7 types of hotel rooms to consider before booking

When you’re planning a business trip, picking the right hotel room makes a huge difference in how comfortable and productive you feel. Hotels offer a variety of rooms to suit different needs, whether you're looking for something spacious, city-accessible, or budget-friendly.

Read on to discover the most common types of hotel rooms and find the right one for your next trip. 

Why do hotels divide rooms into types?

Hotels divide their rooms into categories for several reasons, all aimed at catering to guests and maximizing business success. 

To meet diverse guest needs

Guests have unique room requirements—some want a full kitchen while others want a workspace. Offering a variety of room types ensures that hotels can accommodate any guest or group.

To optimize revenue

By categorizing rooms, hotels can appeal to a wide range of budgets. Basic rooms attract wallet-conscious guests, while premium suites cater to those willing to pay more for added space, luxury, or exclusivity.

To enhance the guest experience

Offering different types of rooms helps hotels create unique experiences for their guests. Beyond just meeting guest needs with changes in decor or bedding, some hotels boast fun theme rooms based on seasonal holidays or rooms with stunning views of the local area.

How do hotels categorize their rooms?

Here are a few factors hotels consider when categorizing rooms.

Room size and layout

The size and layout of a room are key factors in its classification. Standard rooms are usually smaller and simpler, while suites provide more space, such as separate working areas, expanded bathrooms, and queen or king-size beds.

Amenities and features

Upscale rooms often include standout features like premium bedding, kitchenettes, and high-end entertainment systems designed to add comfort and convenience to your stay. For example, the Sheraton Phoenix Downtown offers in-room hydraulic tables that double as standing desks and are packed with outlets and USB ports, making them perfect for remote work. 

View

Rooms with great views make your stay more memorable. These rooms are always in high demand and often come at a higher price. Cityscape rooms are a favorite, with spots like the Fairmont San Francisco showcasing the Bay Area or The Williamsburg Hotel in Brooklyn offering incredible Manhattan skyline views.

Location within the hotel

The room’s location—like being on the top floor, near the front desk, or in a quiet corner—can also influence how it’s categorized. A penthouse is likely not a budget-friendly option, and a poolside room might irritate a business traveler looking to get some work done.

By considering these factors, hotels can offer options matching guests' needs while maximizing the company’s earning potential.

7 types of hotel rooms

Each hotel room type has something special to offer. Here's a breakdown of their features, layouts, and general amenities.

1. Standard room

A standard room is the most basic and affordable option. They usually include one or two twin or double beds, a private bathroom, a desk, and essential amenities like Wi-Fi and a TV. The layout is simple, making it a good choice for guests who need a comfortable, no-frills place to stay. 

2. Deluxe room

If you want more features and space for a little extra cost, choose deluxe in the deluxe versus standard room debate. You’ll often get a better view, a larger work area, and more luxurious decor. 

Deluxe double rooms mean upgraded sleeping arrangements for more guests, including additional twin, double, or queen-size beds. These rooms usually include additional amenities like a mini-fridge or coffee maker.

3. Executive room

These rooms typically have bigger workspaces, better Wi-Fi, and handy features like multi-device charging stations. Many also come with access to executive lounges, where you can enjoy complimentary breakfasts or evening drinks. 

If you’re looking for something luxurious, executive rooms in Grand Hyatt hotels offer spa-like bathrooms, high-end fitness centers, and impressive spaces for meetings or networking.

4. Family room

Family rooms are designed for guests traveling with children and usually have extra beds or a sleeper sofa. Some family rooms include kid-friendly amenities like toys, games, or a TV with only family-friendly channels.

5. Suite

Suites in a hotel are a step up from standard rooms, offering separate living and sleeping areas. They often include a sitting area, a larger bathroom (sometimes with a soaking tub), and a kitchenette. Suites (versus standard hotel rooms) are ideal for guests looking for more space, luxury, or privacy during their stay.

6. Penthouse

Penthouse rooms are typically on the hotel’s top floor and are considered the top-tier standard room type. These spacious rooms often include premium features like high-end furnishings, multiple bedrooms, and large living areas. For example, the Setai Hotel in Miami boasts penthouse suites with oceanfront views, private pools, and sleek, modern designs.

7. Accessible room

Accessible rooms are designed for guests with mobility challenges. They feature wide doorways, lower furniture, hand bars in the bathroom, and other modifications to make the room easier to navigate. 

Marriott Hotels, for instance, equips their accessible rooms with visual and vibrating alarms for guests with hearing impairments and spacious layouts for easy wheelchair maneuvering. Many accessible rooms also include space for service animals, ensuring a comfortable stay for guests and their animals.

Hotel suite styles

Hotel suites are a cut above standard rooms, offering more space and luxury. These rooms are designed with separate areas for sleeping, working, and relaxing—perfect for guests looking for extra comfort. 

Here's an overview of some popular hotel suite styles and what makes them unique.

Presidential suite

These suites are often the largest and grandest quarters in the hotel. They offer multiple rooms, a spacious living area, and sometimes a dining room or private office. 

Premium amenities like a king-size bed, a grand bathroom with a soaking tub, high-end furniture, and top-tier entertainment systems are standard. Guests may also enjoy exclusive services, such as a private concierge, access to a VIP lounge, or personalized in-room dining.

Junior suite

A junior suite offers extra space and comfort without the level of extravagance of a full suite. The layout is usually open-plan, and while the amenities may not be as lavish as in larger suites, they typically still include a king-size bed, a larger shower and bathroom with additional toiletries, and extras like an espresso machine or fully stocked fridge.

Executive suite

Tailored for business travelers, executive suites feature a larger work area with a modern desk, ergonomic seating, and top-of-the-line fibre internet. Some executive suites may offer exclusive amenities like business lounges or priority check-in services, making them ideal for extended corporate stays.

Loft suite

These suites typically feature high ceilings and a multi-level layout, with a sleeping area on one floor and a living area on another. The modern, often minimalist decor makes them popular for guests seeking a sophisticated, urban experience. 

Loft suites usually have upscale amenities like a kitchenette or bar—great for afterparties or international group meetups.

Honeymoon suite

Honeymoon suites are designed for romance. They often include features like a couple-sized jacuzzi, mood lighting, or a private balcony. Guests staying in these suites typically enjoy a cozy, intimate atmosphere with amenities that enhance relaxation and celebration.

Find the perfect hotel with Engine

For business travelers, the right hotel room can make or break a trip. Knowing the different types of rooms and suites available ensures that your stay fits your needs—whether you're looking for space to work, a place to unwind, or accessibility to make your stay easier.

Engine is an all-in-one platform that quickly connects you with your dream hotel, allowing you to filter through options that match your preferences and ADA-compliant accessibility needs. 

With fast, flexible booking, you can focus on your business while Engine handles finding your perfect stay.