The Royalton Hotel in New York City is a stylish boutique hotel that recently launched a new concierge program featuring the world's first wood sommelier. Aimed at being a sensory-based amenity, the fireplace program at the Royalton helps guests take advantage of the astonishing 55 wood-burning fireplaces on the premises. The Fireplace Program includes a unique food and drink menu that are supposed to complement and combine with the aromatic wood-burning scents.
The program begins with the wood sommelier, Brooklyn-based Ted Whitehead, selecting one of the varieties of wood types. Taking his knowledge of scent profiles of burning wood into unexpected territories, this unique program certainly makes the most of a unique sensorial opportunity that is likely to be memorable and meaningful to patrons.
What's Driving This Trend
- Wood-based Sensory Experiences
- The wood sommelier program can be adapted to other settings such as spas or saunas, where scents can have therapeutic effects.
- Customized Concierge Services
- Hotels and resorts can explore offering customized programs that deliver unique and memorable sensory experiences for guests.
- Sustainable Wood-based Hospitality
- With environmental concerns on the rise, sustainable wood-burning practices can become a key selling point for eco-conscious hotels and resorts.
Who This Affects Most
- Hospitality
- Hotels and resorts can use the wood sommelier program to offer unique sensory-based amenities to guests, enhancing their experience.
- Construction and Architecture
- Designers and architects can incorporate sensory experiences into their building designs, such as incorporating wood-burning fireplaces in public spaces.
- Wellness and Spa Industry
- Spas and saunas can incorporate wood-based aromatherapy experiences to offer guests therapeutic and relaxing experiences.
