Now it’s not often that I get this excited by a hotel, but the Even Hotel Seattle is nothing short of spectacular. From our efficient and friendly check in with Raul on the Staybridge Suites desk, to our first impressions on walking into the room, this hotel could have been designed with me in mind. I will certainly be seeking out this brand for future trips.
Even concept
The Even Hotels website explains how it aims to satisfy travellers who ‘wish there were more options to stay healthier and happier away from home’. They do this by offering ‘a wellness-savvy staff, a best-in-class fitness experience, healthier food choices and natural, relaxing spaces.’
The hotel chain launched in 2012 and aims to offer healthier options in the four areas of exercise, food, work and sleep.
I absolutely love the concept! As someone who travels regularly for work and leisure, it can often be a challenge finding healthy food choices and appealing fitness spaces. Gyms are often under-equipped, overcrowded or an afterthought. It’s not uncommon to have to make compromises to my exercise and diet regime, due to a busy timetable and lack of convenient options.
Even Hotels aims to overcome these issues and make health and well-being the core of its very existence.
With healthy menus, in room fitness equipment, comfortable beds and relaxing spaces, the hotel is a hEaVENly concept.
The Even family
For those who are unfamiliar, Even Hotels are part of the IHG group. Make sure you sign up for the loyalty programme before you stay, as you can earn points for future free stays at any IHG hotel. The group includes well known brands such as Crowne Plaza, Intercontinental Hotels, Holiday Inn and Hotel Indigo, so you will have plenty of choice.
Even Hotels
There are currently just 12 Even hotels, all in North America. But let’s take a quick tour of EVEN Hotel Seattle – South Lake Union.
EVEN Hotel Seattle – South Lake Union
As you enter the main lobby there are water towers dispensing a variety of flavoured iced waters. In your room, you have access to a range of workout equipment and a guide giving you ideas for use of the equipment.
It is fresh, modern and utterly unique.
Rooms
Our room is bright and spacious with a large king size bed and workout equipment in its own area. There’s a whiteboard with inspirational messages and a water bottle encouraging you to use and keep it. What better way to spread the brand message? Equipment is good quality, with a yoga mat and block from Gaiam.
The bathroom is also bright and airy with sleek white tiles and a selection of lush toiletries to choose from.
Beds
Even Hotels focus on rest as one of their four pillars of wellness. They describe their beds as ‘topped by natural eucalyptus fibre bedding’ with ‘special linens… to promote deeper sleep’.
Rooms also offer hypoallergenic linens, natural lighting, LED dimmers and antibacterial wipes, all designed to promote restful sleep.
Facilities
There is a bright lounging area by reception and access to a well equipped fitness room. This even has access to complimentary ear plugs to use in connection with the treadmills.
Food and drink
The open plan lobby, bar and restaurant continues the theme of orange and turquoise but clearly delineated areas for food, drink and work. I particularly liked the large communal seating areas which would be ideal for business meetings.
The focus is on healthier foods for dining. I honestly hope this brand makes it over the pond sometime soon.
Garden area
The garden area looks like a fab place to hang out in summer. It’s hidden away from the main street and looks really pretty at night when they fairy lights are lit.
Parking
There’s self parking onsite which costs $35 per night, however you can save money by parking in the Fiona car park just around the corner. That car park charges around $12 overnight. There is also free weekend street parking from Saturday evening until Monday morning so you may be better moving your car on to the street.
Verdict
As I said at the outset, this hotel brand could have been designed with me in mind. I loved experimenting with the in room equipment and if I had been travelling on business, I would have been desperate to put the gym into action.
What a great concept! I travel (pretty much) every week, and this is my #1 complaint. Lack of healthy options, and most hotel gyms seem to be an afterthought. I will be looking for this brand in my travels. Thanks for posting this.
It’s great isn’t it? I have exactly the same issue and just thought this concept was pure genius! It was very bright and funky too really encouraging us to go to the gym