You may have caught a few glimpses of our adventures with the Bowers in last week’s little road trip video, but we’re back with a longer, more detailed look at the hotel-inspired decorating ideas we gathered during our stay at the quirky and memorable Hotel Preston in Nashville. Katie and I had been tossing around ideas for a short video and a blog post while planning our reunion, and once we checked into the hotel it was obvious the space was full of approachable, hotel-chic inspiration that can be adapted to everyday homes. Below is a curated collection of accessible hotel-inspired decorating ideas you can use to add polish and comfort to your own rooms.

Hotel rooms are designed to feel both polished and effortless, and there’s a lot homeowners can borrow from that design philosophy. Start with a clear focus on comfort and functionality: crisp bedding, layered lighting, and a mix of textures immediately elevate a bedroom to feel more like a boutique hotel suite. Invest in a high-quality duvet or comforter and add a textured throw or quilt at the foot of the bed. A few well-placed pillows in complementary colors and patterns make the bed look inviting without feeling cluttered.

Lighting makes a huge difference. Hotels often layer ambient, task, and accent lighting so each corner of the room feels thoughtfully illuminated. Consider bedside lamps with warm bulbs for reading, an overhead dimmer for setting the mood, and a small accent lamp or sconce near seating areas. Swapping out a single harsh light for layered sources creates a civil, relaxing atmosphere similar to what you’d find in a stylish hotel room.

Another simple and high-impact idea is to treat small spaces like bathrooms and entryways with the same attention hotels give them. A rich paint color in a powder room—think deep navy or charcoal—adds drama and sophistication. Adding luxe details like plush hand towels, a soft bath mat, and an attractive soap dispenser can transform a utilitarian space into a mini retreat. Little upgrades, such as a quality robe or a feather-soft towel, mimic that hotel feel and make guests feel pampered.

Texture and material choices also help replicate the hotel aesthetic. Natural wood accents, metal finishes, and a mix of matte and glossy surfaces create depth and visual interest. A streamlined headboard, a vintage suitcase repurposed as a side table, or a bold patterned rug anchors the room and gives it personality without overpowering the space. Keep decor intentional and uncluttered—hotels are often minimalist by design, focusing on a few strong elements rather than filling every surface.

Don’t forget practical details that make a big impression: a dedicated luggage rack, a neat tray for keys and small items, and easy-to-find outlets or charging stations near the bed. Creating designated spots for common needs helps your home function more smoothly and makes guests feel considered. Framing a simple piece of art or a local print above a bedside table or desk can also tie a room together while giving it a curated, hotel-like vibe.

Finally, small rituals can heighten that guest-room experience. Fresh flowers, a small stack of curated reading material, or a note welcoming visitors adds warmth and thoughtfulness that guests will remember. These touches cost little but communicate a level of care and hospitality you’d expect in a boutique hotel.

Note: Hotel Preston didn’t comp us, pay us, or otherwise reward us for mentioning them in this post. We found them via Travelocity & TripAdviser and paid to stay there because it looked fun. And it was.