What is a Hotel Room With a Kitchen Called?

Unpacking the Term: What's in a Name?

When you're searching for accommodation that offers more than just a bed and a bathroom, the desire for a kitchen often tops the list. But what exactly is a hotel room with a kitchen called? This seemingly simple question opens up a world of accommodation types, each designed to cater to different traveler needs. The most direct answer is often an all-suite hotel or a room explicitly advertised as having a kitchenette or full kitchen facilities.

The nomenclature can vary significantly based on the level of amenities, the size of the space, and the hotel's overall branding. You might encounter terms like 'studio apartment hotel,' 'serviced apartment,' 'extended stay suite,' or simply a 'deluxe room with kitchen.' Understanding these terms is key to finding the lodging that best suits your travel style, whether you're planning a brief city break or an extended adventure where preparing some meals at home becomes a priority.

These spaces are not merely hotel rooms with a microwave; they are designed to offer a more independent living experience within a hotel setting. The presence of a kitchen, even a compact one, fundamentally changes the dynamic of your stay, shifting it from a purely hospitality-focused experience to one that blends hotel comforts with the practicality of domestic living.

The primary benefit is the enhanced flexibility. Instead of relying solely on restaurants or room service, you gain the freedom to prepare your own meals, control your budget, manage dietary needs, and enjoy a more relaxed pace. This makes such rooms particularly appealing for families, business travelers on longer assignments, or anyone who appreciates the convenience and cost-savings of self-catering.

Investigate the specific amenities listed. Don't just look for 'kitchen.' Check if it includes a stovetop, oven, full-sized refrigerator, microwave, and essential cookware to ensure it meets your culinary needs.

The Allure of the Home-Away-From-Home Kitchen

The concept of bringing the comforts of home into a hotel environment has long been a goal for many travelers. The kitchen is arguably the heart of the home for most people, and its inclusion in hotel accommodation transforms the typical transient stay into something far more akin to a temporary residence. This is precisely why the demand for hotel rooms with kitchenettes or full kitchens has steadily grown, especially in recent years.

Think about the practicalities: a family on vacation can prepare breakfast before a busy day of sightseeing, saving both time and money. A business traveler needing to work late might opt for a simple dinner cooked in their room rather than venturing out. Someone with specific dietary restrictions, allergies, or health-related food needs finds immense relief in being able to control their ingredients and preparation methods.

This shift in traveler preference has led hotels to adapt, offering a wider spectrum of rooms and even entire hotel concepts centered around this 'home-like' experience. The duration of stay is a major factor here; while a standard hotel room suffices for a short trip, longer visits often make the inclusion of kitchen facilities a deciding element. The ability to cook, store food, and manage household tasks like washing dishes reduces the feeling of being a transient guest and fosters a sense of established comfort, even if only for a few weeks.

When you're looking at booking, pay attention to the visual cues and detailed descriptions. Often, images will showcase the kitchen area, and descriptions will specify the types of appliances. What might be a simple 'kitchenette' in one hotel could be a full, gourmet-ready kitchen in another, offering a significant difference in functionality and potential for culinary endeavors. This variation is part of what makes the search engaging and ensures you can find the perfect fit.

The ability to manage your own food preparation is a powerful element for extended stays. It's not just about saving money; it's about maintaining routines, supporting health goals, and creating a more personalized and less disruptive living experience while away from home. This is the core promise of any hotel accommodation featuring a kitchen.

Types of Hotel Accommodations with Cooking Facilities

The umbrella term for a hotel room with a kitchen can branch into several specific categories, each with its own characteristics. Understanding these distinctions helps you pinpoint the exact type of accommodation that best suits your needs, particularly when considering the duration and nature of your stay.

The Studio or Junior Suite with Kitchenette

Often, the most compact option is a studio or junior suite that includes a kitchenette. This typically features a smaller refrigerator, a microwave, a sink, and perhaps a two-burner stovetop. While not equipped for elaborate meals, a kitchenette is sufficient for preparing simple breakfasts, reheating leftovers, or making snacks and light lunches. These are excellent for solo travelers or couples on shorter stays who want a bit more convenience than a standard room offers.

The space often combines the sleeping area and living space into one main room, with the kitchenette cleverly integrated. This design maximizes the utility of a smaller footprint, offering a functional space that feels more versatile than a traditional hotel room. Many find this level of amenity perfect for breaking up the routine of dining out, especially during longer visits.

