Made in the shade: comfortable, attractive outdoor furniture boosts a hotel's image, makes guests happy.(Hotel operations: outdoor furniture)

Poolside and casual furniture isn't high on the priority list when a hotel is being built or renovated, but it can make a big difference in how guests perceive a property.

"[Hotels] are creating an environment that people hopefully want to come back to," said Peter Sweetland, president of Pacific Sun Casual Furniture, which is based in Hemet, Calif. "The whole package of the hotel has to be appealing to generate repeat business. If the furniture by the pool doesn't look appealing or is uncomfortable, you are less likely to have people wanting to come back to the property."

Jane Koons, director of contract operations for Minneapolis-based Crestmark International, said that for a small investment, hoteliers can make their properties look more upscale, which, in turn, makes guests happy.

"It enhances a property, whether it's a…