With all of the many improvements that the Antlers has made over the years, we know that our real Achilles’ Heel is the south (original) elevator. Clearly it does not begin to match the Platinum quality that we have worked so hard to achieve in the condominiums. Although we have spent tens of thousands of dollars trying to make that elevator acceptable, the handwriting is on the wall that it just needs to be completely replaced.
While it would seem logical to replace the elevator in its current location (and as much as we’d like to), due to a myriad of physical constraints, it’s just not feasible. Fortunately, local architect Henry Pratt has helped us to identify a new, alternative location in the southeast corner of the courtyard. It’s next to the area that we currently use as bicycle storage in the summer. We’ll still have to cut through the post tension slabs that comprise the garage and parking deck. That isn’t cheap or easy, but at least it’s viable. With that new location comes the opportunity to make some much needed improvements to the lobby, front desk, reception area and associated office spaces. If we’re going to be considered a Platinum rated property, those spaces need to be upgraded to that level of quality, just as the condominiums have been.
A much more welcoming entrance will give our guests and owners a significantly better first impression. Anyone who has visited grand hotels or five-star resorts and observed how much gets invested in that arrival experience, will understand that it’s hard to overestimate the importance of that, in the hospitality business. A two story structure with some vaulted ceiling areas will replace the Antlers current one-level front desk “pill box”, offering much more efficiency in addition to the radically improved aesthetics.
Fortunately, at the recent special Antlers homeowners meeting, there was overwhelming support to do what needs to be done, even if it is quite expensive. We’re lucky that our ownership understands and appreciates the need to provide a great product for our guests … throughout the building. Our plan now is to break ground in the spring of 2019 and be operational by that ski season. Stay tuned!