When you see 'studio apartment' or 'junior suite with kitchenette,' expect a setup that prioritizes functionality for basic food preparation. It's a step up from a standard room, providing that crucial element of self-sufficiency without the commitment or cost of a full-sized apartment. The duration of your stay is a key factor; for a few nights, a kitchenette is often all you need.

The One-Bedroom or Full Suite with Kitchen

Moving up in size and amenity, you'll find the full suite or apartment-style hotel room. These accommodations typically boast a separate living area, one or more bedrooms, and a *full kitchen*. This means a standard-sized refrigerator, a four-burner stove with an oven, a dishwasher, a microwave, a sink, and often more counter space and cabinetry than a kitchenette. These are designed for travelers who intend to cook more substantial meals and require more space to live comfortably for an extended period.

These suites often feel more like a serviced apartment than a traditional hotel room. They are ideal for families needing separate sleeping spaces, business travelers on extended assignments, or anyone who wants the full experience of living independently while still having access to hotel services like housekeeping and potentially room service (though you might not need it much with a good kitchen!).

When searching for terms like 'apartment hotel,' 'extended stay suite,' or 'residence inn' (a brand known for this model), you are likely to find these more comprehensive kitchen facilities. The benefit for longer stays is immense, allowing for a more balanced lifestyle, better control over health and budget, and a greater sense of normalcy.

Serviced Apartments and Aparthotels

These are perhaps the closest equivalents to having your own apartment, but within a hotel or hospitality management structure. Serviced apartments often provide weekly housekeeping, 24-hour reception, and security, alongside fully furnished living spaces that include complete kitchens, living rooms, and bedrooms. Aparthotels, a portmanteau of 'apartment' and 'hotel,' operate on a similar principle, offering apartment-style units with kitchens and living areas within a hotel framework.

These options are particularly appealing for medium to long-term stays. The setup allows you to truly settle in, establish routines, and manage your life as you would at home. The inclusion of a full kitchen means you can handle grocery shopping, meal planning, and cooking with ease, making them a popular choice for corporate relocations, sabbaticals, or extended family holidays. The duration of your stay is often where these options truly shine, offering unparalleled comfort and practicality.

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The key difference lies in the level of service and the integrated nature of the facilities. You get the independence of an apartment with the conveniences and support of a hotel, making them a powerful hybrid for modern travel needs. The definition of what constitutes a 'hotel room' is stretched and redefined by these accommodations, offering a compelling alternative for many.

A significant advantage of these types of accommodations is the inherent flexibility they offer for longer durations. You are not bound by restaurant opening hours or menus, allowing for a more natural daily rhythm. This aspect is critical for travelers who anticipate staying for weeks or even months.

Why Choose a Hotel Room with a Kitchen for Longer Stays?

The decision to book a hotel room with a kitchen often hinges on the anticipated length of your stay. While a standard room might suffice for a weekend getaway, for trips stretching beyond a few nights, the benefits of having a place to prepare your own food become increasingly significant.

Cost Savings Over Time

One of the most compelling reasons to opt for a hotel room with cooking facilities, especially for extended periods, is the potential for considerable cost savings. Dining out for every meal three times a day can quickly become the most expensive part of any trip. By utilizing a kitchen, you can significantly reduce your daily expenditure. Grocery shopping for essentials like breakfast items, lunch fixings, and even simple dinners can be far more economical than paying restaurant prices, plus taxes and tips, for each meal.

Imagine staying for two weeks or more. The cumulative cost of restaurant meals can easily rival or even exceed the slightly higher room rate of a suite with a kitchen. This financial advantage makes it a smart choice for budget-conscious travelers, families, or anyone looking to stretch their travel funds further. The ability to prepare your own coffee each morning, pack lunches for day trips, and cook a few evening meals at home adds up to tangible savings that can be reinvested into other aspects of your travel experience or simply kept in your pocket.

The longer you plan to stay, the more pronounced these savings become. For instance, a family of four might spend over $150-$200 per day eating out. If their suite with a kitchen costs an additional $50-$75 per night compared to a standard room, they could potentially save hundreds of dollars over a multi-week trip simply by preparing most of their meals in-house. This is where the 'hotel room with kitchen' concept truly proves its value.

