architecture are required, including interior and exterior trash cans and recycle
containers. Trash cans must be decorative and appropriate in scale. Consumer-quality or janitorial-style plastic containers are not
acceptable.
A cover or lid is required.
20
a400 Exterior - a401 Exterior Buildings – Structural, Furnishings, Finishes & Equipment
a402 Fencing
Site perimeter fencing is recommended to physically or visually separate the Property from surrounding areas. Fencing may be required where
blight or undesirable conditions exist. All fencing shall be professionally installed. Fencing on adjacent lots may have to be screened if it creates a
negative visual impact.
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Finishes
Acceptable materials:
• Wood
• Metal picket
• Stucco over block
• Or other finishes, if pre-approved
Recommendation: Fencing that accents the buildings’ architecture.
Exterior patios must be enclosed to screen
the area from the parking area, headlights,
and other distracting elements.
Fencing must be constructed with
materials harmonious with the building
exterior and be designed to appear as
an extension of the building architecture.
Materials such as wood, decorative metal,
vinyl clad, stucco over block are required.
Acceptable decorative block:
• Split face
• Fluted
• Scored block
• Other finishes, if pre-approved
NOTE: The above options must be submitted to the Design Department for approval.
Chain-link highway fencing or fencing belonging to adjacent properties must be completely screened.
Chain-link fencing, with or without slats, is not acceptable.
Retaining Walls
If retaining walls are required, materials shall be compatible with the theme of the
landscape plan and the building architecture.
21
a400 Exterior - a402 Fencing
a403 Landscaping
The Property shall be attractively landscaped, where conditions allow, with ground cover, lawns, shrubs, trees, plants, and seasonal flowers.
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Landscaping
At least 15% of the site shall be attractively
landscaped, and such landscaping must be
appropriately balanced between the building,
recreation, and parking areas.
Flowers shall be included in the Property
landscaping scheme, as seasonally
appropriate.
The entire site shall be attractively landscaped, where conditions allow, with ground cover,
lawns, shrubs, and trees.
Flowers are to be included in the Property landscaping scheme, as seasonally appropriate.
Landscaping and accent lighting plans shall be prepared by a professional landscape architect or, where these services are not available, by
a qualified nursery.
Every area of the grounds and the entire landscaping scheme shall consistently exhibit the
same professionally conceived and executed level of quality.
Berms, depressions, and mounds are highly recommended to create an illusion of spacious grounds.
Plants or trees shall be large-scale and
sufficient in quantity.
Landscaping shall include abundant specimen quality trees and shrubs.
Recommendation: Additional landscaping, water features, sculpture, courtyards.
The minimum size for new trees is 15 gallons, and for new shrubs is 5 gallons. All foliage must be sufficient in quantity.
Properties shall:
• Provide regional and indigenous plant materials.
• Use predominately evergreen perennial materials (70% evergreen trees and 30%
evergreen shrubs) to maintain a lush image all year.
• Provide plants complementary in texture, scale, and color.
• Provide materials that require minimal maintenance, such as low-growing or dwarf
plants, rather than plants requiring frequent pruning.
• Provide planter bed borders to contain soil and mulch.
• Provide mulch, not grass, around trees to provide a grass mowing buffer and to
retain moisture.
• Provide seasonal color landscaping at site entrance and arrival areas.
• Provide appropriately scaled fencing or evergreen plants to screen mechanical
equipment, site utilities, or other undesirable sites, as allowed by code.
Landscaping plans must be submitted to the Design Department prior to installation.
22
a400 Exterior - a403 Landscaping
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Lighting
Style shall be consistent with architectural style, of good quality, and up-to-date.
Nighttime illumination at walkways shall be a minimum of five foot candles.
Decorative landscape lighting shall be professionally designed and installed.
Electrical/Gas Meters, Boxes or LPG Tanks
Equipment shall be screened from view.
Irrigation
New construction: An automatic timer
irrigation system is required.
Recommendation: An automatic timer
irrigation system.
An automatic timer irrigation system is required.
Planters
If planters are provided, they shall be commercial, large-scale planter containers, in a style and material that is coordinated with and
complements the existing architecture. Consumer-quality plastic containers are not acceptable.
Provide upscale planters at main guest entry.
Parking Areas
Parking areas shall have large-scale, in-ground landscaping. Landscaping should cover 15% of the paved area creating breaks with
landscape islands or other features.
Appropriate plant materials shall be installed along the perimeter where conditions allow.
Lack of landscaping or grass only is not acceptable.
Feature Site Amenity
A signature element such as a fire-pit/outdoor fireplace, waterfall, lawn game area, etc. is
to be used on site.
23
a400 Exterior - a403 Landscaping
a404 Other Exterior Facilities
All facilities on the Property are subject to inspection and/or renovation and must present a quality, up-to-date appearance. Exterior facilities
such as golf courses, tennis courts, playgrounds, beach fronts, etc., shall be properly equipped and landscaped.
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
All Facilities
All facilities shall be current, coordinated with other buildings, professional-looking, and appealing.
A chain-link fence is acceptable for tennis courts and dog kennels only.
24
a400 Exterior - a404 Other Exterior Facilities
Best Western Premier®
a405 Outdoor Swimming Pool
A swimming pool is required, except where individual circumstances warrant a variance approved by the Board. The swimming pool must meet
the following minimum requirements. Indoor swimming pools are recommended in colder climates. It is recommended that all pools be heated.
These Design Guidelines are not intended to provide comprehensive pool standards.
Structural Requirements
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
General
Provide music at the pool area.
Size – Surface Area
Applicant Properties shall comply with the following:
• Properties with 1-50 guestrooms: 300 sq. ft. pool
• Properties with 51-100 guestrooms: 400 sq. ft. pool
• Properties with 101-200 guestrooms: 600 sq. ft. pool
• Properties with 201 + guestrooms: 750 sq. ft. pool
Depth
Applicant Properties: Depth should be a minimum of 3’-0” and a maximum of 5’-0”.
Finish
Pool finish must be gunite, concrete, or better. Other finishes must be submitted for approval prior to installation.
Recommendation: Pool finish to be non-slip ceramic or mosaic tile or pebble finish.
Pool finish below the coping to the waterline
shall be decorative tile.
Deck
Deck size shall be:
• For properties with 1-50 guestrooms, 650 sq. ft.
• For properties with 51-100 guestrooms, 800 sq. ft.
• For properties with 101-200 guestrooms, 1000 sq. ft.
• For properties with 201+ guestrooms, 1200 sq. ft.
Deck shall have adequate drainage.
The pool deck shall be slip resistant.
25
a400 Exterior - a405 Outdoor Swimming Pool
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Deck continued
The finish is to be one of the following or
better:
• Concrete
• Cool Deck
• Non-slip ceramic tile
• Quality rubber
Provide an upgraded finish such as stone, cool decking, or other approved finish.
• Rubberized finish
Rubberized or concrete decking not acceptable.
Recommendation: The finish to be one of the
following:
• Colored stamped concrete
• Slate or flagstone
• Smooth finish aggregate
Indoor/outdoor carpet is unacceptable.
Depth Markers
Depth markers shall be professional in appearance.
Recommendation: Inserted tile, brass, or stone depth markers
Depth markers shall indicate every two-foot change in water depth.
Depth markers shall not be spaced more than 10’ apart.
Depth markers are required on both horizontal and vertical pool edges.
The numbers on horizontal pool edges shall indicate feet or meters.
Hand-painted depth markers are not acceptable.
Fencing
Where not governed by local codes, the fence shall be a minimum of 5’ high with pickets spaced no more than 4” on center.
Gates shall be self-closing and self-latching.
Fencing shall coordinate with the building style and accent the building architecture.
Exposed painted concrete block (except for decorative block) walls and filigree block are not acceptable.
Chain-link fences and gates are not acceptable.
26
a400 Exterior - a405 Outdoor Swimming Pool
Required Furnishings & Equipment
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Lighting
Provide upgraded lighting.
A minimum of 10 foot candles is required at deck level.
Recommendation: Decorative landscape lighting.
Underwater lamps shall be sealed beam designed especially for swimming pool use.
Pool lighting levels for underwater lumen intensity will be regulated by local jurisdictional codes. Where no code exists, 15 foot candles or
greater shall be provided.
Diving Board
Diving boards and diving platforms are not permitted.
Slides
Slides are not permitted.
Amusement park style water slides may be permitted, subject to Board approval.
Equipment
All pools shall comply with prevailing codes regarding all equipment, including safety equipment.
Pool equipment shall be concealed from direct view in a quality enclosure that coordinates with the main building and provides adequate
ventilation.
New construction or new swimming pool: One house phone shall be provided in the pool area that rings directly to the hotel operator.
Provide commercial, quality coordinating trash cans quality coordinating and towel bins that complement the architecture. Consumer
quality or janitorial style plastic containers are not acceptable.
Towel shelves or hampers shall be highquality.
High-quality shelving and a coordinating high-quality hamper with lid for pool towels shall
be provided.
Plumbing
If existing shower is provided, all finishes shall meet minimum requirements.
Recommendation: Provide exterior shower head.
Restrooms
Existing pools: Public restrooms are recommended adjacent to the pool area.
New construction or a new swimming pool: A public restroom is required adjacent to the pool area, refer to public guidelines section for
FF&E requirements.
Furniture
All furniture shall coordinate in color and style.
27
a400 Exterior - a405 Outdoor Swimming Pool
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Furniture continued
Furniture shall consist of coordinated, commercial-quality pool furniture in the following quantity:
• 1-50 guestrooms: 2 tables with 4 chairs per table or 4 side tables with 8 chairs. 4 chaise lounges are required.
• 51-100 guestrooms: 3 tables with 4 chairs per table or 6 side tables with 12 chairs. 6 chaise lounges are required.
• 101-200 guestrooms: 4 tables with 4 chairs per table, or 8 side tables with 16 chairs. 8 chaise lounges are required.
• 201 + guestrooms: 6 tables with 4 chairs per table or 12 side tables with 24 chairs.12 chaise lounges are required.
A minimum of half of the tables shall have
market umbrellas and for every three
chaise lounges, one cocktail table must be
provided. Coordinating trash receptacles,
ash urns, and towel bins must be provided.
Low-quality resin furniture is not acceptable.
Recommendation: High-quality furnishings,
such as market umbrellas, cast aluminum
furniture, powder coated metal furniture, or
high-quality wood furniture.
High-quality furnishings such as market umbrellas, cast aluminum furniture, and/or highquality wood furniture shall be provided. Resin furniture is not acceptable.
Landscaping
Shall include medium to large-scale plants or flowers in in-ground planters around the pool area or directly outside of the pool fence.
Recommendation: Features such as waterfalls, large urns, boulders, high-quality sculptures, or awning/sunscreen structures.
High-quality decorative containers should be located throughout the pool area. If decorative containers are provided, they shall be 18”
minimum diameter.
Consumer-quality plastic containers are not acceptable.
Provide upgraded landscaping throughout area.
28
a400 Exterior - a405 Outdoor Swimming Pool
a406 Parking Lot/Driveways
Parking spaces and driving lanes are to be clearly marked and adequately illuminated. Guest parking should be as close as possible to room
locations. Adequate additional parking and loading space for delivery and service vehicles is required. Separate parking structures designed to
complement the main hotel building should be considered.
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Capacity
Conversion: Shall have two parking spaces for every three rooms.
Recommendation: One parking space for every room.
New construction: Shall have one parking space per room.
There shall be one parking space per four seats in public areas, including restaurant, lounge, meeting rooms, etc.
Adequate space for employee parking and delivery vehicles shall be provided.
Convenient parking shall be available for downtown properties.
Access/Location
Parking shall be convenient to guestrooms and the main lobby.
Paving
Parking lots and driveways shall be paved with asphalt concrete or Portland Cement concrete.
Pavers or stamped concrete or similar quality materials, appropriate in scale, are to be used under the porte cochere.
NOTE: Pavers may be inappropriate in cold climates.
Unpaved truck parking areas shall have 1/2” pebble stone or better.
Curbs
New construction: Shall provide a pre-cast concrete wheel stop or curb at each parking space. If a wheel stop is used, it may be shared by
two adjacent parking spaces.
Recommendation: Provide a curb at all landscaped areas.
Lighting
Light fixtures shall be consistent with architectural style, of good quality, and up-to-date.
Nighttime illumination in parking areas shall be according to city or local code.
29
a400 Exterior - a406 Parking Lot/Driveways
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Parking Garage
If a parking garage is provided, the following are required in addition to the above requirements:
• The garage shall complement the exterior design of the hotel.
• Construction shall be of painted concrete or concrete block walls.
• Entry and ceiling height shall be clearly marked.
• Nighttime illumination in parking areas shall be a minimum of 5 foot candles.
Charging Station
One charging station per hotel.
30
a400 Exterior - a406 Parking Lot/Driveways
Best Western Premier®
a407 Satellite Dish
Satellite dishes shall be installed in an inconspicuous location. Inoperative dishes shall be removed.
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Location
The satellite dish shall not be readily visible to guests upon entrance to the Property.
The location of the satellite dish must be approved by the Design Department. The wiring and conduit must be out of view.
Enclosure
The base of ground-mounted dishes shall be screened from view with fencing or landscaping, except for pole-mounted VSAT dishes.
Recommendation: Coordinated architectural element on building or separate structure.
A chain-link fence with slats or a concrete block enclosure is not acceptable.
31
a400 Exterior - a407 Satellite Dish
a409 Stairways
Exterior public stairways should be visually pleasing and inviting as well as meet all code requirements. The style, finish, and colors of the
corridors shall coordinate with the building design and finishes. Adding upgrades to the public stairways will help ensure that the guest’s
expectations are met. Submit finishes to the Design Department prior to implementation.
Structural & Finishes Requirements
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Size
New Construction: Shall be 44” wide, or a width compliant with all prevailing codes and laws.
Recommendation: New Construction: 48” wide or greater.
Risers & Treads
Treads and risers must meet all prevailing codes.
Treads and landings shall be sealed concrete, non-slip metal, or other pre-approved finish.
Railings
Railings shall coordinate in color and style with the buildings’ exterior design.
Wall
Wall finishes shall be consistent with adjacent building wall finishes.
Ceiling/Overhang
Vinyl or aluminum soffit, painted or stained concrete, or other finishes may be used if approved by the Design Department.
Pressed cellulose (e.g., Tectum) ceiling is not acceptable.
Required Fixtures
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Lighting
Minimum 10 foot candles.
Shall provide ample, well-positioned commercial-quality lighting in all areas to illuminate the stairway finishes.
Fixtures shall be suited to design theme and concept.
Recommendation: Decorative themed chandeliers and wall sconces scaled to building.
Low-quality surface mounted light fixtures, indoor light fixtures, bare bulb light fixtures, insufficient lighting, and under-scaled residential
light fixtures are not acceptable.
32
a400 Exterior - a409 Stairways
a410 Trash Dumpster & Service Areas
Trash dumpsters shall be installed in as inconspicuous a location as possible. Dumpsters, grease traps, and service areas shall be screened from
view. A reinforced concrete entry is recommended to support heavy trash trucks.
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Location
Trash dumpsters shall not be located in front of the building or visible upon approach to the Property.
Screening/Enclosure
Dumpsters, recycling bins, and grease traps shall be screened from view.
A gate is required on dumpster enclosure if it is within guest view.
Enclosure shall be wood fencing, brick, stucco on concrete, or another material pre-approved by the Design Department.
Service areas shall be screened from view with fencing and/or landscaping.
Unacceptable elements:
• Chain-link fence enclosure or gates, including chain-link fences with slats
• Concrete block enclosure
• Dumpster enclosures without gates if dumpster is within guest view
33
a400 Exterior - a410 Trash Dumpster & Service Areas
a411 Vending Area
Vending areas shall be clean, well-lit, easily accessible, and visible to the guests. All vending areas shall comply with the following requirements:
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
General
One (1) self-service ice machine and one (1) soft drink machine provided for each 60 rooms.
Machines for one- and two-story properties shall be centrally located for convenient access by guests on each floor.
One self-service ice machine and one soft drink machine should be provided on every other floor in properties of more than two stories.
Ice shall be provided to guests at no charge 24 hours per day with the location of the ice machine well identified.
Ice machines and vending machines shall be located in such a manner as not to cause excessive noise to adjacent guestrooms.
Surfaces
The wall, floor, and ceiling finishes shall be consistent with the finishes at the adjacent walkway.
Painted exposed block walls, pre-vinyled drywall panels, and sheet vinyl flooring are not acceptable.
Electrical
All electrical conduits shall be hidden from view.
All electrical cords shall be tied up, bound, or shortened.
New Construction: Shall place electrical outlets at 15” from finished floor unless concealed by equipment or furniture or above a counter.
Plumbing
Excessive visible plumbing is not acceptable.
Lighting
Fixtures shall be suited to the design of the building and decorative.
Bare bulb fixtures and low quality surface-mounted fluorescent light fixtures are not acceptable.
A minimum of 10 foot candles shall be provided.
Ample well-positioned commercial-quality light to illuminate the vending area shall be provided.
An unswitched circuit is required. Lighting shall remain on at all times or must automatically illuminate when a guest enters the machine area.
Equipment
Automatic ice machines shall dispense a controlled portion of sanitary ice.
Dispenser may be operated, at the hotel owner’s option, by a room key.
Bin-style ice machines and outdated vending machines are not acceptable.
34
a400 Exterior - a411 Vending Area
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Location
Vending machines shall not be in the lobby or lobby entry area. Vending machines shall be in a defined area, such as an alcove, room, or
partitioned area.
Trash Containers
If provided, trash containers shall be commercial and complement surrounding architecture. This applies to interior and exterior containers
and includes recycling containers. Consumer-quality or janitorial-style plastic containers are not acceptable.
35
a400 Exterior - a411 Vending Area
a500 Public Areas
a501 Lobby
The lobby is often the first and last impression the guest has of your hotel. Properties should have a quality interior space that conveys a sense of
regional identity, reflects the overall design of the building, promotes guests’ comfort, and provides a welcoming, functional facility for greeting
guests. The lobby should allow for the congregation of the guests during group check-in, as well as provide a place for guests to relax outside of
their rooms.
Properties in areas where the temperatures dip below freezing should provide revolving doors, entry areas, or vestibules at the main entrance.
See the requirements for vestibules at the end of this section.
All furnishings shall be of commercial hospitality quality or better and shall be coordinated in design and finish. Submit all plans, finishes,
furnishings, and specifications to the Design Department for approval prior to implementation.
Vestibule Requirements
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Vestibule
New Construction: A vestibule is required.
Conversion Properties: A vestibule may be required.
Provide a slip resistant hard surface floor which can withstand water such as tile, stone, stamped concrete or honed granite with an inset
grating in snow areas. Tile must achieve a wet and dry coefficient of friction value of not less than 0.6 or DCOF of .42.
When floor mats are used they must be inset in the floor and coordinating with the surrounding finishes.
Provide quality exterior metal or metal frame doors with up-to-date commercial hardware that meet all prevailing code requirements.
Design recommends upgrading this area with millwork, wall finishes and art as a continuation of the lobby.
See lobby requirements for wall and ceiling finishes.
36
a500 Public Areas - a501 Lobby
Structural & Finishes Requirements
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
General
Lobby theme shall be welcoming and impactful to the guest. Design shall be cohesive and relate well to all other public spaces.
Provide 24-hour coffee bar in an attractive display with stone or quartz top with design to coordinate with public area.
Provide the following “Community Elements” in the lobby experience:
Provide a community table as part of the
lobby experience.
• Media center is required.
• Community table is required.
• Lobby bar is optional.
Interactive “electronic concierge” to be
provided. A minimum of 42” touch screen
interface to be located conveniently in the
lobby area.
Luggage cart storage must be in a dedicated alcove area.
Provide a lobby and breakfast area that is integrated to be used as a social zone.
Guestroom furniture is not acceptable in any public area.
Size
Applicant Properties shall have a minimum
lobby size (not including the front desk
area) as follows based on the Property’s unit
count:
Applicant Properties shall have a minimum
lobby size (not including the front desk
area) as follows based on the Property’s unit
count:
• 1-50 guestrooms: 400 square feet.
• 1-50 guestrooms: 600 square feet.
• 51-100 guestrooms: 600 square feet.
• 51-100 guestrooms: 800 square feet.
• 101-200 guestrooms: 800 square feet.
• 101-200 guestrooms: 1000 square feet.
• Over 200 guestrooms: 4 square feet
per guestroom over 200.
• Over 200 guestrooms: Add 4 square
feet per guestroom over 200.
If the lobby does not meet the minimum size requirements, an adjacent public area that
allows for seating equal to 20% of the total number of guestrooms and which meets lobby
quality standards shall be provided.
37
a500 Public Areas - a501 Lobby
Size, including registration area, seating
groups, media center, and sundry shop shall
be:
• 1-50 guestrooms: 800 sq. ft. min.
• 51-100 guestrooms: 1000 sq. ft. min.
• 101-200 guestrooms: 1200 sq. ft. min.
• Over 200 guestrooms: Add 4 sq. ft.
per guestroom over 200.
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Floor
New or replacement carpet: Shall be a minimum 36 ounce face weight per square yard with or without high density pad, 100% solution
dyed nylon, and minimum 8” pattern repeat. Other ounce weights, pattern repeat sizes, and construction methods (e.g., carpet tile) may be
acceptable with approval from the Design Department.
Or porcelain, ceramic, quarry, or other decorative tiles shall have a minimum DCOF of .42 or coefficient of friction rating of 0.6 in both wet
and dry conditions (for European tile, the minimum is a test DIN 51130 rating of R9). If natural stone is used, a water-based, non-skid finish
shall be applied to the tile surface.
Carpet pad: Shall be a minimum 32 ounce per square yard all synthetic fiber commercial pad, minimum 64 ounce rubber pad, or attached
pad. Other pads may be acceptable with approval from the Design Department.
Recommendation: Double glue installation or higher ounce weight pad (the pad thickness should not exceed 7/16”).
Carpet or an area rug is required at the primary seating area. If inlaid carpets areas are used, they shall be under the entire primary seating
area. Other areas may have other floor treatments as listed.
Area rugs shall extend beyond the front legs of all seating in a seating area or to quality floor treatments as pre-approved by the Design
Department.
Floor mats may only be used in inclement weather and shall coordinate with the surrounding surfaces.
Note: Best Western logo mats are for exterior and vestibule use only.
Solid-colored carpet, vinyl-composite tile, institutional-level, loop carpet, indoor-outdoor carpet, typical guestroom quality carpet, or sheet
vinyl flooring are not acceptable.
Two or more flooring materials, e.g. carpet, tile, or hardwood, shall be included. A single
finish with a decorative medallion in the same or similar finish is also acceptable. Tile, when
utilized shall be 12” x 12” or larger or minimum 6” x 18” plank style.
Trim - Base
Shall consist of 4” minimum wood base, tile base, or carpet base.
Recommendation: 4” or higher carpet, stone, marble, granite base, or millwork.
Carpet and vinyl base are not acceptable.
Wood base or multiple style vinyl profile
base is acceptable.
Vinyl base and rubber base are not acceptable.
Wall
New Construction: Perimeter walls shall have a minimum STC of 50.
Shall have vinyl wall covering, Type II (Class A), applied with an adhesive with mildew inhibitors, or painted wall finish with architectural
detailing, such as crown molding, or chair rail.
If used, wall and corner guards shall be surface-mounted clear or color-coordinated vinyl with stainless steel screws. Guard heights shall be
a maximum 4’-0” or end at chair rail height.
Recommendation: Specialty finish.
