20 Mistakes in Interior Design of Hotels, Boutique Hotels, Boarding Houses, and Vacation Homes

Hotel Design and Implementation

Designing and implementing hotel properties—whether it's a full-service hotel, boutique property, resort, or vacation retreat—always requires balancing client desires with the site's actual capabilities and budget constraints. One of the most common problems at project inception is the desire to cut costs. The budget is often either undefined or established too loosely. Clients want spaces that are "beautiful, stylish, and comfortable," but aren't always ready or able to allocate the true cost of these solutions, especially when creating a venue concept with unique character and recognizable style.

Hotel concept example in contemporary style by KPD.design

During implementation, this leads to replacing designer-specified materials with cheaper alternatives, simplifying engineering solutions, reducing functionality, and making compromises that directly impact guest comfort, operational costs, and the property's overall quality. As a result, not only do the atmosphere and visual perception of the space suffer, but business metrics are also affected, including average check size and customer loyalty.
The primary tool for avoiding numerous mistakes is a properly prepared technical specification and the client's clear understanding of the budget. This allows for aligning desires with possibilities and building a realistic venue concept.
One of our main objectives in every project is to "hire the interior to solve business tasks related to accommodating clients and meeting their needs." This isn't just a catchy phrase but the essence of the Jobs to Be Done approach that we at KPD design apply when working on hotel, inn, and resort projects.

For us, design is a tool that helps businesses convey the right image, values, and service level through physical space. Architects, designers, engineers—our entire team works to ensure the created interior not only looks impressive but also supports business objectives by creating a positive guest experience from the first moments of their stay.
Commercial hotel interiors should make a strong, considered impression on visitors, emphasize status, and build trust. This is especially important for B2B audiences who expect not only aesthetics but also full compliance with safety requirements, ergonomics, sanitary standards, and industry regulations.

We always strive to minimize risks and avoid typical mistakes: from non-compliance with fire regulations in guest rooms to inconvenient kitchen logistics in the hotel restaurant or food court layout. That's why client engagement, clear technical specifications, and a realistic budget are important to us—after all, every "want" costs money, and it's important that these costs are planned in advance.
A frequently underestimated mistake deserves special mention—declining designer supervision during implementation. Without it, even the best-conceived project can be distorted during execution: contractors interpret drawings in their own way, substitutions are made without approval, and the final interior differs significantly from what was intended.
In this article, we'll analyze in detail the main mistakes made when designing hotels, categorizing them into three main areas: interior design, architectural solutions, and engineering systems.

Hotel concept example in modern classic style by KPD.design

I. Interior Design Mistakes

1. Lack of a Cohesive Interior Concept

Guests should have something memorable to take away. This relates to the holistic venue concept and interior design that a hotel must have. This also includes unusual furniture, local art installations, and non-standard lobby layouts. In the social media era, it's important to create instagrammable spaces—interiors that guests will want to share on social networks, thereby generating organic advertising for your establishment.

2. Poor Space Planning

Spaces, especially in guest rooms and common areas, aren't divided into functional zones (sleeping, working, relaxation). Proper zoning helps guests navigate the space and ensures comfortable use of all room functions.
For example, a desk might be positioned in a poorly lit area or next to the bed, causing discomfort.
Beds positioned sideways against walls, like in hospital wards or dormitories. Beds should be accessible from both sides and ideally offer a view of the entrance. This is both feng shui and common sense.
Guest areas: facing the room. No one likes sitting facing a wall. However, such arrangements occur in small, poorly planned spaces. This should be avoided by using mirrors and intentionally repositioning furniture. The correct placement of seating significantly affects the guest experience and overall atmosphere of the establishment.

Specially generated image by KPD.design showing the error of seating facing a wall

Andor Hotel Concept by KPD.design, showing that where people sit facing a wall, it's better to create a mirrored surface

3. Improper Furniture Selection

Furniture is either too bulky (for small rooms) or conversely—too minimalist and uncomfortable.
Often, designer pieces that are visually appealing but not functional are used: for example, chairs with beautiful silhouettes but uncomfortable for extended sitting. Such choices can negatively impact guests' overall impression, especially in relaxation areas or near the bar counter.
Power outlets—integrate them into furniture. Wall-mounted outlets are outdated. Better options: build them into nightstands and headboards, provide mobile charging stations, and plan flexible connectivity from the start.