Dietary Needs and Health Considerations

For travelers with specific dietary requirements, allergies, or health goals, a hotel room with a kitchen is not just a convenience but often a necessity. Restaurants may struggle to accommodate strict dietary needs, be it gluten-free, vegan, low-sodium, or allergy-related restrictions. Cross-contamination can be a serious concern, and menu options can be limited.

Having your own kitchen gives you complete control over the ingredients you use and the preparation methods. You can source fresh produce, select specific brands of packaged goods, and ensure that meals are prepared in a clean environment, free from allergens that could trigger adverse reactions. This empowers travelers to maintain their health and well-being without compromising their travel plans.

This level of control is especially important for individuals managing chronic health conditions or those committed to a particular fitness regimen. The ability to prepare nutritious meals that align with their lifestyle ensures they can enjoy their trip fully without the added stress of managing their health under challenging circumstances. The duration of the stay amplifies this benefit, as consistent adherence to dietary plans is easier when home-like cooking facilities are available.

Comfort and Convenience for Extended Stays

Beyond cost and health, a kitchen contributes significantly to overall comfort and convenience during longer hotel stays. It transforms the room from a mere sleeping space into a functional living area. You can unpack more thoroughly, store groceries, use a proper sink for washing hands or small items, and have a dedicated space for eating.

This provides a sense of normalcy and routine that can be difficult to achieve in a standard hotel room. The ability to make a late-night snack, brew a cup of tea while reading, or simply enjoy a meal at a table rather than precariously balanced on a bed can make a significant difference to your daily experience. For families, it can mean a more relaxed morning routine, with children able to eat breakfast at their own pace before embarking on activities.

When considering the duration of your trip, think about how much time you'll actually spend in your room. For longer stays, a place where you can relax, prepare food, and feel more settled can significantly enhance the overall enjoyment and reduce travel fatigue. It fosters a more relaxed and less institutional feel, making your temporary accommodation feel much more like a home.

Always check the specifics of the kitchen setup. Some 'kitchenettes' are barely more than a microwave and mini-fridge, while others are genuinely equipped for cooking. Clarify what appliances, cookware, and utensils are provided to manage expectations for your intended duration of stay.

Key Amenities to Look For in a Kitchen-Equipped Hotel Room

When you've decided that a hotel room with a kitchen is the right choice for your trip, the next step is knowing what specific amenities to seek out. Not all 'kitchens' are created equal, and understanding the nuances can prevent disappointment and ensure your chosen room truly meets your needs, particularly when planning for a significant duration of stay.

Appliances: The Core of Your Culinary Setup

The foundational elements of any kitchen are its appliances. For a kitchenette, you might expect a microwave and a mini-fridge. However, for a more functional cooking space, especially one suitable for extended stays, you'll want to look for:

• Full-Sized Refrigerator: Essential for storing groceries, fresh produce, and leftovers for multiple days.
• Stovetop: Typically featuring two to four burners, this is crucial for cooking meals like pasta, stir-fries, or sautéed vegetables.
• Oven: While not always present in smaller kitchenettes, an oven is vital for baking, roasting, and more complex cooking.
• Microwave: Useful for quick reheating, defrosting, or cooking certain convenience foods.
• Dishwasher: A significant convenience for longer stays, it eliminates the need for manual dishwashing and keeps your living space tidier.

The presence and size of these appliances will dictate the types of meals you can realistically prepare. A room with just a microwave might only be suitable for reheating pre-made meals, whereas a full kitchen with an oven and stovetop opens up a world of culinary possibilities.

Cookware, Utensils, and Tableware

Beyond the major appliances, the actual tools for cooking and eating are critical. A well-equipped kitchen will provide:

• Pots and pans (various sizes)
• Baking sheets or dishes
• Cutting board and knives
• Utensils for cooking (spatulas, ladles, whisks)
• Utensils for eating (forks, knives, spoons)
• Plates, bowls, and glasses
• Mugs for hot beverages
• Can opener, bottle opener, corkscrew

The quantity and quality of these items can vary. For shorter stays, basic sets are usually sufficient. However, if you plan to cook often during a longer trip, having a decent selection ensures you aren't hindered by a lack of the right tool. Some hotels may offer these items upon request, so it's always worth checking if they aren't readily available.