Exposed block walls, pre-finished sheet paneling, inset plastic or metal panels seen in the storefront system, and vinyl covered drywall
panels are not acceptable.
Wallpaper border is not permitted.
38
a500 Public Areas - a501 Lobby
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Ceiling
Shall have 2’ x 2’ acoustical ceiling tile with matching grid. Ceiling tile in public areas shall be decorative or have a revealed edge or painted
drywall with lightly textured or smooth finish.
Recommendation: Upgraded ceiling materials, such as metal, wood, etc.
2’ x 4’ acoustical ceiling tile and grid or 1’ x 1’ applied ceiling tiles are not acceptable.
Ceilings should be designed with multiple heights and should have a mix of ceiling types
and colors to create interest in the overall space.
Changes of height and materials should
be coordinated with flooring and furniture
layouts to reinforce the sense of areas within
the overall lobby space.
Ceiling Height
Shall be at least 8’-0” high.
New Construction: Shall be at least 9’-0” high.
Recommendation: New Construction: 10’-0” high.
Recommendation: Vaulted ceiling or two-story lobby.
Focal Point
High-quality signature element, e.g., waterfall, indoor garden, fireplace, dimensional panel shall be provided.
Millwork/Cabinets
Architectural woodwork/millwork shall be
provided to create an intimate, warm setting,
including:
If provided, shall be wood millwork/cabinets, metal millwork, or built-in wood cabinets.
• Stained or painted millwork columns
and millwork shelving / bookcases.
• Stain or paint grade trim, crown
molding, and column capitals.
Low-pressure laminate built-ins and pre-finished wood grain millwork are not acceptable.
Stair Rail
Shall be made of wood or pre-finished metal.
Recommendation: Tempered glass, stone balustrades and railing, or wire cable.
Low-quality or plain metal railings, exterior quality railings, and railings that do not coordinate with the size of the lobby are not acceptable.
Door & Door Hardware
Door stops are required at all doors.
Public passage doors should be a minimum of 6’-8” high and 3’-0” wide and comply with all prevailing codes and laws.
39
a500 Public Areas - a501 Lobby
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Door & Door Hardware continued
Automatic doors shall be provided. If vestibule in place both sets of doors are required to
be automatic.
Main entry doors shall be fully automatic
sliding doors with a vestibule or revolving
doors.
All exterior doors exposed to weather shall be metal. Fiberglass doors are allowed in salt air locations.
Main lobby entrance door shall have current styling, finishes, and hardware.
New Construction: Main lobby entrance door shall be oversized and/or have upgraded detailing and hardware.
Recommendation: Revolving doors or entrance doors as an architectural feature.
Heating & Cooling
PTAC’s are not acceptable in any public area. Central air/heating is required.
Electrical
All electrical conduit shall be hidden from view.
Electrical cords shall be tied up, bound, or shortened.
Outlet covers shall coordinate with the wall finish.
New Construction: Duplex receptacles shall be within six feet of all lamps and equipment. Cord covers not acceptable.
New Construction: Electrical outlets shall be placed 15” from finished floor, unless concealed by equipment or furniture or above a counter.
40
a500 Public Areas - a501 Lobby
Required Furnishings & Fixtures
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Seating
Commercial-quality seating shall be provided.
Recommendation: Upgraded commercial-quality seating.
Seating that coordinates with the lobby and property theme shall be provided.
The following amount of seating shall be provided:
• 1-50 guestrooms: seating for four
• 51-100 guestrooms: seating for six
• 101 - 200 guestrooms: seating for 10
• 201+ guestrooms: seating for 10, plus one additional seat for each 25 guestrooms over
200
Recommendation: The following amounts:
• 1-51 guestrooms: seating for 4-6
Multiple seating groups shall be provided,
e.g., in the registration area or media area.
The following amount of seating shall be
provided:
• 1-50 guestrooms: seating for six
minimum
• 51-100 guestrooms: seating for eight
minimum
• 101 - 200 guestrooms: seating for 12
minimum
• 51-100 guestrooms: seating for 6-8
• 101 - 200 guestrooms: seating for 10-12
• 201+ guestrooms: seating for 12 plus
• One additional seat for each 25 guestrooms over 200 in multiple seating areas
• 201+ guestrooms: seating for 12, plus
one (1) additional seat for each 25
guestrooms over 200
Guestroom seating, residential-quality seating, and sled-based chairs are not acceptable.
Furnishings shall be of contract quality and display a high-end residential feel.
Upholstery
Commercial quality upholstery with a minimum of 30,000 double rubs (Wyzenbeek method) shall be provided.
Tables
Commercial quality tables shall be provided.
Tops with quartz (synthetic stone) or
polished stone tops or other high-quality,
durable materials as approved by the Design
Department shall be provided.
Tables shall coordinate with the lobby and Property theme.
Lighting
Different light sources, such as table lamps, wall sconces, and ceiling fixtures, which coordinate with the lobby and Property decor, shall be
used to provide quality lighting.
Color balanced fluorescent lights shall be used.
Light levels of 30 foot candles, 40 in reading areas, shall be provided.
41
a500 Public Areas - a501 Lobby
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Lighting continued
Reading level lighting at a minimum shall be provided in one seating area.
Recommendation: Chandeliers and recessed cans with compact fluorescent or LED lamps.
Guestroom quality lamps and low-quality fluorescent light fixtures are not acceptable.
Artwork
Artwork shall be high-quality, professionally produced, and superior to that used in guestrooms.
Recommendation: Original artwork or limited edition prints and accent lighting.
Artwork shall coordinate with surrounding elements.
Guestroom style artwork and mass-produced oil paintings are not acceptable.
Artwork shall be appropriate to style of hotel decor.
Accessories
General
Background music that complements the atmosphere of the public area shall be provided.
Accessories, such as table-top items, flowers, or quality, coordinated plant containers with silk or healthy live plants, and which complement the theme of the design, shall be provided.
If provided, a notice board or display cabinet shall be high-quality.
Brochures to be displayed in high-quality, coordinated brochure racks in limited locations.
Plastic plants, outdated wood grain laminate brochure holders, cork boards, and pinned or taped up calendars and notices are not acceptable.
Well-scaled, high-quality accent pieces, e.g., console tables, display pieces, benches, etc.
shall be provided.
If provided, lobby accessories shall be
high-quality and complement the lobby
decor.
All “clutter,” including low-quality or ill-positioned brochure racks, plaques, decorative items, etc. shall be removed.
Desk
If a desk is provided, it shall be of commercial quality and coordinate with the decor.
A guestroom-style desk is not acceptable.
42
a500 Public Areas - a501 Lobby
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Equipment
If a television is provided, it shall be a 40”
flat-panel and wall mounted, sitting on
a console or side board, or set in quality
housing. Guestroom furniture is not
acceptable.
If a television is provided, it shall be a 50” flat-panel and wall mounted, sitting on a console
or side board, or set in quality housing. Guestroom furniture is not acceptable.
Recommendation: Internet kiosk and additional phones as needed for larger facilities and
large-screen television.
Recommendation: Internet kiosk and
additional phones as needed for larger
facilities and large-screen television.
One house phone for each 100 guestrooms shall be provided.
Guest-operated photocopiers shall be located in a business center or screened from general view.
All televisions shall be LCD, LED or plasma flat-panel.
A good, clear signal shall with no blank channels and a full mute function.
All televisions shall be commercial grade to ensure that the features such as volume limiting, power-up channel, power-up volume, and preset picture controls that are unavailable to guests.
Food or drink vending machines, refrigerators, and ice machines are not to be in the lobby.
A minimum of one commercial hotel quality luggage cart per 50 guestrooms shall be provided for interior-corridor Properties. Pneumatic
or semi-pneumatic wheels are required. These requirements do not apply to hotels without interior corridors.
Media Center area, shall have a minimum of two (2) 50” or larger or three (3) 42” or larger
(diagonal measure) flat-panel televisions. The sets shall be wall hung on mounts designed
for the sets.
Window Treatments
If the windows are not architecturally significant or the view is not scenic, window treatments, such as professionally fabricated draperies
and sheers, wood blinds, and a cornice, or other pre-approved window treatment, shall be provided.
Note: Valances, and metal or plastic mini-blinds or vertical blinds are not acceptable.
43
a500 Public Areas - a501 Lobby
a502 Front Desk Area
The registration desk shall be convenient to the entrance with sufficient space to allow multiple guest check-ins/check-outs and be coordinated
in finish and design with the rest of the lobby. Inset the computer monitors in the desk surface, whenever possible. The front desk area shall
appear uncluttered and professional with no distracting elements to interfere with the interaction of the guest and the Property representative
and no view of the back office. All designs and finishes shall be of commercial quality and reflect the building design and regional flavor. Submit
design and finish selections, including specifications, to the Design Department for approval prior to implementation.
Structural & Finishes Requirements
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
General
All designs and finishes shall be of commercial-quality and coordinate with the design of
the public areas.
Provide music that compliments the atmosphere of public area.
Size
1-100 guestrooms: Guest transaction counter to be a minimum of 12’-0” L x 2’-0” D.
Add 4 feet of guest access area for each 75 guestrooms over 100 guestrooms.
101+ guestrooms: 16 linear feet with a
minimum of 8’ access to the public.
1-75 guestrooms: Guest transaction counter
to be a minimum of 12’-0” L x 2’-0” D.
Add 4 feet of guest access area for each 75
guestrooms over 75 guestrooms.
Maintain a minimum 5’ minimum clear passage/workspace, measured from the edge of the
work counter to the back wall behind the desk. Maintain a minimum of 8’ clear floor area
from the front of the desk for guest queuing and passage.
Floor
If it can be seen from the guest side, ensure
that carpet coordinates with front desk
design.
Floor finishes shall coordinate with the character of the hotel and lobby design.
Note: Pad recommended.
New or replacement carpet: Shall be
minimum 32 ounce face weight per
square yard, 100% solution dyed nylon,
and minimum 8” pattern repeat. Other
ounce weights, pattern repeat size, and
construction methods (e.g., carpet tile) may
be acceptable with Design Department
approval.
New or replacement carpet: Minimum 36 ounce face weight per square yard, 100% solution
dyed nylon, and minimum 8” pattern repeat. Other ounce weights, pattern repeat size, and
construction methods (e.g., carpet tile) may be acceptable with approval from the Design
Department.
If used, carpet pad shall be a minimum 32 ounce per square yard, all synthetic fiber commercial pad, minimum 64 ounce rubber pad, or
attached pad. Other pads may be acceptable with approval from the Design Department.
44
a500 Public Areas - a502 Front Desk Area
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Wall
New Construction: A solid back wall with no doors, openings, or back counter shall be provided.
If there is a back counter, it shall be clear of paperwork or equipment.
Shall be a vinyl wall covering, painted drywall
with a smooth or textured finish, or specialty
finish.
Recommendation: Specialty textural
millwork.
Front desk and backdrop to be
professionally designed.
A compelling backdrop for the front desk area shall be created, with an upgraded quality
wall finish. Any storage behind the front desk shall be clad in millwork to complement lobby
area walls. If used, incorporate any flush overlay cabinetry with wood veneer cabinet doors
and accent lighting. See approved options or submit to Design for approval.
Wallpaper border is not permitted.
Ceiling
Shall be 2’ x 2’ with a matching grid. Ceiling tile in public areas shall be decorative or have a revealed edge or painted drywall with lightly
textured or smooth finish or specialty finish.
Ceiling Height
Shall be 7’-0” minimum.
Drop ceilings and soffits must be pre-approved.
New construction: Shall be 9’–0” minimum.
Lighting
Shall consist of quality recessed 2’ x 2’ fluorescent lighting with white acrylic diffuser, recessed incandescent/LED halogen lighting, or
decorative light fixtures.
Provide 50-100 foot candles at work surface.
Registration Desk - Top
High-quality finishes, e.g. wood, concrete, tempered glass, metal, stone, or quartz are to be used on the top. The front desk may not
be constructed with a plastic laminate on its top or face. Certain types and/or applications of laminate may be acceptable with Design
Department approval.
Other finishes must be submitted to the Design Department for approval prior to fabrication.
Cultured marble is not acceptable.
The desk shall appear uncluttered, paperless, and professional.
Registration Desk - Front
The desk shall have high-quality natural finishes, e.g., wood, wood veneer, concrete, tempered glass, metal, or stone.
Other finishes must be submitted to the Design Department for approval prior to fabrication.
45
a500 Public Areas - a502 Front Desk Area
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Registration Desk - Front continued
The front desk may not be constructed with a plastic laminate on its top or face. Certain types of laminate may be acceptable with Design
Department approval.
Detailing shall be provided at the front surface, such as moldings, panels, or other accent trim to provide a high-quality appearance..
Additional options, such as walk around, curved, or pod front desk may be permitted with
prior approval. CRT monitors are not allowed.
Millwork
Premium-grade architectural woodwork.
Equipment
Reservations terminal shall be located within the front desk area.
Key-card drawers shall be accessible only to front desk personnel.
All equipment, including staff printer and photocopier, shall be hidden from guest view.
Equipment/Work Area
Work areas shall be hidden from guest view.
Switchboard and message racks shall be hidden from guest view.
Night Window
Night windows are not acceptable. If approved, coordinated window covering, e.g., shutters or Roman blinds, when not in use shall be
provided.
Artwork/Accessories
Artwork shall be high-quality, professionally produced, and superior to that used in guestrooms.
Recommendation: Specialty finishes, original artwork, custom wallpaper, murals, etc.
Artwork shall be appropriate to style of hotel decor.
Window Treatments
If windows are not architecturally significant or view is not scenic, professionally fabricated window treatment that coordinates with lobby
window treatment shall be provided.
Seating
Seating is not allowed behind the front desk counter.
46
a500 Public Areas - a502 Front Desk Area
a503 Breakfast Area
For most hotels, breakfast is an important marketing tool used to attract several segments of the traveling public. Quality is most important in
terms of food, serving pieces, and room finishes and furnishings. Creativity in presentation creates a positive impression with the guests.
All furnishings shall be commercial hospitality quality or better and be coordinated in design and finish.
Fabric is an important part of the breakfast room’s appearance. Fabrics shall be engineered to withstand staining or to be cleaned or patterned
to hide heavy stains.
Furnishings typical of fast food establishments are not permitted.
Submit furniture, fabric, and finish selections, including specifications, to the Design Department for approval prior to purchase.
Structural & Finishes Requirements
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
General
The breakfast area may not be combined with or incorporated into other areas, such as meeting rooms. Multi-function rooms compromise
the effectiveness and aesthetics of a space. If, however, a combined space is approved, the breakfast space requirements will supersede
the other space requirements with respect to furnishings.
A high-quality breakfast presentation is required. The display shall be placed on a built-in countertop or cabinet or a coordinated furniture
piece.
The architecture of each facility shall present a pleasing, quality appearance, be appropriate with the surrounding area, and be wellmaintained.
A defined space shall be created by changes in flooring, ceiling, or by another element (e.g.,
large plants in planters), delineating the room as its own area while still being part of an
overall open plan, to include lobby seating, registration, sundry area, media center, etc.
Provide breakfast in a dedicated area on-site to be used as a social zone integrated into
lobby area. Seating area to be accessible to guests 24 hours a day. Provide multiple table
sizes and height including larger tables for gathering. Include multiple seating types to
provide for various functions throughout the day.
Size/Seating
If there is not a full-service restaurant on or adjacent to the property, the breakfast area
shall accommodate seating equal to a minimum of 20% of the total number of beds.
Provide 15 square feet per seat.
47
a500 Public Areas - a503 Breakfast Area
If there is not a full-service restaurant on
or adjacent to the property, the breakfast
area shall accommodate seating equal to
a minimum of 30% of the total number of
beds.
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Floor
New or replacement carpet: Shall be minimum 36 ounce face weight per square yard with high-density pad or without a pad, 100%
solution-dyed nylon, and minimum 8” pattern repeat. Other ounce weights, pattern repeat size, and construction methods (e.g., carpet tile)
may be acceptable with approval from the Design Department.
AND
Ceramic or high-quality tile or premium quality “wood look” vinyl flooring shall be provided at the breakfast buffet extending from the
face of the buffet out a minimum of three (3) feet. Porcelain, ceramic, quarry, or other decorative tiles with a minimum DCOF of .42 or
coefficient of friction rating of 0.6 in both wet and dry conditions may be used (for European tile, the minimum is a test DIN 51130 rating of
R9). If natural stone is used, a water-based non-skid finish shall be applied to the tile surface.
OR
Ceramic or high-quality tile or premium quality “wood look” vinyl flooring may be used.
Shall include three (3) or more high-quality
flooring materials, e.g., carpet, tile, or
hardwood.
Carpet pad: Shall be minimum 36 ounce per square yard all synthetic fiber commercial pad, minimum 64 ounce rubber pad, or attached
pad. Other pads may be acceptable with approval from the Design Department.
Recommendation: Double glue installation or higher ounce weight pad (the pad thickness should not exceed 7/16”).
Other finishes may be acceptable with approval of the Design Department.
Trim - Base
Trim shall be 4” minimum coordinating carpet base, tile or stone base, or wood base.
Carpet and vinyl base are not acceptable.
Wood base or multiple style vinyl profile
base is acceptable.
Wall
New Construction: Perimeter walls shall have a minimum STC of 50.
Painted drywall with lightly textured or smooth finish or vinyl wall covering, Type II, 20 ounce minimum (Class A), shall be provided.
Recommendation: Specialty finishes or materials.
Wallpaper border is not permitted.
Ceiling
2’ x 2’ ceiling tile with a matching color grid. Ceiling tile in public areas shall be decorative
or have a revealed edge. Or Painted drywall with lightly textured or smooth finish.
Decorative or revealed edge 2’ x 2’ lay-in
ceiling tile used in conjunction with painted
drywall shall be provided.
Recommendation: Concealed decorative 2’ x 2’ ceiling tile with a coordinating color grid or a
A drywall soffit over the buffet and serving
concealed grid.
areas with painted finish is required.
Ceilings shall be designed with multiple
heights and use a mix of ceiling types and
colors to create interest in the overall design.
48
a500 Public Areas - a503 Breakfast Area
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Ceiling Height
New Construction: Ceilings shall be 9’–0” minimum for all floors.
Lighting
Sufficient illumination at circulation and traffic areas shall be provided. 5-10 foot candles minimum at table surface and 10-20 foot candles
for cleaning shall be provided.
Full-spectrum warm white color balanced fluorescent lamps in a recessed commercial-quality fixture shall be provided. Lamps shall be in
the range of 3000-3500 Kelvin or incandescent surface mounted decorative fixtures are required.
Low quality, surface-mounted fluorescent lights with wraparound lenses and metal ends are not acceptable. Cool white florescent lamps
are not acceptable.
Enhanced lighting over the buffet should include decorative lighting fixtures, such as
pendants, wall sconces, recessed can and wall washers. Dimmers should be used to allow
for multiple light levels throughout the day.
Service Area
A minimum total of 20’ long x 2’ wide permanent built-in breakfast service counter area
shall be provided. This may be a combination of high-quality permanent and approved
portable counters.
A minimum of 25 linear feet of service
counter and 2 additional feet for every 10
guestrooms over 100 guestrooms shall be
provided. Up to 150 rooms and 35 linear feet,
over 150 rooms length subject to Design
Department approval. Depth shall be great
enough to accommodate all dispensing
equipment without overhanging. 30” depth
is typical.
Provide a separate coffee service area.
Style shall incorporate detail and design finish that coordinates with interior scheme.
Countertop and backsplash shall be stone, quartz, or approved equal. A coordinating temporary breakfast service display is acceptable in a
full-service restaurant, if removed or reconfigured prior to the next meal service.
Provide a decorative hard surface material above service counter that extends the full
height of the wall from the counter.
Folding tables/draped tables are not acceptable.
Millwork
Wood/wood veneer millwork, metal millwork, or certain types or applications of laminate may be acceptable with approval of the Design
Department.
Recommendation: Enhanced detailing.
Heating & Cooling
PTAC units are not permitted in public areas. Central air/heating is required.
49
a500 Public Areas - a503 Breakfast Area
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Equipment
Equipment, e.g., stove, full-size refrigerator, freezer, etc., is not to be located in the breakfast room.
Microwave
Each Property shall provide a microwave at the breakfast counter. If the breakfast counter is in a full-service restaurant, the microwave may
be placed on top as long as it is removed before the next meal service.
Toaster
One commercial four-slice toaster or commercial-quality rotary toaster per 100 rooms shall be provided.
Microwave, toaster, and other small countertop appliances shall be coordinated.
Signature quality food service display pieces in stainless steel, glass, chrome, ceramic, etc.
contributing to the overall design of the food-service area shall be provided.
Serving Pieces
Television
A minimum of one 40” or larger (diagonal
measure) flat-panel television shall be
provided in the dedicated breakfast area.
Television not required if breakfast is served
in a full-service restaurant.
A minimum of one 50” or larger (diagonal measure) flat-panel television shall be provided
in the dedicated breakfast area. Television not required if breakfast is served in a full-service
restaurant.
All televisions shall be LCD, LED or plasma flat-panel.
A good, clear signal shall with no blank channels and a full mute function.
All televisions shall be commercial grade to ensure that the features such as volume limiting, power-up channel, power-up volume, and preset picture controls that are unavailable to guests.
Window Treatments
If the windows are not architecturally significant or if the view is not scenic, window treatments, such as professionally fabricated
draperies, sheers with a cornice, or shutters shall be provided.
Note: Valances are not acceptable.
Metal or plastic mini-blinds or vertical blinds are not acceptable.
Tables
Tables shall have finished legs or base and present a quality appearance.
Tables in the breakfast area shall have a decorative edge, such as complementary hardwood or vinyl. Self-edge plastic laminate table tops
or T-mold edges are not acceptable.
Recommendation: Stone or quartz tops.
Card tables or folding tables are not acceptable.
Recommendation: Specialty finishes on tops and base.
Chairs
Chairs may be armless with either wood
or upholstered seat and back. Metal stack
chairs, resin chairs, folding chairs, guestroom
chairs, and sled base chairs are not
acceptable.
50
a500 Public Areas - a503 Breakfast Area
Quality framed chairs with upholstered seat
cushions and/or upholstered lounge chairs
or other approved decorative chair.
Quality frame chairs with upholstered seat
cushions and backs, or upholstered lounge
chairs or other decorative chair approved by
the Design Department shall be provided.
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Booths
Commercial-quality construction and materials shall be used.
Molded synthetic booths or plastic dining sets, as seen in fast food establishments, are not acceptable.
Bar Stools
If used, bar stools shall have a back and coordinate with the chair style.
Upholstery
Commercial-quality upholstery with a minimum of 30,000 double rubs (Wyzenbeek method) or quality commercial vinyl shall be provided.
Fabrics shall be engineered to withstand heavy use. Well-coordinated patterns that hide
stains and that contain stain-release treatment, e.g. Crypton, are strongly recommended to
provide complete cleanability.
Electrical
Duplex receptacles within six feet of all lamps and equipment shall be provided.
All electrical conduits shall be hidden from view.
New wall-mounted televisions shall be hard-wired to conceal electrical.
New Construction: Electrical outlets shall be placed at 15” from finished floor unless concealed by equipment or furniture or above a
counter.
Provide one double outlet for each banquette or table grouping outlets may be placed in
walls, banquettes, or tables. Provide 15 amp plugs and USB ports.
Artwork
Artwork shall be high-quality, professionally produced and superior to that used in guestrooms.
Artwork shall be appropriate to style of hotel décor.
