Refined Rustic Resort Interiors

Refined Rustic Resort Interiors combine the homey, tactile appeal of rustic design with a polished, contemporary twist to create a sophisticated, inviting atmosphere in resort settings.

Refined Rustic Resort Interiors: Embracing Elegance and Charm

The allure of rustic design lies in its ability to invoke a sense of nostalgia and comfort. When applied to resort interiors, this style creates an inviting, home-away-from-home environment for guests. However, there’s an emerging trend in hospitality known as ‘refined rustic interiors’ which elevates the traditional rustic style with a blend of modern elegance. For resort owners and designers, mastering this style offers a unique opportunity to differentiate their properties and enhance guest experiences.

The Essence of Refined Rustic Interiors

Refined rustic interiors maintain the authenticity and warmth of rustic style while incorporating contemporary and sophisticated elements. This fusion creates spaces that feel both cozy and luxurious, an ideal ambiance for resorts looking to offer tranquility with a touch of modernity. Core elements of this style include natural materials, a neutral color palette, and a harmonious blend of textures.

Key Elements of Refined Rustic Design

  • Natural Materials: Use of wood, stone, and organic textiles serves as the foundation of rustic design. In a refined rustic approach, these materials are often paired with sleek metal fixtures or glass elements to add modern contrast.
  • Neutral and Earthy Color Palettes: A subdued color scheme of beiges, whites, and earth tones helps evoke an organic and calming environment, allowing guests to unwind.
  • Layering Textures: The interplay of different textures—soft woolen throws, smooth leather furniture, raw wood, and polished stone—adds depth and interest to spaces.
  • Minimalistic Decor: While rustic designs might incorporate abundant decorations, a refined rustic approach opts for minimalism, allowing the natural beauty of materials and architecture to shine.
  • Modern Touches: Incorporating contemporary lighting, streamlined furniture designs, and modern artworks can uplift rustic aesthetics, providing sophistication and functionality that guests appreciate.

Design Strategies for Refining Rustic Interiors in Resorts

For hospitality designers aiming to create refined rustic spaces, focusing on the following strategies can enhance the guest experience:

Integrating Local Culture and Materials

Refined rustic interiors should reflect the unique charm of their location. Sourcing local materials not only supports sustainability but also gives the property a distinct identity. Resorts can incorporate locally crafted furniture or artworks, bringing authenticity and personalized character to the space.

Balancing Comfort with Style

In a resort setting, guest comfort is paramount. Plush seating, tactile fabrics, and thoughtful room layouts ensure relaxation without compromising on style. Providing modern amenities within a rustic framework balances guest expectations for comfort and luxury.

Creating Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Transitions

Many resorts benefit from beautiful natural surroundings. By designing spaces that flow seamlessly between indoor comforts and outdoor beauty, guests can fully appreciate the environmental charm. Use of large windows, open porches, and patio spaces blurs the indoor-outdoor divide, enhancing the overall aesthetic.

Enhancing Ambiance with Details

Small details make a big difference in refined rustic interiors. Handcrafted accessories, strategically placed lighting, and subtle use of technology (such as smart lighting systems) contribute significantly to the overall ambiance, creating sensory experiences that resonate with guests.

Case Study: A Refined Rustic Resort Experience

Consider a mountain resort nestled in the Rockies, where refined rustic interiors transform the guest’s experience. The lobby greets visitors with a massive stone fireplace and plush leather couches, inviting relaxation. Guest rooms feature reclaimed wood furnishings and sumptuous bedding, creating a serene retreat after ski or hike days. The dining hall presents farm-to-table dishes in a setting defined by natural wood beams and minimalist decor, capturing the natural beauty of its surroundings while offering world-class service.

Conclusion

By blending the rustic charm with modern sophistication, refined rustic interiors redefine what it means to be a resort guest in the 21st century. As travelers increasingly seek authentic, memorable experiences, creating a design that feels both familiar and luxurious becomes essential. For resort owners and designers, investing in refined rustic interiors is not just an aesthetic choice, but a strategic decision that enhances guest satisfaction, promotes brand loyalty, and differentiates their property in a competitive market. This design philosophy ensures that the experience of comfort and elegance remains etched in guests’ memories long after their visit.

