Hotel Design- September 2008

designer viewpoint Low-cost solutions benefit designers and hoteliers s interior designers, we often are challenged to create thoughtful interior spaces on a limited budget. To creatively solve this problem, we must find new ways to improve existing methods, new uses for materials and innovative solutions to standard design. The true test of any solution is the durability of the idea at the guest level. How long will it last, and will the concept stand the test of time? Following are some solutions for both new construction and major renovation, as well as for property improvement, with a specific focus on guestrooms and bathrooms. Remember that any of the ideas offered for guestroom spaces also may be used in corridors or other public areas. A Scott C. Maloney Director mbi/k2m Architecture Guestroom Headboard: Upholster a large sheet of masonite with a thick foam pad. Accent it with items like buttons, rope trim and colored fabric. Mount it with wall cleats, and the project will create a focal point in the space. Gooseneck light fixtures may be installed within the headboard, with wiring hidden behind in the space occupied by the cleat. Bedding: Keep it simple with white linens and add a tri-folded coverlet or bed scarf at the foot of the bed with fabric that ties together the color palette in the room. Add a decorative bolster with an embroidered hotel logo or other design to give a welcoming feel. Add decorative throw pillows that coordinate with your color scheme for a unified look. 78 Hotel Design | SEPTEMBER 2008 Focus wall: Add paint or a wallcovering to the headboard or window wall to create impact without breaking the budget. Whether it is a subtle change in texture or a complementary color, it will alter the dynamics of a room. Simulated architectural detailing: This can be accomplished in a variety of ways. Using painter’s tape, you can paint horizontal lines to make the room appear deeper or vertical lines to make it feel taller. Another idea is to beef up the appearance of crown molding without breaking the budget. Use a standard 3-inch crown. Two inches below the bottom of the crown, install a decorative half-round. Paint the crown, halfround and wall space in between. This gives the illusion of a more substantial millwork shape, without the cost. Artwork and mirrors: Strategic placement is key. It’s a good idea to spend money on one impact piece and keep the others simple, complementary and cost-effective. DESIGN ON A DIME Well, not quite, but designers of The Ellis Hotel, Atlanta, (pictured here and below) employed many of the cost-saving concepts discussed in this column. ALL PHOTOTOGRAPHY: KEVIN GARRETT

Table of Contents Feed for the Digital Edition of Hotel Design- September 2008

Hotel Design - September 2008 Contents First Word Design Pulse News Briefs Boho Chic in South Beach Bath Trends Waterworks Photography 101 Illuminations First Looks Caribbean Cool Updating History On the Wall Call for Entries Technology Trendlines Form & Function Designer Viewpoint Under the Texan Sun Brand Outlook Call for Submissions Bringing Outside In Facelifts Portfolio People Watch Good Life Up Close & Personal Source List Ad Index Signature Projects

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