Low-quality, self-matted art, poster-style artwork, guestroom-style artwork, and mass-produced oil paintings are not acceptable.
51
a500 Public Areas - a503 Breakfast Area
a504 Cocktail Bar
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Cocktail Bar
A cocktail bar with food service shall be
provided. The food service menu shall
include hot and cold items. Menu shall be
available during all hours of bar service.
Seating for a minimum of six guests shall
be provided. Additional seating to be
accommodated by reconfiguring breakfast
area seating as evening lounge seating.
Bar shall be open during typical hours of
operation. Hours shall be posted.
Bar Finishes
If provided, acceptable bar materials include
formed metals, glass, concrete, wood veneer
(at vertical surfaces only), natural stone, and
solid surfaces (a non-porous homogeneous
blend of either acrylic or polyester resins and
mineral fillers and can look similar to natural
stone.) The countertop material does not
have to be limited to these materials; unique
and interesting designs are encouraged but
must be approved in advance by the Design
Department.
Acceptable bar materials include formed
metals, glass, concrete, wood veneer (at
vertical surfaces only), natural stone, and
solid surfaces (a non-porous homogeneous
blend of either acrylic or polyester resins and
mineral fillers and can look similar to natural
stone.) The countertop material does not
have to be limited to these materials; unique
and interesting designs are encouraged but
must be approved in advance by the Design
Department.
Bar Mechanicals
PTAC’s are not acceptable in any public area. Central air/heating is required.
Bar Lighting
If provided, dimmable, decorative lighting
fixtures, such as pendant(s), wall sconces,
recessed can and wall washers shall be
included. Downlights in soffit above bar area
shall be provided.
Dimmable, decorative lighting fixtures,
such as pendant(s), wall sconces, recessed
can and wall washers shall be included.
Downlights in soffit above bar area shall be
provided.
Bar Millwork
Specialty wall finish at back wall shall be
provided, e.g. modular arts, dimensional
wall surfacing panels, wood slats, or slump/
decorative glass.
52
a500 Public Areas - a504 Cocktail Bar
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Bar Television
A minimum of one (1) 50” or larger (diagonal
measure) flat-panel television on the wall
behind the cocktail bar shall be provided.
All televisions shall be LCD, LED or plasma flat-panel.
A good, clear signal shall with no blank channels and a full mute function.
All televisions shall be commercial grade to ensure that the features such as volume limiting, power-up channel, power-up volume, and preset picture controls that are unavailable to guests.
53
a500 Public Areas - a504 Cocktail Bar
a505 Sundry Area
See “Other Facilities” for additional FF&E Requirements.
A Sundry Area that complies with the following guidelines shall be provided.
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Sundry Area
54
Sundry shop is to have high-quality
finishes. Sundry area is required for New
Construction.
Required to have a Sundry shop with high-quality finishes.
Required for New Construction shall be in a
defined space with finishes to complement
adjacent areas and show evidence of
professional design and execution.
Shall be in a defined space with finishes to complement adjacent areas and show evidence
of professional design and execution.
Conversion only: An area where guests can
purchase sundries. A quality shelving system
and/or cabinetry to display items for sale
and to provide storage or vending machine
shall be provided.
Slat wall with brackets or other upgraded commercial retail display and storage system is
required.
a500 Public Areas - a505 Sundry Area
a506 Business Center
See “Other Facilities” for additional FF&E Requirements.
A Business Center that complies with the following guidelines shall be provided.
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
General
3-in-1 printer shall be available for guest use (not behind the front desk).
Recommendation: Typical office supplies such as stapler, paper clips, tape etc. must be made available.
One (1) computer station for 1-49 rooms, two (2) computer stations for 50-100 rooms, and
two (2) computer stations plus one (1) additional computer station for over 100 rooms shall
be provided.
Two (2) computer stations for up to 100
rooms and two (2) computer stations plus
one (1) additional computer station for every
50 rooms over 100 shall be provided. If area
is enclosed, lights must remain on. One
(1) space should be available for guests to
connect their own computer and use to the
printer.
One (1) required station may be offset by the availability of Wi-fi, wireless printing and an area with power access for guests to use their
own equipment or hotel issued tablet.
All loose and dangling wires shall be concealed from guest view. Provide a cable and wire management product.
Duplex outlets at the desk area, which are unused and readily accessible (one for each chair) or a power pad shall be provided.
Adequate task lighting on the desk surface shall be provided.
Commercial-quality ergonomic rolling desk chair with or without arms shall be provided.
3.5 lineal feet of desk surface per chair is required.
Floor
Require 8” minimum patterned repeat carpet, other approved large scale patterned carpet or other flooring treatment acceptable with
prior Best Western approval.
Millwork/Cabinets
Work top shall be made of quartz or a polished stone top.
Premium-grade architectural millwork base cabinets in appropriate locations to house CPU’s
and similar equipment shall be provided.
Heating & Cooling
PTAC’s are not acceptable in any public area. Central air/heating is required.
55
a500 Public Areas - a506 Business Center
a507 Public Corridors
Public corridors shall be visually pleasing and inviting. The style, finish, and colors of the corridors must transition smoothly from the lobby and
public corridors to the elevators and finally to the guestrooms. Adding upgrades to the corridors will help to ensure that the guests’ expectations
will be met. Use lighting, architectural elements, artwork, flooring detail, and ceiling heights to eliminate a tunnel-like appearance.
All furnishings and fabrics shall be commercial, hospitality-quality or better and shall be coordinated in design and finish. Fabrics should appear
fresh, coordinated, clean, and new. Submit furniture, fabric, and finish selections, including specifications, to the Design Department for approval
prior to purchase.
Structural & Finishes Requirements
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Size
Shall be 5’-6” wide.
Floor
New or replacement carpet: Shall be a
minimum 32 ounce face weight per square
yard with high-density pad or 36 ounce
weight without a pad; 100% solution dyed
nylon; and minimum 8” pattern repeat. Other
ounce weights, pattern repeat size, and
construction methods (e.g., carpet tile) may
be acceptable with approval from the Design
Department.
New or replacement carpet: Shall be a minimum 36 ounce face weight per square yard with
or without high-density pad, 100% solution dyed nylon, and minimum 8” pattern repeat.
Other ounce weights, pattern repeat size, and construction methods (e.g., carpet tile) may
be acceptable with approval from the Design Department.
Carpet pad: Shall be minimum 32 ounce per square yard all synthetic fiber commercial pad, minimum 64 ounce rubber pad, or attached
pad. Other pads may be acceptable with approval from the Design Department.
Recommendation: Double glue installation or higher ounce weight pad (the pad thickness should not exceed 7/16”).
Porcelain, ceramic, quarry, or other decorative tiles with a minimum DCOF of .42 or coefficient of friction rating of 0.6 in both wet and dry
conditions may be used (for European tile, the minimum is a test DIN 51130 rating of R9). If natural stone is used, a water-based non-skid
finish shall be applied to the tile surface.
Olefin carpet of any weight, solid color carpet, institutional-level loop carpet, and guestroom-style carpet are not acceptable.
Trim - Base
Shall be 4” minimum carpet base in a coordinating or matching color, 4” minimum wood base, or 4” minimum tile base.
Recommendation: Natural stone.
Wall
New Construction: Perimeter walls shall have a minimum STC of 50.
Shall be vinyl wallcovering, Type II, 20 ounce minimum (Class A) and applied with an adhesive with mildew inhibitors or painted drywall
with a textured or smooth finish with decorative or architectural treatments or moldings. Or painted drywall with a lightly textured or
smooth finish with decorative, or architectural treatments or moldings.
56
a500 Public Areas - a507 Public Corridors
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Wall continued
Exposed block walls, pre-finished sheet paneling, and pre-vinyled drywall panels are not acceptable.
Recommendation: Specialty finish.
Wallpaper border is not permitted.
Ceiling
Provide 2’ x 2’ acoustic tile with matching grid. Ceiling tile in public areas must be
decorative or have a revealed edge or painted drywall with a lightly textured or smooth
finish shall be provided.
Recommendation: Coved ceiling
.
Painted drywall with accent areas of 2’ x 2’
revealed edge lay-in ceiling tile to provide
access into ceiling cavity and avoid unsightly
access panels shall be used. Lay-in ceilings
should be raised a minimum of 4” above
the plane of the drywall ceiling and used
minimally.
Ceiling Height
Ceiling shall be 8’-0” or higher.
Recommendation: 10’-0” or higher ceiling height or varied heights, vaults or floating ceiling.
Ceiling shall be 8’-0” to include varied
heights.
Design recommends higher ceiling with decorative treatment.
Millwork
Wood door and window casing, metal door and window casing, or synthetic millwork shall be provided.
Recommendation: Architectural wood door and window casing or enhanced millwork.
Door & Door Hardware
Solid wood paneled door, solid core flush panel door, or metal doors shall be provided.
Recommendation: Architectural paneled door.
Door stops are required at all doors.
Public passage doors should be 6’-8” in height and 3’-0” wide and comply with all prevailing codes and laws.
All exterior doors exposed to weather shall be metal.
Fiberglass doors are allowed in salt air locations.
Heating & Cooling
New Construction: PTAC’s are not acceptable. Central air/heating is required.
57
a500 Public Areas - a507 Public Corridors
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Electrical/Mechanical
All electrical conduits shall be hidden from view. Surface mounted electrical conduit is not acceptable.
New Construction: Electrical outlets shall be placed at 15” from finished floor unless concealed by equipment or furniture or above a
counter.
Exposed wiring and exposed plumbing are not acceptable. All wiring pipes, and utilities shall be hidden from view.
Furnishings & Fixtures
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Lighting
Minimum 20 foot candles shall be provided.
Recommendation: Decorative ceiling lighting, and wall sconces throughout the corridor.
Adequate light shall be provided in all areas to illuminate the corridor finishes.
Recommendation: Indirect lighting.
Fixtures shall be suited to decor.
Low-quality, surface-mounted fluorescent light fixtures and standard bare bulb light fixtures are not acceptable.
Window Treatment
If the windows are not architecturally significant or if the view is not important, window treatments, such as professionally fabricated
sheers, shutters, sheers with a cornice or shutters, shall be provided.
Note: Valances are not acceptable.
Tables
Commercial-quality furnishings shall be provided, if used.
Guestroom furniture is not acceptable.
Seating
If provided, commercial-quality seating shall be provided.
Seating shall coordinate with adjacent areas and Property theme.
Guestroom seating and stack chairs are not acceptable.
Upholstery
Commercial-quality upholstery with a minimum of 30,000 double rubs (Wyzenbeek method) shall be provided.
58
a500 Public Areas - a507 Public Corridors
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Artwork
If used, artwork shall be high-quality,
professionally produced, and superior to that A high-quality professionally framed, coordinated art package shall be provided.
used in guestrooms.
Wall decor may include paintings, sculpture, or prints.
Artwork shall be appropriate to style of hotel decor.
59
a500 Public Areas - a507 Public Corridors
a508 Elevators & Elevator Lobbies
All interior finishes shall be consistent and coordinated with the guest corridor and lobby. Finish selections, including specifications, shall
be submitted to the Design Department for approval prior to purchase. All fixtures shall be commercial hospitality-quality or better and be
coordinated in design and finish.
The elevator manufacturer shall be a nationally-recognized organization capable of furnishing complete material, labor, and maintenance and of
submitting a list of comparable satisfactory installations.
New Construction: Design of vertical transportation systems shall be performed by a qualified consultant, and full details of such design shall be
provided to Best Western with the final review. Consideration should be given to separate guest and service elevators.
Structural & Finishes Requirements
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Elevators
Number of Guestrooms
• 1 – 99 Rooms
Minimum Number of Elevators
One
• 100 – 199 Rooms
Two
• 200 – 299 Rooms
Three
• 300 – 399 Rooms
Four
• 400 – 499 Rooms
Five
Provide elevator to all interior and exterior corridor properties of two stories or more. It is recommended that the elevator be located near
the lobby.
In properties with four or more stories, even with less than 100 guestrooms, a second elevator shall be provided.
If the Property has multiple buildings with guest rooms, at least 80% of all guest rooms shall be either: (i) on the first (ground-level) floor;
or (ii) serviced by an elevator.
A minimum of one cab is required for every 100 guestrooms above the ground floor. Restaurants, lounges, meeting rooms, and other
public facilities on upper floors will require additional cabs.
Two to four floors: 100 fpm minimum.
Five to seven floors: 150 fpm minimum.
Eight or more stories: Speed shall be determined by an elevator performance and traffic analysis to ensure peak wait times do not exceed
30 seconds.
60
a500 Public Areas - a508 Elevators & Elevator Lobbies
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Floor
Provide porcelain, ceramic, quarry, or other decorative tiles with a minimum DCOF of .42 or coefficient of friction rating of 0.6 in both wet
and dry conditions may be used (for European tile, the minimum is a test DIN 51130 rating of R9). If natural stone is used, a water-based
non-skid finish shall be applied to the tile surface.
Recommended finished include: Quality porcelain tile, size 12” x 12” or 6” x 18” (plank style) or larger or premium commercial-quality “wood
look” vinyl flooring shall be used. Carpet is not acceptable.
Carpet is not acceptable.
Trim
Wall-mounted hand rails of quality wood or metal shall be provided.
Recommendation: High-quality decorative specialty material.
Quality, high-pressure plastic laminate, mirror, or metal shall be used.
Recommendation: High-pressure plastic laminate as an inset or high-quality specialty finishes.
Wall
All interior and exterior finishes shall be consistent and coordinated with the guest corridor
and lobby.
Ceiling
Quality high-pressure plastic laminate, quality factory-finish metal, or metal laminate shall be used.
Recommendation: Specialty translucent, wood, or metal finish.
Door
High-pressure plastic laminate, factory finish metal, metal laminate, or professional painted finish shall be used.
Recommendation: Specialty finish.
Lighting
Fixtures shall be suited to the decor.
Minimum 20 foot candles shall be provided. Adequate light shall be provided to illuminate the finishes.
Budget surface-mounted fluorescent light fixtures are not acceptable.
Honeycomb grid and budget diffusers are not acceptable.
Equipment
A telephone, intercom or other two-way communicating device, which automatically rings the front desk, shall be provided.
61
a500 Public Areas - a508 Elevators & Elevator Lobbies
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Artwork
If used, artwork shall be professionally matted and framed.
Low-quality, self-matted art, posterstyle artwork, hotel promotional posters,
and mass-produced oil paintings are not
acceptable.
All property announcements and information, such as menus, shall be professionally framed.
Elevator Lobbies - Size
Shall be at least 8’-0” wide from the elevator door to the opposite wall.
If elevators open directly into the corridor,
the corridor shall be widened to a minimum
of 10’-0” clear in front of the elevator
doors to create an elevator lobby. (New
construction only.)
Shall be at least 10‘-0” wide from the
elevator door to the opposite wall. (New
construction only.)
General
Tables and public area quality seating to be
provided, if structurally possible.
Public area quality console table, accessories, e.g. telephone, lamp, and flowers, and seating
shall be provided at elevator lobbies and landings, where possible.
Lighting
Decorative wall sconce fixtures and/or
recessed ceiling fixtures to adequately
illuminate the elevator lobby shall be
provided.
Artwork
Artwork or framed mirror required in
elevator lobby.
62
a500 Public Areas - a508 Elevators & Elevator Lobbies
Artwork shall be high-quality and professionally produced. Low-quality, self-matted art,
poster style artwork, and mass-produced oil paintings are not acceptable.
a509 Public Restrooms
All fixtures shall be commercial, hospitality-quality or better and be coordinated in design and finish. Selections, including specifications, shall be
submitted to the Design Department for approval prior to purchase and installation.
Structural & Finishes Requirements
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
General
Public restrooms shall be carefully designed to maintain privacy.
Location
Public restrooms are required if food and beverage areas or meeting rooms are provided.
Public restrooms are required adjacent to the swimming pool in new construction or with a new swimming pool.
Existing swimming pools are not required to have a public restroom.
If conference/banquet facilities are
provided, additional public restrooms shall
be provided to specifically serve those
facilities.
Architectural
Provide separate restrooms for men and women.
Floor
Ceramic, porcelain, or natural stone tile with a minimum DCOF of .42 or coefficient of friction rating of 0.6 in both wet and dry conditions
shall be used (for European tile, the minimum is a test DIN 51130 rating of R9). If natural stone is used, a water-based, non-skid finish shall
be applied to the tile surface.
Vinyl composite tile, sheet vinyl flooring, or carpet is not acceptable.
Trim - Base
A 4” minimum height wall base to coordinate with the floor tile shall be provided.
Wall
New construction: Perimeter walls shall have a minimum STC of 50.
Ceramic wall tile shall be a minimum of 48”
high on wet walls and side walls adjacent
to toilets and/or urinals.
Vinyl wallcovering, Type II, 20 ounce minimum, Class “A” or painted drywall with a textured or smooth finish shall be used.
Exposed block walls are not acceptable.
Wallpaper border is not permitted.
63
a500 Public Areas - a509 Public Restrooms
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Ceiling
2’ x 2’ acoustic tile with matching grid shall be used. Ceiling tile in public areas shall be decorative or have a revealed edge.
Recommendation: Decorative 2’ x 2’ acoustical tiles.
Sprayed-on textured finish shall be used.
Recommendation: Decorative moldings.
Painted drywall with a textured or smooth finish shall be provided.
Recommendation: Upgraded materials such as wood, metal, etc.
2’ x 4’ acoustical ceiling tile, 1’ x 1’ applied ceiling tile, and dated colored grid are not acceptable.
Ceiling Height
New Construction: Shall be a minimum of 9’ - 0” for all floors.
Recommendation: Higher ceiling with decorative ceiling treatment.
Lighting
A minimum of 10 foot candles at the water closet, 20-50 at the vanity, shall be provided.
Recommendation: A minimum of 15-25 foot candles at the water closet, 50-75 at the vanity.
Warm white or a color-balanced lighting with face illumination for grooming at the vanity (lamps should be about 3200-3300 Kelvin) shall
be provided.
Lights shall remain on during times of regular use or activate upon entry of guest at all times.
Cool white fluorescent lamps (4000-7200K) are not acceptable.
Tubular vanity lights with or without end caps are not acceptable.
Ventilation
HVAC system for a comfortable, odor-free environment and a separately powered exhaust ventilation system shall be provided.
Stall
Shall be a minimum of 2’-6” wide x 5’-0” deep.
Each stall door shall have an operating lock.
Partition
Toilet partitions shall be built in or porcelain enamel, plastic laminate, or stainless steel. Phenolic panels are not acceptable.
Recommendation: Upgraded finishes.
Plumbing
Exposed water lines at ceiling or wall areas, other than under the vanity, are not acceptable.
Doors
Door sizes shall be a minimum of 3’-0” wide or must comply with all prevailing codes and laws.
Recommendation: Architectural doors.
64
a500 Public Areas - a509 Public Restrooms
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Doors continued
Doors shall have an automatic door closer.
All doors shall coordinate in style and color with adjacent finishes and/or material.
Exterior doors exposed to weather shall be metal.
Interior doors may be solid wood panel, solid core flush panel, or metal.
All doors shall conform to prevailing codes and laws.
Door & Door Hardware
Shall be up-to-date and coordinate with other finishes. Hardware should include:
• Push pull plates
• Kick plates
Recommendation: Decorative commercial hardware.
Artwork
Artwork that is high-quality and
professionally produced shall be provided.
Low-quality, self-matted art, poster-style
artwork, and mass-produced oil paintings
are not acceptable.
Required Fixtures
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Accessories
Soap Dispenser
One soap dispenser per lavatory shall be provided.
Coat Hook
One hook per stall shall be provided.
Towel Dispenser
A towel dispenser or electrical hand dryer shall be provided.
Hand Dyer
One electric hand dryer or towel dispenser and disposal shall be provided.
Waste
Receptacles
One large wastepaper disposal unit per public restroom shall be provided and shall coordinate with the rest of the finishes and fixtures in
style and color.
Sanitary Napkins
One sanitary napkin dispenser in each women’s restroom shall be provided.
Sanitary Napkins
Disposal
One sanitary napkin disposal container in each stall of each women’s restroom shall be provided.
Tissue Dispenser
Permanently mounted facial tissue dispenser or decorative holder.
Toilet Seat Cover
One toilet seat cover dispenser per stall shall be provided.
Miscellaneous
Recommendation: Baby changing stations in both restrooms.
65
a500 Public Areas - a509 Public Restrooms
Free standing decorative tissue holder.
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Vanities
Provide granite, quartz, or approved equal for vanity countertop.
Shall be placed at 2’-8” to 2’-10” high with a minimum 7” apron to conceal plumbing. A wall-mounted sink or a vanity with an apron of less
than 7” is acceptable in barrier-free restrooms.
Matching backsplash shall be provided.
Cultured marble vanity tops, laminate finishes, sheet paneling as apron, support legs, and no backsplash are not acceptable.
Vanity shall not be constructed with plastic laminate.
Lavatory
Shall be under-mount, vessel, or approved equal.
Shall be acid-resistant with overflow outlet and grid drain or pop-up stopper.
Wall-hung sinks, except in single sink restrooms, are not acceptable.
Recommendation: Hands-free faucet.
Mirror
Vanity mirror shall have a decorative frame.
One full length mirror in each restroom shall be provided.
Toilets & Urinals
Water closets should be elongated-type with flush valves.
Recommendation: Hands-free flush valve.
Open front, solid plastic seats without lids shall be provided.
66
a500 Public Areas - a509 Public Restrooms
Full length mirror with a decorative frame
shall be provided.
a510 Fitness Room
The fitness room must meet all of the following specifications and requirements. Finish selections and specifications shall be submitted to the
Design Department for approval prior to purchase and installation.
Structural & Finishes Requirements
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
General
A compliant fitness center shall be provided.
A guestroom-style bathroom (with tub or shower) is not permitted. A public restroom with toilet and sink is permitted.
Size
Shall be 275 sq. ft. minimum for up to 100
rooms with 50 sq. ft. minimum for each
piece of equipment. Add 50 sq. ft. of floor
space for each additional 50 rooms.
Shall be 400 sq. ft. minimum for up to 100
rooms with 50 sq. ft. minimum for each
piece of equipment. Add 50 sq. ft. of floor
space for each additional 50 rooms.
Add 50 sq. ft. of floor space for each additional 50 rooms.
Shall be 450 sq. ft. minimum for up to 100
rooms with 80 sq. ft. minimum for each
piece of equipment.
Add 80 sq. ft. of floor space for each
additional 50 rooms.
Location
New construction only. Shall be located in a secure, high-traffic area, preferably adjacent to the swimming pool area and in close proximity
to the lobby and public restrooms.
Enclosure
New Construction: Shall be a minimum of 50 STC, if the room is adjacent to a guestroom(s) or areas adjoining guestroom(s).
Floor
Commercial rubber tile or rubber sheet flooring shall be used.
Trim - Base
Shall be 4” rubber base to match rubber floor.
67
a500 Public Areas - a510 Fitness Room
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Wall
Provide a mirror on one wall. See mirror requirements further in the section.
Vinyl wall covering on a minimum of two walls, Type II, Class A, applied with an adhesive with mildew inhibitors or painted drywall with a
textured or smooth finish shall be used.
Recommendation: Specialty finish.
Wallpaper border is not permitted.
Ceiling
Provide painted drywall with textured or smooth finish, or 2’ x 2’ acoustical tile with matching grid may be used. Ceiling tile in public areas
shall be decorative or have a revealed edge, or open ceiling with exposed mechanical systems may be used if part of a design style/theme.
Ceiling Height
New construction: Shall be 9’ - 0” for all floors.
