Ever wondered why hotel rooms are so bland? Apparently, a neutral palette is thought to put guests in a positive, relaxed frame of mind. It also says expensive: the paler the hue, the swankier the hotel. But here are five hotels that have taken a more vibrant approach.

This is the Saguaro in Palm Springs, California – and yes, the interiors are just as bright. Rooms have a choice of view – pool, mountain, garden, courtyard or city lights – and all have outdoor sitting areas. As you might expect, the hotel attracts a young, hip clientele.Negresco, French RivieraThe historic and ultra-exclusive Negresco hotel on the French Riviera couldn’t be less like the Saguaro on the outside, but inside it’s every bit as vibrant, with gem-coloured furnishings and an impressive collection of French art works, including a portrait of Louis XVI by Hyacinthe Rigaud a chandelier by Gustave Eiffel and a glass work by Baccarrat, one of two commissioned by Tsar Nicholas II.Art'otel BerlinGreen and yellow are the two big no-nos, as far as most hotel designers are concerned (it’s believed that guests might associate yellow with liver problems). Not at the Art’otel in Berlin where this pretty chartreuse room is to be found. The hotel is dedicated to Andy Warhol, with over 250 pieces and photos throughout the hotel. Hot Pink Suite, Palms, Las VegasDesigned by Happy Chic designer Jonathan Adler, the Hot Pink Suite at Palms casino resort in Las Vegas features corseted, lace-up chairs, custom art and terrazzo bubble floors. Don’t forget to pack your shades.Adronikos SantoriniIt’s not hard to find blue rooms on an island where practically everything is painted blue and white, but this ground-floor suite at Andronikos Santorini is something rather special: it features an elevated bedroom, separate sitting area and a private terrace with outdoor Jacuzzi and views of the island’s caldera. 

Le Gray, BeirutPurple is the one colour that is popular at both ends of the hotel spectrum, from budget to luxury, as it’s thought to be calming. The ultra-stylish Le Gray hotel in Beirut shows how it’s done. 

BY MAGGIE O’SULLIVAN