Since 2009, I’ve been working in the interior design industry. I’ve interned for a hospitality design company, worked in various furniture and fabric showrooms, and been an interior designer for a design-build firm. I decided to hang out my shingle and launch m studio interior design in 2015. And now I get to do what I love best: Design homes that are totally customized to the clients I work with!
As an interior designer, the world becomes a canvas where every destination unveils a new palette of design inspiration. Last summer, my journey led me to the bustling streets of Hanoi, Vietnam, a city pulsating with vibrant culture, history, and an innate charm that captivates. Amidst this vibrant city, I found solace and design nirvana within the warm embrace of La Siesta Hang Be. This place is a hospitable haven that seamlessly blends Vietnamese heritage with modern aesthetics!
Surrounded by the hustle and bustle of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, I was enveloped in an ambiance that spoke of tranquility and elegance from that first moment stepping into La Siesta Hang Be. The design elements were plenty!! They exuded a harmonious fusion of tradition and contemporary finesse, showcasing how heritage can seamlessly integrate with modern aesthetics… I was overwhelmed with interior design eye-candy!
The interiors of La Siesta Hang Be are a celebration of Vietnamese craftsmanship. Intricate design elements from decorative moldings to ironwork details adorned the walls, each telling a story. Delicate drapery panels soften the common areas and suites, casting a soft, ethereal glow that added a touch of mystique to the atmosphere. The palette of moody tones, textured furnishings and patterned surfaces paid homage to Vietnam’s artistic heritage and heavy French influence while embracing a modern design ethos.
One of the most striking aspects of the hotel’s design was its emphasis on creating a serene and rejuvenating ambiance with use of high contrast. The guest rooms were the epitome of tranquility, with furnishings of an elegant flavor that still exuded comfort and organization. Soft, organic textures such as bamboo and linen intertwined seamlessly amongst the warmth of the wooden flooring, fostering a sense of calm and relaxation.
What stood out prominently was how the design elements, blended with their signature scent and ambient music, were intricately woven to promote wellness. The hotel’s spa was a sanctuary of indulgence! I felt featuring a design that echoed elegant serenity and rejuvenation. Soothing colors and soft lighting grounded by beautifully patterned flooring set the tone for an oasis of tranquility, inviting guests to unwind and rejuvenate their senses.
Inspired by my stay at La Siesta Hang Be, here are some design ideas that can be incorporated to create a space that evokes freshness and revitalization:
Integrate natural elements such as furnishings of woven materials. This particular design style adds warmth, texture, and a connection to nature in the home, fostering a sense of tranquility.
Opt for soft, soothing color palettes inspired by nature. Earthy tones like beige, sage green, and soft blues can evoke a calming atmosphere, promoting relaxation and well-being. The addition of soft drapery panels is the perfect addition to soften any space and promote tranquility.
Embrace soft, diffused lighting to create ambiance. Incorporate warm lighting fixtures or objects that offer ambient light and consider using natural light as much as possible to uplift the space.
Minimalism can work wonders in creating a serene environment. Declutter spaces by maximizing storage opportunities behind cabinet doors and closets, opt for clean lines, and embrace simplicity in furnishings to allow the mind to relax and unwind.
Introduce indoor plants to bring life and freshness into the space. Not only do plants purify the air, but they also add a touch of natural beauty and tranquility. If you don’t have the gift of the green thumb (much like myself!) try a few succulent plants or even faux silk trees.
My stay at La Siesta Hang Be in Hanoi was a delight filled with cultural immersion and design inspiration. The hotel’s seamless blend of tradition, modernity, and wellness-oriented design elements left an indelible mark on my perspective as an interior designer. The experience reaffirmed that design goes beyond aesthetics; it’s about creating spaces that nurture the soul and evoke a sense of harmony and well-being. As I continue my journey as a traveling designer, I carry with me the invaluable lessons learned from the captivating allure of Hanoi and the design marvels of La Siesta Hang Be.
Here are a few other photos worth sharing that capture the wonders of experiencing Vietnamese culture… enjoy!
Xoxo,
Megan
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