Recommendation: Higher ceiling with decorative ceiling treatment.
Lighting
A minimum of 30 foot-candles shall be provided.
Recessed fluorescent fixtures with white acrylic diffuser (only 2’ x 2’ fixtures or recessed incandescent fixtures) or surface-mounted fixtures
with a decorative housing may be used.
Recommendation: Recessed compact fluorescent/HID/LED downlights. Surface mounted decorative compact fluorescent/HID/LED
fixtures.
Equipment
The equipment is to have commercial warranties. Refer to Best Western Supply for acceptable endorsed supply products.
A minimum of four (4) pieces of commercialquality equipment, including cardio
and strength training equipment shall
be provided at properties with 1 – 100
guestrooms. Equipment shall include one (1)
upright or recumbent bike, one (1) treadmill,
one (1) elliptical cross trainer or stair climber,
and a bench and rubberized dumbbells
with rack with a range of weights of 5 to 50
pounds.
A minimum of five (5) pieces of commercialquality equipment, including cardio
and strength training equipment shall
be provided at properties with 1 – 100
guestrooms. Equipment shall include one (1)
upright or recumbent bike, one (1) treadmill,
one (1) elliptical cross trainer or stair climber,
and a bench and rubberized dumbbells
with rack with a range of weights of 5 to 50
pounds and a stretch area free of equipment.
A minimum of six (6) pieces of equipment,
including cardio and strength training
equipment shall be provided at properties
with 1 – 150 guestrooms. Equipment shall
include one (1) upright or recumbent bike,
one (1) treadmill, one (1) elliptical cross
trainer or stair climber, and a bench and
rubberized dumbbells with rack with a range
of weights of 5 to 50 pounds and a stretch
area free of equipment.
Provide the following additional equipment: minimum of two (2) medicine balls, five (5) varied resistance bands, and three (3) yoga mats.
Add one (1) piece of equipment for each additional 50 rooms over 100 rooms.
Add one (1) piece of equipment for each
additional 50 rooms over 150 rooms.
Provide an equipment-free area for stretching and use of bands, yoga mats, and medicine ball.
68
a500 Public Areas - a510 Fitness Room
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Equipment continued
Guests must be able to operate the equipment unsupervised, or an attendant must be available during operating hours.
Aerobic and resistance types of equipment shall be available.
Operating instructions per manufacturer shall be professionally framed and posted in a convenient location in plain view in the exercise
room.
See Table 1 in this section for minimum equipment requirements.
Mirror
One full wall mirror (standard size mirror panels butted together) shall be provided. The bottom edge shall be installed no higher than 18”
above the finished floor. Decorative mirror tiles are not allowed.
Mirrors to be install on one wall.
• Option 1: Provide individual oversized mirrors with large frames.
• Option 2: Standard size wall-to-wall mirror panels butted together.
The bottom edge must be installed no higher than 18” above finished floor.
Televisions
A minimum of one 40” or larger (diagonal
measure) flat-panel television shall be
provided.
A minimum of two 50” or larger (diagonal
measure) flat-panel television shall be
provided.
A minimum of two 50” or larger (diagonal
measure) flat-panel televisions shall be
provided. Televisions shall be mounted high
on wall or from ceiling with commercialquality television brackets unless personal
viewing screens are provided on each piece
of cardio equipment.
For properties with fitness rooms larger
than 350 sq. ft. an additional 40” or larger
television is required.
Shall be high wall or ceiling mounted with commercial-quality television bracket.
For properties with fitness rooms over 700
square feet, in addition to the 2 required 40”
televisions must be incorporated into the
fitness equipment.
For properties with fitness rooms over 700 sq. ft., in addition to the two (2) required 50”
telelvisions, televisions must be incorporated into the fitness equipment.
All televisions shall be LCD, LED or plasma flat-panel.
A good, clear signal shall with no blank channels and a full mute function.
All televisions shall be commercial grade to e
69
a500 Public Areas - a510 Fitness Room
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Doors
All exterior doors exposed to weather shall be metal.
All doors shall conform to prevailing codes and laws.
Interior doors may be solid wood paneled, solid core flush panel, or metal.
The main entry door shall have a minimum of half glass or view window.
Temperature
The room shall have a separate thermostat located in the room.
The recommended temperature in the room shall be between 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit or 20-22 degrees Celsius.
Telephone
One (1) house phone shall be provided in the fitness room that rings directly to the hotel operator.
Window Treatment
If the windows are not architecturally significant or the view is not scenic, window treatments, such as professionally fabricated 2” wood
blinds, shutters, shall be provided.
Metal or plastic mini-blinds, vertical blinds, or guestroom style draperies are not acceptable.
Towel
Towels shall be available on a high-quality towel rack.
Five (5) towels per every 50 rooms shall be provided.
A towel hamper of high-quality material for dirty towels shall be provided in fitness area. The hamper may be placed inside a cabinet
located in fitness area.
Water
A drinking fountain, water cooler, or free bottled water shall be provided within the facility.
Accessories
A wall-mounted clock shall be provided.
Artwork
High-quality framed artwork or a mural wall
is required.
70
a500 Public Areas - a510 Fitness Room
Provide a decorative mural wall executed on vinyl wallcovering. Signature Best Western
options may be available.
Table1 Minimum Requirements for Exercise Equipment
Exercise equipment shall meet the following specifications for each type of equipment.
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Treadmills shall be commercial, motorized and shall meet the following specifications:
• Minimum 3 HP continuous duty commercial motor
• Automatically reset speed to 0 mph when restarting
• Emergency stop button or key
• Speed range of .05 to 10 mph in .01 increments
Treadmill:
• Incline range of 0-12%
• Self-lubricating belt
• Self-aligning belt guide system
• Hand grip heart rate monitoring
• Running surface minimum width 20”
• LED display readout
Stationary upright or recumbent cycles shall be commercial and shall meet the following specifications:
• Cordless, self-powered generator
• Poly V drive belt
Stationary Cycles:
• Adjustable seat
• Hand grip heart rate monitoring
• Program options
• Minimum 15 resistance levels
• LED display readout
Elliptical cross trainers or steppers shall be commercial and meet the following specifications:
• 110 volt light commercial model or cordless full commercial model
Elliptical Cross
Trainer or
Stepper:
• Program options
• Hand grip heart rate monitoring
• Minimum 20 resistance levels
• Magnetic resistance system
• LED display readout
71
a500 Public Areas - a510 Fitness Room
Best Western Premier®
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Commercial strength stations shall meet the following specifications:
• Solid steel weight stack plates
• 11 gauge steel tubing
• 2000 lb. galvanized aircraft cable or Kevlar belting
• Instructional placard must be provided
Strength Stations:
• Powder coat paint finish
Choose two of the following stations:
• Abdominal Station: Abdominal bench or abdominal machine
• Chest Station: Chest press or pectoral fly/rear deltoid
• Leg Station: Leg extension, leg curl, or leg press
• Arm Station: Bicep curl or triceps extension
Bench, Rack &
Dumbbells:
72
• 5-50 pounds rubber dumbbells
a500 Public Areas - a510 Fitness Room
Best Western Premier®
a511 Indoor Swimming Pool
If provided, the indoor swimming pool shall meet the following minimum requirements. Indoor swimming pools are recommended in colder
climates.
These guidelines are not intended to provide comprehensive pool standards.
Structural & Finishes Requirements
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
General
Provide music at the pool area.
Size
Properties must comply with the following minimum sizes:
• Properties with 1-50 guestrooms: 300 sq. ft.
Surface Area
• Properties with 51-100 guestrooms: 400 sq. ft.
• Properties with 101-200 guestrooms: 600 sq. ft.
• Properties with 201+ guestrooms: 750 sq. ft.
Deck
Deck size:
• For properties with 1-50 guestrooms, 650 sq. ft.
• For properties with 51-100 guestrooms, 800 sq. ft.
• For properties with 101-200 guestrooms, 1000 sq. ft.
• For properties with 201+ guestrooms, 1200 sq. ft.
Deck shall have adequate drainage.
The pool deck shall be slip resistant.
73
a500 Public Areas - a511 Indoor Swimming Pool
Best Western Premier®
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Deck continued
The finish to be one of the following or
better:
• Concrete
• Non-slip ceramic tile
• Quality rubber
• Rubberized finish
• Or better
Recommendation: The finish to be one of the
following:
Provide an upgraded finish such as stone, cool decking, or other approved finish.
Rubberized or concrete decking not acceptable.
• Colored stamped concrete
• Slate or flagstone
• Smooth finish aggregate
• Mosaic tile.
Indoor/outdoor carpet is unacceptable.
Trim - Base
Shall consist of 4” minimum tile, stone, or granite base.
Recommendation: 4” or higher.
Multiple style vinyl profile base is acceptable.
Finish
Pool finish shall be gunite, concrete, or better.
Recommendation: Non-slip ceramic, mosaic tile, or pebble finish.
Other finishes shall be submitted for approval prior to installation.
Pool finish below the coping to the waterline
shall be tile.
Depth
Depth should be a minimum of 3’-0” to a maximum of 5’-0”.
74
a500 Public Areas - a511 Indoor Swimming Pool
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Depth Markers
Depth markers shall be professional in appearance.
Recommendation: Inserted tile, brass, or stone depth markers.
Depth markers shall indicate every two-foot change in water depth.
Depth markers shall not be spaced more than 10’ apart.
Depth markers are required on both horizontal and vertical pool edges.
The numbers on horizontal edges must indicate feet or meters.
Hand-painted depth markers are not acceptable.
Wall
Moisture resistant material, such as insulated glass, sealed and treated wood, or painted green board, or exposed painted block shall
be used.
If wall finish is painted drywall, then ceramic tile wainscot is required. Shall be a minimum 4’
high around entire perimeter of pool area.
A quality water-based paint should be used to avoid peeling and premature break down of the paint surface.
Ceiling
New Construction: Shall be 9’-0” minimum height.
Recommendation: Higher ceiling with decorative ceiling treatment.
Moisture resistant acoustic tile or other moisture resistant material with matching grid shall be used or an open ceiling with exposed
mechanical systems.
Recommendation: Wood tongue and groove or sky lights.
2’ x 4’ ceiling tiles are not acceptable.
Window
Glass used in glazing shall be tempered or laminated safety glass.
Door
Exterior doors exposed to weather shall be metal.
Fiberglass exterior doors are permissible in corrosive or salt air locations, if pre-approved.
Interior doors may be fiber glass, metal, or tempered or laminated safety glass.
The door shall have an electronic lock operated by the guestroom key.
The main entry door to the pool area shall have a view window or a half glass.
Solid core wood is not recommended.
75
a500 Public Areas - a511 Indoor Swimming Pool
Required Furnishings & Equipment
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Diving Board
Diving boards and diving platforms are not permitted.
Slides
Slides are not permitted.
Amusement park style water slides may be permitted with Board approval.
Lighting
Lighting of sufficient intensity to ensure visibility for night use and to allow viewing the pool bottom shall be provided.
Recommendation: High-quality decorative lighting.
A minimum of 10 foot candles at deck level shall be provided.
Recommendation: A minimum of 15 foot candles at deck level.
Underwater lamps shall be sealed beam design specifically for swimming pool use.
Electrical, Mechanical
Exposed wiring and exposed plumbing are not acceptable.
Equipment
All pools shall comply with prevailing codes regarding all equipment, including safety equipment.
The pool equipment shall be concealed from direct view in a quality enclosure that provides adequate ventilation.
Equipment enclosure shall coordinate with the rest of finishes.
New construction or new swimming pool: One house phone that rings directly to the hotel operator shall be provided in the pool area.
Concrete block enclosures are not acceptable.
Provide commercial quality coordinating trash receptacles, ash urns, and towel bins.
If provided, towel shelves/hampers shall be
high-quality in appearance.
High-quality shelving and a coordinating high-quality hamper with lid for pool towels shall
be provided.
Restrooms
Existing pools: Public restrooms are recommended adjacent to the pool area.
New construction or a new swimming pool: A public restroom is required adjacent to the pool area, refer to public guidelines section for
FF&E requirements.
Ventilation
Indoor pool areas: The HVAC system must provide a humidity control system with venting to the outside to prevent the spread of fumes,
humidity, and odor into surrounding areas of the hotel.
HVAC at the indoor pool area shall be maintained to prevent mold and mildew growth and
to prevent chlorine odors from entering adjacent public spaces.
76
a500 Public Areas - a511 Indoor Swimming Pool
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Furniture
Coordinated, commercial-quality pool furniture shall be provided.
• 1-50 guestrooms: 2 tables with 4 chairs per table or 4 side tables with 8 chairs total and 4 chaise lounges are required.
• 51-100 guestrooms: 3 tables with 4 chairs per table or 6 side tables with 12 chairs total and 6 chaise lounges are required.
• 101-200 guestrooms: 4 tables with 4 chairs per table or 8 side tables with 16 chairs total and 8 chaise lounges are required.
• 201+ guestrooms: 6 tables with 4 chairs per table or 12 side tables with 24 chairs total and 12 chaise lounges are required.
Low-quality resin furniture is not acceptable.
Recommendation: High-quality furnishings
such as market umbrellas, cast aluminum
furniture, powder-coated metal furniture, or
high-quality wood furniture.
High-quality furnishings, such as market umbrellas, cast aluminum furniture, and/or highquality wood furniture, shall be provided. Resin furniture is not acceptable.
Chaise lounges optional for indoor pools if structurally limited.
A minimum of half of the tables shall have
market umbrellas, and for every three
chaise lounges, one cocktail table shall be
provided.
Landscaping
Medium to large-scale plants or flowers in in-ground planters may be located inside or directly outside of the pool-area windows, or highquality decorative containers may be located throughout the pool area. If decorative containers are provided, they should be 18” minimum
diameter. Consumer-quality plastic containers are not acceptable.
Recommendation: Sculptures, series of professional banners, tropical plants, large urns, boulders, or waterfalls.
77
a500 Public Areas - a511 Indoor Swimming Pool
a512 Guestroom Corridors
New construction: Adequate storage space for housekeeping and maintenance that opens to guestroom corridors shall be provided. If space
does not allow, storage shall be provided in close proximity to guestroom corridors, with easy access to all floors.
All furnishings and fabrics shall be commercial hospitality quality or better and coordinated in design and finish. Fabrics should appear fresh,
coordinated, clean, and new. Submit furniture, fabric, and finish selections, including specifications, to the Design Department for approval prior
to purchase. Adding upgrades to the corridors will help ensure that the guests’ expectations are met.
Structural & Finishes Requirements
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
General
Interior guestroom corridors shall be visually pleasing and inviting. The style, finish, and colors of the corridors must transition smoothly
from the lobby and public corridors to the elevators and, finally, to the guestrooms.
Size
Room entrances shall be 5’6” wide without indentation or 5’ wide with 6” recess at doors on both sides. Or less than 5’ wide if serving 4 or
fewer guestrooms.
New Construction: Shall have 12” maximum recess at doors.
Floor
New or replacement carpet: Shall be minimum 36 ounce face weight per square yard with high density pad or 36 ounce weight without a
pad, 100% solution dyed nylon, and minimum 8” pattern repeat. Other ounce weights, pattern repeat size, and construction methods (e.g.,
carpet tile) may be acceptable with approval from the Design Department.
Carpet pad: Shall be a minimum 32 ounces per square yard all synthetic fiber commercial pad, minimum 64 ounce rubber pad, or attached
pad. Other pads may be acceptable with approval from the Design Department.
Recommendation: Double glue installation or higher ounce weight pad (the pad thickness should not exceed 7/16”).
Olefin carpet of any weight, plain, non-patterned styles of carpet (except as a border), institutional-level loop carpet, guestroom-style
carpet, and indoor/outdoor style carpet are not acceptable.
Guestroom carpet is not allowed in corridors.
Decorative elements, e.g., rug inserts,
medallions, oversized pattern repeats, or
a distinctive mosaic of carpet tiles shall be
used at door drops and corners throughout
corridors.
78
a500 Public Areas - a512 Guestroom Corridors
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Trim - Base
Shall be 4” minimum carpet base in a coordinating or matching color or 4” minimum wood
base.
Carpet, tile, or wood base acceptable.
Architectural millwork style vinyl profile base
recommended.
Millwork
Wood door and window casing, metal door and window casing, or synthetic millwork shall be provided.
Recommendation: Upgraded detailing.
Wall
Vinyl wallcovering, Type II, 20 ounce minimum (Class A), and applied with an adhesive with mildew inhibitors shall be provided, or painted
drywall with a textured or smooth finish with decorative or architectural treatments, moldings, or specialty finish may be provided.
Recommendation: Specialty finish.
Exposed block walls, pre-finished sheet paneling, floor carpet on walls other than wall base (not to exceed 6” in height), and pre-vinyled
drywall panels are not acceptable.
Wallpaper border is not permitted.
Ceiling
Provide painted drywall with textured or smooth finish or 2’ x 2’ acoustic tile with a
matching grid. Ceiling tile in public areas shall be decorative or have a revealed edge.
2’ x 4’ acoustic ceiling tiles are not acceptable.
Ceiling Height
Conversion: Shall be a minimum of 7’-2” with 8’-0” or higher ceiling height preferred.
New Construction: Shall be 8’-0” minimum height.
Door & Door Hardware
All guestroom doors shall be electronically keyed.
Solid wood paneled door, solid core flush panel door, or metal doors shall be provided.
Recommendation: Architectural door.
New Construction: Provide signature type designed door.
Fiberglass doors may be used in salt air locations.
Refer to guestroom section for all guestroom door requirements.
Jalousie doors and mechanical guestroom door locks are not acceptable.
79
a500 Public Areas - a512 Guestroom Corridors
Painted drywall with accent areas of 2’ x 2’
revealed edge lay-in ceiling tile shall be used
to provide access into ceiling cavity and
avoid unsightly access panels. Lay-in ceilings
should be raised a minimum of 4” above the
plane of the drywall ceiling.
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Heating & Cooling
New construction: PTAC’s are not acceptable. Central air/heating is required.
Electrical
New Construction: Duplex receptacles within six feet of all lamps and equipment shall be provided.
Electrical conduits shall be screened from view.
Electrical cords shall be tied-up, bound, or shortened.
New Construction: Electrical outlets shall be placed at 15” from finished floor unless concealed by equipment or furniture or above a
counter.
Furnishings & Fixtures
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Lighting
Minimum 10 foot candles shall be provided.
Adequate light in all areas to illuminate the
corridor finishes and room numbers shall be
provided.
Decorative wall sconce fixtures shall be
provided near guestroom entry doors.
Provide a mix of decorative wall sconce
fixtures and recessed can type fixtures
arranged to provide varying illumination
level with the guestroom entries having
higher illumination.
Fixtures shall be suited to design.
Low-quality surface mounted fluorescent light fixtures and standard bare bulb light fixtures are not acceptable.
If fluorescent box fixtures are utilized,
decorative diffusers are required.
Fluorescent box or soffit fixtures with or without decorative diffusers are not acceptable.
Tables
Commercialquality furnishings shall be used.
Guestroom furniture and folding tables are not acceptable.
Seating
Seating shall coordinate with adjacent areas and Property theme.
Guestroom furniture, stack chairs, and sled based chairs are not acceptable.
Upholstery
Commercial-quality upholstery with a minimum of 30,000 double rubs (Wyzenbeek method) shall be provided.
80
a500 Public Areas - a512 Guestroom Corridors
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Window Treatments
If the windows are not architecturally significant or the view is not important, window treatments, such as professionally fabricated sheers,
with a cornice or shutters, shall be provided.
Note: valances are not acceptable.
Metal or plastic vertical blinds and mini-blinds are not acceptable.
Equipment
All wiring, pipes, and utilities shall be hidden from view.
Surface-mounted electrical conduit is not acceptable.
Artwork/Accessories
Provide a high-quality, professionally framed, coordinated art package. Other decorative features such as molding, chair rail, accent wall
finishes, etc. may be utilized in place of artwork if prior approval is received.
Low-quality, self-matted art, poster-style artwork, and mass-produced oil paintings are not acceptable
Artwork shall be appropriate to style of hotel decor.
81
a500 Public Areas - a512 Guestroom Corridors
a513 Interior Stairways
Adding upgrades to the public stairways will help ensure that the guests’ expectations are met. Submit finishes to the Design Department prior
to implementation.
Structural & Finishes Requirements
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
General
Interior public stairways should be visually pleasing and inviting. The style, finish, and colors must transition smoothly from the public
corridors to the guestroom corridors and stairways and, finally, to the guestrooms.
Size
New construction: Shall be 44” wide or comply with all prevailing codes and laws.
Recommendation: New Construction: 48” wide or greater.
Floor
Carpet minimums: Shall be 32 ounce face
weight per square yard. Pad optional. Carpet
shall coordinate with adjacent areas.
Recommendation: Carpet with an attached
pad, wood flooring, porcelain, ceramic,
quarry, or other decorative tiles.
Carpet minimums: Shall be 36 ounce face weight per square yard. Pad optional. Carpet shall
coordinate with adjacent areas.
Recommendation: Carpet with an attached pad, wood flooring, porcelain, ceramic, quarry, or
other decorative tiles.
In stairways of properties three stories or
less: 36 ounce level loop solution-dyed
nylon patterned carpet with attached pad at
landings shall be used.
May be carpet per specification above or manufactured non-slip rubber for treads and risers.
A minimum DCOF of .42 or coefficient of friction rating of 0.6 in both wet and dry conditions (for European tile, the minimum is a test DIN
51130 rating of R9). If natural stone is used, a water-based non-skid finish shall be applied to the tile surface.
Other carpet or flooring may be used with prior approval.
Olefin carpet of any weight and guestroom carpet are not acceptable.
Trim - Base
4” wood, vinyl, or rubber base shall be provided.
Wall
Public stairways shall have vinyl wall covering, Type II, 20 ounce minimum (Class A), applied with an adhesive with mildew inhibitors or
shall be painted drywall with a smooth or textured finish with decorative or architectural treatments or moldings.
Recommendation: Specialty finish.
Only secondary stairwell or fire exit stairways may have painted block.
82
a500 Public Areas - a513 Interior Stairways
Painted block finish not acceptable in
stairways of properties three stories or less.
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Wall continued
Wallpaper border is not permitted.
Ceiling
Painted drywall with a smooth or textured finish or 2’ x 2’ acoustical tile with matching grid shall be used. Ceiling tile in public areas shall
be decorative or have a revealed edge.
Lighting
Shall be minimum 10 foot candles.
Recommendation: Minimum 20-30 foot candles.
Adequate lighting shall be provided in all areas to illuminate the stairway finishes.
Fixtures shall be suited to design theme and concept.
Standard bare-bulb light fixtures are not acceptable.
Millwork
Railings shall coordinate in color and style with the other finishes in the area.
Tread & Risers
Treads and risers shall meet all prevailing codes.
83
a500 Public Areas - a513 Interior Stairways
a514 Pre-function Area
Pre-function areas are not required by Best Western; however, if the Property has such facilities, the facilities must have a quality, up-todate design that coordinates and reflects the overall theme of the hotel. All furnishings shall be commercial hospitality quality or better, be
coordinated in design and finish, and reflect the overall design. Fabrics should be commercial hospitality quality and appear fresh, coordinated,
clean, and new. Furniture, fabric, and finish selections, including specifications, shall be submitted to the Design Department for approval prior to
purchasing and installation.
Structural & Finishes Requirements
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
General
Pre-function area is defined as an area recessed from the main corridor sufficient to
accommodate a gathering of 12 or more guests, i.e., 100 sq. ft. or larger.
