A Look at M&R’s First Dual-Brand Hotel

It has a been just months since M&R opened its first dual-brand property, the Residence Inn New York Queens and SpringHill Suites New York Queens, both housed in a single building at 3831 9th St. in the Long Island City neighborhood of Queens.

The Residence Inn is designed for longer stays, while SpringHill Suites is intended for the transient traveler, whether business or leisure. Each brand has its own distinctive room design. Each of the 135 Residence Inn rooms feature a complete kitchen, while the 270 SpringHill rooms offer a kitchenette.

Both sides of the building share a single front desk, fitness center and breakfast area.

“Each brand appeals to travelers who have different lodging needs,” said General Manager Stevie Kaye. “Many guests with a reservation for one brand check in not even knowing we house a second brand and are pleasantly surprised when they find out.”

The dual-brand’s associates have the advantage of being trained on two types of lodging, which is good experience as they build their careers, he said.

Given Long Island City’ proximity to Manhattan, the neigborhood has been undergoing a surge in residential and commercial development. “As a result, we’ve seen many construction project managers, who are based in the neighborhood for weeks at a time, booking the Residence Inn,” Stevie said. “After a couple of weeks with us, they begin to know the staff by name and we know them.”

For guests heading to meetings or appointments, shopping or sightseeing in Manhattan, the nearest subway station is within walking distance of the hotel.

As with any Marriott branded property, Stevie is impressed with the power of Marriott Bonvoy in driving bookings. “People want their points,” he said.

At M&R’s first dual-brand property, the Residence Inn New York Queens and SpringHill Suites New York Queens, a single front desk serves both brands. From left are Nona Nunez-Roriguez, guest service agent; Cydell Townsend, guest service agent; Dawn Klisures, task force manager; and Kathea Roberts, guest service agent.

Ayana Isaac, assistant general manager, center, meets with bellmen Byron Arango, left, and Sean Clark.

Silvana Sabugueiro, executive housekeeping manager, checks the full kitchen in a Residence Inn room.

Timothy Alvarez, engineer, checks a SpringHill Suites room.

Julie Bass, area director of sales, confers with Axell Kelly, area sales manager.

General Manager Stevie Kaye welcomes guests to M&R’s first dual-brand property, the Residence Inn New York Queens and SpringHill Suites New York Queens.