Author: godfreyhotel

I|O – Our Urban Oasis

The construction of I|O is well underway; we’re eagerly anticipating the day our swanky urban roofscape makes its big debut. Here are some progress photos thus far:

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Can you spot the window washers?

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I|O’s stunning unobstructed skyline view

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Here they are!

And our vision to come:

Godfrey Hotel I|O Urban Roofscapte

From shimmering water elements and fire pits to panoramic skyline views, we conceptualized I|O to be a plush oasis of urban glamour. Whether you’re indulging in after work cocktails or planning a private event of up to 400 guests, you’ll toast to the uniqueness that is I|O. This chic 7,000 square foot urban escape is named for it’s indoor and outdoor ambiance; it’s truly the best of both worlds. For more on I|O, including details on the state-of-the-art retractable roof  and more, please visit our website.

Welcome to Our Lobby

Voilà! 

It may be difficult to envision at the moment, but these are the bones of what will be our lobby, the first area you experience upon entering our property. 

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We have big plans for this space and our team is hard at work making progress every day.  We’re currently living by the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson:

“Life is a journey, not a destination”

The Autonomy of the Independent Hotelier

Our area general manager, George Jordan, recently published an editorial piece for Hotel News Now describing the myriad of responsibilities that fall on the shoulders of the independent hotelier. Jordan draws on 30 years of  experience managing hotels including The Drake, The Arizona Biltmore, The Raffaello Hotel and our neighbor, Hotel Felix.

George Jordan

Without the manpower of a brand to fall back on, boutique hotel managers are required to wear many hats, from IT services to customer relationship manager. Jordan recounts confronting a major technology snafu on his first day as general manager at The Raffaello Hotel:

My initial thought? Call information systems management and investigate. But there was no ISM. In fact, all 30 lines on the speed dial just rang to the front desk. I got a sinking feeling. What happens if we lose our T1 line? What if the fax line goes down? Who the heck am I going to call for help?

For more on Jordan’s learnings as an independent hotel key decision maker, please read on at Hotel News Now.