Pre-function area shall function as a gathering place that smoothly transitions from the
corridor to the meeting space with high-quality, well-coordinated furnishings.
Floor
New or replacement carpet: Shall be
minimum 32 ounce face weight per square
yard with high-density pad or 36 ounce
weight without a pad, 100% solution-dyed
nylon ,and minimum 8” pattern repeat. Other
ounce weights, pattern repeat size, and
construction methods (e.g., carpet tile) may
be acceptable with approval from the Design
Department.
Or quarry or ceramic tile with a non-slip
finish and wet or dry static coefficient of
friction value of not less than 0.6 or DCOF of
.42 may be used.
New or replacement carpet: Shall be minimum 36 ounce face weight per square yard with
or without high density pad, 100% solution dyed nylon and minimum 8” pattern repeat.
Other ounce weights, pattern repeat size, and construction methods (e.g., carpet tile) may
be acceptable with approval from the Design Department.
Or quarry or ceramic tile with a non-slip finish and wet or dry static coefficient of friction
value of not less than 0.6 or DCOF of .42 may be used.
Recommendation: Wood, stone, or tile.
Carpet pad: Shall be minimum 32 ounce per square yard all synthetic fiber commercial pad, minimum 64 ounce rubber pad, or attached
pad. Other pads may be acceptable with approval from the Design Department.
Recommendation: Double glue installation or higher ounce weight pad (the pad thickness should not exceed 7/16”).
Trim - Base
4” minimum wood base or 4” minimum carpet base shall be provided.
Recommendation: Stone, marble, or tile.
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a500 Public Areas - a514 Pre-function Area
Carpet and vinyl bases are not acceptable.
Wood base is acceptable. Architectural
millwork style vinyl profile base is
recommended. Carpet base may be
acceptable at curved walls with Design
Department approval.
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Wall
Vinyl wall covering, Type II, minimum 20 ounce, Class “A” shall be used and shall have an adhesive with mildew inhibitors, or painted wall
finish, textured or smooth, with architectural detailing, such as crown molding, chair rail, or wall border may be used.
Recommendation: Specialty finish.
Wallpaper border is not permitted.
Ceiling
2’ x 2’ acoustic tile with matching grid shall be provided. Ceiling tile in public shall be decorative or have a revealed edge or painted drywall
with a smooth or textured finish.
Ceilings should be designed with multiple
heights and use a mix of ceiling types and
colors to create interest in the overall space
design.
Ceiling Height
New construction: Shall be 9’ - 0” for all floors. (Exception: Guestroom corridors and public corridors shall be 8’-0” minimum.)
Recommendation: Higher ceiling with decorative ceiling treatment.
Door & Door Hardware
Exterior doors exposed to weather shall be metal.
Recommendation: Architectural doors.
Fiberglass doors are allowed in salt air locations.
Interior doors may be solid wood paneled, solid core flush panel, or metal.
Door stops shall be provided at all doors.
Millwork
Wood door and window casing or metal door and window casing shall be provided.
Recommendation: Upgraded detailing.
85
a500 Public Areas - a514 Pre-function Area
Required Furnishings & Fixtures
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Lighting
Minimum light levels of 10 foot candles shall be provided.
New Construction: Recessed 2’ x 2’ fluorescent shall be provided.
Recessed 2’ x 2’ fluorescent, recessed down lights or surface-mounted decorative fixtures and/or decorative wall sconces shall be provided
Recommendation: Indirect lighting or Chandeliers.
Tables
Adjacent end and coffee tables with seating group shall be provided.
Seating
Commercial-quality seating shall be provided.
Recommendation: Upgraded specialty seating.
Seating to coordinate with adjacent spaces and overall Property theme shall be provided.
Guestroom seating and stack chairs are not acceptable.
Upholstery
Commercial-quality upholstery with a minimum of 30,000 double rubs (Wyzenbeek method) shall be provided.
Window Treatments
If the windows are not architecturally significant or if the view is not scenic, decorative window treatments, such as draperies or sheers or
shutters, shall be provided.
Metal or plastic vertical blinds or mini-blinds are not acceptable.
Heating & Cooling
HVAC shall be separate from meeting/banquet area.
Recommendation: Zone-controlled system.
PTACs are not acceptable.
Electrical
Cluttered and visible cords and exposed electrical conduit are not acceptable.
Artwork
Provide artwork or other approved decorative features Artwork and features must be approved by design.
Recommendation: Original artwork or limited edition prints.
Artwork shall be appropriate to style of hotel decor.
86
a500 Public Areas - a514 Pre-function Area
a515 Meeting Room/Board Room/Banquet Area
If a Best Western Property has any of these facilities, it must comply with the following guidelines. Meeting rooms are required in Best Western
Plus and Best Western Premier hotels. Meeting or banquet areas shall have convenient access from parking areas. Best Western does not require
pre-function areas. They are recommended, however, for larger meeting/banquet areas.
Meeting space shall provide a businesslike, comfortable, and pleasing atmosphere. Furnishings and fixtures must be quality and up-to-date.
Mixing of furniture styles is unacceptable. All furnishings shall be commercial hospitality-quality or better and coordinate in design and finish.
Meeting room fabrics are an important part of its appearance. Fabrics should appear fresh, coordinated, clean, and new, and be commercial
hospitality quality.
Best Western requires public restrooms for properties with meeting/banquet rooms and convenient access to them.
Structural & Finishes Requirements
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Structure
One (1) small meeting or board room,
minimum 192 sq. ft.
• Conversion Properties: May be
required.
• New Construction: Required. No
structural obstructions (Columns) in
open meeting space
Recommended square footage:
Two (2) meeting or board rooms, minimum
200 sq. ft. each are required.
A minimum of one (1) board room of 300
sq. ft. minimum and one (1) meeting room
of 650 sq. ft. minimum or two (2) meeting
rooms are required.
Recommended square footage:
• Rectangle Banquet: 10-12 sq. ft. per
seat.
• Rectangle Banquet: 12-14 sq. ft. per
seat.
• Cocktail Party: 12 sq. ft. per person.
• Cocktail Party: 14 sq. ft. per person.
• Classroom: 18-20 sq. ft. per seat.
• Classroom: 20-22 sq. ft. per seat.
• Theater-style: 7 sq. ft. per seat.
• Theater-style: 8 sq. ft. per seat.
• Round-Table Banquet: 15-18 sq. ft. per
seat.
• Round-Table Banquet: 18-20 sq. ft. per
seat.
Floor
Unless a wooden dance floor has been installed, all meeting rooms shall be carpeted or upgraded. New or replacement carpet: Shall be
minimum 36 ounce face weight per square yard, 100% solution dyed nylon, and minimum 8” pattern repeat. Other ounce weights, pattern
repeat size, and construction methods (e.g., carpet tile) may be acceptable with approval from the Design Department.
Carpet pad: Shall be minimum 32 ounce per square yard all synthetic fiber commercial pad, minimum 64 ounce rubber pad, or attached
pad. Other pads may be acceptable with approval from the Design Department.
Recommendation: Double glue installation or higher ounce weight pad (the pad thickness should not exceed 7/16”).
87
a500 Public Areas - a515 Meeting Room/Board Room/Banquet Areas
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Floor continued
Institutional-level loop, typical guestroom-quality carpet, and Olefin carpet are not acceptable.
Medium scale, minimum 4” repeat carpet is required. Other finishes may be acceptable with
Design Department approval.
Trim - Base
4” minimum wood base or carpet base shall be provided. 4” minimum rubber base may be
used only with prior approval.
Carpet and vinyl base are not acceptable.
Wood base is acceptable. Architectural
millwork style vinyl profile base
recommended. Carpet base may be
acceptable at curved walls with Design
Department approval.
Wall
Walls shall be soundproofed at a minimum of 48 STC.
Vinyl wall covering, Type II, minimum 20 ounce, Class “A”, shall be used and shall have an
adhesive with mildew inhibitors, or painted wall finish with architectural detailing, e.g.,
crown molding, chair rail, or wall border, shall be provided.
Recommendation: Specialty finish.
Walls shall be finished with vinyl wall
covering, Type II, 20 oz., Class “A”, applied
with an adhesive with mildew inhibitors or
wood paneled walls. Painted walls are not
acceptable.
Wallpaper border is not permitted.
Ceiling
2’ x 2’ acoustical tile with matching grid shall be used. Ceiling tile in public areas shall be decorative or have a revealed edge or painted
drywall with smooth or textured finish.
Ceilings should be designed with multiple
heights and use a mix of ceiling types and
colors to create interest in the overall space
design. Changes of height and materials
should be coordinated with flooring and
typical furniture layouts to reinforce the
overall meeting room space.
Ceiling Height
New construction: Shall be 9’ - 0” for all floors.
Recommendation: Higher ceiling with decorative ceiling treatment.
Door & Door Hardware
Provide door viewers to allow view into meeting rooms.
Exterior doors exposed to weather shall be metal.
Interior doors may be solid wood paneled, solid core flush panel, or metal.
All doors shall conform to prevailing codes and law.
88
a500 Public Areas - a515 Meeting Room/Board Room/Banquet Areas
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Door & Door Hardware continued
Door stops shall be provided at all doors.
Doors shall be lockable when the room is not in use.
Storage
New Construction: Shall be 10% of the total meeting room.
Required Furnishings & Fixtures
Subject
Best Western®
Lighting
Dimmable lighting shall be provided. Two systems shall be provided for each divisible meeting room: Incandescent decorative or recessed
down lights at 25 foot candles at table height and controlled by dimmer switches. And fluorescent recessed fixtures or surface mounted
quality fluorescents at 50 foot candles at table height. Acrylic lens not acceptable.
Recommendation: Decorative lighting.
Tables
Commercial-quality foldable tables shall be provided.
Printed paper tops are not acceptable.
Upgraded tabletops or table linens shall be provided when the room is in use.
Seating
Commercial-quality stack chairs with a metal frame and upholstered seats and backs shall be provided.
Guestroom seating is not acceptable.
Upholstery
Commercial-quality upholstery with a minimum of 30,000 double rubs (Wyzenbeek method) shall be provided.
Furnishings
Murphy beds are not acceptable in board rooms or meeting rooms.
Millwork
If provided, wood, wood veneer, or metal casing shall be used.
Recommendation: Upgraded detailing.
89
a500 Public Areas - a515 Meeting Room/Board Room/Banquet Areas
A built-in dry bar counter shall be provided
within the room for refreshment service of
meetings. If a room can be divided by an
operable partition, then each room, if over
300 sq. ft. when divided, shall have a dry bar.
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Millwork continued
Stain grade architectural woodwork /
millwork to create an intimate, warm setting
shall be provided, including stain grade trim,
crown molding, and column capitals.
Movable Walls
Movable walls and doors shall have a rating of 48 STC.
Movable partitions should be vinyl or fabric-covered.
New Construction: Movable partitions to be designed to stack out of the room or in an enclosure that is finished to match the adjacent
walls.
Wood grain vinyl finish is not acceptable.
Window Treatment
Windows shall have decorative treatment, e.g., a cornice.
Blackout capability shall be provided on all windows.
Note: Valances, or metal or plastic vertical blinds or mini-blinds are not acceptable.
Heating & Cooling
HVAC shall have a zone-controlled system designed to provide adequate filtered and modulated outside air intake and exhaust systems.
HVAC shall be individually controlled in each meeting room.
Meeting rooms over 800 sq. ft. shall be
connected to a central control system.
PTACs are not acceptable in any public area. Central air/heating is required.
Phone/Data
A minimum of one telephone jack per meeting room shall be provided.
A minimum of one data port per meeting room shall be provided.
Free-of-charge wired and wireless Internet access shall be provided for all meeting rooms.
High-speed Internet access shall be provided for all meeting rooms.
Electrical
A minimum of one electrical outlet shall be provided on each wall or as per code.
Exposed electrical conduit is not acceptable.
Accessories
If provided, accessories shall be high-quality.
90
a500 Public Areas - a515 Meeting Room/Board Room/Banquet Areas
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Equipment
The following shall be available free or at cost:
• Adjustable height lectern or table top podium with Best Western logo
• Extension cords
• Marker board (white) with colored markers and erasers
• Projection screen and A/V cart with power strip
• Display easel and flip chart paper
• Copy services
Recommendation: LCD projector
Microphones, microphone jacks, and P A speakers, if any lineal measure exceeds 40 feet, shall be available on request, free or at cost.
Artwork
Artwork shall be high-quality, professionally produced, and superior to that used in guestrooms.
Recommendation: Original art or limited edition prints.
Artwork shall be appropriate to style of hotel decor.
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a500 Public Areas - a515 Meeting Room/Board Room/Banquet Areas
a516 Other Facilities
All facilities subject to inspection or renovation per Chapter V of Best Western’s Rules & Regulations, including gift shops, beauty/barber shops,
bowling centers, pro shops, car rental/travel/airline agencies, drug/liquor stores, specialty stores, spas, saunas, game rooms, business centers,
and other public facilities, shall present a quality, coordinated, up-to-date appearance.
All furnishings and fabrics shall be commercial hospitality quality or better and be coordinated in design and finish. Furniture, fabric, and finish
selections, including specifications, shall be submitted to the Design Department for approval prior to purchase.
Structural & Finishes Requirements
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
General
“Manager apartments” or other dwellings intended for permanent residential use shall not be allowed in new construction and conversion
properties.
Floor
New or replacement carpet: Shall be
minimum 32 ounce face weight per square
yard with high density pad or 36 ounce
weight without a pad, 100% solution dyed
nylon, and minimum 8” pattern repeat. Other
ounce weights, pattern repeat size, and
construction methods (e.g., carpet tile) may
be acceptable with approval from the Design
Department.
New or replacement carpet: Shall be minimum 36 ounce face weight per square yard with
or without high density pad or 100% solution dyed nylon and minimum 8” pattern repeat.
Other ounce weights, pattern repeat size, and construction methods (e.g., carpet tile) may
be acceptable with approval from the Design Department.
Or porcelain, ceramic, quarry, or other decorative tiles with a minimum DCOF of .42 or
Or porcelain, ceramic, quarry, or other
coefficient of friction rating of 0.6 in both wet and dry conditions (for European tile, the
decorative tiles with a minimum DCOF of
minimum is a test DIN 51130 rating of R9) shall be used. If natural stone is used, a water.42 or coefficient of friction rating of 0.6 in
based, non-skid finish shall be applied to the tile surface.
both wet and dry conditions (for European
tile, the minimum is a test DIN 51130 rating of
R9) shall be used. If natural stone is used, a
water-based, non-skid finish shall be applied
to the tile surface.
Carpet pad: Shall be minimum 32 ounce per square yard all synthetic fiber commercial pad, minimum 64 ounce rubber pad, or attached
pad. Other pads may be acceptable with approval from the Design Department.
Guestroom-style carpet and Olefin carpet of any weight are not acceptable.
Recommendation: Specialty finish.
Trim - Base
Trim shall be 4” minimum carpet base in a coordinating or matching color or carpet base. 4” minimum rubber or vinyl base may be used
where appropriate with prior approval only.
Recommendation: Stone base or marble base
92
a500 Public Areas - a516 Other Facilities
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Wall
New Construction: Perimeter walls shall have a minimum STC of 50.
Recommendation: Specialty finish.
Vinyl wallcovering, Type II, 15 ounce minimum (Class A) and applied with an adhesive with mildew inhibitors or painted drywall with a
textured or smooth finish shall be provided.
Exposed block walls are not acceptable.
Wallpaper border is not permitted.
Ceiling
2’ x 2’ acoustic tile with matching grid may be used. Ceiling tile in public areas shall be decorative or have a revealed edge, or painted
drywall with a textured or smooth finish may be used. Or sprayed acoustic concrete may be used, where appropriate.
Open ceiling with exposed mechanical systems may be used if part of design concept.
Ceiling Height
Conversion: Ceiling shall be a minimum of 7’-2”, with 8’-0” or higher ceiling height preferred.
Recommendation: A minimum of 8’-0” with 10’-0” or higher ceiling height preferred.
New Construction: Ceiling shall be 9’ - 0” for all floors.
Recommendation: Higher ceiling with decorative ceiling treatment.
Millwork
Wood door and window casing or metal door and window casing shall be provided.
Recommendation: Upgraded architectural detailing.
Door & Door Hardware
Solid wood paneled door, solid core flush panel door, or metal doors shall be provided.
Recommendation: Architectural door.
Door stops shall be provided at all doors.
Public passage doors should be 6’-8” in height and 3’-0” wide or comply with prevailing codes and laws.
All exterior doors exposed to weather shall be metal.
Fiberglass doors are allowed in salt air locations.
Accordion-type, folding doors are not acceptable.
Electrical
All electrical conduit and cords shall be hidden from view in highly visible locations.
Recommendation: Conceal wiring in walls and ceilings.
New Construction: Electrical outlets shall be placed 15” from finished floor unless concealed by equipment or furniture or above a counter.
93
a500 Public Areas - a516 Other Facilities
Required Furnishings & Fixtures
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Lighting
Adequate light shall be provided in all areas to illuminate the area finishes.
Recommendation: Decorative lighting.
Tables
Commercial-quality furnishings shall be provided.
Fixtures shall be suited to decor.
Seating
Public area quality seating shall be provided.
Standard ergonomic seating shall be provided in business locations.
Guestroom seating and stack chairs are not acceptable.
Upholstery
Commercial-quality upholstery with a minimum of 30,000 double rubs (Wyzenbeek method) shall be provided.
Equipment
All wiring, electrical conduit, pipes, and utilities shall be hidden from view.
Functional equipment shall be coordinated with surrounding finishes and fabrics.
Artwork/Accessories
If used, artwork shall be high-quality, professionally produced, and superior to that used in guestrooms.
Plants, if used, shall be in matching containers.
Artwork shall be appropriate to style of hotel decor.
94
a500 Public Areas - a516 Other Facilities
a517 Vending Area
Vending areas shall be clean, well lit, and easily accessible to the guests.
All interior finishes shall be consistent and coordinated with the adjacent guest corridor. Finish selections, including specifications, shall be
submitted to the Design Department for approval prior to purchase.
Structural & Finishes Requirements
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
General
All vending areas shall comply with the following requirements:
• One self-service ice machine and one soft drink machine shall be provided for each 60 rooms.
• Machines for one- and two-story properties shall be centrally located for convenient access by guests on each floor.
• One self-service ice machine and one soft drink machine shall be provided on every other floor in Properties of more than two
stories.
• Ice shall be provided to the guest at no charge 24 hours per day and its location shall be well-identified.
• Ice machines and vending machines shall be located in such a manner as not to cause excessive noise to adjacent guestrooms.
Location
Vending machines shall not be in the lobby, lobby entry or breakfast area. They shall be in a defined area such as an alcove, room, or
partitioned area.
Floor
Shall be non-slip quarry or ceramic tile with
a wet or dry coefficient of friction value of
not less than 0.6 or DCOF of .42.
Quality composition tile, quarry, or ceramic shall be used. Size shall be 12” x 12” or larger or
min. 6” x 18” plank style with a wet or dry coefficient of friction value of not less than 0.6 or
DCOF of .42.
Floor shall be coordinated with the adjacent carpet or floor surface.
Carpet shall not be used under vending machines where condensation/moisture may be a problem. Sheet vinyl and vinyl composite tiles
are not acceptable.
Trim - Base
Trim shall be 4” minimum ceramic tile base.
Carpet base or vinyl cove base is not acceptable. Architectural millwork style vinyl profile
base is recommended.
Wall
New Construction: Perimeter walls shall have a minimum STC of 50.
Vinyl wallcovering, Type II, 20 ounce minimum (Class A) and applied with an adhesive with mildew inhibitors shall be used, or painted
drywall with textured or smooth finish may be used.
Exposed block walls and pre-finished sheet paneling are not acceptable.
95
a500 Public Areas - a517 Vending Area
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Wall continued
Wallpaper border is not permitted.
Ceiling
2’ x 2’ acoustical ceiling tile and matching grid shall be used. Ceiling tile in public areas must be decorative or have a revealed edge, or
sprayed-on textured finish or painted drywall with a textured or smooth finish shall be used.
Ceiling Height
New Construction: Shall be 9’ - 0” for all floors. (Exception: Guestroom corridors and public corridors shall be 8’-0” minimum.)
Recommendation: Higher ceiling with decorative ceiling treatment.
Doors
When doors are provided, a half glass or a view window shall be provided.
All doors must coordinate in style and color with adjacent finishes and/or material.
Recommendation: Architectural door.
Exterior doors exposed to weather shall be metal.
Must provide a door to enclose the space.
Electrical
All electrical conduit shall be hidden from view.
Electrical cords shall be tied-up, bound, or shortened.
New Construction: Electrical outlets shall be placed at 15” from finished floor unless concealed by equipment or furniture or above a
counter.
Plumbing
Excessive visible plumbing is not acceptable.
96
a500 Public Areas - a517 Vending Area
Required Furnishings & Equipment
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Lighting
Fixtures shall be suited to the design.
Recommendation: Decorative light fixtures.
Shall be minimum 10 foot candles.
Ample well-positioned, commercial-quality lighting shall be provided to illuminate the finishes.
An unswitched circuit shall be provided. Lighting shall remain on at all times or shall automatically illuminate when there is entry into the
machine area.
Bare-bulb fixtures and low-quality surface mounted fluorescent light fixtures are not acceptable.
Equipment
Automatic ice machines shall dispense a controlled portion of sanitary ice.
Dispenser may be operated, at the hotel owner’s option, by room key or token.
Bin-style ice machines and outdated vending machines are not acceptable.
Accessories
If provided, trash containers shall be commercial and complement surrounding architecture and appropriate in scale, includes recycle
containers. Consumer-quality or janitorial-style plastic containers are not acceptable.
Artwork
If used, art shall be professionally matted and framed.
Framed mirrors are acceptable.
Artwork shall be appropriate to the style of hotel decor.
97
a500 Public Areas - a517 Vending Area
a518 Guest Laundry
Best Western International, Inc. does not require a guest laundry in Best Western AND Best Western Plus properties. However, if the Property has
such a facility, the facility shall be clean and comply with the following guidelines.
Selections, including specifications, shall be submitted to the Design Department for approval prior to purchase and installation.
Structural & Finishes Requirements
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
General
If guest laundry is provided, the following guidelines apply.
Guest laundry shall be provided.
Structure
New Construction: Structure shall be a minimum STC of 50.
Size
Guest laundry room shall be a minimum 64 sq. ft. to accommodate the laundry equipment.
Room shall be a minimum 80 sq. ft. to
accommodate the laundry equipment.
Provide a minimum 24” x 24” table for folding.
Provide a minimum 48” x 24” table for
folding.
Floor
Porcelain, ceramic, quarry, or other decorative tiles with a minimum of DCOF .42 or coefficient of friction rating of 0.6 in both wet and dry
conditions shall be used (for European tile, the minimum is a test DIN 51130 rating of R9). If natural stone is used, a water-based, non-skid
finish shall be applied to the tile surface.
Floor shall be coordinated with the adjacent flooring.
Carpet is not acceptable.
Finishes shall coordinate with the character of the hotel.
Trim - Base
Ceramic or quarry tile shall be used.
Carpet base is not acceptable.
Wall
Painted drywall with a textured or a smooth finish shall be provided.
Recommendation: Vinyl wall covering.
Pre-finished sheet wall paneling and carpet are not acceptable.
Wallpaper border is not permitted.
Wall finish shall be similar in quality to other public areas. Painted block walls are unacceptable.
