Hotel Tweaks Design Based on Second Life Feedback

Starwood built its aloft SL hotel in Second Life last September, built by marketing services firm ElectricArtists. Critics said the hotel was empty, which could harm a brand a year out from its real-world opening. Fast forward nine months to May, and the hotel is about to reveal a new design strategy in the virtual world based on input from Second Life residents. Visitors to the virtual hotel commented on design features in public spaces, guest rooms and the hotel’s exteriors. Some of the changes, which will make it to the real-world hotels, include radios in the guest room showers, additional seating in the re:mix lobby, and display and support of local artists.

While the changes will be incorporated at aloft SL, they will be for a limited time. The hotel chain has asked residents to submit suggestions in the form of 500 words or less to virtualaloft.com of what to do with the land from aloft island when the campaign is completed. Residents have until Friday, June 1 to make suggestions.