Counter Space and Storage

Adequate counter space is vital for food preparation. Chopping vegetables, assembling ingredients, and plating meals become much easier when you have sufficient surface area. Similarly, ample cabinet and drawer space allows you to store your groceries and cooking supplies, keeping the main living area clutter-free. This is particularly important for longer durations where you'll likely have more provisions on hand.

Dining Area

While some studios might expect you to eat at a coffee table, a dedicated dining area significantly enhances the experience. This could be a small table with chairs, a breakfast bar with stools, or an extension of the kitchen counter. Having a proper place to sit and eat your meals makes the experience more enjoyable and less like eating on the go. It provides a designated zone for dining, separate from your sleeping or work areas.

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When reviewing hotel descriptions and photos, pay close attention to these details. What looks like a kitchen in a photo might be a very basic setup. Reading reviews can also offer insights into the actual functionality and completeness of the kitchen facilities provided.

The Role of Duration: Tailoring Your Stay to Your Needs

The duration of your hotel stay is one of the most critical factors in deciding whether a room with kitchen facilities is a necessity or merely a luxury. While the terms 'suite,' 'apartment hotel,' or 'room with kitchenette' describe the physical space, the length of your visit dictates its practical value.

Short Stays (1-3 Nights): Convenience Over Self-Sufficiency

For brief trips, the primary appeal of a kitchen or kitchenette lies in convenience. Need to make a quick breakfast before an early meeting? A microwave and mini-fridge are sufficient. Want to store drinks and snacks for a late-night movie? Again, a smaller setup often suffices. In this scenario, the kitchen isn't about replacing restaurant meals but about having immediate access to beverages, snacks, and perhaps reheating a takeaway.

The added cost for a room with kitchen facilities might be harder to justify for just a couple of nights, as the potential for significant cost savings or health benefits is limited. However, if you have very specific dietary needs or simply prefer the comfort of having your own supplies readily available, even a short stay can benefit from a kitchenette. It's about personal preference and specific requirements rather than a long-term need for self-catering.

Medium Stays (4 Nights - 2 Weeks): A Balancing Act

As stays extend into the range of several days to two weeks, the balance begins to shift. The cost savings from preparing some meals at home become more noticeable. You can start a routine of having breakfast in your room and packing lunches for excursions, significantly cutting down on daily food expenses. The convenience of having a refrigerator to keep drinks cold and snacks on hand also becomes more valuable.

Furthermore, the ability to wash a few items of clothing or prepare a simple, healthy meal after a long day of sightseeing can greatly enhance comfort. This duration often represents a sweet spot where the slightly higher room rate for a kitchen-equipped room starts to pay for itself, offering a blend of hotel services and home-like practicality. You're not necessarily living like a local, but you're certainly not confined to just eating out.

For stays in this mid-range, carefully evaluate the hotel's kitchen amenities against your planned activities. If you anticipate many day trips, a kitchen is great for packed lunches. If you plan to explore the local dining scene extensively, the kitchen might be less utilized but still useful for morning coffee or late-night snacks.

Long Stays (2+ Weeks): The Practical Imperative

When your hotel stay stretches to two weeks or more, a room with a kitchen often transitions from a desirable amenity to a practical necessity for many travelers. The cumulative cost of dining out three times a day for an extended period can be astronomical. Preparing most of your meals becomes essential for budget management. Beyond finances, maintaining a healthy diet and managing specific dietary restrictions becomes much more feasible with a full kitchen.

The ability to establish routines – shopping for groceries, cooking, cleaning – mimics home life, providing a sense of stability and comfort that significantly reduces the stress and fatigue associated with prolonged travel. It allows for a more sustainable and enjoyable experience, where you can truly 'live' in your accommodation rather than just 'stay' there. Extended stay hotels and serviced apartments, which specifically cater to this market, typically offer comprehensive kitchen facilities precisely because their guests rely on them.

The duration of your stay is the primary driver for seeking out these accommodations. It dictates not only the financial viability but also the psychological comfort and health benefits derived from having a functional kitchen at your disposal. For anyone planning a long-term visit, actively searching for 'hotel rooms with kitchens' is a strategic move that can profoundly impact their travel experience.

Navigating the Search: Tips for Finding Your Ideal Kitchen-Equipped Room

Finding the right hotel room with kitchen facilities involves more than just knowing what it's called. It requires strategic searching and careful evaluation of the options available. Whether you're looking for a kitchenette for a short break or a full kitchen for an extended stay, these tips will help you navigate the booking process effectively.

