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In the world of hospitality, design isn't just about aesthetics—it’s about storytelling. From the lobby to the guestroom, every detail is a cue: Who is this space for? What kind of experience awaits?
And perhaps nothing conveys that story faster—or more memorably—than the art.
Consider two wildly different hospitality settings:
🏚️ A run-down roadside motel in the middle of nowhere (Schitt’s Creek)
🌴 A sleek, high-end resort perched above paradise (The White Lotus)
On the surface, they couldn’t be more different. But both properties are unforgettable because their environments are fully immersive—and the art on their walls plays a starring role.
In today’s hotel landscape, art is no longer an afterthought or generic filler. It’s a strategic design element used to define a brand identity, influence the mood or spark social media engagement (that Instagrammable moment!).
So whether you’re creating a cozy, character-filled boutique inn or a curated luxury experience, the question becomes:
Is your hotel giving Schitt’s Creek charm—or White Lotus edge?
Let’s explore how art helps shape these two iconic vibes—
Photo: Replica Schitt's Creek set at The Lucky Rabbit | The Lucky Rabbit
🌹 Schitt's Creek: Quirky, Cozy & Endearingly Offbeat
Hotel Type: Independent motel, roadside inn, boutique B&B
Guest Mood: "I'm here for the charm, not the thread count."
Art Vibe: Nostalgic, local, a little weird (in a good way)
Art Style:
- Vintage travel posters, framed local photography, maybe a ceramic owl
- Faded florals, retro prints, and thrift-shop charm
- DIY or “accidentally ironic” elements (think: a framed needlepoint that says “Live, Laugh, Lint”)
Guest Expectations:
- A stay that feels personal and sincere, not polished
- A connection to the community or owner’s personality
- Instagrammable? Yes—but in a quirky, story-driven way
What the Art Says: "This place has character—and a past. You're part of the story now."
Photo: ©Peter Vitale/Four Seasons
🪷 The White Lotus: Luxe, Curated & Emotionally Unsettling
Hotel Type: High-end resort, global luxury chain, art-driven destination hotel
Guest Mood: “I came to relax… and also subtly flex.”
Art Vibe: Museum-worthy, abstract, possibly unsettling (in a good way)
Art Style:
- Contemporary sculpture, large-scale photography, or culturally significant works
- Minimalist but powerful—often with a subtle narrative or edge
- Designed to evoke emotion, mystery, or reflection
Guest Expectations:
- A curated, cinematic experience
- Clean lines, natural light, and high production value
- Art that could be in a gallery—or already is
What the Art Says: “Everything here is intentional—including how you feel when you look at the walls.”
🖼️ Why the Contrast Matters
While both types of hotels offer an escape, the art direction signals what kind:
- Schitt’s Creek makes you feel like you’ve stumbled upon a secret gem—imperfect but unforgettable. The art makes you smile, not squint.
- White Lotus makes you feel like you’re in a cinematic universe. The art may not be “comfortable,” but it’s compelling. It’s there to make you think—or at least pause.
🎬 Final Take: All Art Is Welcome
Not every hotel can (or should) be a minimalist, marble-drenched palace. And not every space needs a DIY macramé wall hanging to feel personal.
But in either case, art creates identity. It sets expectations. It frames the guest experience—sometimes literally.
So whether your guests are checking in for connection or curation, comedy or contemplation, just ask yourself:
Would Moira Rose approve of the décor? Or would Tanya be taking selfies in front of that sculpture?
Either way—you’ve done your job.