Designer Shares How to Get the 5-Star Hotel Feel in Your Bedroom
As the new year unfolds, January often brings with it a slower pace and quieter days. The festive glow of December fades, and all that’s left is the chill of winter. However, this season is the perfect time for self-care and creating comforting spaces to recharge and start the year afresh. And one way to embrace this feeling is by turning your bedroom into a sanctuary that reflects the elegance of a luxurious hotel room. With 1,900 average monthly searches for ‘luxury bedroom’, it seems many of us are seeking an environment of ultimate relaxation.
From selecting opulent bedding to adding soft lighting, we spoke with Joanne Dodsworth, Head of Bedrooms at Wren, and here she shares her expert tips to help you design a bedroom that feels indulgent yet functional—just like a stay in a five-star hotel.
1. Invest in high quality bedding
Luxury hotels often use sheets with a high thread count, typically 300 or more, to provide a smooth and soft texture. “Choose natural materials like Egyptian cotton or sateen for their breathable, crisp feel that enhances sleep quality. A fluffy duvet or comforter is essential for a cosy, hotel-inspired bed. Choose a down or down-alternative fill for the perfect balance of warmth and lightness,” says Joanne.
Additionally, add a layer of indulgence to your bed with a mattress topper. Memory foam or down-filled toppers create a soft yet supportive surface that elevates the comfort of your mattress, making it feel brand new.
2. Set the mood with ambient lighting
January’s short, dim days make good lighting essential. Creating a cosy, well-lit bedroom combats the winter gloom, uplifting your mood and creating a comforting retreat. Hotels use a combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting to create a dynamic and versatile environment. Joanne suggests adding two key elements to refresh your bedroom:
• Overhead lighting: “Use dimmable ceiling fixtures to set the room’s general brightness. This allows you to transition between brighter light for tasks and softer light for relaxation.”
• Bedside lamps: “Choose lamps with warm tones and adjustable brightness. These provide a soft glow perfect for nighttime reading or unwinding.”
3. Create a seating area
If space permits, create a multifunctional space where you can relax, read, or enjoy a quiet moment, enhancing the room’s comfort and usability. “Choose the right furniture for your room, consider multifunctional pieces like storage ottomans or poufs, which can double as seating or footrests or a single, plush armchair for a cosy reading nook.
Place the seating area in a spot that maximises comfort and utility. If possible, position it near a window to enjoy natural light and views during the day,” suggests Joanne.
4. Hidden storage for a minimalistic look
Minimalism is a key feature of luxury hotel rooms, where clutter is expertly concealed to create a sense of calm, perfect for a new year refresh. “Consider fitted wardrobes with sliding doors and internal compartments to maximise storage while keeping the exterior sleek. You can also add slim racks, shoe and accessory storage features or hooks on the inside of closet doors to keep items like scarves, ties, or belts out of sight,” advises Joanne.
Alternatively, you can choose over-bed cabinets, a bed frame with built-in drawers or a lift-up mattress platform. These spaces are ideal for storing off-season clothing, bedding, or other bulky items.
5. Add artwork and mirrors
“Hotels often feature carefully curated artwork or large mirrors to create visual interest. Incorporate unique, statement pieces or custom artwork in your space. Oversized mirrors can reflect light and make the room feel bigger, while bold art can serve as a focal point”, concludes Joanne.