While the setup and color composition works generally very well, there are some elements that would drive me absolutely nuts upon staying at the site for longer.
The constantly changing image is the main factor of "disturbance" to me.
It's extremely counterproductive to the content. Especially when you lay out the different options of the rooms, i'd rather see images that let me "feel" the room as if i'd be there. The missing images in the "ROOM AMENITIES:" section are accompanied by images on the side rail that are solely from the outside of the hotel. While you may be reluctant to introduce images into the content, what would probably do the trick is if you where to transition to inside/room images when someone clicks on the "ROOM AMENITIES:" tab. Also, give users the options to stop the slide show and spool through them upon their preferred speed.
First page: Hotel Highlights:
I'd link each headline to the appropriate content right from there.
- Great location: Clickable to a Google map with indicator for the hotel and sights located close by
- Heritage Mansion: Link to the photo section and make sure that people visually understand what's meant by heritage. Remember, the architecture of this hotel, especially considering it's historic value and European influence are largely unknown to US visitors. Words are not going to mean much - visuals will do the trick.
....work the rest accordingly.
Live reservations are definitely a good idea. Although, if i hadn't looked at the Live Res. button, i would have NEVER discovered the "français" button...
The Live Res button itself is sitting on a "sky" backdrop. Yet, the sky is brown. I'd suggest to bring the backdrop back to solid and the Res. Button itself from the 3D look to a matching look of the site. This is especially in consideration of the "logo" that is carrying a very elegant font.
The logo itself could benefit from being centered and a bit more emphasized. It's blending in just a tad bit too much. FavIcon?
Bistro "de Paris"...and only 1 outside image? Either the bistro isn't worth much on the inside, or you're withholding a valuable image from the viewers.
Nice project, needs a bit of work though, especially since this site is supposed to represent a professional hospitality business.
IB