Room at the Hanok Heritage House hotel. This hotel was recognized as one of the best according to Prix Versailles

4. Lighting Mistakes

Insufficient lighting near mirrors, especially in bathrooms and vanity areas.
Absence of lighting scenarios (for example, no wall sconces or reading lamps by the bed).
Using cool light in relaxation areas, making the atmosphere uncomfortable. In hotels, as in homes, only warm color temperatures (2700-3000K) should be used.
Guest rooms must have blackout curtains—both visually dense and technically effective. They help guests cope with jet lag and sleep well.

Hotel concept by KPD.design in retro-futuristic and Star Wars style

5. Low-Quality Finishing Materials

Rapid wear of surfaces in high-traffic areas. For example, poor-quality carpet in corridors that loses its appearance after six months of use.
Armstrong-type suspended ceilings—suitable only for budget hotels. Even after careful installation, such ceilings look cheap and office-like. There are shadow-edge versions that look "more expensive," but these are still only appropriate for conference rooms and service areas. For mid-range and upscale hotels, use drywall ceilings, slatted suspended structures, designer solutions with stretch fabrics and stained glass that help create instagrammable spaces.
Fire safety—from the beginning. Every design decision must comply with fire regulations: finishing materials with the required fire safety class (KM0-KM3), evacuation routes—clearly marked, furniture, curtains, and coverings with fire-retardant treatment.

6. Incorrect Color Schemes

You can manage the room's atmosphere through color. For south-facing rooms, we use cooler colors in the design; for north-facing rooms—warmer tones.
Shower enclosures—only glass. Shower curtains look outdated and unsanitary. Clear glass partitions work best, as they're easy to clean from water droplets and mineral deposits using hotel cleaning products. They also convey a sense of cleanliness and modernity.

II. Architectural Design Mistakes

1. Poor Sound Insulation

Overlooked soundproofing between rooms, floors, especially in boutique hotels and renovated buildings. Adjoining rooms should have soundproof double doors opening outward from each room with seals around the entire perimeter.
Issues with ventilation shafts and partitions that easily transmit sound.
In room inventory corridors, carpet is preferable due to its sound-dampening properties.

Living room at Raffles, Bahrain. This hotel was recognized as one of the best according to Prix Versailles

2. Poor Wayfinding and Layout

Complex, confusing corridors without logic or landmarks, lacking directional signage.
Elevators should be directly visible from reception. This is a security and control element. Especially important: elevators from underground parking should stop in the lobby rather than going directly to guest floors; reception should have visibility of the elevator area—important for both control and guest navigation.
Rooms of different categories distributed illogically—VIP rooms next to technical areas, which diminishes the overall impression of the entire room inventory.
Entrance from underground garage—should be as presentable as the main entrance. Guests often enter not through the main entrance but through the underground parking elevator lobby. It should be: spacious, well-designed, part of the overall design concept. This creates the first impression of your hotel.

3. Incorrect Window Orientation

Windows facing noisy streets or service areas (garbage collection areas, loading docks).
Lack of protection from overheating on the south side (especially relevant for vacation properties and resorts in warm climates).
Window area costs 3-4 times more than solid walls. Important considerations: comply with illumination standards, don't overdo panoramic windows, especially in low-quality surroundings, consider cardinal directions and viewpoints.

Athenian themed room at the Dolli Hotel, Athens. This hotel was recognized as one of the best according to Prix Versailles

4. Ignoring the Needs of Guests with Limited Mobility

Lack of elevators or ramps, narrow corridors, inadequate bathrooms.
Often observed in older renovated buildings, especially boutique hotels. These shortcomings significantly limit the guest experience and potential for working with B2B clients, especially for corporate events.

Hotel concept in retro-futuristic and Star Wars style by KPD.design. If designing steps, ramps must be provided elsewhere or places where a wheelchair can be accommodated instead of a chair

5. Insufficient Storage Areas

Lack of space for storing cleaning supplies, linens, luggage, etc.
Staff forced to use corridors and common areas for temporary storage.

