Design budgets are getting tighter and tighter on hotel projects in this economic environment, yet owners and developers continue to expect the designer to come up with a quality concept.

Kari Bennett, founder/CEO of Utah-based design firm EDGEiD, has offered tips on delivering a high-impact design without breaking the bank and has included examples of her work that exemplify each tip.

Prioritize key areas

Focus on high-impact areas like the lobby and guestrooms where guests spend the most time. Investing in quality finishes and standout features here will create a lasting impression.

“AC Hotels by Marriott does this by emphasizing warm, paneled wood walls, which create a cozy yet refined feel, and by incorporating curated art pieces that add a personal, local touch,” said Bennett. “These elements help create a memorable experience without overloading the design. It’s about finding that balance between modern style and inviting warmth. By investing in high-quality finishes and standout features in these key spaces, AC Hotels make sure their guests leave with a lasting impression that aligns perfectly with their vision of ‘A New Way to Hotel.’” EDGEiD has worked on several AC Hotel projects, including the AC Hotel Salt Lake City Downtown.

Use affordable luxurious materials

Options for materials that look expensive but are cost-effective include high-quality laminates, faux finishes and engineered stone. These can provide a luxurious appearance without the hefty price tag.

“At Residence Inn Vail, we really leaned into using materials that give that high-end look without breaking the bank,” she said. “For example, instead of leather, we opted for faux vinyl that still offers that rich, luxurious texture but at a fraction of the cost. It’s durable, looks great and fits the budget. Another smart move was using printed graphic walls instead of custom murals. The graphics gave us a lot of flexibility in terms of design, and they provided the same visual impact as a mural but with way more cost control. It’s all about finding those materials that deliver on style and quality without the hefty price tag, and that’s been key to the overall design at Residence Inn Vail.”

Strategic lighting

Invest in strategic lighting solutions to enhance the ambiance. Use a mix of task, ambient and accent lighting to create depth and highlight architectural features, making the space feel more luxurious.

At the Provo Marriott Hotel & Conference Center in Provo, UT, lighting was a big focus for us because it really sets the tone for any space,” said Bennett. “We used adjustable LED lighting to create flexibility for different events, whether it’s something more formal like a wedding or a nonformal business gathering. By layering task, ambient and accent lighting, we were able to highlight key architectural features and create depth throughout the space. The ability to adjust the lighting levels and tones allows the hotel to transform the mood depending on the event, making the space feel more luxurious and versatile at the same time. It’s all about making sure the lighting enhances the overall experience for every occasion.”

Mix high- and low-end pieces

Blend high-end statement pieces with more affordable items. A few well-chosen luxury pieces can elevate the entire space, while budget-friendly elements can fill in the gaps.

“For the Homestead Resort in Midway, UT, we really embraced the idea of mixing high- and low-end pieces to create a balanced and interesting aesthetic,” she said. “We incorporated custom-curated art for a high-end, personalized touch, which instantly elevated the feel of the meeting spaces. At the same time, we blended in several in-stock pieces that were ready to ship, allowing us to meet a quick turnaround without sacrificing style. The mix of custom and ready-made items added variety, making the space feel more dynamic. Those standout, higher-end pieces helped set the tone, while the more affordable elements filled in the gaps and kept everything cohesive and polished. It’s all about finding the right balance to create an inviting, upscale atmosphere while staying on time and on budget.”

Repurpose and upcycle

Incorporate repurposed or upcycled furniture and decor. This not only adds a unique touch but also keeps costs down and can contribute to a sustainable design approach.

“During the renovation of the Springhill Suites Jackson Hole in Jackson, WY, we really leaned into repurposing and upcycling to create a fresh, unique design while staying cost-effective,” said Bennett. “We kept the original front desk but gave it a completely new look by refinishing it with a metal-look laminate, giving it a modern update without having to replace it. There was also a wall that previously housed TVs, which we re-envisioned as a focal point for art, turning it into a standout feature. We kept key elements like the pre-existing banquette and the paneled wood wall but reupholstered them with new colors and art that reflected the local Jackson vibe. It was a great way to refresh the space, add character, and keep sustainability in mind by repurposing what we already had.”

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