When a guest walks into a hotel room, the first thing they feel isn't the lighting or the architecture. It’s the fabric, the bed linens they’ll sleep in, the curtains that frame their view, the upholstery they’ll sink into. That quiet but immediate sensory experience is shaped almost entirely by textiles. And when it comes to hotel design today, there are two strong, often opposite directions: minimalism and maximalism.

Both have their charm. Both can leave a lasting impression. But to get them right, you need to make smart choices—especially when it comes to fabrics.

Minimalism: Simplicity with Intention

Minimalist design is all about doing more with less. It’s clean, quiet, and uncluttered. And in a hotel, that translates to rooms that feel peaceful and easy to be in. Nothing overwhelms the eye, and everything feels intentional. If your hotel leans minimalist, the fabrics you choose should reflect that calmness. 

Think: Crisp white or soft beige bedsheets that feel freshly made, Sheer curtains that let in just enough light, Upholstery in solid, natural tones,nothing too shiny or patterned, Smooth, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen blends

there’s something incredibly relaxing about minimalist design when it’s done well. Guests sleep better. The room feels lighter. And everything from the sheets to the cushions feels fresh and effortless.

Maximalism: Bold, Expressive, and Full of Personality

Now, let’s flip the switch.

Maximalist hotel design doesn’t whisper, it speaks loud and clear. It’s full of color, pattern, texture, and mood. It tells a story the moment you walk in. These are the rooms that guests take pictures of, rave about to friends, and remember long after check-out. If you're designing a space with maximalist energy, your fabric choices are your best tools. 

Think: Deep velvet curtains in jewel tones like emerald or plum, Bold patterns on cushions, drapes, or even walls, Layered textures—silk, brocade, fringes, embroidery, Accent pieces in gold, burnt orange, or indigo that instantly catch the eye

Done right, maximalist fabrics don’t feel chaotic; they feel curated. You can mix colors and textures as long as they all tie into a strong visual theme. This style works beautifully in boutique hotels, heritage spaces, or rooms with a strong personality.

Not Sure Which One’s Right for You?

Here’s the thing: you don’t always have to choose one side. Some of the most interesting hotels today are blending both styles in a way that feels fresh and modern.

This “in-between” look starts with a clean, neutral base (very minimalist), and then adds pops of maximalism, rich throw on the bed, patterned upholstery on a chair, and a bold curtain in an otherwise calm room.

For example: 

A room with soft ivory linens, but a gold-patterned bed runner, Taupe walls paired with jewel-toned curtains, Clean-lined furniture dressed with vibrant cushions in local textiles

This approach offers the best of both worlds: it keeps things elegant and spacious, but with just enough personality to feel unique.

It’s Not Just About Looks, Fabrics Have a Job to Do. While design is important, performance is everything in hospitality.

Hotel textiles go through a lot, guests come and go, laundry cycles are endless, and rooms need to look pristine every single day. So, beyond choosing the right look, you need to think about:

1. Durability – Can this fabric handle daily use without losing its feel?

2. Cleanability – Is it easy to wash, dry, and press?

3. Safety – Is it flame-retardant, especially for upholstery and curtains?

4. Hygiene – Does it have antibacterial or moisture-wicking features?

At Petals India, these are the boxes we tick behind the scenes, so you get fabrics that feel luxurious, but also last long and work hard.

Who We Are (And Why We Care About Fabric So Much)

We’ve been in the hospitality textile world for over 30 years. And we’ve learned one thing above all: when you get the fabrics right, everything else in the room feels better.

At Petals India, we create custom textiles for 5-star hotels across India and beyond. We work closely with interior designers, architects, and hotel teams to match the fabric story with the brand story. Whether your property is a quiet wellness resort, a grand heritage retreat, or a bold boutique stay, we help bring the vibe to life, one thread at a time.

It’s All in the Feel

Whether your style is soft and simple or loud and layered, fabrics are what turn a space into an experience. They’re what guests feel when they settle into bed. They’re what softens the light when they wake up in the morning. They’re what adds personality to a room or lets the calm speak for itself.