Bloomr’s head buyer and creative director shares her tips and buys to bring the hotel feeling home
We don’t know about you, but whatever we do, there’s nothing that makes our homes feel quite like a hotel room. No matter the thread count of bedding or fluffiness of towels, it’s hard to replicate that elevated, decluttered, curated quiet luxury the best hotels provide. Helping to change that is Mimmi Abdul Rahman, Bloomr’s Head Buyer & Creative Director who shares how to make your home feel like a hotel. Because, there really is nothing better.
As Bloomr’s Head Buyer & Creative Director, my days are immersed in the world of exquisite interiors. Beyond the title, I also have the privilege of spearheading our larger design projects, allowing me to see our curated collections come to life in unique spaces. My fascination with form, colour and the intrinsic beauty of objects began in my early years. Interestingly, my initial creative inclinations leaned towards fashion and makeup, but it organically evolved into a profound passion for interiors. Since 2012, I’ve been deeply involved in the realm of home interiors and appliances as a buyer, a journey that has naturally expanded my expertise into styling and design. Ultimately, it’s more than a profession; it’s a genuine passion that fuels everything I do at Bloomr.
The experience of the Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns undeniably heightened our collective awareness of the home’s significance as a sanctuary. Confined within our four walls, many recognized the profound impact of their surroundings on their well-being. For me, cultivating a home that feels welcoming, orderly, warm, and aesthetically aligned with current styles has always been a priority. It’s the space where I truly recharge, replenish my energy, and find tranquility. This sense of comfort is deeply personal, shaped by individual tastes, hobbies, and sources of joy.
Interestingly, the notion of a ‘beautiful’ and ‘relaxing’ home isn’t necessarily tied to extravagant furnishings. True happiness within a home emanates from a feeling of peace and contentment, which can be achieved through diverse styles. What resonates as a serene haven for one person, perhaps a minimalist Scandinavian aesthetic, might differ greatly for another, who might find solace in a bohemian, ‘hobo chic’ ambiance. The crucial element is that the chosen style speaks to the individual, fostering a sense of harmony and personal expression.Personally, I enjoy the art of blending different styles. However, if I were to pinpoint a current favorite, reflecting the atmosphere of my own home, it would be a ‘musty earthy Japandi’ style. This fusion embodies a sense of calm and understated elegance that I find particularly appealing.
That’s a tough question, we have so many exceptional pieces at Bloomr right now. However, if I had to highlight one item that truly captures my attention at this moment and has the power to instantly refresh a space, it would be our stunning dining table in light white lacquered wood. Its clean lines and the subtle sheen of the white lacquer bring an immediate sense of airiness and sophistication to any dining area. It acts as a beautiful anchor, versatile enough to complement a range of interior styles, from minimalist to more layered aesthetics. Imagine it as the centerpiece for lively gatherings or a serene spot for everyday meals. It’s a piece that truly elevates the experience of being in a room.
Bloomr’s unique selling proposition lies in our meticulously curated selection of homeware that transcends mere functionality. We don’t just offer objects; we present pieces with a story, crafted with exceptional quality and design integrity. Our mission is to empower individuals to transform their houses into deeply personal and inspiring homes. Spaces that reflect their unique tastes and enhance their everyday lives.We achieve this by focusing on several key pillars.
Firstly, our discerning eye for design ensures that every item we offer embodies a sense of timeless elegance and contemporary relevance. Secondly, we prioritize craftsmanship, sourcing from artisans and brands that share our commitment to superior materials and techniques. Finally, we aim to provide an elevated and inspiring shopping experience, both online and in person, guiding our clients to discover pieces that truly resonate with them and contribute to the creation of their ideal sanctuary. At Bloomr, we believe that a thoughtfully curated home has the power to enrich well-being and foster genuine happiness.
To infuse your home with that luxurious hotel ambiance, I’d advise starting with de-cluttering. A serene and spacious feel is paramount in high-end hotels. Once you have a clean canvas, consider these room-by-room enhancements:
The Bed as the Focal Point: Invest in a high-quality mattress that offers exceptional comfort. Layering your bedding creates a plush and inviting look. Begin with crisp, high thread count (500-700 TC) Egyptian cotton sheets from Bloomr’s exquisite linen collection. Add two generously sized sleeping pillows (50x75cm), followed by two larger European square pillows (65x65cm) for visual height. Finish with a sumptuously fluffy down feather duvet and a beautifully draped throw at the foot of the bed for added texture and warmth. Introduce a couple of decorative cushions (around 50x50cm) in coordinating or subtly contrasting fabrics for that final touch of elegance.
Lighting for Ambiance: Ditch harsh overhead lights in favor of layered, warm lighting. Incorporate elegant bedside table lamps and a floor lamp to create a soft, inviting glow.
Underfoot Comfort: A luxurious rug that extends beyond the bed adds a layer of comfort and defines the space.
A Touch of Nature: Introduce a calming element with one of Bloomr’s incredibly realistic artificial orchids or a sophisticated bouquet in a refined vase placed on a bedside table or dresser.
Statement seating: A stylish accent armchair from Bloomr’s collection can instantly elevate the space and provide that chic hotel lounge feel. Arrange furniture to encourage conversation and create a sense of openness.
Layered textures: Introduce plush throws and decorative cushions on sofas and armchairs in varying textures like velvet, linen, or faux fur.
Defined zones with rugs: A large rug that anchors all the main furniture pieces creates a cohesive and luxurious look.
Artful decor: Curate a few impactful decorative items, such as marble trays, sculptural pieces, or coffee table books. Keep it intentional and avoid clutter.
Botanical elegance: Enhance the ambiance with strategically placed artificial trees or lush foliage from Bloomr. A tall floor plant in a stylish pot can add significant visual impact.
Layered Tableware: Create a sense of occasion even for everyday meals by layering your tableware. Use elegant placemats, beautiful dinner plates, and stylish cutlery. Consider adding a decorative charger plate for special occasions.
Candlelight and Ambiance: Introduce varying heights of candles – pillar candles, tapers in elegant holders – to create a warm and inviting atmosphere, especially for evening dining.
A Floral Centerpiece: A stunning artificial floral arrangement from Bloomr, perhaps in a darker, more dramatic vase, can serve as a captivating centerpiece.
Statement Lighting: A stylish pendant light fixture above the dining table is crucial for defining the space and adding a touch of hotel sophistication.
Luxurious Linens: Invest in high-quality, plush towels – think thick cotton in neutral tones. Display them neatly, perhaps rolled or folded in stacks.
Elevated Bath Products: Decant your everyday toiletries into elegant, coordinating bottles and dispensers. Add luxurious touches like scented soaps and lotions in beautiful packaging.
Subtle Fragrance: Introduce a sophisticated scented diffuser or a beautifully scented candle to create a spa-like atmosphere.
A Touch of Green: Even in a bathroom, a small, low-maintenance artificial plant or a delicate floral stem from Bloomr can add a refreshing touch.
At Bloomr, we pride ourselves on offering a curated selection of items perfect for achieving this hotel-inspired aesthetic. From our incredibly smooth Egyptian cotton bed linen and cloud-like down duvets and pillows to our stunningly realistic artificial flowers and foliage, elegant accent armchairs, sophisticated lighting options, and luxurious home décor, you’ll find the essentials to transform your home into a personal sanctuary.
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