If travelling feels like a no-go right now, we get it.
Between work, family, staying in budget, and the general pace of life, packing a bag, taking a flight, and checking into a hotel aren’t always realistic.
But between you and me, it sometimes feels like travelling (especially to places you’ve already been or places you’re going to because it’s cheap right now) isn’t just about the destination.
Some of us book hotel stays just to soak in the calm in the midst of all the chaos – and the flight comes as a bonus.
The feeling of walking into a pre-cooled room where everything has its place and no laundry is yelling for attention is the ultimate luxury. Crisp beds. Clear surfaces. A breakfast buffet and no dishes? Sign me up!
If that’s the part of travel you miss most, stick with us because we’ve got exactly what you need to make your home…. a getaway-worthy hotel.
Start with a Hotel-Friendly Colour Palette
Hotels often rely on calm, neutral tones that instantly make a space feel restful.
Think warm whites, soft greys, beige, taupe, or sage because these colours reflect light well and create a sense of openness, even in smaller rooms.
Before you cancel us out thinking you’re going to have to repaint your entire home – you’re not. Swapping out cushion covers, curtains, rugs, or bedding in softer tones can already shift the mood of a room.
Hotels typically stick to two main colours and one subtle accent per space, which keeps everything feeling like it belongs.
Closed Storage Is the Secret to That Clutter-Free Look
One thing hotels do exceptionally well is hide the mess.
Closed storage is what makes a room feel instantly calmer. Think cabinets with doors, storage ottomans, sideboards, or TV consoles that conceal everyday items. They not only keep the dust out, but they also create a seamless effect.
Even fabric boxes tucked neatly into shelves can make a big difference.
If something doesn’t add to the look of the room, it doesn’t need to be on display.
Cables, remotes, paperwork, toys, and daily clutter should have a home that isn’t always visible.
If you already have open shelves, try removing at least half the items.
Group what remains and leave empty space around them.
Stop Pushing All Your Furniture Against the Walls
Hotels rarely push furniture right up against walls.
Instead, pieces are slightly floated to create better flow and depth.
Even pulling your sofa forward by a small amount can make the room feel less…dormitory?
If space allows, placing a slim console table, lamp, or even a narrow bench behind the sofa helps anchor the layout.
This approach works especially well in living rooms and bedrooms.
Elevate the Walls Without Major Renovation
Hotel walls are rarely bare, but they’re also never overcrowded.
If you want to elevate your space, consider creating a simple feature wall.
This could be behind the bed, sofa, or dining area.
Options like fluted panels, subtle textured wallpaper, or even wall moulding painted the same colour as the wall can add depth without feeling heavy. A plus point is they’re so easily available in Malaysia – online and offline.
You don’t need to do the entire room. One wall is enough!
Lighting Is What Sets the Mood
Overhead lighting alone rarely feels relaxing.
Hotels use layered lighting to create warmth and softness.
Table lamps, floor lamps, bedside lights, and wall sconces all contribute to a more calming atmosphere.
Warm light bulbs are essential. Cool white lighting tends to feel harsh and clinical.
Aim for at least two light sources in each room.
One for function and one for ambience. The difference is immediate, especially in the evenings.
A Daily Escape, Even When You’re Not Going Anywhere
Life can be a lot – especially when you’re still hustling and hotel rooms are designed to let you breathe.
That’s why even a short hotel stay does so much. You’re away from home, where the clutter, noise, and mental load are.
But, when travelling isn’t possible, recreating that environment at home becomes its own cheaper kind of escape.
By choosing psychologically calmer colours, hiding everyday mess, layering textures, and allowing your space to actually have space, you’re on your way to achieving that breather every single day – all day.