Boutique hotels are our own version of a dreamy getaway. What’s not to love? Most of the time, we don’t have to travel very far to get to one, and they aren’t crazy crowded. Every time we find ourselves in a boutique hotel, we immediately want to go home and recreate everything we saw.
When was the last time you got to really get away? Was it before the madness of COVID-19? Even longer than that? If you can’t even remember the last time you got to take a break from the kids or even just work, now is the time to step back and take a deep breath—you deserve it! For me, I’m always on the grind and am in desperate need of a getaway.
(Photographer: Chad Mellon)
If jetting off to a tropical island or heading to a new city isn’t an option, why not bring that vacation feeling home? But how, you may ask, can you make your home feel like a hotel? Well, it’s actually quite simple. Take all of your favorite things about boutique hotels and incorporate them into your home! One thing that boutique hotels do right almost every time is creating glamorous outdoor areas. With unique pops of color, interesting decor and maximum opportunity for entertaining, we turn to boutique hotels for inspiration.
Whether you’re working with a large backyard or a small patio, it is very possible to achieve boutique hotel style status. Interested in what products and tips you need to succeed? Below, you’ll find all of my tips for creating and designing a boutique hotel-inspired backyard!
Blur the Lines
It’s all about blurring the lines when it comes to boutique hotel-inspired backyards—where does the indoor end, and the outdoor begin? I think it’s up to you to make that decision. This especially works if you’re dealing with a covered outdoor area. This will make it feel more private, allowing you to host intimate gatherings without interruption.
Keep in mind, though, that natural lighting is essential to creating a boutique hotel-inspired atmosphere in a backyard. Allow some natural light to filter through, whether it’s through an opening, a window or just an open space.
(Photographer: Chad Mellon)
One way to really open up your space to more opportunities for natural lighting is with a mirror. I’m loving the idea of placing a floor mirror, like this, against a wall facing the sun. That way, when the sun hits it, it will provide even more light in the area. Plus, it’s a great photo-opp!
On the other hand, if you have a bit too much light, I’d suggest using an outdoor umbrella, like this, to block out some of the harsh rays of the sun. It’s not an eye-sore and gives out some major boutique hotel vibes.
Sheer Curtains
Sheer curtains, or curtains of any sort for that matter, aren’t what most people think of when it comes to a backyard, but hear me out! Sheer curtains will not only dim light, but it’s also a great barrier to the outside world.
Look at how I decorated this outdoor area in one of my client’s houses, for example! The sheer curtains can pull completely closed, ensuring privacy, or, they can remain open to let in some sunlight and a light breeze.
(Photographer: Chad Mellon)
I also love the idea of placing a sunbed, like this, next to the sheer curtains for optimal boutique hotel status. The whites and neutral hues look absolutely fantastic together!
Pocket Doors
Perhaps my favorite way for capturing a boutique hotel-like backyard, is by creating an indoor-outdoor feel. The absolute best way, hands down, to do this, is with pocket doors. Pocket doors are connected to a track in the wall and are able to be pushed, hidden away inside the wall. I know, it sounds almost futuristic, but I’m telling you—this is the future.
Pocket doors enable for much more room and once again blurs the lines between the inside and outside area. Make sure to keep the space directly next to the doors pretty sparse, but if you feel like it’s missing something, I love the idea of adding a faux tree, like this!
(Photographer: Chad Mellon)
Bar for Entertaining
The poolside experience wouldn’t be complete without a cocktail, which is why a bar situation is a must. Whether you only have room for a small bar cart, or you have ample space and can create a built-in bar, the options are truly limitless!
In order to stay in the boutique hotel realm, make sure to keep it relatively simple. You don’t want too many trinkets out in the open, as it can feel cluttered and cheap. Instead, keep a serving tray at hand, like this, where you can use it to store your favorite crystal bottles or to serve drinks and food with.
(Photographer: Chad Mellon)
If you’re on a budget, the bar area is the one place where you can really cut back on costs. I suggest converting an old side table into your very own bar cart. It’s cost effective and probably already fits your style.
Fireplace Nook
In order to really enjoy a villa lifestyle, a fireplace is 100% necessary. With this, you truly can’t go wrong—whether it’s exposed brick or something entirely custom and new, a fireplace will turn your boutique hotel fantasies into a reality.
When the sun falls and the evening comes, you can either relax in front of the fireplace with a glass of wine and your significant other, or bring the kids along for some s’mores and scary stories.
(Photographer: Chad Mellon)
I love the idea of setting up a little nook in front of the fireplace with durable chairs, like this. Just imagine the opportunities for entertaining! This will soon become your absolute favorite place to hang out and relax.
If you enjoyed reading this, look here to see the IGTV version! I also think you’ll enjoy this blog, where I go into detail on decorating shelves. Trust me—it’s a must-read!