Estimated Read Time: 5 Minutes
For decades, hotels have included spacious bird aviaries in their lobbies.
In fact, the InterContinental New York Barclay installed the first-ever bird cage in a hotel lobby in 1945.
“The enclosure was filled with canaries, finches, and other song birds that went in tune with the string music that was played daily on the Barclay Terrace.”
Fast forward 78 years, and hotels continue to include these decorative bird enclosures.
But why do hotel lobbies have bird cages? And how can the staff properly care for the habitat?
We’ll tell you in this short post.
Why Put a Bird Aviary in a Hotel Lobby?
- To establish a unique ambiance and guest experience
- To focus on biophilic design
- To promote positive mental health
Establish a Unique Ambiance and Guest Experience
Aviaries may not be as popular as abstract art, TVs, or local artifacts, but this unique decor shouldn’t be overlooked.
Enchanting bird songs can spread joy throughout your lobby and ensure an area of intrigue and relaxation.
Imagine a family waiting for their Uber:
They get off the elevator and see on one side of the room, there’s a TV broadcasting news, weather, or a popular sitcom. On the other side of the lobby, there’s an aviary with real-life, singing finches.
Where will that family gravitate to?
Unless the news is showing some truly must-watch TV, we think they’ll visit the aviary.
Focus on Biophilic Design
As our world becomes more tech-dependent, the trend of biophilic design continues to make a resurgence.
Biophilic interior design is the use of nature-centric decor like:
- Plants and flowers
- Water features
- Large windows
- Aviaries, aquariums, or other habitats
- Paintings and photos of land and waterscapes
- Natural incense, colors, materials, and textures
Data continues to support that natural elements promote relaxation, connection, and mindfulness.
It may not be an actual walk in the park, but a nature-focused lobby can put your guests in that calmer mindset.
What could be better than that after a long day of traveling?
Promote Positive Mental Health
Not only are guests drawn to the sights and sounds of our finches, but they may also feel happier when around them.
Researchers at King’s College London found that simple interactions with birds, like seeing or hearing them, can improve our mental health.
An excerpt from their scientific report states:
“Everyday encounters with birdlife were associated with time-lasting improvements in mental wellbeing.“
Another study by The University of Exeter found that:
“People living in neighborhoods with more birds, shrubs, and trees are less likely to suffer from depression, anxiety, and stress…“
What more could you ask for out of your lobby decor?
How to Clean and Maintain a Hotel Aviary
Many hotels are reluctant to get an aviary because of the additional time and care.
You’ll need to stay on top of:
- Sanitizing the entire aviary, including decor and dishes
- Cleaning bird droppings and replacing the bedding
- Replenishing bird seed and water
- Checking the health of your birds
- Fixing any issues with the equipment or decor
If your staff isn’t properly trained, maintaining an aviary can be difficult.
We’re here to help with that.
Serenity Services can help if:
1) You want to lease a new aviary
2) You want us to clean your new aviary
3) You want us to clean your existing aviary
Conclusion
From creating a captivating ambiance to fostering a connection with nature, aviaries elevate the overall guest experience in ways that traditional decor cannot.
Simple encounters with birds and their songs can promote calmness, mindfulness, and happiness — Everything you need to win that first impression with your guests.
How much would it cost to get an aviary plus cleaning services at your hotel?