98
a500 Public Areas - a518 Guest Laundry
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Ceiling
Painted drywall with textured or smooth finish or 2’ x 2’ acoustical tile with a matching grid shall be used. Ceiling tile in public areas shall
be decorative or have a revealed edge.
2’ x 4’ acoustical ceiling tiles are not acceptable.
Recommendation: Upgraded ceiling finish.
Ceiling Height
New Construction: Shall be 9’ - 0” for all floors.
Equipment
A minimum of one washer and one dryer shall be provided for up to 100 guestrooms, plus one additional set for each additional 100
guestrooms. If more than one washer and one dryer are provided, stackable machines are allowed provided at least one of each is
accessible.
Folding Table/Countertop
A high-quality surface for folding either wall mounted or freestanding with HPL (High
Pressure Laminate), quartz, or polished stone top shall be provided.
A built-in or wall mounted, table for folding
with HPL (High Pressure Laminate), quartz,
or polished stone top shall be provided.
Dispensers
Coin-operated soap/bleach/softener dispenser shall be provided in the guest laundry room or the room shall have signage indicating such
items are available at the sundry shop.
Door & Door Hardware
All doors must coordinate in style and color with adjacent finishes and/or material.
Recommendation: Architectural door.
Exterior doors exposed to weather shall be metal.
Interior doors may be solid wood paneled, solid core flush panel, or metal.
If provided, the main entry door shall have a minimum of half glass or view window.
Lighting
A minimum of 20-50 foot candles shall be provided.
Adequate light to illuminate the finishes shall be provided.
An unswitched circuit shall be provided. Lights shall remain on during times of regular use or shall activate upon entry of guest at all times.
Dimly lit, bare-bulb, and budget-appearing surface-mounted fluorescent light fixtures are not acceptable.
Electrical
Conduit and wiring shall be hidden from view.
Plumbing
Excessive visible plumbing is not acceptable.
99
a500 Public Areas - a518 Guest Laundry
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Seating
If provided, seating shall be high-quality. Commercial stack chairs with a metal frame and upholstered seats and backs may be used as a
minimum.
Guestroom seating is not acceptable.
Accessories
Trash containers shall be commercial quality, complement surrounding finishes, and appropriate in scale, includes recycling containers.
Consumer-quality or janitorial-style plastic containers are not acceptable.
100 a500 Public Areas - a518 Guest Laundry
a519 Restaurant/Coffee Shop/Lounge
See “Cocktail Bar” for Additional FF&E Requirements.
If present, the hotel restaurant or lounge shall provide a quality dining experience and appear as a professionally operated venue. Provide a
minimum of 15 square feet per seat in the restaurant and 18 square feet in the cocktail lounge. Fine dining rooms shall have a minimum of 20
square feet per seat.
The restaurant fabrics are an important part of the restaurant appearance. They shall be of commercial hospitality quality.
All furnishings shall be of commercial hospitality quality or better and be coordinated in design and finish. Furniture, fabric, and finish selections,
including specifications, shall be submitted to the Design Department for approval prior to purchase.
Structural & Finishes Requirements
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Floor
New or replacement carpet: A minimum
32 ounce face weight per square yard with
100% solution dyed nylon, and minimum
8” pattern repeat shall be used. Other
ounce weights, pattern repeat size, and
construction methods (e.g., carpet tile) may
be acceptable with approval from the Design
Department.
Or porcelain, ceramic, quarry, or other
decorative tiles with a minimum of DCOF
.42 or coefficient of friction rating of 0.6 in
both wet and dry conditions shall be used
(for European tile, the minimum is a test DIN
51130 rating of R9). If natural stone is used, a
water-based, non-skid finish shall be applied
to the tile surface.
New or replacement carpet: A minimum 36 ounce face weight per square yard with 100%
solution dyed nylon, and minimum 8” pattern repeat shall be provided. Other ounce
weights, pattern repeat size, and construction methods (e.g., carpet tile) may be acceptable
with approval from the Design Department.
Or porcelain, ceramic, quarry, or other decorative tiles with a minimum of DCOF .42
or coefficient of friction rating of 0.6 in both wet and dry conditions shall be used (for
European tile, the minimum is a test DIN 51130 rating of R9). If natural stone is used, a
water-based, non-skid finish shall be applied to the tile surface.
Carpet pad: A minimum 32 ounce per square yard all synthetic fiber commercial pad, minimum 64 ounce rubber pad, or attached pad if be
used. Other pads may be acceptable with approval from the Design Department.
Recommendation: Double glue or higher ounce weight pad (the pad thickness should not exceed 7/16”).
Other flooring may be acceptable if pre-approved.
Carpet and hard-surface flooring shall be used to designate zones within the restaurant. (Upon replacement for Best Western.)
Trim - Base
Trim shall be 4” minimum coordinating carpet base, 4” minimum wood base, or 4” minimum tile base.
101
a500 Public Areas - a519 Restaurant/Coffee Shop/Lounge
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Wall
Painted drywall with a smooth or textured finish or vinyl wall covering, Type II, 20 ounce minimum (Class A), and applied with an adhesive
with mildew inhibitors shall be provided.
Recommendation: Specialty finish.
Wallpaper border is not permitted.
Ceiling
Provide 2’ x 2’ acoustic tile with matching
grid. Ceiling tile in public areas shall be
decorative or have a revealed edge, or
painted drywall with a textured or smooth
finish, or textured surface on concrete.
Recommendation: Acceptable finishes
include skylights, murals, moldings, and
plaster work.
Provide 2’ x 2’ acoustic tile with matching grid used minimally with painted drywall with a
textured or smooth finish, or textured surface on concrete. Ceiling tile in public areas shall
be decorative or have a revealed edge.
Recommendation: Acceptable finishes include skylights, murals, moldings, and plaster work.
Open ceiling with exposed mechanical systems may be provided, if part of design concept.
Ceilings should be designed with multiple
heights and use a mix of ceiling types and
colors to create interest in the overall space
design.
Drywall bulkhead over the buffet and serving
areas shall have a painted finish.
Ceiling Height
New Construction: Shall be 9’ - 0” for all floors.
Recommendation: Higher ceiling with decorative ceiling treatment.
Lighting
5-10 foot candles shall be provided at table surface in a restaurant or coffee shop. 20-50 foot candles shall be provided at cashier, and 1020 candles shall be provided for cleaning.
Warm white or color-balanced fluorescent lamps shall be provided in a recessed fixture (lamps should be about 3200-3300 K). Or quality
incandescent pendant or recessed light fixtures may be used.
Cool white fluorescent lamps (4000-7200K) are not acceptable.
Electrical
Exposed wiring, wire molding, and electrical conduit are not acceptable.
All electrical conduit shall be hidden from view.
New Construction: Electrical outlets shall be placed at 15” from finished floor unless concealed by equipment or furniture or above a
counter.
102 a500 Public Areas - a519 Restaurant/Coffee Shop/Lounge
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Table
Unfinished tops on tables shall be draped with clean, unwrinkled cloths.
Tables shall have finished legs and present a quality appearance.
Folding tables and guestroom-style tables are not acceptable.
Tables shall have a decorative edge, such as complementary hardwood. Self-edge laminate table tops not acceptable.
Recommendation: Granite, solid surface, or wood.
Chair
Metal stack chairs, guestroom-style seating, strap, sling, or resin exterior furniture, and sledbase chairs are not acceptable.
Recommendation: Fully upholstered chairs shall be provided, where appropriate.
Wood or decorative metal frame chairs with
upholstered seat cushions or upholstered
lounge chairs shall be provided.
Booth
Commercial-quality construction and materials shall be used.
Fully upholstered and cushioned, commercial
quality. Style and upholstery to coordinate
with dining chairs.
Molded synthetic booths are not acceptable.
Bar Stool
Commercial-quality construction and materials shall be used.
Stools without backs and stools that do not coordinate with other seating are not acceptable.
Upholstery
Commercial-quality upholstery with a minimum of 30,000 double rubs shall be provided (Wyzenbeek method).
Quality vinyl allowed on seat cushion on
dining/bar chairs and stools only.
Bar Service Counter
Vertical surface (die) shall incorporate detail/design finish that coordinates with interior scheme.
Countertop shall be stone, quartz, or approved equal.
Service Station & Wait Staff Station
Countertop shall be constructed of plastic laminate or better.
Shall be inconspicuous and not within view of dining guests.
There shall be one station per 50 guests.
Recommendation: One station per 25 guests.
Waiting Area Seating
If provided, the waiting area shall have a minimum of four seats for waiting guests.
Guestroom furnishings and sled-based chairs are not acceptable.
103 a500 Public Areas - a519 Restaurant/Coffee Shop/Lounge
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Hostess Station
Shall appear as a furniture piece or built-in cabinet that coordinates with interior scheme.
Shall be visible to public at entrance area.
Shall be organized and free from clutter.
Bar Back
Shall be coordinated with bar counter.
Shall provide electrical outlets for register.
Shall be organized and free from clutter.
Window Treatments
If the windows are not architecturally significant or the view is not important, window treatments, such as professionally fabricated sheers
with a cornice, or shutters, etc., shall be provided
Note: Valances are not acceptable.
Accessories
Shall coordinate with room interior and concept.
Artwork
Professionally framed and matted artwork shall be provided.
Poor quality neon/illuminated beer signs and pinned-up calendars are not acceptable.
Artwork shall be appropriate to style of restaurant, coffee shop, or lounge decor.
104 a500 Public Areas - a519 Restaurant/Coffee Shop/Lounge
a600 Guestrooms
a601 Guestrooms & Suites – Structure
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Standard Guestrooms: Single or Double Bedded Rooms
New Construction
312 sq. ft. (includes 40 sq. ft. bathrooms with inside vanity or 30 sq. ft. with outside vanity)
Conversion
Properties
Single bedded room - 250 sq. ft. minimum (including bath/vanity)
Guestroom to be a minimum of 312 sq. ft.
Conversion
Properties
Double bedded room - 276 sq. ft. minimum (including bath/vanity)
Guestroom to be a minimum of 312 sq. ft.
Suites – One King Bed (New Construction)
Sleeping
132 sq. ft.
Sitting
132 sq. ft.
Bathroom
40 sq. ft. with inside vanity or 30 sq. ft. with outside vanity
Suites – Two Queen Beds (New Construction)
Sleeping
192 sq. ft.
Sitting
132 sq. ft.
Bathroom
40 sq. ft. with inside vanity or 30 sq. ft. with outside vanity
Suites – One King Bed (Conversion)
Sleeping
132 sq. ft.
Sitting
132 sq. ft.
Bathroom
35 sq. ft. with inside vanity or 25 sq. ft. with outside vanity
Suites – Two Queen Beds (Conversion)
Sleeping
168 sq. ft.
Sitting
132 sq. ft.
Bathroom
35 sq. ft. with inside vanity or 25 sq. ft. with outside vanity.
Kitchen
If a mini-kitchen is in place within guestroom or suites, provide 32 sq. ft. If a full kitchen is in place within the guestroom provide 72 sq. ft.
Note: This does not apply to Extended Stay Suites.
105 a600 Guestrooms - a601 Guestrooms & Suites – Structure
Doors, Hardware, Locks
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Entrance Door
Exterior doors shall be metal. Interior corridor doors may be metal or solid-core wood; however, metal doors are recommended as they are
less likely to warp. Fiberglass exterior doors are permissible in corrosive or salt air locations, if pre-approved.
New Construction: Architectural signature doors required.
Guestroom entrance doors (other than interior corridor doors) should be weather-stripped on all four sides for sound transmission
reduction.
All guestroom entrance doors shall be equipped with a lock that is self-locking. The lock shall be electronically activated and shall be UL
(CSA for Canada) listed. The lock shall remain in the locked position without having to operate an interior spinner button or any similar
device. Self-closing doors are recommended.
Recommendation: Hardware with upgraded finishes and hardware that coordinates with architectural style.
All guestroom entrance doors shall have a one-inch bored-in deadbolt lock, designated as Grade 2 type. Deadbolt locks shall be operable
only with a latch from the interior and an emergency key from the exterior. An “emergency key” is defined as any instrument specifically
designed to open that locking device and is to be maintained by the general manager or hotel security.
Combination locks with panic features shall function so that the deadbolt cannot be retracted from the outside by the use of the guest key
or master key, only the emergency key.
The lock set shall be keyed to at least three levels of security – the guest key, the master key, and the emergency key. The emergency key
shall be maintained by the general manager or hotel security, and the master keys only by assigned hotel staff. All functions, except the
fail-safe feature designed to completely override the lock set, should be performed in a non-mechanical manner.
All lock sets shall automatically recode with each use of a newly assigned guest key, voiding all previously issued guest keys. An automatic
time-out feature is required at the guestroom lock set level to void all keys left in the lock set past a predetermined length of time.
A fail-safe feature shall be provided to allow entrance to the guestroom in the event of a system or power failure. If battery operated, a low
battery warning feature shall be provided at the guestroom lock set level.
An audit trail/interrogation feature is required and should be maintained by the general manager or hotel security.
The room number shall not be displayed on the key card and must comply with Brand Identity Guidelines.
All guestroom entrance doors shall have a chain or bar-type door guard. This chain/guard should be installed in such a manner that the
strength of the attachment equals the strength of the chain. The chain/guard should allow for a maximum door opening of one inch.
A minimum 180-degree, one-way door viewer is required. All door viewers shall be metal, installed approximately 4’-9” from the floor,
unless another height is required by prevailing codes, and installed with Lock-Tite or equivalent to ensure that it is tamper-proof.
106 a600 Guestrooms - a601 Guestrooms & Suites – Structure
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Interconnecting Doors
All guestrooms with interconnecting doors shall have two solid core or metal doors equipped with a lock that is self-locking and a one
inch, bored-in deadbolt on each door. A knob on the guestroom side of each door with a tamper-proof plate on the other side complies
with the self-locking requirement.
Locks shall have all metal components.
Both doors shall be weather-stripped on all four sides for sound transmission reduction.
Visible key openings are not acceptable.
Sliding Patio Doors
A hook lock built within the door handle shall be provided. The hook shape is to resist the parting motion of the sliding door and jamb.
A secondary locking device shall be provided. This shall be a safety bar (“Charley Bar”), a sliding door deadbolt, or a pin-type lock.
Sliding doors shall be installed to ensure that the sliding panel is on the inside and the stationary panel is on the outside.
Sliding panel installed on the outside is not acceptable.
Balcony/Patio Doors
First floor wood or metal private balcony/patio doors (without a walkway) shall have a bored-in deadbolt. Private balcony or patio doors
above the first floor without a walkway shall have a locking device.
All other secondary doors with walkways shall have all required entrance door locking devices.
A key-accessible deadbolt is only required in one entry door.
107 a600 Guestrooms - a601 Guestrooms & Suites – Structure
Structural & Finishes Required
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Clothes Hanging/Closets/Storage Area
Provide a minimum 32” wide closet/clothes rod and minimum 24” depth.
All clothes hanging areas shall be fully screened with full height walls and doors. Finishes shall match surrounding guestroom finishes.
High-quality shelving shall be provided. Powder-coated wire shelving in an enclosed closet is acceptable. Plastic-coated wire shelving is
not acceptable.
Recommendation: Mirrored closet doors (this also satisfies the full-length mirror requirement).
A freestanding wardrobe cabinet with doors, which coordinates with the casegoods and is minimum 32” wide is acceptable in lieu of a
clothes hanging or closet area.
Hangers shall be wood or metal. Budget-appearing plastic or wire hangers are unacceptable.
Shelving and drawers in the closet (“California closet”) are also acceptable in lieu of a 3-drawer chest. If no chest is provided, there shall be
at least three drawers in the closet.
The closet area shall contain a minimum of 32” clear of clothes hanging area with 12” being full height. The remainder may be stacked. 12”
full height area shall not include space for iron or ironing board. Chest shall coordinate with other casegoods.
Electrical
Electrical receptacles shall be installed 15” to 18” to center from the finished floor surface. One duplex electrical outlet and data port (highspeed in new construction) shall be provided on the wall above the desk (32” – 36” above finished floor) or in the desk or desk lamp. If no
desk is provided, one accessible, unused outlet shall be located within 6’ of the parsons or activity table.
New Construction: Provide one (1) duplex outlet at surface height on wall at each nightstand location.
Conversion: Provide two (2) outlets at each nightstand, which may be located in a puck or the lamp base.
New Construction: Electrical, television, and telephone wall boxes in common walls of adjoining guestrooms shall be offset a minimum of
20” and installed in a manner to prevent sound transmission.
An illuminated light switch shall be provided at the primary entrance door.
Electrical and antenna/cable outlets for the television shall be centered 15” to 18” above finished floor surface. Receptacles designed for
fixed dedicated use, e.g., guestroom light fixtures, television, appliances (refrigerator, microwave), HVAC, etc., shall be located in such a
manner as to conceal their locations from direct guest view.
Excessive loose and untidy wiring shall be minimized by shortening, neatly tying, or concealing from view.
Table lamps or hard-wired wall lamps are required. Floor lamps are acceptable where appropriate. Wall-mount lamps with cord covers do
not comply with this requirement.
Wire molding, exposed conduit, or exposed electrical boxes are not acceptable.
New Construction: An available outlet at the full-length mirror is required.
Fire Detection & Control
Fire and carbon monoxide detection and control systems shall comply with prevailing codes.
108 a600 Guestrooms - a601 Guestrooms & Suites – Structure
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Heating & Cooling
Each guestroom shall have a thermostatically controlled heat/cool control that the guest
can set to a specific temperature. The control may be located on the unit or wall. Either
digital or analog is acceptable. Guestrooms shall be provided with heating and cooling on a
year-round basis.
Temperature control must be located on the
wall.
Individual room (through-wall) Packaged Terminal Air Conditioning - PTAC) units shall be located at the lowest possible position on the
exterior wall for ease of operation and maintenance and so they do not create a hazard either inside or outside the room. Use of a standard
commercial unit designed for hotel use is required. High-mounted PTAC units may be acceptable if of modern design and of commercial
quality. Other HVAC systems may be acceptable with prior approval of the Design Department.
Controls shall be easily accessible to guests.
Consult the Design Department for acceptable two pipe system retrofit solutions.
Electric radiant or gas-fired space heaters are not acceptable.
Windows
New Construction: Shall be 4’ - 0” x 6’ - 0” or 24 sq. ft.
All guestroom windows that open shall provide a lock that secures the window in a closed position.
Double-pane windows are recommended for sound control.
Outdated, untreated aluminum panel systems are not acceptable.
Walls
Panel inserts as part of storefront system are not acceptable.
109 a600 Guestrooms - a601 Guestrooms & Suites – Structure
a602 Standard Guestrooms & Guest Suites
Guestrooms shall present a pleasing, quality residential appearance, be well maintained, and supply the furnishings and amenities necessary for a
guest’s comfort and to meet a guest’s expectations.
All Properties must obtain approval from the Design Department for all FF&E prior to purchase. A complete interior furnishings layout of all
typical and special rooms to scale, including furnishings specifications and color boards, shall be submitted.
All furnishings shall be commercial hospitality quality or better and shall be coordinated in design and finish.
For a proposed name that includes “Suites” or “& Suites” the following must be met:
• A Property must have 100% suites to use “All Suites” in its name, e.g., Best Western Phoenix All Suites Hotel.”
• A Property must have 100% suites to use “Suites” in their name, e.g., Best Western Phoenix Suites Hotel.”
• A Property must have 20% (rounding up) or more suites (two unit or extended suite) to use “& Suites” in it’s name e.g.; ”Best Western
Phoenix Hotel & Suites.”
A Property meeting the above criteria may utilize the term “Suites” on external signage for marketing purposes so long as qualifications of room
types are shown through the reservations system.
Minimum Furnishings & Finishes Requirements
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
General
Provide the required signature items for the guestrooms. Finish variations are acceptable to coordinate with design, but must be approved
by Best Western Design.
Floor – All Guestrooms & Suites
Minimum 32 ounce face weight per square yard with high-density pad and 100% solution dyed nylon. Carpet pad: Shall be a minimum 32
ounce per square yard all synthetic fiber commercial pad, minimum 64 ounce rubber pad, or attached pad.
Or ceramic tile, wood, commercial-quality hardwood style laminate/vinyl flooring, or stone is acceptable in the guestroom. Area rugs shall
be provided on either side of the king bed and between the double queen beds. Area rugs shall have non slip backing.
Bamboo, commercial-quality vinyl floor may be acceptable with prior approval.
Flooring to show evidence of professional
design influence in the selection and
execution of the flooring scheme.
Nylon with other synthetic blends requires prior approval from the Design Department.
Ceramic tile or better shall be used at kitchen/kitchenette areas. Larger format tile is recommended.
Institutional-level loop carpet, sheet vinyl at entry, or carpet that does not match between interconnecting doors is not acceptable.
Olefin carpet, solid-colored cut pile nylon, and institutional-level loop are not acceptable.
110 a600 Guestrooms - a602 Standard Guestrooms & Guest Suites
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Floor – All Guestrooms & Suites continued
New Construction: Provide porcelain tile or
Provide porcelain tile or other approved hard surface floors at the guestroom entry.
other approved hard surface floors at the
guestroom entry. Recommended applications Recommended application is to utilize the bathroom floor tile and extend into the entry
is to utilize the bathroom floor tile and extend area.
into the entry area.
Trim - Base – All Guestrooms & Suites
Base shall be 4” minimum carpet base or 4” minimum wood base.
Standard 4” vinyl/rubber cove base not allowed in guestrooms. Specialty bases shall be submitted to the Design Department for approval.
Wall – All Guestrooms & Suites
Provide 12 ounce vinyl Type 1 or painted drywall with textured or smooth finish.
Recommendation: Crown molding, wainscot, or accent paint with prior approval.
Wallcovering designed to be painted after installation, e.g., fiberglass, pre-finished sheet paneling, vinyl covered drywall panels, exposed
concrete block, and pre-finished panels are not acceptable.
Rich finishes that convey a warm and
inviting appeal to the guestroom shall be
provided.
Wallpaper border is not permitted.
A suite shall have a wall and door, arch, or other pre-approved physical separation between
the sitting and sleeping area.
If the two areas of a suite are not divided
by a wall and door, a decorative floor-toceiling partition, minimum 36” wide, that
separates the sleeping and sitting areas
shall be provided (gyp board walls/pony
walls are not acceptable).
Ceiling Height
Conversion: Shall be a minimum of 8’-0”. Dropped ceiling at entry shall be 7’-0” minimum. New Construction: Shall be 9’-0” for all floors.
Ceiling – All Guestrooms & Suites
Provide painted drywall with textured or smooth finish, or concrete with sprayed on textured finish.
Recommendation: Vaulted ceiling, coffered ceiling, and wood beamed ceiling.
Suspended ceilings are not permitted anywhere within the sleeping area. 2’ x 2’ acoustic decorative or revealed edge ceiling tile with
matching grid is acceptable in entries where access is needed.
Pressed cellulose ceilings, e.g., Tectum, are not acceptable.
Popcorn ceiling finish, if present, shall be removed or design may offset by a trade-off, e.g., crown molding.
Architectural enhancements to ceiling at
appropriate locations shall be provided,
e.g., soffit with recessed lighting over
headboard area.
111
a600 Guestrooms - a602 Standard Guestrooms & Guest Suites
Beds/Headboards – All Guestrooms & Suites
The bottom of the headboard shall be level or 1” below with the top of the mattress.
Note: Twin beds may be acceptable in secondary bedrooms with prior approval.
Slab, flat, and plank-style headboards are not acceptable.
Headboard shall be the same width as the mattress.
Contemporary headboards with oversized
height and detailing may be used with prior
approval.
