Whenever I step into a restaurant or check into a hotel, the first thing I notice isn't the food, the service, or the comfort of the bed. It's what's hanging on the walls. I instinctively scan the rooms, taking in the artwork, the colors, and the decor. Perhaps it's the artist in me, but it's something I can’t help. Yet, I've noticed that I'm not the only one doing this. You can see it in the faces of other guests too—people react to the "vibe" of a space. A beautiful or inspiring atmosphere can shape the entire experience. The opposite is also true: a dull, bland environment can make you feel unwelcome. It's cold. So why do so many restaurants and hotels seem devoid of art and style?
It’s not just an aesthetic issue—it's a message. When a business chooses to ignore the importance of creating an engaging, visually appealing space, it speaks volumes. What it says, perhaps unintentionally, is: "We don’t really care if you feel at home here. In fact, we’d prefer if you just ate, slept, and left." Sure I get that not every business has an art budget, but the lack of effort can leave a lasting impression. I feel there is a missed opportunity to connect with customers on a human level.
Think about it: when you surround a dining space or hotel with creative, handmade art, you’re sending a clear message. You’re telling your guests, "This is a place that values beauty, creativity, and human connection." Even if someone doesn’t consciously understand the art on the wall, they feel the human connection. They sense that this is a next-level business that cares about the experience—about how visual elements affect the brain and the soul.
I believe that when businesses invest in thoughtful design and art, they’re investing in their customers’ well-being. And people will remember that. They’ll remember the cool piece hanging by the reception desk, the vibrant mural in the dining room, or the quirky sculptures in the corner. These touches create a memorable, inviting space that people will want to return to and talk about.
So if you’re a restaurant or hotel designer, consider bringing in an artist early in the process. Get their input on décor, furniture, and color schemes. You might be surprised by the creative collaboration. Artists see the world differently, and that fresh perspective could be exactly what your space needs to become something truly special and memorable. After all, you’re not just designing a room—you’re creating an experience. Why not make it one that inspires, soothes, and leaves people talking?
A well-curated space shows love for art—and by extension, love for people. And in a world that could always use a bit more care and connection, that’s a message worth hanging on the walls.