Joy Barlow has been appointed as General Manager at The Colony House Motor Lodge
The Colony House Motor Lodge, one of Roanoke's most distinctive mid-century modern landmarks, announced the appointment of Joy Barlow as general manager. Barlow will oversee all operations at the 67-room boutique property, which officially reopened in August 2025 following a multi-million-dollar restoration that preserved its iconic Googie-style architecture while introducing modern hospitality amenities.
Barlow brings both seasoned leadership and deep regional ties to her new role. Before joining The Colony House, she served as director of sales and marketing for SpringHill Suites by Marriott, where she specialized in revenue growth, sales strategy and guest engagement. Her career has been defined by a focus on hospitality excellence, strong community partnerships and a commitment to team development. A graduate of Bridgewater College in Virginia, Barlow combines her local roots with extensive industry experience, making her uniquely positioned to guide The Colony House into its next chapter.
Under Barlow's leadership, The Colony House Motor Lodge will continue to serve as both a design icon and a gathering place for the Roanoke community. She is committed to strengthening the property's local connections by collaborating with artisans, musicians and culinary partners to host experiences on the grounds and in the conference room that celebrate the city's creative spirit. At the same time, she plans to introduce curated packages that highlight the best of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Roanoke's thriving downtown arts and culture scene, offering guests a true sense of place.
Equally important to Barlow is the development of her team. She believes that exceptional guest experiences begin with empowered associates and will focus on training, mentorship and professional growth to foster a culture of pride and hospitality. With a deep respect for the property's mid-century modern legacy, she also intends to ensure that its preservation is matched by sustainable practices that appeal to today's travelers.
Her vision positions The Colony House not only as a boutique hotel, but also as a cultural hub where locals and visitors come together—an authentic blend of history, design and community that embodies Roanoke's unique character.