Best New or Redeveloped Hotel

JUDGING (75% WRITTEN SUBMISSION + 25% GUIDED SITE INSPECTION)

*ELIGIBLE FOR ENTRY INTO THE AHA NATIONAL AWARDS

This category will be judged 75% on your written submission (which should include no more than 1,000 words, website referral, photographs and backup documentation). A guided site inspection will also be conducted and accounts for 25% of your score. 

OVERVIEW

This category is for venues that have undergone an overall hotel redevelopment or have built a brand-new establishment. 

To be eligible to enter this category, the redevelopment/new build must have been completed between 1 January 2025 and 31 May 2026.

The written submission should address the essential elements listed here plus the following:

CATEGORY SPECIFIC QUESTIONS

• Evidence that the redevelopment project is finished and was completed between 1 January 2025 and 31 May 2026
• Philosophy behind redevelopment and entrepreneurial vision i.e., evidence of target market research
• Evidence of architectural innovation, décor and design features within the redevelopment, refurbishment, or new venue
• Evidence of refurbishment enhancing the overall standard of the premises
• Evidence of improved popularity due to the redevelopment
• Information provided on the total redevelopment of the total dollar value of the entire renovation
• Redevelopment appropriate to clientele and consistent with the needs of the relevant customer base post development
• Ambience of the redeveloped areas within the venue
• Environmental and energy saving considerations
• Staff efficiency improvements
• Access considerations for those with disabilities

GUIDED SITE INSPECTION GENERAL CRITERIA

• Décor and design characteristics
• Internal and external approach (signage, car parking and entry and exit facilities)
• Popularity of venue and alignment to local market
• Comfortable and positive experience for customers
• Food and beverage experience and offerings (presentation, accuracy, appearance, variety, and quality)
• Hygiene and cleanliness
• Ambience – audio visual, lighting, music
• Staff friendliness and knowledge
• Knowledge and implementation of RSA
• Efficiency of operations throughout the experience