Originally Posted by
pinniped
In the 1980's and earlier, what were the primary choices for the kinds of rural/suburban hotels we're talking about here? Brands like the original Holiday Inn and Howard Johnson's come to mind. Maybe Ramada was more of a common brand then?
I guess I look at it the other way and say our total choices are much greater now. We have all of these "minisuite" brands and full-suite brands to choose from if we want space.
From a standard room perspective, I'll admit I've never measured the square footage of an HIX, Hampton, Fairfield, etc. room. They always seem fine to me. The places I feel the most cramped are older hotels in Europe, especially in boutique or non-chain hotels where each room may be individually bookable, eliminating upgrades and the like.
I think you're right about there being less choices back in those days. Extended stay properties weren't really a thing and the upper end of economy properties with interior corridors just coming into the market full-speed.
I too do like that there's a myriad of choices today. It's also great from an owner perspective as you can have a more unique product in a 'full' market and still attract/retain business.
I'm not saying that the modern rooms are cramped by any means, but I know that rooms that were constructed earlier had larger square foot plans for sure. Good arrangement and layout can even make a small room seem bigger though, which to me is the hallmark of great design.