The hotel industry is starting to bounce back post-pandemic, but hoteliers still don’t want to see any of that springiness in their indoor paneling or exterior claddings. Whether it is the roof, walls, balcony, sunshade, or bathroom counter, hotels want quality materials that are both sturdy and attractive. That’s why phenolic panels are such a great choice throughout hotels.
What are Phenolic Panels?
Phenolic panels are a versatile architectural product made under high pressure and temperature.
This process makes extremely tough and non-porous, high pressure laminate (HPL) panels used both inside and outside hotels. These panels are:
- Moisture resistant
- Graffiti resistant
- Very easy to clean
- Resistant to UV rays
- Suitable in extreme weather conditions
- Able to tolerate a temperature range from -112F to +356F
- Scratch and impact resistant
More fire resistant than wood, these panels come in many different shapes and work well to delineate spaces while adding architectural impact. All of this can prove useful in the many high traffic areas of a hotel. Let’s look next at the many areas where phenolic panels can work in hotel design.
Phenolic Panels for Hotel Exteriors
In 2019, hotel occupancy and average daily rates were growing. Then, the pandemic hit, and both dropped dramatically. Yet hotel construction has continued. Even accounting for the slow down, HVS predicts an increase in supply by 1.3% in 2021 and 2022, which is not that far off from the 2.0% supply change in 2020.
Yet, even if they’re not building a brand new hotel, hotel owners may be renovating or revamping internal or exterior areas to enhance appeal to guests.
Even before hotel guests enter the hotel, they can be impressed by phenolic panel balconies and decks, sunshades or outdoor furniture. At Mexico City, Mexico’s Motel Picasso, for instance, designers wanted to honor the named artist. Using lightweight rainscreen phenolic panels, they were able to achieve a contemporary and artistic facade for a quirky hotel.
It’s also easy to use the paneling to communicate a brand experience. Digitally printed HPL panels make anything possible as designers can dictate the shape, size, and colors to carry branding to the building materials as well.
Interior HPL Panels for Hotel Use
There are also many places to use phenolic panels throughout the hotel interior. Start at reception, since that’s where guests will begin. You might create a beautiful entrance to draw people in and use the paneling to help divide check-in, valet and concierge services, and cafe spaces. Elevator lobbies benefit also from this durable yet decorative panel selection. As the paneling is sanitary and damage resistance it makes an adaptable and attractive choice for these high traffic areas.
The durability of the HPL material also makes it a great choice for hallways. You don’t have to worry about wear and tear as this sturdy, high quality paneling can withstand luggage dings or graffiti damage.
Within guest rooms, easy-to-clean phenolic panels make housekeeping more efficient in kitchenettes and bedrooms. As the paneling comes in a wide array of material finishes, you can create the look you’re going for without having to always have to touch up paint or repaper walls. Flexible and functional HPL panels withstand the worst that your guests, their pets, and luggage can do to hotel rooms.
High moisture resistance ratings also put HPL paneling in the running for bathrooms, pool areas, and exercise centers. Phenolic paneling cabinets or countertops can endure wear and tear from dropped dumbbells and withstand the steam of a whirlpool area or the luxurious showers guests enjoy in your spa-like bathrooms.
In fact, phenolic paneling can be molded to make attractive and comfortable indoor furniture for the pool or lounge area or hotel restaurants.
At the Esplendor by Wydnam in Asunción, Paraguay, compact HPL paneling was used to create a striking interior effect with white walls punctuated with backlighting perforations. Selecting a woodgrain finish for the phenolic panel breakfast room and reception area furniture created a sleek contrast.
Supporting Hotel Longevity with HPL Paneling
Business travel is forecasted to remain slow in 2021, but consumers do expect to get back out on the road for leisure travel. It’s an opportunity for hotels to begin bouncing back from the devastation of 2020. Yes, phenolic paneling can help.
Available with antimicrobial finishes, and moisture resistant, these panels support the industry’s increased attention to cleanliness and hygiene practices. In the long term too, incorporating phenolic panels into hotel architecture can help keep the property in top shape.
Author Bio:
Chad Bryant is the Managing Director at FunderMax North America, Inc. Since 1890, FunderMax has been a leading provider of sustainable HPL phenolic panels for exterior, interior, and laboratory surfaces that are customizable, durable, and easy to install. Learn more on our website at fundermax.us.