6. Swimming Pools in Small Hotels—Expensive and Rarely Cost-Effective

Requires substantial costs for ventilation, heating, maintenance, and quickly becomes outdated both aesthetically and physically. If included nonetheless—it should have visual connection with the lobby or relaxation area, be operational year-round, and functionally justified. Current design trends involve creating instagrammable photo zones around the pool.

Spa at Studio City hotel, Macau. This hotel was recognized as one of the best according to Prix Versailles

7. Public Restrooms—Not Prominently Displayed

They should be: in back areas, basement floors, behind columns—marked but not showcased. Guests will always find restrooms—no need to make them a focal point.

8. Hotel Entrance—Without Steps and Protected from Weather

The hotel entrance should be: covered (minimum height 4.2m), convenient for three cars simultaneously, without steps, with ramps—accessible environment is important and legally required.

III. Engineering Systems Mistakes

1. Noise Sources—Out of Sight and Hearing Range

Air conditioning units, exhaust systems, and technical cabinets should be: not visible from windows, maximally soundproofed, preferably serviced without entering guest rooms. If guests see equipment—they react to it. Even if it operates quietly.

Lobby of Pulso Hotel. This hotel was recognized as one of the best according to Prix Versailles

2. Hotel Restaurant Kitchen Ventilation—Planned at Concept Stage

Many forget that kitchen ventilation requires: large air ducts, special shafts and exhaust systems, careful advance planning. This is especially important when designing kitchens for breakfast buffet restaurants or à la carte restaurant kitchens with a bar counter. This could also be a breakfast room with an adjacent kitchen. Now even in the smallest space, you can design a full-cycle kitchen. You'll be limited in dish selection but will save on logistics and preparation since you'll be doing it on-site rather than externally.
You cannot "squeeze in" ventilation after architecture approval—this leads to rework, disputes, and costly mistakes.

3. Miscalculations in Ventilation and Air Conditioning Systems

Insufficient ventilation in bathrooms, leading to dampness and mold.
Centralized air conditioning without individual temperature control in each room—extremely inconvenient for guests and creates a negative guest experience.

4. Unstable Electrical Systems

Insufficient power capacity with numerous electrical appliances (kettles, TVs, charging devices).
Lack of sufficient outlets near beds and desks.
Lighting issues: too dim or uneven light distribution. Lack of quality lighting negatively affects the atmosphere and perception of the interior as instagrammable.

Hotel concept by KPD.design in bohemian ethnic style with an eye-catching chandelier

5. Plumbing Problems

Pressure fluctuations, unstable water temperature.
Low-quality fixtures (faucets, shower heads) leading to frequent breakdowns.
Pipe noise, especially at night, due to poor-quality installation.

6. Lack of Automation and Control Systems

No smart control systems for lighting, climate, curtains.
In large hotels—lack of integration with PMS (Property Management System): for example, guest leaves the room but climate control remains on.

Room at Nobilis Hotel, Palma. This hotel was recognized as one of the best according to Prix Versailles

7. Absence of Backup Systems

• No diesel generator for power outages.
• No backup water supply or pump stations—critical for hotels in remote regions.

Conclusion

Hotel reception by KPD.design in soft minimalist style

Mistakes in hotel design often occur due to the absence of a systematic approach and insufficient coordination between architects, engineers, and interior designers. This can be avoided when projects are developed by a cohesive team. The guest experience is also frequently ignored—both from staff and guest perspectives. Ideal design should consider:

• Guest comfort and psychology,
• Durability and serviceability of materials,
• Energy efficiency and safety,
• Staff convenience and logistics,
• The necessity of creating a unique venue concept with a thoughtful atmosphere that will generate positive emotions and encourage repeat visits, maintaining a stable average check and high occupancy of the room inventory.

A modern hotel property should not only satisfy guests' basic needs but also create a memorable impression, aligning with the trend of instagrammable spaces that encourage guests to share photos on social media, thereby attracting new clients and strengthening the hotel brand.
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Read about hotel interior design themes that immediately interest guests in this ARTICLE.