US: Hospitality innovator, WaterWalk, has announced details of its next-generation ‘flexible lodging’ concept.
The concept gives guests the flexibility to stay or live in the upscale extended stay offering, which allows those living there to personalise their space.
The next generation properties will feature 126 guest suites, including a mix of studio, one, and two-bedroom units. Each property will be WaterWalk-branded to allow a seamless guest experience in both the ‘LIVE’ and ‘STAY’ categories.
With no long-term agreements and the convenience of an extended-stay hotel, WaterWalk offers fully customisable, unfurnished suites that guests can make their own. Fully furnished units are also available.
Jim Korroch, president of WaterWalk said: “We have spent the past couple of years refining our brand in meaningful ways, establishing a solid proof of concept, and we believe now is the opportune time to launch the next generation of hospitality. With an exceptional team and proven business model, we are thrilled to be at the forefront of a major shift within the lodging industry and look forward to accelerating our evolution through strategic franchise development.”
The company has nine properties in development, which will result in WaterWalk doubling its portfolio size over the next 24 months. Gen 2.0 properties are currently being constructed in Phoenix, Ariz. (slated to open in November 2022); Sandy Springs/Atlanta Perimeter, Ga. (slated to open in early 2023); Meridian, Idaho (slated to open in spring 2023); Tucson, Ariz. (slated to open in spring 2023); Jacksonville, Fla. (slated to open in summer 2023) and Huntsville, Ala. (slated to open in winter 2023).
Mimi Oliver, chief executive officer of WaterWalk said: “The extended-stay industry has seen record-high demand in recent years as consumers increasingly seek a mix of convenience, value and comfort. As the fifth national brand founded by my grandfather Jack, this latest iteration of WaterWalk is our way of advancing and evolving into the future, filling the void that exists for an upscale extended-stay solution that gives guests the choice of how they want to stay and live. In order to appeal to the dynamic lifestyles of consumers today, the industry needs to provide ample opportunities for flexibility, and that is exactly what we are doing with our next- generation product.”
Highlights of the brand’s newly crafted Gen 2.0 elements include:
Sense of Community and Home-Like Atmosphere – There’s a 24/7 concierge service and common areas that are an extension of guests’ living spaces. The lobby is now called ‘The Living Room’, and serves as a community hub for guests to relax, work or just hang out. Outdoors, guests will also find ‘The Backyard’ with ample space to relax and entertain with gas grills, firepits, lawn games and enclosed pools (select properties).
Thoughtfully Designed and Customizable Accommodations – WaterWalk has improved the layout of its ‘LIVE’ and ‘STAY’ units. For both short- and long-term accommodations, there is a spacious living room with a full-size couch in furnished units, as well as a fully equipped kitchen with a full-size refrigerator, pantry for extra storage and kitchen island that can function as both a dining table and efficient workspace with built-in power outlets. Both furnished and unfurnished units in future properties will also feature modern walk-in showers in the spacious bathrooms, along with an industry- first of full-size washers and dryers.
Efficient Development and Flexible Operating Model – WaterWalk’s Gen 2.0 properties will cater to an increased industry demand for studio accommodations and now offers modern studio suites, providing yet another element of flexibility for guests. One- and two- bedroom units will still be available.
WaterWalk currently operates eight properties across the US including in Charlotte, N.C.; Raleigh, N.C.; Overland Park, Kan.; Wichita, Kan.; Denver, Colo.; San Antonio, Texas; Richardson, Texas and Plymouth, Minn.
WaterWalk is currently under construction on its first property in Florida, which will be located in Jacksonville and is slated to open in summer 2023.
