People
Susie Grynol resigns from HAC, appointed VP at Marriott International
The Hotel Association of Canada (HAC) has announced the resignation of Susie Grynol from her position as president and CEO, effective June 3rd, 2024
News
Hilton unveils new extended‑stay brand
Hilton has announced LivSmart Studios by Hilton as the official name of its new studio apartment-style, extended-stay hotel brand.
Created for the long-stay guest who never stops travelling, LivSmart Studios has received interest from owners and developers in just six months, with more than 350 deals in various stages of negotiation.
Construction in Kokomo, Ind. broke ground less than five months after the brand was first announced, marking the first hotel under construction for the LivSmart Studios brand—expected to open in late summer 2024.
LivSmart Studios by Hilton is the newest addition to Hilton's portfolio of 22 world-class brands. The lower midscale, extended-stay solution provides a reliable and consistent foundation for the long stay, allowing guests to make the most of every day.
"At Hilton, we continue to innovate our brands to meet the needs of the ever-evolving traveler, and we are excited to find an opportunity to better serve the long-stay guest with LivSmart Studios,” says Chris Silcock, president, global brands and commercial services, Hilton. “From luxury to premium economy, Hilton has a rich history of strategically building brands for every guest and every travel occasion.”
LivSmart Studios addresses a clear void in the market by targeting an underserved segment of guests staying 20 nights or more. This intentional approach positions LivSmart Studios as a disruptive force in the extended stay market by meeting the distinct needs of longer-term guests with essential amenities for an exceptional stay experience. Long-stay travelers can expect three signature elements, including:
Deliberate design: Long-stay guests will be welcomed by the hotel’s inviting exterior of warm wood tones and a modern farmhouse-inspired palette with light industrial touches.
Spacious studio apartment-style accommodations: The adaptable layout of the thoughtfully crafted suites will provide comfort and functionality. Each room will feature spacious bathrooms, ample storage space, efficient closet design, and movable, multi-purpose furniture that allows guests to utilize the space as a place to work and rest.
Nontraditional lobby experience: The brand’s hyper-functional lobby allows sight lines from the front desk to the fitness and laundry areas, as well as a simple retail market, creating a safe and welcoming environment for long-stay guests.