Use Specific Search Terms

When using online travel agencies (OTAs), hotel websites, or search engines, employ precise keywords. Instead of just searching for 'hotel room,' try terms like:

• 'Hotel with kitchen'
• 'Suite with kitchenette'
• 'Apartment hotel'
• 'Extended stay hotel'
• 'Studio apartment hotel'
• 'Serviced apartment'

Many booking sites have filters for amenities. Look for options like 'kitchen,' 'kitchenette,' or 'full kitchen' to narrow down your results significantly. Ensure you understand the hotel's definition of these terms, as they can vary.

Leverage Hotel Brands Known for Kitchens

Certain hotel chains have built their brand around providing rooms with kitchen facilities, making them a reliable starting point. Brands like:

• Embassy Suites by Hilton
• Homewood Suites by Hilton
• Home2 Suites by Hilton
• Hyatt House
• Residence Inn by Marriott
• TownePlace Suites by Marriott
• Sonesta ES Suites

These brands typically offer suites with kitchenettes or full kitchens as standard, making them excellent choices for travelers prioritizing this amenity, especially for longer durations. Researching these brands can streamline your search.

Read Descriptions and View Photos Carefully

Once you find potential options, delve into the room descriptions and images. Don't just look at the headline; read the detailed amenities list. Pay close attention to photos – do they show a stovetop, oven, and a proper refrigerator, or just a microwave and a small cooler? Sometimes, 'kitchenette' can mean very little.

Look for specific appliance names and details like 'two-burner stovetop,' 'four-burner range with oven,' or 'full-size refrigerator.' If photos are unclear or absent for the kitchen area, it's a red flag, especially if you require substantial cooking facilities for your intended duration of stay.

Consult Reviews for Real-World Insights

Online reviews from past guests can offer invaluable, unbiased information about the kitchen facilities. Search reviews for keywords like 'kitchen,' 'cooking,' 'appliances,' or 'groceries.' Guests often share details about the quality of the cookware, the functionality of the appliances, and whether the kitchen was well-stocked or sufficient for their needs. This is particularly helpful for discerning the difference between a true kitchen and a token setup, especially when planning a longer visit.

Reviews might also mention nearby grocery stores or discuss the ease of preparing meals, providing practical context that official descriptions might omit. Understanding how others have utilized the kitchen for stays of similar durations can be a significant deciding factor.

Contact the Hotel Directly for Clarification

If you have specific requirements or are unsure about the extent of the kitchen facilities, don't hesitate to contact the hotel directly. You can call or email them to ask precise questions about the appliances, cookware, and utensils provided. This direct communication is the most reliable way to confirm that the room will meet your expectations, especially if you are planning a trip where the kitchen will be heavily used due to its duration.

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Clarifying these details upfront can prevent disappointment upon arrival and ensure your stay is as comfortable and convenient as possible. It's a proactive step that confirms the 'hotel room with kitchen' truly delivers on its promise.

Beyond the Kitchen: Additional Hotel Amenities for Longer Stays

While a kitchen is a significant draw for extended stays, other amenities can greatly enhance your comfort and convenience when you're away from home for an extended duration. These features complement the self-catering aspect, helping to create a more seamless and pleasant living experience.

In-Room Laundry Facilities

Having access to a washing machine and dryer, either within your room or on your floor, is a game-changer for longer trips. It means you don't have to pack excessive amounts of clothing or rely on expensive external laundry services. Being able to wash clothes as needed offers a level of domesticity that significantly improves comfort and reduces the hassle of managing wardrobe for an extended period.

Some hotels, particularly those focused on extended stays or apartment-style accommodations, may offer in-unit washers and dryers. Others provide communal laundry rooms. Either option is a significant upgrade for trips lasting more than a week or two, allowing you to maintain freshness and manage your personal care with ease.

Dedicated Workspace

For business travelers or digital nomads, a comfortable and functional workspace is crucial. This typically includes a well-lit desk, an ergonomic chair, ample power outlets, and reliable high-speed internet access. When you're staying for an extended period, having a dedicated area for work that is separate from your sleeping or relaxation space can greatly improve productivity and work-life balance.

