Forget the Bathroom Walls: This Hotel Convinced Me to Paint Somewhere Unexpected

Bathrooms are rooms where people can experiment with design and try unexpected things. Maybe it’s because only family members see them regularly, or because it’s a smaller room to take a risk in — either way, these spaces can pack a serious design punch. When I recently stayed at The Wylder, a boutique hotel in Windham, New York, I saw this principle on display. The bathroom had the most calming paint treatment, and you better believe I clocked it, took photos of it, and filed this idea away for my future home one day. 

In the Evergreen Suite, which is the room I stayed in, the wall paint was a soft white. It was so peaceful and allowed for the mountain views outside the expansive windows to take center stage. However, that wasn’t the paint idea that stopped me in my tracks — it was how just the woodwork (the paneling, trim, and doors) was painted a deep gray. It added a much-needed accent without being too intense. 

Paint, while removable, is still a commitment — especially given how long it takes to do a good job applying it. If you’re on the fence about incorporating a certain color into your home, it’s a smart idea to start small — say, with just the trim or woodwork. You’ll be able to get a sense of how that color looks in the space without going into full-on color-drenching. 

Honestly, there are so many trends for going bold with color — whether it’s stripe drenching, double drenching, color capping — the list goes on and on. But what about adding a restrained, centralized pop of paint as seen at The Wylder instead? It really stood out to me without competing with the other elements of the room or upstaging the gorgeous views. 

Living in New York City, I’m constantly stimulated by sound, sights, and smells. Basically, it’s sensory overload. So the prospect of taking the train to a more rural part of the state and being embraced by rolling hills, fresh air, and the sounds of birds chirping excited me. The charming hotel’s appearance added to the restorative feeling, too. The paint combination in my room wasn’t loud and visually overpowering, but it also wasn’t a visual snooze either. As someone who looks at bold homes almost every day, having a visual break was welcome and allowed me to unplug. When I was in the homey, rustic room, I was just there to relax. (It helps that the television wasn’t front and center, too!) 

What stuck with me most, though — at least when it comes to design and decor — was this subtle yet unexpected paint treatment. One day, I will (hopefully) copy it in my own home. Because when I think back on this design choice, all I feel is tranquility and peace. And who doesn’t want a home that makes you feel that way — especially if you’re in a busy city or setting?