Recommendation For You

Vintage Interior Design Style

Explore the world of vintage interior design style in this detailed guide. Learn its definition, benefits, tips, and how to create a space that blends nostalgia with modern functionality. Perfect for design enthusiasts and beginners alike!

Local-Culture Inspired Design

Local-Culture Inspired Design integrates elements of a region’s art, history, and traditions into hospitality interiors, creating authentic and immersive guest experiences that connect visitors with their destination.

Pantry Design for Suites

This glossary article explores the art of pantry design for suites, covering its benefits, uses, and practical tips. From maximizing space to incorporating aesthetics, this guide will help you create a pantry that’s both functional and visually appealing.

Reception Desk Height Design

This glossary article explores the critical role of reception desk height design in creating functional, ergonomic, and visually appealing spaces. It covers ergonomic standards, design tips, and examples to help you craft a reception area that leaves a lasting impression.

Nailhead Trim on Furniture

Nailhead trim on furniture is a timeless design element that adds elegance and character to pieces. This glossary article explores its history, benefits, uses, and practical tips to incorporate it into your home. Whether you’re a design enthusiast or a beginner, this guide will inspire you to use nailhead trim creatively.

Functional Dining Area Designs

Functional Dining Area Design involves the strategic arrangement and decoration of dining spaces to maximize comfort, efficiency, and aesthetic appeal, enhancing both dining experiences and space usability.

Sofa Style Guestroom

A sofa style guestroom combines comfort and functionality to create a welcoming space for guests. This article explores its definition, benefits, design tips, and examples to help you craft a stylish and practical guestroom that reflects your brand or personal aesthetic.

Thematic Conference Rooms

Thematic Conference Rooms are uniquely designed meeting spaces that use specific themes to align with brand identity and enhance participant engagement during conferences or meetings.

Recessed Shelving Units

This glossary article dives deep into recessed shelving units, covering their definition, benefits, uses, design tips, and examples. Whether you’re a beginner or a design enthusiast, this guide will help you understand how recessed shelving can transform your space.

Sleek Bathroom Fixtures

Sleek Bathroom Fixtures encompass modern, minimalist designs characterized by smooth lines and high-performance features, enhancing the visual and functional appeal of hospitality bathrooms.

Emily Layton

Graphic Designer

Emily Layton is a graphic designer and creative with a BFA in Graphic Design & Digital Media with action sports emphasis from Laguna College of Art and Design. Adept at aligning brand goals across formats, market trends, and consumer behavior, she translates insights into compelling visual narratives. Her experience spans corporate decks, brand books, and apparel collections—ensuring brand consistency, clarity, and impact. She values strong creative collaboration and brings a thoughtful, solutions-oriented approach to every project.

Project Experience:

  • West Creative Agency, Costa Mesa, CA
  • Huntress Decor, San Diego, CA
  • La Jolla Group - O’Neill Irvine, CA
  • Gotcha Digital Design, Virginia Beach, VA
  • Veterinary Emergency Group Various Locations
  • Nostos Grocery Store Panama City, Panama
  • Tribute Hotel Nob Hill Albuquerque, NM

Priscilla Bueno

Interior Designer

Priscilla is a Cal State Long Beach alumna with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design. She has worked across residential, hospitality, nonprofit, and wellness sectors, with a focus on creating spaces that support emotional well-being and human connection.

Influenced by her interest in psychology, Priscilla approaches design with a deep understanding of how physical environments impact how we feel, behave, and connect. Her work combines material sensitivity, spatial clarity, and user-centered thinking to foster environments that help people feel grounded and safe.

From luxury spas to trauma-informed nonprofit spaces, she designs with a clear goal: to shape interiors that invite presence, foster restoration, and create a true sense of belonging.

