Whether your hotel is classically or contemporarily styled, it is important that it always looks fresh, smart and welcoming to guests. If the public areas have not been decorated for a few years, now is the time to plan a makeover!

Colour scheme

Whilst a major renovation can prove very costly; if your furniture is still looking good, you will be surprised and delighted how rooms can be revitalised. A fresh coat of paint and the introduction of attractive new features is one of the many simple steps you can take.

The first thing to consider is the colour palette:

• Bright colours can make a room look smaller and can look tired and date quicker than classic neutral shades. The classic shades that have stood the test of time are magnolia and cream.  Dove grey is a popular neutral shade that can look really good! Even better if you can combine accents of bright colours used for accessories such as cushions and lampshades.
• If you feel the walls are looking dull, you can introduce a ‘statement’ wall in a complementary darker tone. Claret, forest green or French navy – depending on the colour scheme of your furniture – would contrast nicely.
• New artwork will give rooms a fresh new look too. Whilst buying sizeable pieces might be ‘out of budget’, it is well worth seeking out some local artists who will happily lend you pieces of their work as it gives them exposure and could lead to sales.

Try Lighting

Lighting can also make a room look tired and dull. So it is worth looking at how you can ‘ring the changes’ with some new lamps. If you want to create an atmosphere, try pools of brighter light where guests are reading or working and other areas bathed in softer golden light.

Artificial Plants

One of the most effective and cost-efficient ways to revitalise areas is by the clever use of artificial plants and flowers. If you buy good quality ones, you will find it impossible to tell that they are ‘faux’!  Blend artificial plants amongst live plants and have a layer of moss added to the top of their soil to make them more realistic. Attractive pots that complement the interior design can make all the difference and a regular dust is all the maintenance they will need!

A huge artificial plant arrangement makes a stunning focus to a room and some of the artificial seasonal plants can be replaced through the year with other seasonal plants and flowers. Wall displays of artificial trailing ivy can look very effective behind sofas and ‘plant walls’ are an eye-catching and effective way to divide a large room into smaller, cosier sitting areas. Plant walls comprise of multi-panels with a variety of different artificial plants. There can be hanging plants and ones with variegated foliage in a variety of natural tones. It does take a little time to create the right effect, but the feature will be much admired by your hotel guests.

Don’t Forget the Other Spaces!

The same ideas for rejuvenation can be rolled out across the hotel, with the introduction of artwork and artificial plants. Investigate colour schemes for the guest toilets and try adding large wicker baskets containing rolls of single-use cloth hand towels.

Freshen up your guest rooms with new paint and some new art for the walls. Introduce a splash of bold and fashionable colours using cushions, throws and curtain ties

An arrangement of artificial plants and interesting ornaments on a table, plus an arrangement of tactile cushions on the bed that all complement the colour scheme. This will help define the room’s character and create a feeling of luxurious cosiness.

After all, making your guests feel welcome in your hotel and their stay a memorable one, is your main objective….