Two Bedded
Rooms
One Bedded
Rooms
High-quality upscale, oversized headboard,
e.g., upholstered with a minimum height of
36” shall be provided.
High-quality upscale, oversized headboard,
e.g., upholstered, with a minimum height of
48” shall be provided.
New Construction and Conversion: Nothing smaller than a queen bed shall be provided except in ADA-complaint rooms.
One king or queen size bed shall be provided.
112 a600 Guestrooms - a602 Standard Guestrooms & Guest Suites
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Bedcovering – “Top of Bed” – All Guestrooms & Suites
• Bottom sheet (fitted or flat)
• Flat sheet (second sheet)
• Blanket: polyester fleece, cotton thermal,
down, synthetic down, or duvet blanket
insert
Option 1
• Top sheet
• Sheet shall have a tone on tone
damask pattern (stripe, block, or
similar), decorative piping, or other
enhancement, unless it is a solid color
other than white or is patterned.
• Bed scarf or decorative pillow**
• Bottom sheet (fitted or flat)
• Flat sheet (second sheet)
• Blanket: polyester fleece or cotton thermal
Option 2
• Third sheet: Can be either plain T200 or
Tone-on-Tone, depending on the way the
throw is made up on bed. (If bed is made in
a way that leaves the third sheet exposed,
then tone on tone is required.)
• Bottom sheet
• Flat sheet
Option 3
• Optional blanket with third flat sheet
• Washable duvet cover with removable
duvet blanket insert
• Bottom sheet (fitted or flat)
• Flat sheet (second sheet)
• Blanket: polyester fleece, cotton thermal,
down, synthetic down, or duvet blanket
insert
• Decorative heavy top sheet, tucked in
• Sheet shall be 100% polyester jacquard
or matelassé patterned fabric with a
minimum weight of 6 oz. per sq. yd. May
be white or colored.
• Decorative pillow and bed scarf**
• Bottom sheet (fitted or flat)
• Flat sheet (second sheet)
• Blanket: polyester fleece or cotton thermal
• Third sheet: Can be either plain T200 or
Tone-on-Tone, depending on the way the
throw is made up on bed. (If bed is made in
a way that leaves the third sheet exposed,
then tone on tone is required.)
• Decorative pillow**
• Bottom sheet (fitted or flat)
• Flat sheet (second sheet)
• Blanket: down, synthetic down, or duvet
blanket insert
• Decorative heavy top sheet, tucked in
• Sheet shall be 100% polyester
jacquard or matelassé patterned
fabric with a minimum weight of 6 oz.
per sq. yd. May be white or colored.
• Decorative pillow and bed scarf**
• Bottom sheet (fitted or flat)
• Flat sheet (second sheet)
• Blanket: down, synthetic down, or duvet
blanket insert
• Third sheet: Tone-on-Tone or plain T200,
depending on the way the throw is made
up on bed. (If bed is made in a way that
leaves the third sheet exposed, then tone
on tone is required.)
• Decorative pillow** or bed scarf
• Bottom sheet
• Bottom sheet
• Flat sheet
• Flat sheet
• Optional blanket with third flat sheet
• Optional blanket with third flat sheet
• Washable duvet cover with removable
duvet blanket insert
• Washable duvet cover with removable
duvet blanket insert
• Decorative pillow** or bed scarf
• Decorative pillow** or bed scarf
113 a600 Guestrooms - a602 Standard Guestrooms & Guest Suites
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Bedcovering – “Top of Bed” – All Guestrooms & Suites continued
Other bedding ensembles shall be submitted to the Design Department for prior review and approval.
All beds with foundations or box springs shall have a decorative covering to conceal the foundation or box spring. Bed frames and
legs or bed base shall also be concealed unless they are decorative and coordinated with the room furnishings. Acceptable methods of
concealment include, but are not limited to, bed skirts, dust ruffles, or box spring covers/huggers. All coverings shall coordinate with the
overall design of the bedcovering and room decor.
All beds require a skirt or foundation cover. Bed skirts shall clear the floor by no more than 1”.
Decorative Elements
One decorative element may be substituted for additional sleeping pillows with brand approval.
•
King beds: Two additional king pillows with sheeting weight pillow cases or shams may be counted as a decorative element
•
Queen or double beds: Two additional standard pillows with sheeting weight pillow cases or standard shams or two additional euro
pillows with euro shams or cases may be counted as a decorative element
**Examples of decorative pillows include: rectangular or square pillow, boudoir pillow and Euro pillow. Pillow shams qualify, but two are required if they are
sleeping pillow size and must be in addition to the standard sleeping requirement.
114 a600 Guestrooms - a602 Standard Guestrooms & Guest Suites
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Nightstands
A desk used as a nightstand is not acceptable. Quality self-edged laminate casegoods are acceptable with prior Design Deptartment
apporval.
Nightstand height shall be compatible with bed height (within 4”).
Recommendation: Nightstand in a two-bedded room to be larger than the standard 24” based on room size.
Contemporary headboards designed with wall mounted nightstands acceptable only with prior approval from the Design Department.
Two Bedded
Rooms
Single Bedded
Rooms
One nightstand, minimum size of 24”w x 22”h x 15”d, with shelf or drawer shall be provided.
Recommendation: 3-drawer chest.
Two nightstands, minimum size of 20”w x 22”h x 15”d, with shelf or drawer shall be provided.
Casegoods, Chest/Highboy – All Guestrooms & Suites
Furnishings shall be contract quality with
design elements reminiscent of high-end
residential decor.
Casegoods to incorporate upgraded finishes
such as decorative trims, detailed millwork,
solid wood tops treated with waterproof
finish, or protective glass top cover, or
natural stone tops.
Minimum size required for 3-drawer chest:
• 36”w x 21”d x 36”h. Minimum size required for credenza: 60”w x 18”d x 23”h. Highboy to be at least the height of the refrigerator.
• Open shelving and drawers in the closet.
• “California closet” is also acceptable in lieu of a chest.
• If no chest is provided, there must be at least three drawers in the closet.
• Chest must coordinate with other casegoods.
• Armoire is not acceptable.
• Low credenzas are not acceptable.
Recommendation: Custom millwork for amenities such as flat-panel TV, wet bar, microwave, and refrigerator. Additional drawers in closet
and/or furniture piece.
Quality combination casegoods and wall mounted casegoods may be allowed with prior Design Department approval. Quality self-edged
laminate casegoods are acceptable with prior Design Department approval.
115 a600 Guestrooms - a602 Standard Guestrooms & Guest Suites
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Mirror – All Guestrooms & Suites
One minimum size 18”w x 54”h mirror that permits a full view of a person shall be provided. Mirror shall be framed to coordinate with room
decor if placed in the sleeping area. If placed in the entrance area, mirror may be beveled (no frame required). Mirrored closet doors satisfy
this requirement.
Optional: One 24” x 36” minimum size framed mirror in the sitting or sleeping area.
Luggage Rack – All Guestrooms & Suites
Provide a minimum of one folding luggage rack.
Space for two full-size pieces of luggage
on a combination of portable luggage
rack, bench or dresser shall be provided. If
upholstered, it shall have decorative legs and
match the casegoods in the room.
Luggage Bench – Suites
One upholstered luggage bench shall be required.
Refrigerator – All Guestrooms & Suites
A mini-refrigerator or mini-bar shall be provided in all rooms and enclosed in a cabinet that
matches the casegoods or built-in.
Appliances Cabinet – All Guestrooms & Suites – Sitting Area
Black, white, or chrome refrigerator/microwave combination units shall be in an enclosure.
If individual refrigerators and microwaves are mismatching colors, they shall be in a cabinet
with a door which coordinates with the casegoods or a built-in enclosure.
A dedicated, built-in or freestanding
countertop space for the coffee machine
and accessories with accommodation
underneath for microwave and refrigerator
shall be provided. If freestanding, cabinet
should appear to be built-in. Countertop
shall be the same polished stone and 4”
back/side splash as the bathroom vanity top.
Countertop shall be a minimum of 24” x 20”
deep and shall provide adequate space for
coffee machine and accessories.
Kitchenette & Wet/Dry Bar Cabinet – All Guestrooms & Suites – Sitting Area
Budget quality laminate faced or melamine kitchen cabinets in guestrooms to be replaced with premium quality cabinets that give a
residential appearance.
Kitchenette & Wet/Dry Bar Countertops
Kitchenette countertops shall be made of stone, quartz, or approved equal, and coordinate with vanity or room decor.
116 a600 Guestrooms - a602 Standard Guestrooms & Guest Suites
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Seating/Lounge/Desk Area – All Guestrooms
• Option 1 - One 30”w x 30”d x 29”h parsons table, or one 48”w x 24”d X 30”h desk, placed perpendicular to the wall and two arm
chairs with upholstered seat and back.
• Recommendation: Option 1 - One 34”w x 34”d x 29”h parsons table, or one 48”w x 24”d x 30”h desk, placed perpendicular to the
wall and two arm chairs with upholstered seat and back.
• Option 2 - One 30”dia. x 29”h pedestal table with two arm chairs and one 48”w x 24”d x 30”h desk with rolling desk chair. In
Properties with a predominantly leisure clientele, a desk and rolling desk chair are not required.
• Recommendation: Option 2 - One 34”dia. x 29”h pedestal table with two arm chairs and one 48”w x 24”d x 30”h desk with an
upholstered ergonomic 5 prong based desk chair.
• Option 3 - One sofa or sofa sleeper with a coffee table (lounge chair optional). It is recommended that a 24”w x 18”d x 24”h side
table be provided. One 48”w x 24”d x 30”h desk with rolling desk chair. In Properties with a predominantly leisure clientele, a desk
and rolling desk chair are not required.
• Recommendation: Option 3 - Upholstered ergonomic 5 prong based chair at the desk, additional armchair at the desk beside the
ergonomic chair, larger work table.
• Option 4 - One chair with ottoman, side table, and lamp along with desk and chair. In one-bedded rooms, where structurally limited,
a nightstand and table lamp can be used in place of a side table and lamp. If there are structural limitations that will not allow either
of the above, the requirement is a desk and desk rolling chair, and a chair with upholstered seat and back placed next to the desk.
Recommendation: Additional seating where possible.
NOTE: Based on room size of 350 square feet or larger, additional seating may be required, as determined by the Design Department.
Seating/Arm Chair – Suites – Sleeping Area
Optional: One armchair with upholstered seat and back.
Recommendation: An additional armchair at the desk in addition to the ergonomic chair.
Seating All Guestrooms & Suites
Sled-base chairs are not acceptable.
Seat heights shall coordinate with the table height, e.g., chair seat 18”, table height 28/29”.
Lounge chair optional in guestrooms where a sofa is provided.
Recommendation: Additional seating where possible.
Recliners are not acceptable.
At least one sofa or chair shall be positioned for TV viewing.
Outstanding quality and comfort seating
that beautifully complements the balance of
the room decor shall be provided.
117 a600 Guestrooms - a602 Standard Guestrooms & Guest Suites
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Desk – All Guestrooms
Provide a desk at a minimum size of 24” x 48”. Alternatively, provide a stationary desk with an additional mobile work surface with an
overall work area of 12 square feet.
Desk Chair – All Guestrooms
If desk provided, provide a premium commercial ergonomic quality leather or fabric upholstered rolling chair that coordinates with the
room decor. May have arms or be armless.
Upholstery – All Guestrooms & Suites
Nylon, rayon, polyester, cotton, polyolefin, or wool, or a combination shall be used.
Upholstery shall meet or exceed 30,000 double rubs (Wyzenbeek method).
Design recommends that fabrics with different patterns be used on the different seating pieces rather than the same fabric/pattern on all
of the seating.
Window Treatments – All Guestrooms & Suites
100% polyester fabric window treatments shall be provided.
3 pass blackout on its own track or a sewn-in blackout lined over drape.
Sheer drapery on its own track or commercially rated sheer fabric blind with may be used with prior approval. Sheers are required at
sliding doors.
All fabrications shall have blind stitching on the overlaps, returns, hems, and heads.
Cornice, or architectural treatment to conceal top of drapery and hardware or decorative rod may be used with prior approval. If visible
from the outside of the building, the back of the cornice, or architectural treatment shall be finished. Treatments shall coordinate with the
room decor and bedding.
Note: Valances are not acceptable.
Recommendation: Coordinating fixed side panels. Quality shutters with strict adherence to privacy and minimal light leakage. Specifications
and installation drawing shall be submitted prior to purchase.
Anchored pull cords or wands with heavy duty hardware shall be provided.
Minimum 2” wood blinds or shutters or other blind styles are acceptable. If the treatment provides full blackout capability alternatively a
drapery treatment with blackout may be used in conjunction with large scale wood blinds or shutters.
Metal or plastic mini-blinds or vertical blinds are not acceptable.
Laminated linings are not acceptable.
Window treatment hardware shall extend fully past the window where space allows, allowing for the drapery to stack fully off of the
window and for full window exposure.
Lamps – All Guestrooms & Suites
Table lamps or hard wired wall lamps shall be provided. Floor lamps acceptable where appropriate. Wall-mount lamps with cord covers do
not comply with this requirement.
118 a600 Guestrooms - a602 Standard Guestrooms & Guest Suites
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Lighting – All Guestrooms & Suites
One light fixture shall be provided at each of the following locations:
• Each nightstand (20-50 foot candles)
• Highboy/3-drawer chest (20-50 foot candles)
• Desk (50-100 foot candles)
• Parsons table (50-100 foot candles)
• Lounge seating (20-50 foot candles)
• Framed mirror in guestroom (20-50 foot candles)
• Clothes hanging area (50-100 foot candles)
Recommendation: All room lamps are table or floor type with no wall lamps or cord covers. Integrated LED adjustable fixtures mounted to
headboard. Table lighting with integrated MP3 player. Pendant or recessed lighting at nightstand.
Lighting scheme shall have an overall
cohesive look and feel that gives the guest
full control over room ambiance.
Hanging (not swag) or wall lamps can be utilized at the activity table in lieu of floor lamps, but are not recommended because of less
flexible furniture placement.
Recommendation: Upgraded light fixtures at all locations.
For guest convenience, free-standing table lamps shall have weighted bases and base-located turn switches, and floor lamps shall have
weighted bases.
At least one light fixture shall operate from the wall switch at the entrance door.
Recessed can ceiling lights that effectively illuminate the desk, mirror, or chest are acceptable.
Mirror-wall lamps should be approximately 5’0” from the bulb to the floor.
Hanging (pendant) lamps at parsons/activity table should be approximately 5’ 6” from the bottom of the shade to the floor.
Table lamps located on pedestal tables are not acceptable. Table lamps may be located on square parsons/activity tables. Swag, strip
fluorescent, and pole lamps, are not acceptable.
Budget brass or powder-coat tubular wall lamps are not acceptable.
Lamp/table combinations are acceptable in undersized guestrooms only with approval of the Design Department.
Light bulbs shall be a minimum of a 100 watt equivalent (or 1,750 to 1,800 lumens) to ensure a well-lit guestroom.
NOTE: A 100 watt equivalent compact fluorescent bulb uses only 23 watts.
Adequate illumination shall be provided.
119 a600 Guestrooms - a602 Standard Guestrooms & Guest Suites
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Artwork – All Guestrooms & Suites
Guestroom: A minimum of two (2) minimum 24” x 30” coordinated, professionally matted,
and framed pieces of artwork shall be provided.
A minimum of three (3) 24” x 30” minimum
coordinated, original artwork, limited
edition prints, or giclee prints shall be
provided. Artwork shall be high-quality and
professionally produced. Low-quality, selfmatted art, poster-style artwork, and massproduced oil paintings are not acceptable.
Suite: A minimum of two (2) 24” x 30” coordinated, professionally matted, and framed pieces of artwork in both the sleeping area and the
sitting area shall be provided.
Two (2) or three (3) smaller matted and framed pictures that total 720 sq. in. can be substituted for one 24” x 30” framed artwork.
Recommendation: Oversized artwork.
Due to higher headboard height, hang artwork at adjoining walls at approximately 5’0” above finished floor to the center of the image.
Self-matted or unmated art, duplicate images, and mass-produced oil or acrylic paintings are not acceptable.
With prior Design Department approval, deco-graph, fillets, stretched canvas, or acrylics with transfers may be used. Certain art does not
require matting.
Thin brass (less than 1/2”) or other metal artwork frames (poster frame) are not allowed.
Recommendation: Upgraded framing and matting.
Artwork shall be appropriate to style of room decor.
120 a600 Guestrooms - a602 Standard Guestrooms & Guest Suites
Sitting Area
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Sofa/Sleeper – Suites – Sitting Area
One (1) 66” minimum sofa or sofa/sleeper shall be provided.
Lounge Chair/Recliner – Suites – Sitting Area
Optional: One (1) fully upholstered lounge chair. Recliners are not acceptable.
Sled-base chairs are not acceptable.
At least one (1) sofa or chair shall be positioned for TV viewing.
Recommendation: Additional seating where possible.
Side Table – Suites – Sitting Area
At least one (1) side table on one (1) side of sofa or sofa/sleeper shall be provided.
Chest/Highboy – Suites – Sitting Area
3-drawer chest or combination highboy for location of television shall be provided. Note: TV may be mounted above chest or highboy.
The television shall be viewable from both the sitting and sleeping areas.
Coffee Table – Suites – Sitting Area
A coffee table shall be provided with a sofa or sofa/sleeper.
Desk – Suite
Provide a desk that shall be a minimum size of 1,152 sq. in. (24” x 48”).
Recommendation: Work space faces television.
Desk Chair
Provide premium commercial ergonomic quality leather or fabric upholstered rolling chair that coordinates with the room decor may have
arms or be armless.
Recommendation: An additional armchair at the desk in addition to the ergonomic chair.
121 a600 Guestrooms - a602 Standard Guestrooms & Guest Suites
Specifications for Room Equipment
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Room Equipment – Required – All Guestrooms & Suites
Wastepaper
Basket
One (1) minimum size 13 quart wastepaper basket shall be provided.
Microwave
If provided, microwave shall be in or on refrigerator enclosure.
Ironing Board
Ironing board shall be located in the clothes hanging area or the dressing area. If in the sleeping area, it shall be enclosed in a case that
coordinates with the casegoods.
Ceiling Fan
Ceiling fan with a light kit is a recommended upgrade.
Required.
Television – All Guestrooms
Guestroom
A minimum of one (1) 40” or larger (diagonal measure) flat-panel television with HDMI. If
VOD enabled, clear easy directions of use and costs.
A minimum of one (1) 50” or larger (diagonal
measure) flat-panel television with HDMI. If
VOD enabled, clear easy directions of use
and costs.
Suites with or
without full
wall and door
separator
Two (2) 40” or larger (diagonal measure) flat-panel television with HDMI. If VOD enabled,
clear easy directions of use and costs.
Two (2) 50” or larger (diagonal measure)
flat-panel television with HDMI. If VOD
enabled, clear easy directions of use and
costs.
All televisions shall be LCD, LED or plasma flat-panel.
A good, clear signal shall with no blank channels and a full mute function.
All televisions shall be commercial grade to ensure that the features such as volume limiting, power-up channel, power-up volume, and preset picture controls that are unavailable to guests.
Televisions mounted to the wall in guestrooms must receive prior approval. A soundproof backer must be utilized on a millwork panel in
this application.
If the television is placed on or over a piece of furniture, scale of the furniture shall be appropriate to the size of the TV.
122 a600 Guestrooms - a602 Standard Guestrooms & Guest Suites
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Television – All Guestrooms continued
An easily accessible guest interface and
connectivity solution shall be provided at the
desk; including connections for guest device
connectivity that provide the capability to:
(i) dynamically detect and configure the
TV to appropriately play content from the
source device; and (ii) to display video from
one source, while simultaneously playing
audio from a second source.
Television
Connectivity
Wireless connectivity that provides that
same capabilities are acceptable.
Telephone – All Guestrooms
Provide one cordless phone per guestroom.
When a phone is added or replaced, the one on the desk should be a speakerphone.
Guestroom telephones shall have voice mail.
One (1) neutral-colored direct dial telephone shall be provided.
The hotel telephone system must provide that when 911 is dialed on a guestroom telephone, without using an access code, the guest will
be connected to emergency services personnel and/or a hotel employee.
123 a600 Guestrooms - a602 Standard Guestrooms & Guest Suites
Sleep Sets, Beds & Bed Frames
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Minimum Specification’s for Beds – Required – All Guestrooms & Suites Sleeping Area
Minimum size bed acceptable in Best Western guestrooms for queen beds: 60” x 80”; standard king beds: 76” x 80”; and California king
beds: 72” x 84”.
Sizes
Note: Full extra longs (54”x 80”) are permitted in conversions if the beds are in good condition and may be maintained until replacement
or if the room cannot fit two queen beds. Standard king beds (76”x 80”) and California king beds (72”x 84”) shall be used in at least 10% of
guestrooms per guidelines effective 10/1/01.
ADA or handicap room beds are an exception to this requirement.
Minimum bed set (mattress and box spring) height shall be 18”. (One mattress topper may be used to achieve 1” of this minimum.) Overall
bed height to be 25” minimum.
Note: Coin-operated vibrating beds, day, or studio beds are not acceptable. Twin beds are acceptable in secondary bedrooms with prior
Design Department approval.
Mattress
Current industry standard specifications on beds are 520 coil, 14 gauge tempered steel unit with minimum 6 gauge border wire, 1/2” fiber
pads or polyfoam on both sides of primary insulator, 1/4” pads or polyfoam on secondary insulator, additional layers of foam for support;
3/4” quilt layer with backer sheet on both sides for secondary cushion; contract-grade ticking and border ticking cover; border assembly
vertically quilted, one-piece, by the flanging process (no smooth top, non-quilted covers or button tufting allowed); four multilingual rotate
labels. Good quality foam mattresses not less than 6” thick are acceptable.
Shall provide 81-unit coil or torsion spring support; grid unit on wood slat/rail foundation frame system; foam or pre-compressed treated
cotton felt upholstery; non-skid topper; border to match mattress ticking; and cloth or non-woven dust cover and plastic corner guards.
Foundations
Covers
Bed Bases &
Frames
Bed Sets
Heavy-duty, non-resilient, multiple slat-upholstered foundations for use with properly designed mattresses are acceptable where increased
firmness and durability are required. Shall be constructed of 275 pound high burst fiber over multiple-slat narrow-spaced frame with
four perimeter rails and side fillers. Use Canadian spruce #3 common or better lumber with 12% to 19% moisture content. There shall be
a minimum of four vertical support blocks per side and center, cut square and glued. Construction shall be adequate for use with welldesigned bed base or metal frame.
Mattresses and box springs, minimum heavy-duty firm cover is required. Covers shall comply with all prevailing codes.
Shall be standard in size to accommodate bedding width and length, and shall be all steel, angle, or channel iron heavy duty, with minimum
2” diameter glides or casters. Platform frames, built to the floor, are preferable.
Platform beds may be acceptable with prior approval. Box spring must be covered with a washable fabric or vinyl.
Bed set shall be chosen from Best Western’s
“Good”, “Better”, or “Best” list of approved
bed sets.
Bed set shall be chosen from Best Western’s
“Better” or “Best” list of approved bed sets.
124 a600 Guestrooms - a602 Standard Guestrooms & Guest Suites
Bed set shall be chosen from Best Western’s
“Best” list of approved bed sets.
Specifications for Mini Kitchens
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Kitchen & Dining – Required Furnishings for Mini Kitchens
Refrigerator
Microwave
Apartment-size refrigerator with ice maker or ice trays shall be provided.
Microwave shall be provided.