Project Experience:

  • Vintera Resort at Napa Creek, Napa, CA
  • DoubleTree Gilbert, Gilbert, AZ
  • Alexan Long Beach, Long Beach, CA
  • Alexan Arcadia, Arcadia, CA
  • Babyletto, Los Angeles, CA
  • Cozy Earth, Newport, CA

Jen Khor

Senior Interior Designer

With a thoughtful and intuitive approach, Jen Khor brings strong expertise in hospitality design, as well as experience in retail, F&B, and corporate offices. Her user-centric, narrative-driven philosophy reflects local culture and context, creating spaces that feel relevant and resonant.

Jen has a deep understanding of hotel brand standards and leads quality control for custom casegoods with high attention to detail. Sensitive to client needs, she communicates ideas through tools like BIM, AI, and hand sketches. Jen is passionate about crafting spaces that evoke emotion, inspire curiosity, and foster inclusivity with lasting impact.

Project Experience:

  • Vintera Resort at Napa Creek, Napa, CA
  • Hotel De Novo - Tapestry by Hilton, Springdale, UT
  • DoubleTree Guestroom Prototype, Various Locations
  • Alexan Long Beach, Long Beach, CA
  • Alexan Arcadia, Arcadia, CA
  • Wild Greens, University of Arkansas, AR
  • Joybird Headquarters, Los Angeles, CA

Melissa He

Senior Interior Designer

With years of experience in working on various project types, Melissa approaches each design as a new narrative, infusing storytelling, cultural context, and personality into every space. Educated in Fine Art in China and Interior Design at Cal State Long Beach, Melissa applies a detail-driven and research-based methodology to craft spaces that are both visually compelling and deeply resonant. Her approach reflects a belief that each project offers a chance to explore new voices and challenge convention, leading to designs that not only reflect individual identities but also support the broader community. She continues to evolve her design practice through collaboration, curiosity, and purpose, seeking to create spaces that adapt, grow, and inspire meaningful engagement.

Project Experience:

  • Vintera Resort at Napa Creek, Napa, CA
  • Hotel De Novo - Tapestry by Hilton, Springdale, UT
  • Alexan Long Beach, Long Beach, CA
  • DoubleTree Guestroom Prototype, Various Locations
  • Alexan Arcadia, Arcadia, CA
  • Port of Long Beach, Long Beach, CA
  • Wolf and Shepherd, Manhattan, NY

Chris Gorney

Director of Procurement

Chris is the Senior Director of Creative Sourcing and Procurement at DyeLot. A proven industry professional, he has worked with many of the world’s largest hospitality and development companies. He can speak to the entire lifecycle of design, development, and construction as well as contribute to the minutia of bespoke fabrication and production. Using an open-book and collaborative approach, Chris has the advantage of understanding the nuances of millwork, furnishing, and custom fabrication in order to reach a true-to-concept product. He brings with him more than a decade of experience working across multiple disciplines within the design industry.

Project Experience:

  • Hotel De Novo - Tapestry by Hilton, Springdale, UT
  • Wayfarer Hotel, Los Angeles, CA
  • The Edwin, Chattanooga, TN
  • Downtown Marriott, Des Moines, IA
  • Lincolnshire Marriott, Lincolnshire, IL
  • Capitol District Marriott, Omaha, NE
  • The Ferrier, Temecula, CA
  • The Tin Building by Jean George, New York, NY

Mathew Vo

Senior Interior Designer

As a designer with a background in both architecture and interiors, Mathew brings a layered perspective to every project. Drawing on experience across diverse project types—from hospitality and food & beverage to sports and retail—he crafts spaces that balance performance, beauty, and emotional resonance. Inspired by his interest in theater and production design, Mathew focuses on creating immersive environments that take users on a curated journey. His command of design technology and documentation tools, including BIM, allows him to navigate complex projects while staying grounded in storytelling and purpose-driven design. Mathew continues to find inspiration in context, culture, and narrative—translating them into built environments that leave a lasting impact.

