Designing for Experience: How Colour, Feng Shui & Sustainability Shape Hotel Interiors
At Miri Design, we believe a hotel should be more than just a place to stay—it should tell a story, evoke emotion, and leave a lasting impression. Every space has the power to shape the way we feel, from the warmth of a beautifully designed lounge to the deep sense of calm in a well-balanced bedroom.
Through feng shui, colour psychology, and sustainable design, we craft interiors that go beyond aesthetics—spaces that feel effortless, intuitive, and deeply considered. Whether it’s a boutique city hotel, a tranquil countryside retreat, or a coastal hideaway, every detail is chosen with intention to enhance the guest experience.
Here’s how we use spatial flow, colour, and natural materials to create spaces that welcome, restore, and inspire.
Feng Shui & Flow: Designing with Energy & Atmosphere
We often talk about how a space looks, but what about how it feels? That’s where feng shui comes in. It’s not just about energy—it’s about flow, balance, and creating an environment that supports the way people naturally move, interact, and unwind.
Lobbies & Reception Areas → First impressions matter. Thoughtful layouts, curved seating arrangements, and natural materials create a sense of openness and ease, setting the tone for the entire stay.
Bars & Social Spaces → A well-designed bar encourages connection. We use warm, earthy tones and layered lighting to craft spaces that feel inviting and effortless—whether guests are enjoying a quiet drink or lively conversation.
Bedrooms & Sleep Spaces → Sleep is sacred. A calm, balanced layout, soft natural textures, and minimal electronic interference all contribute to better rest and relaxation.
The best spaces don’t just look beautiful—they work beautifully. Every design decision should feel intentional, natural, and aligned with the experience we want to create.
Colour Psychology: More Than Just a Mood
Colour has a powerful effect on how we feel. It can energise, ground, or soothe—and when chosen with care, it shapes the atmosphere of a space in ways we often don’t even realise.
Green → Known for its restorative qualities, green connects us to nature. But the right shade matters—a soft sage creates a peaceful retreat, while a deep emerald adds richness and depth to a space.
Blue → Light, airy blues promote calm and relaxation—perfect for spa-like bathrooms and guest suites. Darker navies bring a sense of depth and sophistication, ideal for intimate dining spaces or luxury hotel lounges.
Warm Neutrals & Earthy Tones → Think soft beiges, clay, and warm terracottas—colours that feel grounding, timeless, and effortlessly elegant.
Rich Reds & Burnt Oranges → These shades encourage warmth, conversation, and energy—perfect for lively bars and restaurant spaces where you want people to feel engaged and at ease.
By blending feng shui and colour psychology, we design spaces that aren’t just visually striking—they feel just right.
Movement & Connection: Designing Spaces That Flow
In hotels, no space exists in isolation. The way rooms connect, how guests transition between areas, and the consistency in design details all contribute to a cohesive experience.
At Miri Design, we love playing with colour, texture, and materials to give each space its own identity, while ensuring everything still feels connected.
A rich terracotta hallway might lead into a deep green lounge, with subtle touches—like brass fixtures or warm wood accents—tying the spaces together.
Contrast and layering keep things interesting, while common elements (like repeated materials, shapes, or tones) create a sense of effortless harmony.
It’s all about balance—allowing each space to stand out while still feeling part of a larger story.
Sustainability: Thoughtful Design, Conscious Choices
Sustainability isn’t just an afterthought—it’s woven into every part of our design process. We believe the future of hotel interiors lies in thoughtful sourcing, local craftsmanship, and breathing new life into existing pieces.
Natural, Locally Sourced Materials → Lime plaster, reclaimed wood, and eco-friendly textiles bring an organic, grounding feel to a space while minimising environmental impact.
Supporting Local Artisans → Engaging UK-based craftsmen keeps traditional skills alive and adds a level of authenticity that mass-produced interiors simply can’t replicate.
Upcycling & Restoration → A beautifully restored vintage armchair or a reclaimed timber table carries a story—adding warmth and character that makes a space feel inviting and lived-in.
Sustainable design doesn’t just look good—it feels good. It’s about creating spaces that respect the past, embrace the present, and build for the future.
Natural Finishes: Bringing Depth & Texture to Hotel Interiors
The materials we choose don’t just shape the look of a space—they define its atmosphere, air quality, and longevity. At Miri Design, we favour natural, breathable finishes that age beautifully and create a rich, tactile experience.
Lime Plaster & Limewash → Timeless, breathable, and naturally antibacterial—perfect for hotel interiors where air quality and durability matter.
Clay Plaster → A beautifully earthy, non-toxic alternative that absorbs and releases humidity, helping to regulate indoor air quality. Its subtle texture and depth create a rich, organic feel—perfect for both rustic and contemporary spaces.
Earth & Cob Finishes → Traditionally used in Devon, Cornwall, and Somerset, these eco-friendly, sculptable plasters add an authentic, handmade touch, working seamlessly with exposed timber and stone.
Chalk Plaster → A softer alternative to lime, chalk plaster brightens spaces with its naturally matte, light-reflective quality, making it ideal for barn conversions, period homes, and contemporary interiors.
VOC-Free Paint → Minimising toxins for a healthier indoor environment.
Tactile, Natural Textures → From woven wall coverings to raw timber ceilings, these elements add depth and warmth, creating spaces that feel organic and inviting.
When combined with the right lighting plan, these elements work together to create a truly immersive atmosphere—a space that’s not just seen, but felt.
The Future of Hotel Design: A More Thoughtful Approach
The best hotels aren’t just places to stay—they’re places to experience. Through feng shui, colour psychology, and sustainable choices, we design interiors that feel intuitive, effortless, and deeply connected to their surroundings.
Looking to Elevate Your Hotel’s Interior?
If you’re a hotel owner, developer, or hospitality brand looking to create a space that’s thoughtful, beautiful, and deeply immersive, we’d love to hear from you.