Recommendation: Microwave mounted under the upper cabinets.
Toaster
Toaster shall be provided.
Dining Table
Shall be at least 30”w x 30”d x 29”h or 30”d and have two (2) chairs with upholstered seats with arms or counter and stools with backs to
accommodate two people.
Quality Services
For Four (4)
Dinner plate, bowl, tea cup and plate, salad plates, water glass, wine glass, and silverware place setting shall be provided.
Cooking &
Serving Utensils
Bowls, baking dishes, serving spoons, etc. shall be provided.
Electric Can
Opener
Shall be provided.
Kitchen Linens
Shall be provided.
Paper Towels
Shall be provided.
Sink
Shall be provided.
Wastepaper
Basket
Minimum size 13 quart wastepaper basket shall be provided.
Adequate
Workspace
Approximately four lineal feet, excluding the sink, shall be provided.
Kitchenette
Cabinets
If provided, budget quality laminate faced or melamine kitchen cabinets in guestrooms to be replaced with premium quality cabinets that
give a residential appearance.
Kitchenette
Countertops
Kitchenette countertops to be of stone, quartz or approved equal, and coordinate with vanity or room decor.
125 a600 Guestrooms - a602 Standard Guestrooms & Guest Suites
Specifications for Full Kitchen
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Kitchen & Dining – Required Furnishings for Full Kitchens
Refrigerator
Microwave
Apartment-size refrigerator with ice maker or ice trays shall be provided.
Shall be provided.
Recommendation: Microwave mounted under the upper cabinets located over the twin burner range for exhaust purposes.
Twin Burner
Range
Shall be provided.
Toaster
Shall be provided.
Dishwasher
Apartment-size dishwasher shall be provided.
Dining Table
Shall be a minimum of 36”w x 36”d x 29”h or 36”d x 29”h and have four armless chairs with an upholstered seat (this is a minimum
requirement; the table can be larger in size accompanied by more chairs) or counter and stools with backs to accommodate four people.
Quality Services
For Four (4)
Dinner plate, bowl, tea cup and plate, salad plates, water glass, wine glass, silverware place setting shall be provided.
Cooking &
Serving Utensils
Bowls, baking dishes, serving spoons etc., shall be provided.
Set of Pots & Pans Shall be provided.
Electric Can
Opener
Shall be provided.
Kitchen Linens
Dish towel and washcloth shall be provided.
Paper Towels
Shall be provided.
Sink
Shall be provided.
Wastepaper
Basket
Minimum size 13 quart wastepaper basket shall be provided.
Adequate
Workspace
Approximately eight lineal feet, excluding the sink, shall be provided.
Kitchenette
Cabinets
If provided, budget quality laminate faced or melamine kitchen cabinets in guestrooms to be replaced with premium quality cabinets that
give a residential appearance.
Kitchenette
Countertops
Kitchenette countertops to be of stone, quartz or approved equal, and coordinate with vanity or room decor.
126 a600 Guestrooms - a602 Standard Guestrooms & Guest Suites
a603 Bath/Vanity Area (All Guestroom Types)
Bath/vanity areas shall present a pleasing and quality appearance. Such area shall be well-maintained and supply the furnishings and amenities
necessary for a guest’s comfort and to meet a guest’s expectations. The interior construction finishes and furnishings shall be designed to
enhance each guest’s stay.
A complete interior furnishings layout of all typical and special rooms to scale, including furnishings, specifications, and color boards shall be
provided.
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
General
Decor and appointments shall deliver a
relaxing spa-like feel.
Floor
Ceramic, porcelain, or quarry tile with a minimum DCOF of .42 or coefficient of friction rating of 0.6 in both wet and dry conditions shall be
provided (for European tile, a test DIN 51130 minimum rating of R9). If natural stone is used, a water-based, non-skid finish shall be applied
to the tile surface.
Recommendation: Marble or other stone flooring.
A 2” minimum width, sealed marble,
travertine, or granite threshold at the door
with a maximum height of 5⁄16” above bath
floor level is required, except where tile
continues into a separate vanity area.
Carpet shall be used in outside vanity areas only. Ceramic tile may be used in outside vanity area.
Sheet vinyl and vinyl composition tile are not acceptable.
Trim - Base
Shall be 4” minimum carpet in outside vanity area, 4” minimum wood base, or 4” minimum ceramic tile base in tub/toilet rooms.
Wall
May be 12 ounce vinyl Type 1 or drywall with textured or smooth finish and enamel paint.
Recommendation: Crown molding, wainscot, ceramic tile, interior stone, or specialty finish.
Wallpaper border is not permitted.
Vanity areas that are separate from the
bathtub and toilet areas shall match the
guestroom bedroom walls.
Ceiling
Shall be drywall with smooth or textured finish and enamel paint. Or 2’ x 2’ acoustic ceiling tile with matching grid.
The bath/vanity area ceiling may be suspended to a minimum height of 7’ 0”.
Popcorn ceilings are not acceptable.
127 a600 Guestrooms - a603 Bath/Vanity Area (All Guestrooms Types)
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Lighting
Guest bath lighting shall be Underwriters Laboratories approved over the vanity mirror. A minimum of 2,500 lumens shall be provided
(approximately equivalent to two 75-watt incandescent bulbs).
Provide quality decorative fluorescent, incandescent wall, ceiling-mounted fixtures or recessed incandescent.
Bent glass fixtures are unacceptable.
Multi-bulb “Hollywood” and plain fluorescent tubular or rectangular fixtures are not acceptable.
Lighting shall be provided in shower stall or
bathtub location. (New Construction only.)
Lighting shall be provided in shower stall or
bathtub location.
Electrical
New Construction: Two (2) duplex outlets shall be provided. If possible, one duplex shall be provided at each end of the vanity.
Towel Bars
One (1) 18” towel bar near the vanity area shall be provided.
Recommendation: Decorative iron, porcelain, and combination metal finishes.
One (1) 24” towel bar with shelf shall be provided.
Towel stack racks are not acceptable.
Where a “furniture style” vanity with towel shelves is used, two (2) towel bars instead of one (1) towel bar and a bar/shelf combination are
permitted.
Recommendation: Additional towel bars or shelves for guest convenience. Decorative towel bars to enhance the area.
Water Closet
Vitreous china, tank-type water closets, with closed seat toilet seat and lids, shall be provided.
Recommendation: Elongated water closet and seat.
Mirror
The vanity mirror shall have a decorative frame and shall be 36” high and centered over the sink. For vanities less than 5’-0” in length, the
mirror shall have a minimum framed width of 36”. For vanities 5’-0” and longer, the mirror shall have a minimum framed width of 42”.
A smaller mirror may be used if a wall sconce is installed on both sides of the mirror.
If a full-view mirror is provided in the bath/vanity area, it shall be beveled or framed.
Magnifying mirror at vanity. Lighted
recommended.
Vanity
The vanity shall be a minimum of 4’0” in length within the bathroom or in an outside vanity area. A 4” back splash and minimum 7” apron
shall be provided. A pedestal sink with shelf may be acceptable with prior approval. A wall-mounted sink or a vanity with an apron of less
than 7” is acceptable where ADA compliance is required.
If the vanity is structurally limited by walls and under 48” wide a furniture/shelving unit below the vanity is required for additional storage.
Vanities that cannot accommodate a lower storage, e.g.; accessibility requirements, provide a quality toiletry shelf, prior approval is
required.
128 a600 Guestrooms - a603 Bath/Vanity Area (All Guestrooms Types)
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Vanity continued
Top shall be granite, quartz or approved equal. Sink to be under-mount or approved equal. Outdated vanity cabinets, cultured marble,
laminate finishes, and vanities with thin, metal support legs are not acceptable.
Decorative style vanity which can be
furniture style or wall-mounted.
Wash Basin
One porcelain under-mount, vessel sink or approved equal. Each to have pop-up stopper.
Recommendation: Upgraded wash basins and hardware.
Pedestal sinks with additional shelving may be used with prior approval.
Metal-rimmed sinks, cultured marble, and rubber stoppers are not acceptable.
Room Accessories
Toilet Paper
Dispenser
Tissue Dispenser
One double-roll tissue dispenser shall be provided, or a single-roll dispenser may be used, provided, upgraded shelving vanity is used to
accommodate the extra roll.
Permanently mounted facial tissue dispenser or decorative holder.
Recommendation: Upgraded amenities package.
Robe Hook
Double robe hook shall be provided.
Door Stop
One doorstop on the bath door or opposite wall shall be provided.
Free standing decorative tissue holder.
A 24” grab bar that coordinates with the bath finishes in the tub/shower shall be provided in all rooms.
Grab Bar
Within the tub enclosure, the grab bar may be located horizontally or angled on the large back wall, or vertically on either of the two small
walls. If placed vertically, it shall be located on the wall where the guest enters and exits the tub. If it is possible with the bathroom layout,
the bar may be placed on the drywall immediately adjacent to and on the same plane as the tub enclosure within 6” of the surround. The
recommended height for the horizontal bar placement on the large wall is 33”-36” above the finished floor. The recommended height for
the vertical bar is between 42”-48” from the finished floor to the center of the bar. Tubs with existing grab bars that are less than 24” long
are acceptable and exempt from having to be replaced (built-in thin metal or acrylic towel bars do not qualify as grab bars).
Shower Curtain
Heavy-duty shower curtain shall be provided for each bathtub. Fabric-type material, such as nylon, polyester or similar fabric is acceptable.
Curtain may include a clear strip of vinyl across the width that allows for light to enter the shower. Vinyl not acceptable as overdrape or
liner.
A curved shower rod finished to coordinate with the bath hardware shall be provided.
Bathtub / Shower
Showers only are acceptable in up to 90% of all guestroom bathrooms.
Recommendation: New Construction: Showers are encouraged for king bedded inventory. Confirm customer base and tub demand.
For bathtubs, a minimum of 5’0” long by 2’-6” wide by 1’-2” high is required. For showers, the minimum clear shower base size is
48” x 34”.
Tubs shall have a non-skid bottom surface.
129 a600 Guestrooms - a603 Bath/Vanity Area (All Guestrooms Types)
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Bathtub / Shower continued
Each tub or shower unit shall have a minimum of one (1) soap holder.
Gel-coated fiberglass or acrylic tubs are not acceptable. Cast iron or approved equal shall be provided.
Enclosure shall be ceramic tile, natural stone, or approved equal. Certain high-quality patterned cultured marble may be acceptable with
prior approval.
If provided, glass shower enclosures or open
shower with tile-covered partition required
(no shower curtains in rooms with showers
only).
Shower bench built-in or freestanding shall
be provided. Budget plastic benches not
acceptable.
Budget “Builders’ Grade” shower heads not acceptable. See Descriptor Supply Ratings Guide for pre-approved items per descriptor.
Recommendation: Other shower heads must be submitted for approval.
New Construction: There shall be 6’-6” height measured from tub/shower floor to center of shower head at its lowest point. Suggested
rough in installation for stub out 7’-0” from concrete floor center of pipe. Conversion Properties: If the height is less than 6’ - 0”, a shower
head height extender or a hand-held shower mounted to provide a 6”-0” height when the shower head is cradled may be used.
Select from “Good” for shower heads.
Select from “Better” for shower heads.
Select from “Best” for shower heads.
Tub / Shower Enclosure
Porcelain, ceramic, glass or natural stone tile, solid surface, natural stone slabs are acceptable. Tub enclosures with pre-finished wallboard,
laminate, floor vinyl, gel-coated fiberglass, and enamel over steel, porcelain and acrylic are not acceptable. Certain high-quality cultured
marble may be acceptable with prior approval.
Soap dish with grab handle and rubber stoppers are not acceptable.
Artwork
One (1) piece of artwork is required in the guest bath.
Artwork shall be high-quality and professionally produced. Low-quality, self-matted art,
poster style artwork, and mass-produced oil paintings are not acceptable.
130 a600 Guestrooms - a603 Bath/Vanity Area (All Guestrooms Types)
a700 Executive Residency by Best Western℠ (Extended Stay)
All Best Western Plus requirements, guidelines, and standards apply to Extended Stay unless otherwise specified in this section.
a701 General Standards
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
General Standards
Minimum of forty percent (40%) extended
stay rooms required for dual branded
properties.
Energy management system for all
guestrooms, e.g. PTAC units.
Make up air system for all public spaces, e.g.
HVAC system.
Minimum square footage requirement of
guestrooms:
• One Bedded Studio:
330 square feet
• Two Bedded Studio:
350 square feet
• King One Bedroom:
550 square feet
• Double Queen:
565 square feet
Service standards:
• Front Desk
• Staffed 24 hours per day
• Housekeeping (at a minimum)
• Every third day
• Daily: fresh towels and trash pickup
• Full clean upon request
131
a700 Executive Residency by Best Western℠ (Extended Stay)
Best Western Premier®
a702 Exterior Grounds
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Picnic Area
Picnic area to be covered.
PLUS quality tables and chairs and/or
benches.
One (1) grill per 50 rooms.
Television
Outdoor heater, fire pit or fireplace.
Smoking Area
Designated exterior smoking area (in
compliance with any governmental
regulatory requirement).
132 a700 Executive Residency by Best Western℠ (Extended Stay)
Best Western Premier®
a703 Public Areas
a704 Lobby/Breakfast Area
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Lobby / Breakfast Size
1-150 rooms:
Minimum of 1,255 sq. ft.
Seating
.45 seats per hotel bed in the lobby/
breakfast area.
A mixture of seating types (e.g. dining,
lounge, and sofa seating) is to be provided.
a705 Business Center
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Business Center
business center with wireless HSIA
A
connectivity and print capability is required.
1-99 rooms:
Minimum two (2) guest accessible computer
stations.
100+rooms:
Minimum three (3) guest accessible
computer stations.
133 a700 Executive Residency by Best Western℠ (Extended Stay)
Best Western Premier®
a706 Public Restroom
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Public Restroom
A minimum of two (2) public restrooms are
required. Each restroom to accommodate at
least one (1) person; unisex is acceptable.
Each to have at least one (1) sink and one (1)
toilet, and comply with governmental agency
requirements.
a707 Fitness Room
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Fitness Room
1-99 rooms at 400 sq. ft.
Four (4) pieces of cardio equipment and one
(1) two station strength machine.
100-150 rooms at 500 sq. ft.
Five (5) pieces of cardio equipment and one
(1) three station strength machine.
Provide free weight rack with free weights
and (2) two free weight benches.
Water cooler
Scale
Towel shelf
Rubber flooring
wo (2) 40 inch minimum flat-panel
T
televisions.
igh-quality professionally framed artwork
H
and/or fitness instructions.
134 a700 Executive Residency by Best Western℠ (Extended Stay)
Best Western Premier®
a708 Pool
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Pool
Mandatory:
• Properties with 1-50 guestrooms:
minimum 300 sq. ft. pool.
• Properties with 51-100 guestrooms:
minimum 400 sq. ft. pool.
• Properties with 101-200 guestrooms:
minimum 500 sq. ft. pool.
• Properties with 201+ guestrooms:
minimum 600 sq. ft. pool.
a709 Vending
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Ice Machines
One (1) on every other floor or one (1) per 60
guestrooms.
a710 Guest Laundry
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Guest Laundry
Minimum three (3) washers and three (3)
dryers for every 100 guestrooms.
For Dual-Branded properties: Minimum of
two (2) washers and two (2) dryers for every
100 guestrooms.
rovide coin-operated soap/bleach/softener
P
dispenser, or have products available in the
sundry shop or at the front desk with a sign
indicating where it is available.
135 a700 Executive Residency by Best Western℠ (Extended Stay)
Best Western Premier®
a711 Guestrooms
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
General
ntry and kitchenette area must have hard
E
surface flooring, e.g., tile or commercial
quality vinyl or laminate to designate the
area.
Suites
ecorative floor-to-ceiling partition,
D
minimum 36” wide opening that separates
the sleeping and sitting areas.
Furniture & Other
In-room Safe
In-room safe
Chest
Three drawer chest
Desk
Desk
Activity Table
Activity table
Sofa
leeper sofa in suites, minimum full size bed
S
required
Tables & Chairs
Kitchenette table in suites
Four (4) dining chairs in suites
Kitchen Area - Appliances
Studio guestroom with full refrigerator
option:
Full Size
Refrigerator
Refrigerator/freezer combination with at
least one individual door for the fridge and
one individual door for the freezer. Minimum
9 cubic ft. (e.g., 58” high x 22” wide x 24”
deep).
Standard Studio guestroom:
Under Counter
Refrigerator
Under counter refrigerator/freezer
combination with at least one individual
door for the fridge and one individual door
for the freezer. Minimum 3.0 cubic ft. (33”h x
19”w x 20”d).
Convection
Microwave
inimum 900 watts and 0.9 cubic feet
M
shall be provided. Over the range model
preferred.
Range/Cooktop
ange/cooktop shall be provided. Outside
R
venting is required.
136 a700 Executive Residency by Best Western℠ (Extended Stay)
Best Western Premier®
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Kitchen Area - Appliances continued
Dishwasher
Dishwasher shall be provided.
Toaster
Toaster shall be provided.
Garbage disposal
In-sink garbage disposal is recommended.
Kitchenware
8 quart saucepan with lid
Cookware
4 quart saucepan with lid
10 inch fry pan
6 inch fry pan
Accessories
Accessories
Drawer organizer
Pot holder - 2 (two)
Cutting board
Serving spoon
Can opener
Corkscrew/bottle opener
Cooking &
Serving Utensils
Rubber spatula
Paring knife
French knife
Peeler
Measuring cup and spoon set
Detergent / Soap
Dish soap (in manufacturer’s container)
Dishwasher detergent
Kitchen Linens
Dish towels - 2 (two)
Paper Towels
Paper towel holder (non-plastic)
Trash Can
Under cabinet trash can
Dinnerware - 4 For Each Item
Dinner Plates
9 inch (approximate) dinner plates (porcelain
ceramic or Corelle® style or equivalent
required)
Plates
6 inch (approximate) plates
Bowls
Cereal bowls
Mugs
Coffee mugs
137 a700 Executive Residency by Best Western℠ (Extended Stay)
Best Western Premier®
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Dinnerware - 4 For Each Item continued
Cutlery
Three (3) piece cutlery place settings (knife,
fork, spoon)
Spices
Disposable/portion control salt and pepper
a712 Guest Bath
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Mirror
Wall-mounted or free-standing makeup
mirror.
Artwork
inimum one (1) piece of art work; must be
M
high-quality and professionally produced.
Tub Surround
lass shower enclosures with tile-covered
G
surrounds in rooms with showers only.
Toilet Tissue
Toilet tissue:
• 2 rolls, two-ply
• 2 additional reserve rolls in storage
138 a700 Executive Residency by Best Western℠ (Extended Stay)
Best Western Premier®
a800 Conversion
Best Western members shall comply with all prevailing laws, ordinances and regulations pertaining to the operation or construction of a hotel/
motel or resort property. Each Best Western member will maintain the premises in a clean, safe and orderly condition.
a801 General Standards
Subject
Best Western®
Best Western Plus®
Best Western Premier®
Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Carbon monoxide detectors (as described below) in: (a) all guestrooms; (b) all rooms and enclosed spaces where fuel is burned; (c) all
rooms and enclosed spaces sharing a wall, floor, or ceiling with an enclosed space where fuel is burned; and (d) all rooms and enclosed
spaces next to, above, or below a vent pipe for equipment or appliances that burn fuel.
The carbon monoxide detector may be battery-operated; plugged into an electrical outlet with a battery backup and not controlled by a
switch; or hardwired with a battery backup if the power is interrupted. The carbon monoxide detector may be combined with a smoke
detector.
The carbon monoxide detector must have been tested and certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory that is OSHA/CCOHSapproved and pursuant to the requirements of the American National standards Institute (“ANSI”) or Canadian Standards Association
(“CSA”) and Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (“UL”), as set forth in either UL2034 or UL2075, or successor standards. If combined with a
smoke detector, it must also comply with UL217 for smoke detectors.
“Fuel” means any type of fuel, including but not limited to natural gas, oil, coal, charcoal, petroleum, propane, gasoline, and wood;
“Equipment or appliances that burn fuel” means any equipment, appliance, or other source that burns any type of fuel, including but not
limited to heaters, hot water heaters, furnaces, fireplaces, wood-burning stoves, gas stoves and dryers, pool and spa heaters, generators,
and grills.
Carbon monoxide detectors shall comply with all prevailing laws, ordinances and regulations pertaining to carbon monoxide detectors and
alarms, and to the extent there is a conflict between these Best Western International, Inc. requirements and any state, federal, or local law,
the more stringent requirement shall apply to any room or space.
139 a800 Conversion - a801 General Standards
Glossary of Terms used by Architects and Hospitality Interior Designers
General Design Terms:
Budget: Inferior, cheaply made, substandard, low-quality.
Classic: Of lasting historical or literary significance. Something
considered to be typical or traditional.
Contemporary: Current, modern; characterized today by simplicity,
overall warmth, and elegance of design.
Coordinated: Harmonized in a common action or effort; works together
harmoniously.
Dated: Old-fashioned, antiquated, out of date. Trendy style no longer
in vogue.
Eclectic: Choosing what appears to be the best from diverse sources,
systems, or styles.
FF&E: Furniture, fixtures, and equipment.
Fillet: A small molding fitted to the inside of a mat, in between mats,
or just inside the frame to give depth and definition to the art being
showcased.
Foot Candles: A unit of measure of the intensity of light falling on a
surface.
Pneumatic Wheel: A wheel filled with or containing compressed air.
Proportion: Harmonious relation, balance, symmetry.
Refurbish: To make clean, bright, or fresh again; renovate.
Remodel: To remake with a new structure; reconstruct, renovate.
Renovate: To restore to an earlier condition; improve by repairing or
remodeling.
Restore: To bring back into existence or use.
Solid Surface: A non-porous blend of acrylic or polymer resins and
140 Glossary of Terms
mineral fillers, uniform in composition throughout.
Sound Transmission Class (STC): A single-number system used to rate
the airborne sound transmission performance of a wall, panel, ceiling,
etc. The higher the STC number, the better the ability to block sound
transmission.
Traditional: Any time-honored practice or a set of such practices; a
style that has become a classic.
Transitional: A blend of traditional and contemporary styles.
Threshold: Acts as a transitional piece between two different finish
floor levels.
Vinyl Tile: The main ingredient of vinyl products is polyvinyl chloride
resin. Vinyl products are sometimes referred to as flexible vinyl to
distinguish them from VAT (Vinyl Asbestos Tile) products, which are
also made with PVC resins and are termed semi-flexible vinyl.
Vinyl Sheet: Same as Vinyl Tile, but in rolled sheets.
141
Glossary of Terms
Furniture Design Terms:
Armoire: Tall, deep piece of furniture for hanging clothes and often made
with doors for residential use. The armoire adapted for hospitality use
today is usually shorter and has television space, rather than hanging
space with drawers below.
Casegoods: Guestroom furniture items that are matching pieces:
headboard, nightstand, chest, armoire, parsons or pedestal table, desk,
and framed mirror.
Console Table: Narrow rectangular table placed against a wall or behind
a sofa.
Dovetail: Joint made by hard tongues of wood to hold front and back
drawer corners securely.
Parsons Table: Activity table that is square in configuration and has four
legs.
Pedestal Table: A single-center pedestal supports the table top, or the
pedestal may have a tripod base.
Sled Base Chair: Lounge or desk chair with wood frame, in which the legs
become the chair’s horizontal base.
Wing Chair: Upholstered chair with high wings flanking the back.
142 Glossary of Terms
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