Project Experience:

  • DoubleTree Gilbert, Gilbert, AZ
  • Port of Long Beach, Long Beach, CA
  • Swing Set Productions, Long Beach, CA
  • Hotel De Novo - Tapestry by Hilton, Springdale, UT

Ava Javaheri

Senior Interior Designer

With roots in a family of entrepreneurs and artists, Ava’s passion for hospitality design was sparked early—surrounded by showrooms and inspired styling sessions in her family’s furniture store. Today at DyeLot Interiors, she channels that lifelong aesthetic instinct into creating immersive environments that elevate the guest experience. Ava approaches hospitality interiors as both a visual narrative and an emotional journey, blending function with atmosphere in spaces meant to inspire, delight, and linger in memory. Her creative process draws on everything from global travel and museum exploration to cinematic set design, all feeding her pursuit of detail-driven, unforgettable spaces where people feel genuinely transported.

Project Experience:

  • Vintera Resort at Napa Creek, Napa, CA
  • Hotel Maya, Long Beach, CA
  • DoubleTree Gilbert, Gilbert, AZ
  • Swing Set Productions, Long Beach, CA
  • Port of Long Beach, Long Beach, CA

Chaya Juntara

Procurement Specialist

As a key member of DyeLot Interiors, Chaya is dedicated to collaborating with clients and vendors to deliver an exceptional experience marked by reliability, accountability, and integrity. Her primary focus is executing each project vision on time, ensuring top-tier quality, and managing the budget with precision. With deep expertise in sourcing and FF&E, Chaya brings a strong technical foundation that is essential to the creation of remarkable hospitality interiors and furnishings—the cornerstone of our procurement practice. She has worked alongside industry leaders in custom furniture, providing her with a wealth of experience. Her unique background in both interiors and procurement allows her to offer creative solutions that consistently exceed client expectations.

Project Experience:

  • Vintera Resort at Napa Creek, Napa, CA
  • Hotel De Novo - Tapestry by Hilton, Springdale, UT
  • Hotel Maya, Long Beach, CA
  • DoubleTree Gilbert, Gilbert, AZ
  • Cliffrose Springdale, Springdale, UT
  • Nuri Steakhouse, Dallas, TX
  • The Tin Building by Jean George, New York, NY
  • Solis Park, Irvine, CA

Adam Ford, NCIDQ

Senior Interior Project Designer

As a Senior Interior Project Designer at DyeLot, Adam leans on his expertise in interior design and theatrical storytelling to bring designs to life. Having extensive full-service and focused service hotel design experience, he is attuned to both branded work with Marriott, Hilton, and IHG and non-branded/independent projects. Adam helps create immersive and functional spaces that resonate with guests and elevate brand identities. His collaboration with hotel brands has honed his ability to blend aesthetics with practicality, ensuring seamless guest experiences and maximizing operational efficiency.

Project Experience:

  • Hotel De Novo - Tapestry by Hilton, Springdale, UT
  • DoubleTree Gilbert, Gilbert, AZ
  • Where The Wild Greens AR, Fayetteville, AR
  • Camp Creek Golf Resort & Inn, Inlet Beach, FL
  • Hotel Cyrus, Topeka, KS
  • Delta by Marriott, Thornton Northglenn, CO
  • Tribute South Park, Austin, TX

Brittany LeBlanc, NCIDQ, CID

Senior Project Designer / Associate

With a multi-disciplinary design and architecture background, Brittany continues to create unique user experiences for diversified projects. Brittany concentrates on designing spaces that provoke interest, emotion and encourage brand longevity. After studying interior design, Brittany continues to grow and expand her knowledge of interiors and architecture by working within both disciplines. Brittany’s experience comes from a vast range of industries including hospitality, food and beverage, retail, and experiential marketing.

