You may have caught a few moments of our time with the Bowers in last week’s short road trip video, and now we’re back with a longer look at the hotel-inspired decorating ideas we picked up during our stay at the delightfully quirky Hotel Preston in Nashville. Katie and I were already tossing around ideas for another quick video when we checked into the hotel and realized that nearly every corner offered a small design detail worth borrowing for home. We left with a head full of practical, stylish touches you can adapt easily—so here are some of our favorite hotel-chic ideas and how you might translate them into your own rooms.
One of the first things that screamed “ready-made inspiration” was color. Bold, confident paint choices in public areas and guest rooms gave the hotel a unified personality. Consider a deep navy or a muted emerald on an accent wall, or try painting a powder room a dramatic hue you wouldn’t normally use in larger spaces. Dark, saturated colors can make a small space feel curated and intentional—especially when paired with crisp white trim and warm metallic accents.
Layering bedding is another instantly noticeable hotel habit. The layered approach—sheets, a lightweight blanket, a cozy duvet, and a folded throw or coverlet at the foot—creates depth and invites guests to sink in. Mix textures and a couple of complementary patterns for visual interest, but keep the overall color palette cohesive so everything reads as calm and collected. A plush featherbed or quality mattress topper can make a dramatic difference in comfort and is one of the easiest ways to recreate that hotel sleep experience at home.
Small, thoughtful accessories make a big impact. Simple things like a stack of fresh, fluffy towels, a soft robe on a hook, or a stylish laundry basket can elevate a guest bathroom from functional to spa-like. Hotels also do a great job with bedside conveniences: an unobtrusive alarm clock, easy-to-find light switches, a low-profile charger or charging station, and a small tray for keys and jewelry help guests feel immediately at ease.
Lighting is central to mood. In the hotel we stayed at, layered lighting—ambient overhead, task reading lamps, and a soft bedside or accent lamp—meant every area had appropriate illumination. Swap out a single harsh overhead fixture for a mix of lamps and dimmers to achieve that same flexibility at home. Trim-mounted sconces or wall lamps beside the bed free up nightstand space and feel polished, while a well-placed floor lamp can warm a seating corner.
Don’t underestimate the power of art and accessories. A few well-chosen pieces—framed prints, a gallery wall with a consistent mat and frame scheme, or a large statement piece—can turn a bland wall into a focal point. Hotels often use art at a larger scale than you might think is feasible at home; one oversized work can be more effective than several small, competing pieces. Add a small stack of curated books or a decorative box on a side table to add personality without clutter.
Functional furniture choices also stood out. A narrow bench at the foot of the bed, a luggage rack, or a small upholstered chair in a corner offers practical seating and a sense of completeness. Multipurpose pieces—an ottoman with storage, a bedside table with drawers—help keep guest areas tidy and welcoming. In the bathroom, a simple tray or basket for toiletries makes a big difference for visitors who want to unpack a little without taking over the counter.
Sensory details are the finishing touch. A subtle, consistent scent in the hallway or lobby and fresh flowers or a small plant in the room immediately read as cared-for. Blackout curtains or layered window coverings help ensure a restful sleep, and quality mattress protection keeps bedding pristine. Small signs of hospitality—bottled water, a bowl of mints, or a handwritten welcome note—turn a stay from merely comfortable into memorable.
We’d love to hear how hotels have inspired your home choices. Have you adopted a paint color, swapped in more luxurious towels, introduced a featherbed, or added special lighting after staying somewhere stylish? What tricks do you use to keep your guest room feeling polished and inviting? Share your tips and favorites—we’re always on the lookout for more small, effective ways to bring hotel-level comfort into everyday life.
Note: Hotel Preston didn’t comp us, pay us, or otherwise reward us for mentioning them in this post. We found them via Travelocity & TripAdvisor and paid to stay there because it looked fun. And it was.