As wellness becomes central to hospitality design, Naturalmat founder Mark Tremlett shares insights into how natural materials, sleep routines, and seasonal bedding can transform guest experiences through improved rest…
In the modern hospitality landscape, guest expectations are evolving rapidly – and at the heart of this shift is wellness. With more travellers prioritising health and relaxation, the design of hotel bedrooms has become a critical opportunity to enhance the guest experience. According to Mark Tremlett, founder of luxury bed, bedding and mattress company Naturalmat, one of the most overlooked aspects of wellness design is sleep.
The Dartmouth Bed from £2,200 for a King Size | Image credit: Naturalmat
Supporting natural sleep patterns
Mark highlights the importance of aligning hotel environments with the body’s natural circadian rhythm; many guests struggle with disrupted sleep due to changes in time zones or routines.
To address this, he notes that hotels can create spaces that promote relaxation in the evening – using warm lighting, minimising exposure to blue light from in-room devices, and suggesting calming pre-sleep rituals. “Whilst we all may cut back on sleep from time to time, doing this frequently will start to affect your mental and physical well-being,” Mark adds, “it’s best to start by figuring out what time you usually begin to feel sleepy in the evening and take that as your bedtime signal.”
Bedding that adapts with the seasons
Another important element of sleep wellness is adjusting bedding to suit the changing seasons. “If you are comfortable and at the right temperature throughout the night, you are much more likely to get a good night’s sleep,” says Mark. “Combining seasonal bedding with a healthy sleep routine means you’ll sleep well all year round, no matter the weather, which will in turn boost your mood, energy levels and make you more productive.”
While investing in four different bedding sets might not be realistic for most hotels, a practical starting point is to have at least two: one suited for warmer months and another for cooler periods. For instance, a 9-tog duvet offers the necessary insulation during winter, while a 4.5-tog alternative provides breathable comfort in summer. This simple seasonal swap can significantly elevate guest comfort and subtly reinforce a hotel’s commitment to wellbeing – a thoughtful touch that makes a lasting impression in today’s competitive hospitality landscape.
Naturalmat Duvets from £110 each | Image credits: Naturalmat
Materials matter
Bedding materials significantly affect sleep quality, with natural and breathable fibres offering clear benefits. Mark recommends duck down, goose down, and wool for their ability to regulate temperature better than synthetic options.
“Duck and goose down are exceptionally soft and comfortable, with a lightweight quality that makes them feel wonderfully airy. This airy nature allows them to effectively disperse heat when it gets too hot, ensuring a cool and pleasant night’s sleep. Another great option is a wool duvet, they work wonders in the winter months at keeping you toasty, but release the heat when it gets a little too warm, making it a great all-rounder.”
Finishing touches with natural textiles
To complete a wellness-focused room design, organic bedding materials like hemp, cotton, and linen provide both comfort and functionality. Hemp is especially notable for its breathability, hypoallergenic qualities, and hollow fibres that enhance year-round temperature regulation. These natural textiles not only create a luxurious feel but also support hygiene and overall sleep health.
As wellness becomes embedded into all aspects of hotel design – not just spa offerings – prioritising restorative sleep can create a lasting impression. Guests are more likely to return not just for how a room looks, but for how it made them feel: rested, refreshed, and truly cared for.
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Main image credit: Naturalmat
