When I grow up I want to run a boutique hotel
Because so many of my friends are still determining their ideal careers the “what do you want to be when you grow up” conversation happens often. I’m already doing what I’d want to be doing, so I like to think about what I could do once I’m too old for advertising. With the prospect of our generation living well into our hundreds there is a chance I’ll lose touch with technology trends too.
Luckily I do enjoy things other than these young people’s pursuits. I love art history, (particularly early renaissance and pop art), weddings, politics, discussions with intelligent friends, sweet foods, mid century furniture, listening to podcasts and animals (especially furry and feathery ones).
There are a few retirement options which have crossed my mind, which I have discussed in this blog previously. To recap:
- Host a radio show which would tackle current political issues. Assuming my voice gets less annoying/ more British as I mature.
- Design wedding cakes.
- Open an art gallery in Hobart. Location chosen so I could nurture injured Tawny Frogmouths.
However this week I have discovered a new, improved retirement pursuit for myself. Running a boutique hotel which of course would be filled with amazing art, interesting books and beautifully restored mid century furniture.
The idea came about when staying in Wellington over the weekend. The whole city has this retroness about it which appeals to me. Photo on the left is from Chow, which is a cute restaurant attached to two very cute bars called Motel and The Library. The photo on the right is from a Barkers store. I walked in there with my BF not paying attention to what men’s clothing store we were in and was astounded when I realised even their chain shops have record players and armchairs very similar to my own.
These photos are from Ohtel where we stayed.
The place was very charming and there were a number of nice pieces of furniture however it made me think about how much better it could have been done.
Firstly all the rooms had a kiwiana retro sameness, which felt like a lost opportunity. I can’t stick to one style for my own apartment so my dream for a hotel would be to have a unique interior for every room. Already a lot of the art I own clashes, this would give me an excuse to buy anything I loved without having to worry about whether it sits well with other art I have hanging.
Secondly I hate minibars in 4-5 star hotels, it’s so tacky. The only place I’ve seen it done well was a hotel we stayed at in Paris where there were only non-alcoholic drinks in the fridge, everything was free and it was stocked up daily. That’s the way it should be! I’ve already paid for the room, stop trying to sell me tiny bottles of jagger. Oh and in addition to my complimentary selection of juices and soft drinks I would have the kind of toiletries people want to steal. Branded of course.
Finally I would do away with the imposing TV hanging right in your eye line as you try to get to sleep. Perhaps instead I would have tablets which can be used to browse the net or control a media center which connects to a projector. Also proper independently published guidebooks for the city… As endearing as the folder full of local takeout menus (which most hotels have) is.
I have a few more ideas which I think I’ll keep up my sleeve. But if anyone wants to beat me to it please steal those suggestions and make hotels a more pleasant experience for the rest of the world.