Many suites with kitchens are designed with this in mind, offering distinct living areas that can serve as a home office. Good Wi-Fi is paramount, and you should confirm the hotel's policy and potential charges for internet access, especially for longer stays where these costs can add up.

Living and Dining Areas

A true 'hotel room with a kitchen' is often part of a larger suite that includes separate living and dining areas. These spaces provide room to spread out, relax, entertain guests, or enjoy meals without being confined to the bedroom. A separate living room with comfortable seating allows you to unwind after a day of work or exploration, while a dedicated dining table provides a proper setting for your home-cooked meals.

These distinct zones contribute to a more organized and less cramped living experience, making the accommodation feel more like a temporary home. This is particularly valuable for families or groups who need individual space and communal areas to coexist comfortably for an extended duration.

Fitness Centers and Recreational Facilities

Maintaining an active lifestyle while traveling can be challenging. Hotels equipped for longer stays often feature amenities such as fitness centers, swimming pools, or outdoor recreational areas. These facilities provide opportunities for exercise and relaxation, helping you stay healthy and de-stress during your trip.

Having these options readily available within the hotel can save you time and money compared to seeking out external gyms or activities. They contribute to an overall well-being that is especially important when you are away from home for an extended period, helping to maintain routines and combat the sedentary nature of travel.

The combination of a kitchen, laundry facilities, a workspace, and recreational amenities creates an environment conducive to comfortable and productive extended stays. These features collectively redefine the hotel experience, moving beyond temporary lodging to something more akin to a home base.

When to Avoid a Kitchen in Your Hotel Room

While the allure of a kitchen in a hotel room is strong for many travelers, it's not always the optimal choice. Understanding when to bypass this amenity can help you save money, time, and avoid unnecessary complications, even if you're staying for a significant duration.

Very Short Stays (1-2 Nights)

If your trip is exceptionally brief, say just one or two nights, the added cost for a room with kitchen facilities might not be justifiable. You'll likely be spending most of your time exploring the destination or attending events, with minimal need to prepare meals. The marginal cost savings from making one or two breakfasts at home are unlikely to offset any premium the hotel charges for a kitchen-equipped room. In such cases, a standard room with easy access to hotel dining or nearby cafes is often more practical and budget-friendly.

The complexity of grocery shopping for a single breakfast or two, and then dealing with any leftover perishables, can also be more hassle than it's worth for very short durations. It's often simpler to grab a coffee and a pastry on the go or utilize room service.

Culinary Tourism Focused Trips

If your primary reason for travel is to experience the local dining scene – to sample renowned restaurants, explore street food, or take culinary tours – then a hotel kitchen might go largely unused. Your itinerary will likely be packed with culinary adventures, making a fully equipped kitchen redundant. In this scenario, focusing on a hotel's location, room comfort, and proximity to dining hotspots would be a higher priority.

Booking a room with a kitchen might mean paying for an amenity you won't fully utilize, potentially at the expense of a better-located or more luxurious standard room. The focus here is on external gastronomic experiences, rendering an internal kitchen less relevant, regardless of how long you stay.

Hotels with Exceptional Dining or Proximity to Many Eateries

Some hotels boast award-winning restaurants or are situated in areas with an abundance of highly-rated dining options. If the hotel's dining experience is a significant draw, or if you're staying in a vibrant district brimming with cafes and restaurants, the need for a personal kitchen diminishes. You might prefer to indulge in the convenience and quality offered by the hotel's own culinary services or the diverse local offerings.

For travelers who see dining out as an integral part of their travel experience, the thought of cooking in their room might seem unappealing. The duration of the stay matters less than the quality and accessibility of external dining when this is the priority.

When Basic Needs Are Met Without a Kitchen

Sometimes, a standard hotel room with a coffee maker, a mini-fridge for drinks, and perhaps a microwave (often available upon request or in higher room categories) can satisfy your needs. If you only require these basic amenities for your morning coffee or to chill beverages and snacks, you might not need a full kitchen. Many hotels offer rooms that provide these limited facilities without the commitment and potential higher cost of a suite with a comprehensive kitchen, making them suitable even for longer stays if your culinary ambitions are modest.

The key is to honestly assess your travel habits and needs. If you rarely cook at home, are not on a strict budget that necessitates self-catering, or are focused on exploring the local food culture, a kitchen might be an unnecessary feature.