Choice Hotels International opens the first new-construction hotel to feature the Lobby in a Box package, a MainStay Suites in Chesapeake, Va. By using the proprietary and turnkey Lobby in a Box and Kitchen in a Box packages, the hotel leveraged effective designs with lower costs that are intentionally constructed for the extended-stay consumer.
The three-story, 77-room property was developed by Ray Patel and designed by Parth Hospitality with construction by Thor, Jr. and architecture by Tymoff + Moff Architects. The new MainStay Suites Chesapeake is in a market with strong military presence, defense contractors, shipyards and universities, as well as nearby major corporations such as Dollar Tree and Northrop Grumman.
The Lobby in a Box package seamlessly designed the lobby into a communal space that provides a flexible setup for guests to either lounge, work, dine or watch TV, and the Kitchen in a Box package facilitated the installation of in-room kitchens with ease so that guests can cook their own meals.
“As we continue our momentum in the extended stay category, MainStay Suites Chesapeake marks a milestone as the first new construction hotel to feature Lobby in a Box,” Matt McElhare, vice president and lead for extended-stay brands at Choice Hotels, said in a statement. “These innovations provide a turnkey approach that allows franchisees to help efficiently meet the rising demand for extended-stay accommodations for lower costs, while enhancing the guest experience with tailored spaces for long-staying guests that feel like home.”
With Lobby in a Box, MainStay Suites Chesapeake introduces a multi-functional lobby that has a built-in marketplace with on-the-go meal and beverage options, essential travel items and flexible seating. Complementing the new lobby design, the property also incorporates Choice’s Kitchen in a Box package, with in-room kitchens that enhance the guest experience by offering cooking amenities and residential comfort—a hallmark of the MainStay Suites brand. The combined installation of these packages creates a truly “Live Like Home” experience that supports both functionality and profitability for the property.
“Choice Hotels is dedicated to helping franchisees maximize their investment with efficient, high-quality solutions that address real market needs,” said Ron Burgett, senior vice president, extended-stay development, Choice Hotels. “By integrating our exclusive Kitchen in a Box and Lobby in a Box packages into new construction projects like this one, we’re empowering owners to meet the rising demand in the extended stay segment with efficiency, flexibility and a guest-focused design. This unique turnkey approach not only helps drive growth but strengthens our commitment to innovation in hotel development and conversions.”
MainStay Suites Chesapeake installed more than 330 solar panels, providing an eco-friendly energy source. The construction, financed in part through a Small Business Administration loan for energy-efficient projects, was supported by Hebron Savings Bank.
“Choice Hotels’ packages have helped us add efficiency and incredible value to this newly built property and elevate the extended-stay experience for our guests,” said Ray Patel, developer of the property. “From the on-the-go marketplace to multi-use lobby to in-room kitchens, these innovations are creating a warm, functional experience tailored to travelers in the beautiful Chesapeake market.”