Make a good impression
Quality hotels should make a positive impact from the minute guests enter the foyer. But why let it end there? An inviting tea station can comfort and make guests feel at home.
Hotels should stock a range of premium loose-leaf teas for restaurant service, including a selection of black teas, like the ever-popular English Breakfast and Earl Grey, as well as speciality tea types like green and herbal teas. Bags and pouches are easier for rooms, and there are many tea blends that promote a good night’s sleep.
Stay true to your hotel brand but decide on a theme for your in-room displays. Draw inspiration from some of the world’s most popular tea shops, incorporating architectural touches that are both eye-catching and practical:
Simplicity
Many Japanese tea houses stick to simple light wooden panels and lantern-like lighting. Asian tea tables are very minimalist too. This could translate into simple wooden shelving units with back lighting or stylish wooden trays. Traditional Chinese tea drinking takes place on a raised table so build a display at different levels to engage with the guest. From wall art, flowers, lighting, shelving, trays, tables and containers, one can be creative. The addition of an indoor plant adds to the Zen mood and compliments a selection of green and herbal teas.
High-tech
Opt for dramatic or slick design with black counters, kettles, dark wooden accessories, which contrast with bright packaging or tea ware. The theme pairs well with an assortment of robust, full-bodied teas.
Full colour
Many tea boutiques in Paris have opted for opulence, with eclectic interiors that are rich in colour and ornate in style. Hand carved, hand painted, even metal and tapestry-like patterns have a place in this sort of display. This theme pairs especially well with stress-reducing botanical teas like rose tea blends made from petals and buds. Glass tea ware is designed to showcase loose-leaf, herbal and botanical teas beautifully.
Vintage
If the hotel theme is more conservative, vintage elements can add a whimsical touch. Display old tea pots, arrange old tea cups and saucers, cake stands and silverware as practical ‘props’ to the tea station, which can be well stocked with a range of black and botanical teas.
Eclectic
Invite local ceramic artists to supply their stoneware, like teapots, bowls and mugs for the display. This way you can customise the colours, look and feel of the installation, and the wares could be available for guests to order and purchase. Any assortment of popular teas would fit in with this handmade, artisanal flair.
