Behind Every Thoughtful Detail: Lavinia Ungureanu’s Journey in Hospitality

In celebration of National Housekeeping Week (September 14-20), we shine a spotlight on Lavinia Ungureanu, Head of Housekeeping & Quality Control at STAY Camden. This special week recognizes the dedicated professionals who work tirelessly behind the scenes, ensuring every space feels welcoming and pristine—work that often goes unnoticed but never unappreciated. At STAY, Lavinia leads a team committed to creating spaces where guests can truly feel at home, blending meticulous attention to detail with genuine care for the guest experience. Here, she shares her journey to STAY, what drives her passion for hospitality, and the moments that make her work most rewarding.

Tell us about your housekeeping journey – how did it all start and what led you to STAY?

My journey in housekeeping began with a genuine passion for creating clean, comfortable spaces where people feel at home. Over the years, I have worked in various roles, gaining experience not only in the practical aspects of housekeeping but also in team management, upholding high standards, and understanding what guests truly value. When the opportunity at STAY came up, it felt like the perfect match. I was drawn to the brand’s strong focus on quality, thoughtful design, and guest experience. It’s a place where attention to detail isn’t just encouraged — it’s expected.

STAY is known for its thoughtful design and attention to detail. How do you and your team ensure that every apartment maintains that ‘home away from home’ feeling that our guests love?

It all comes down to consistency, pride in our work, and having a team that genuinely cares. We treat each apartment as if it were our own home — paying attention to the little touches that make a big difference, from spotless surfaces to perfectly arranged furniture. Our training emphasises the STAY standard, but we also empower our team to think like a guest. Regular quality checks, open communication, and a strong team culture help us maintain the high level of detail STAY is known for.

What’s the most rewarding part of your role?

For me, it’s seeing the impact our work has on guests. When someone walks into an apartment and instantly feels relaxed and at home, that’s the reward. I also find it incredibly fulfilling to support and develop my team. Watching someone grow in confidence, take ownership of their role, and thrive within the company is a great feeling. It’s not just about cleaning rooms — it’s about building careers and creating memorable experiences for guests.

As someone who’s built such a respected team at STAY, what advice would you give to someone just starting their career?

Be curious, be humble, and always be willing to learn. Housekeeping is a profession that requires both discipline and heart — it’s not just about cleaning, it’s about caring. Be proud of the work you do, take feedback as a tool for growth, and never underestimate the value of the small details.

What’s something about your job that would surprise most people?

Many people are surprised by how much planning, coordination, and problem-solving goes into housekeeping. It’s not just about making beds or vacuuming — it’s about logistics, time management, quality control, and adapting to unexpected challenges, all while maintaining high standards.

What’s your proudest achievement as Head of Housekeeping & Quality Control at STAY?

Building a strong, dedicated team that takes pride in their work is something I’m incredibly proud of. We’ve created a culture of accountability and support, where everyone feels valued. I’m also proud of the feedback we consistently receive from guests — when they say that the apartment felt like home, or that everything was spotless and welcoming, it’s a testament to the team’s hard work. It’s those moments that remind me why I love what I do.