I have decided to go with my original plan to make this some form of hotel. What I am thinking about doing is making each room have very basic accommodation (bed + double chest), however the idea will be that the rooms are used for those that wish to get straight on with building a project &/or are new to the server.
There will be an optional 'starter package'; gear to help the newcomer/project worker get set up.
Currently thinking the following:
16 x Planks
16 x Sticks
6-8 x Torches
1 x Cobble Axe
1 x Cobble Pickaxe
1 x Cobble Shovel
1 x Cobble Hoe
1 x Cobble Sword
3 x Ladder
3 x Sapplings
1 x Cactus
3 x Bread
2 x Pork
Too much? Too little?
There will then be a 'workshop' floor with furnaces & work benches. Possibly a stock room too ...*ponders*