Motel One: A Visual Journey Through Functional Design
At first glance, the name Motel One might not immediately evoke the image of premium design and atmosphere - unless you’ve experienced it firsthand or taken the time to explore its visual story online. But even then, I’d argue the website doesn’t fully capture the richness and mood of the space. The Motel One isn’t just another chain hotel. It has character - and a clear creative vision.
It’s rare for a hotel to achieve both consistency and unique identity, but Motel One somehow does it. You book with them, and you know what to expect - not in a predictable or dull way, but in a reliable, elevated kind of way. The brand’s hallmark interior design - warm lighting, rich colour palettes, a mix of vintage and modern furniture, and artfully curated details - feels both premium and personal.
A Personal Experience
There are few hotel brands that leave a visual imprint strong enough to be remembered years later. For me, Motel One is one of them.
Years ago, I had the opportunity to stay at a Mote One during my time as a model in Germany. I couldn’t recall which city or branch, but I never forgot how much the design captivated. So, when planning a recent family weekend getaway to Stuttgart, I found myself scrolling through Booking.com - and there it was again. Motel One.
As a photographer deeply inspired by design, the decision to return felt intuitive. I remembered how the hotel made me feel, and this time, I wanted to see it through the lens - quite literally.
Upon arrival at Motel One Stuttgart-Feuerbach, that same feeling returned. The design didn’t disappoint. From the lobby to the lounge, it was clear that the brand has mastered consistency without sacrificing individuality. One thing I have grown to love about the Motel One brand is it’s ability to deliver high-style interiors at at price point that still feels accessible.
The Design Philosophy
Stepping into the lounge at Motel One Stuttgart-Feuerbach feels like entering a world where refined comfort meets modern artistry. The design harmonises contemporary geometry with mid-century silhouettes, creating a space that feels both curated and deeply welcoming.
With deep hues of navy, walnut, and amber, the atmosphere is moody yet inviting - brought to life by golden accent lighting that glows through stacked glass boxes and sculptural pendants. The mix of velvet, leather, and tufted fabrics adds layers of tactile richness, balancing formality with casual elegance. The sitting arrangement encourages quiet conversations and solo unwinding, with each corner thoughtfully arranged to feel intimate yet visually open. It’s a space that invites you to stay - to sink in, sip slowly, and let the ambience do the rest.
The interior design feels modern and intentional - not flashy, but elegant. You get the sense that every element, from the wall textures to the lighting fixtures, was chosen with purpose. A curated modern elegance with a touch of mid-century sophistication, all wrapped in a rich, ambient warmth.
The Motel One Brand
The Motel One is an affordable premium brand, chic, efficient, comfort-forward, with smart design and no frills. What I love about the Motel One brand is it’s consistency in design - each location speaks the same language, yet holds its own unique mood. It’s an affordable brand, yes - but with premium design language. This is where Motel One bridges the gap between mid-market affordability and visual sophistication. The brand seems to understand that beauty should be accessible - and that, for many travellers like myself, design is part of the experience. All these aligns the brand closer to the value-luxury, a boutique hospitality, without reaching ultra-luxury pricing.
In summary, the Motel One sits solidly in the mid-market design category: stylish, consistent, efficient, and accessible.
Why Motel One Fits the Mid-Market Category
Design-forward, but affordable: Motel One offers beautiful, modern, and consistent design aesthetics that are typically found in higher-end hotels, but at very competitive prices.
No-frills luxury feel: It delivers an elevated experience (quality bedding, curated interiors, thoughtful design), but without the full suite of luxury hotel amenities like room service, spas, or concierge service.
Target Market: Professionals, design-conscious travellers, and city hoppers who value comfort and style on a budget, not ultra-luxury.
Business Model: Focus on location, consistency, and smart design, rather than exclusivity or high-touch service - key traits of the mid-market tier.
A Visual Critique, A Guest Perspective
The Room:
Compact, perhaps too compact - especially for families. But surprisingly cozy. The queen-sized box-bed was a delight; well-cushioned, firm, and incredibly comfortable. While space was tight, the room made smart use of mirrors and lighting to feel more open and elegant.
In-Room Amenities: One notable drawback was the absence of a mini-bar, coffee or tea station, or even a bottle of water. For travellers used to having small comforts readily available, this might feel like a missing piece in an otherwise well-designed puzzle.
The Bathroom:
Chic design touches carried over here - lots of glass, clean lines, and a particularly charming touch: the perfumed hand wash. The scent was so intoxicating I found myself repeatedly bringing my hands to my face to inhale its freshness. However, the shower was very intimate, which makes it perfect for couples.
Family Friendliness:
As a parent travelling with a toddler, I found the room not entirely accommodating for a family stay. It is ideal for solo travellers or couples - but a bit tight for those with little ones in tow. However, they offer a beautiful selection of contemporary breakfast buffet and even little treats for the little ones to keep busy while parents enjoyed a well deserved breakfast.
Reflections on the Motel one Aesthetic and Brand Philosophy
As someone who moves through life with a curious lens, constantly seeking to understand the ‘‘why’’ behind the world around me. I naturally found myself analysing the aesthetic and operational choices of Motel One during my stays. It wasn’t just about spending the night; it became a study in brand storytelling through space and experience.
I had the opportunity to experience Motel One in two different contexts: first, with my husband on a one-night work trip; and more recently, on a weekend family getaway. Both stays, though brief, offered telling insights into the essence of the Motel One brand.
Motel One clearly caters to a very specific type of guest - urban travellers, city explorers, and business professionals who are always on the move. People who travel light, move fast, and need a place to simply pause and recharge before the next experience. This focus on efficient, design-conscious hospitality explains much of the brand’s minimalism: the compact room sizes, absence of mini-bars, and the lack of an in-house restaurant (beyond the breakfast area). Every element seems purposefully designed to support short-term stays that priories accessibility, comfort, and style, without unnecessary extras.
However, I believe there’s room for reflection when it comes to what’s considered a ‘‘luxury’’ or an ‘‘essential’’ in hospitality today. The absence of simple amenities like a mini-bar or in-room tea/coffee station - while aligned with their streamlined concept, can feel like a missed opportunity to elevate comfort, especially for guests who may not fit the ‘‘fast-traveller’’ profile.
This is where understanding brand identity and positioning becomes crucial. When booking a hotel, it’s important to not only assess aesthetics and reviews, but also the brand’s core audience and service philosophy. It helps manage expectations and ensures the experience aligns with your travel needs - whether you are there for business, family time, or leisure.
In the case of Motel One, what you get is a thoughtfully designed, visually elegant, yet efficient and intentionally pared-back hotel experience. It’s not about indulgence - it’s about stylish functionality.
Final Thoughts
For travellers who care about both comfort and creativity, Motel One continues to be a brand that delivers. Whether you are visiting for leisure, work, or just a visual reset - consider a stay here. And if you are like me, don’t forget your camera.
Note: What if a hotel stay wasn’t just booked - but felt? I always say - a well-designed space is one you feel before you understand. As a visual storyteller and photographer inspired by design, I love capturing the mood of a space that leaves you with a feeling - something beyond the visible lines and objects. If you are a brand, architect, or hotel looking to preserve the mood and soul of your space visually — let’s talk. I’d love to tell your story through my lens.