Project Experience:

  • Vintera Resort at Napa Creek, Napa, CA
  • Hotel De Novo - Tapestry by Hilton, Springdale, UT
  • Hotel Maya, Long Beach, CA
  • DoubleTree Gilbert, Gilbert, AZ
  • The Wilder's Lounge, Springdale, UT
  • Anu Restaurant, Springdale, UT
  • Wolf and Shepherd, Manhattan, NY

Gustavo Neri

Director of Branding

Gustavo Neri serves as the Director of Branding, leading branding and signage/wayfinding campaigns for hospitality and residential projects Neri creates the narrative for a project before it begins – setting a strong aesthetic and identity for the project to ensure its message and character is carried through the life of the design process. Neri’s view of design is that it must be seen through the lens of the viewer, not the designer. One must take into account the experience of the person perceiving his work as they are guided through it, taking all elements into careful consideration and removing himself from the experience.

Project Experience:

  • Hotel Indigo, Savannah, GA
  • DoubleTree Gilbert, Gilbert, AZ
  • Hotel Amarano, Burbank, CA
  • Glenmark Hotel, Glendale, CA
  • Eminence Boston Hotel, Boston, MA
  • Hilton Fort Lauderdale, Fort Lauderdale, FL
  • Alexan Long Beach, Long Beach, CA
  • Wolf and Shepherd, Manhattan, NY

Krystle Fader, NCIDQ, CID

Design Manager / Senior Associate

As a Design Manager at DyeLot Interiors, Krystle brings over 15 years of professional experience in interior and architectural design to the team. With experience in a range of markets including food & beverage, multi-family housing, hospitality, workplace and healthcare, she brings her combined knowledge from each and is able to apply that to new project opportunities. With an education in interior architectural design and a passion for efficient solutions, Krystle has been able to grow into a leadership role managing projects from design concept though completion of construction.

Project Experience:

  • Alexan Long Beach, Long Beach, CA
  • Alexan Arcadia, Arcadia, CA
  • The Monde, Scottsdale, AZ
  • Partake Collective, Long Beach, CA
  • Port of Long Beach, Long Beach, CA
  • Swing Set Productions, Long Beach, CA
  • Din Tai Fung, Various Locations
  • Fogo de Chao, Various Locations

Add new name and Affiliations

Title

New Bio.

Hospitality Experience:

  • Update Projects
  • Update
  • Update
  • Update
  • Update
  • Update

Residential Experience:

  • Update
  • Update
  • Update

Alex Kuby, AIA, WELL AP

Associate Principal

Alex is a licensed architect specializing in hospitality and experiential interior design, with a foundation built on years of practice across high-end hotels, branded environments, and lifestyle-driven residential spaces. His work is grounded in architectural rigor and elevated by a narrative-driven approach that shapes immersive, memorable experiences. With a deep understanding of design theory, construction, and project execution, Alex brings a holistic, strategic lens to each project—bridging spatial storytelling with operational excellence.

Hospitality Experience:

  • Vintera Resort at Napa Creek, Napa, CA
  • Hotel De Novo - Tapestry by Hilton, Springdale, UT
  • Hotel Indigo - IHG, Los Angeles, CA
  • Grand Hyatt - Baha Mar, Nassau, Bahamas
  • Pullman Baotou, Baotou, China
  • Hilton Resort Wenchang, Hainan Island, China

Residential Experience:

  • Perla Luxury Condo Tower, Los Angeles, CA
  • Watermark Assited Living, Westwood, CA
  • Alexan WestEnd, Long Beach, CA

Jackson Thilenius, AIA

Senior Principal

As Senior Principal of DyeLot Interiors, Jackson operates at the intersection of strategy, design and implementation, driving innovative and authentic solutions to hospitality projects around the world. With over twenty-five years of practice in architecture and interior design, combined with a comprehensive understanding of the hospitality industry, Jackson collaborates with clients to establish project objectives which produce original designs and tailored brand positioning. Jackson has created a broad range of award-winning projects across the globe, leveraging his understanding of operational trends, local culture, and narrative-driven design.

Brand Experience:

Marriott
Hilton
Pacifica Hotels
Hyatt
Equinox
Loews Hotels
IHG
Karisma Hotels and Resorts
Oxford Capital Group
Marcus Hotels
Blackstone
Radisson Hotels
Starwood Capital