Wingate by Wyndham to Become Huntley House Hotel with $2.4M Renovation
Wingate by Wyndham to Become Huntley House Hotel with $2.4M Renovation
Ellicottville’s downtown hotel is getting a “wilderness chic” makeover, transforming into a luxury lodge experience ahead of Fall Festival weekend
At the heart of Ellicottville’s downtown is the imposing Wingate by Wyndham off Mill Street. Known to travelers from near and far, and to locals alike, the hotel has been a cornerstone in the community since it was built in 2005, according to Travel Weekly. It is now preparing for an estimated $2.4 million transformation and brand change to the Huntley House Hotel, a “wilderness chic” luxury lodge of sorts which will become a part of the Ascend Collection by Choice Hotels. EllicottvilleNOW caught up with Amanda Walsh, who has been with the property since 2013 and in her role as General Manager for the last five years, for comments.
“The vision is to offer guests an experience that balances refined luxury with a deep appreciation for nature and community, creating a destination where adventure and warmth are always at the forefront,” Walsh told us. “Our definition of wilderness chic is where rustic charm meets high end finishes and contemporary comfort - statement fireplaces, natural materials and seamless indoor/outdoor flow to create an atmosphere that is both cozy and sophisticated, inviting guests to unwind and connect with nature.”
Owned by Ellicott Development Corporation, a real estate developer and property management company based out of Buffalo, Walsh explained that the hotel will switch brands from Wyndham Hotels to Choice Hotels with the transformation. With regards to the old hotel, Walsh says that it will remain open during the renovation process. “The renovation is set to begin July 1st and we are hopeful to wrap up by Fall Festival weekend. At this point we have chosen all the colorings, floorings, and furniture. We are waiting for approval from Choice Hotels so we can start the ordering process,” she said. “There may be some amenities that are closed from time to time in order to convert everything, but we are going to do our best not to disturb the guests as much as possible.”
As for a sneak peek of what high-end amenities and fixtures guests can expect from the new hotel, Walsh explained that updated amenities and breakfast options will be included. “Guests can expect some great changes!” Walsh said. “The space that will transform the most will be the lobby area; we are switching where the breakfast room is located and adding more soft seating for guests to gather.” She added that a mini mart will be added where the current business center is. “I am so excited about some of the new amenities the hotel will have, such as the outdoor pool that will be open year-round. We will upgrade our back patio to include fire pits and rustic comfortable seating. We are researching saunas to also include next to the outdoor pool. We will still have our indoor pool, hot tub and fitness center available to guests.”
With regards to the name change, Walsh explained that the name will officially change over to the Huntley House Hotel once the renovation process is complete and when Choice Hotels gives the green light. “Ideally this will happen mid-November,” she said.
Walsh is no newcomer when it comes to hospitality. The 19-year industry veteran got her start the day before her 18th birthday at the former Country Inn and Suites in Olean. “I worked my way up from front desk agent to front office manager in my six years there.” She explained that after a move to Elkhorn, Wisconsin to pursue a position with a Hampton Inn, she then returned to the area in April 2013 and was hired by Wingate as the assistant general manager. Seven years later, she took over the helm as General Manager of the property, a position that she will carry forward into the next chapter for the hotel. “When I first started, I thought this would be just a job to keep until I figured out what I really would like to do, but hospitality has a way of keeping you interested,” she explained.
With the transformation commencing next month, Walsh says that those interested can follow along and keep up with the renovations on the owner’s social media. “There are sure to be great surprises coming up!” she exclaimed, adding that any parties interested in stays or group bookings can contact her directly at awalsh@ellicotthotels.com.
The new Huntley House Hotel at 11 Mill Street is slated to open around Ellicottville’s annual Fall Festival weekend. For those interested in additional information, visit Ellicott Development Corporation’s website and social to keep up with the renovation process. All booking inquiries can be made to the attention of Amanda Walsh directly.