The problem I have is the starting point for what was intended to be a comparative review, is missing. The subtlety of design present in the Express in Croydon, and throughout the hotel in detailing and lighting layouts, have been simplified to the point where they are working against the design and creating some operational issues. Visually the finesse has gone. Whether this is down to some budget cuts I cannot judge but certainly the results suggest decisions driven by cost rather than guest satisfaction.

Underneath is a nice hotel trying to get out. Stylish design and design standards are apparent as they were in the Express and it is clear that Intercontinental have worked out their design philosophy in relation to the chains well, but there seems to be a gap in the management of their implementation. The detail in some areas is very good, and the bar and reception/back office relationships work very well. The cleanliness of the design noted at the Express is again present here and a strong family identity has been fostered between the brands.

If indeed the builder or developer was trying to save money on the build and fit out cost it seems to have back-fired as the management of the hotel attempt to correct design faults out of cash flow. 'He who pays the piper calls the tune' may indeed be true, but also the root cause of the poor result here. Those who look to the costs rather than the results often end up paying more in rectification than it costs to get it right first time around.The devil is in the detail.


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