A common phrase I hear when people talk about decorating their homes is “I want it to look like a hotel.” I can relate, I’ve spent years making my bed as big, white and fluffy as I can; one that I can collapse into at the end of a long day. Hotels can feel so luxurious with their neat stacks of towels and tightly tucked sheets, and let’s not forget the robes. Many hotels even sell everything from their bedlinens, robes, and shampoos, to their mattresses so you can take your experience home with you. But hotels are also impersonal by nature, they’re missing all of the elements that “make a house a home.” Perhaps it’s the absence of clutter (and the daily cleaning service) that make them so appealing. What do you think, have you ever tried to make your home feel more like a hotel? I for one wouldn’t mind if mine looked a little more like this lobby at the Ace Hotel in Portland, keep reading to see how to bring it home…
Chandelier – The modern, three-tiered chandelier in the Ace Hotel contrasts well against the classic crown molding and wood paneling. If you’re stumped on choosing lighting for your space this is a great opportunity to mix periods, especially if you have a tendency to stick to just one period or style.
Chesterfield sofa – Nothing adds gravitas to a room like a worn in Chesterfield. It has the same classic yet edgy effect that a well broken-in leather jacket can have on an outfit.
Neon hotel sign – I’m generally wary of decorating with letters and signs (it’s like a tattoo, will this word still represent me in a year or two?) but there’s no denying the impact they have in the inspiration photo. I recommend sticking to antique signage as it feels much more authentic than newly distressed alternatives.
“Hommes” photograph – Whether you’re throwing a dinner party or having a low key night with Netflix, these tuxedo’d gentlemen will always give your room a sense of occasion.
Speakers – This walnut speaker pulls in the wood element of the paneling in the hotel lobby. If your home or apartment didn’t come with original wooden accents, incorporate similar woods into your furniture and accessories instead.
Swim Club keychain – Of all the items available in the Ace Hotel shop, this small leather token may be the most valuable. With it, you get an annual membership to the Ace pool and free entry to all of its live music events, DJ sets, dance parties and even yoga.
Vintage suitcase – My best friend has a vintage suitcase and, get this, she actually uses it. It forces her to pack light when she travels, and when she’s at home it sits at the foot of her full length mirror serving as a low, flat table where she sits to put makeup on (can you tell how jealous I am?).
Wooden planter – Indoor plants don’t always have to involve pots, vases or soil. A leaf in a bowl or branches in a pitcher are quick fixes the next time you have guests or just want to add some life to your space.
Do Not Disturb doorknobs – Anthropologie always has the best wall hooks and door knobs! These Do Not Disturb knobs would be a perfect addition to closet doors.
Inspiration photograph of the Ace Hotel Portland by Nicole Franzen
I love this, Cristina! I totally agree – hotels don’t have what makes a ‘home’, but one thing I love about them is they feel like an escape – there’s no clutter, everything has a place, the design is well thought out. These are aspects I definitely want to bring into my home as it evolves.
So true Candice, I’m on a spring cleaning kick (I realize it’s already summer) and am super motivated to declutter my home lately!
Love this! I. want. that. green chesterfield bad!!!! Keep up the great work. Adél http://www.lifeofreily.co.za
It’s a dream piece for me too! One day 😉
I have to admit that I totally try to channel a hotel vibe in our home’s design! My goal for my house is that it be my sanctuary and retreat from the rest of the world — completely comfortable, welcoming and serene. For me, that does mean taking a more streamlined and minimalist approach to the design — when I walk in the doors, I take a deep breath and instantly feel more relaxed!
I’d say you aced the welcoming and serene vibe for sure!
Another great post, Cristina! My favorite hotels always have a signature scent and lots of atmosphere, two things I would love to channel in my own home.
Thanks Jenn! I’ve given a lot of thought to my own signature scent, but not my home’s – I’ll be on the hunt for that now.
A signature scent, that’s something I would love to find for my home. Mine changes with seasons, products, and candles, and it’s never something I’m crazy about (except the moment it has just been cleaned). As soon as you walk in the door you take a deep breath, so why not make sure it’s something that you love? Anyone have favorites or suggestions?
I clicked on your blog because I KNEW I recognized that hotel lobby! I was right, was there with my BFF in May celebrating our birthdays. I’d love for my home to have a signature scent too – right now it’s all I can do for it not to be teenage boy and damp dog.
I haven’t been, but I’d love to see it in person
Great post! I’m currently doing a home renovation and one of the main things that I wanted to achieve is a hotel look with a homely feel. This is really inspiring. Gemma xx http://www.jacquardflower.uk
I think I need to escape my home and go there!
http://xoxobella.com/
Totally want to live in a hotel. I refuse to buy linens in anything other than white. Same with towels. My husband argues you can tell when they get dirty but I think that’s part of their beauty, you are reminded to clean them more often! Plus they reflect light in our apartment, it needs as much brightening as possible.
I’m the same way with my sheets and towels! It’s slightly more work, but I think it’s worth it.
Beautiful post!
That green couch is STUNNING!
Cheers,
P&F
http://preppyandfunny.wordpress.com