Hardage found his current niche in El Paso in 1981, when he says he became the first Residence Inn franchise holder. Early on, he recognized the potential of the fledgling all-suites concept. The suites won favor especially with business travelers, who were more interested in a comfortable living space and business-friendly amenities than in hotels with huge lobbies and numerous restaurants. Over the years, the Woodfin Suites Hotel concept evolved, with the first one opening in 1985. The upscale all-suites accommodations feature complimentary breakfast buffets served on china, evening social hours with beverages and snacks, a business center open to guests 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Free videos are available at the front desk.
Extensive market research gave the company insight into what business and leisure travelers expect from hotels. Hardage notes, for instance, that surveys showed women felt uncomfortable with suites that had the bedroom and living area in one open space. They preferred a separate sleeping area. To incorporate the need for privacy with a sense of spaciousness, Woodfin rooms were designed so that the sleeping area could be closed off whenever the guest wanted. Other amenities offered in the hotels also related closely to research findings.