Inspired by the roadside motels of Palm Springs in the 1950s and ’60s, in combination with the character of the eclectic town it calls home—Pigeon Forge, this hotel openly embraces nostalgia and eccentricity. Dryden Studio’s Interior Designers overlooked no details in this design. From the guest suites to the lobby, every room is delightfully filled with colors, textures, and a strong sense of character. The public spaces are vibrant and energetic, designed to cater to a crowd of guests looking for an exciting and fun atmosphere during their vacation. The bold colors, prints, and patterns create intrigue in every corner of the space. Whimsical, woven pendant lights help to fill the already naturally lit space with a warm glow in the nighttime. The lobby, the bar, a lounge, and the Paloma restaurant all flow together, encouraging socializing amongst the hotel’s patrons. Patron choice is key in the space, with a variety of seating such as free-standing tables, booths, bar seating, and lounge chairs.

The guest rooms and suites still play with color and textures but in softer ways. The colors of the public spaces are carried over into these private spaces, slightly muted, and the focus of the rooms is a place for relaxation and rest. This is a refuge where a guest can feel at ease and unwind. Outside of the building is an oasis built around the heavily modified existing pool. Custom cabanas sit atop a stylized new slab, offering guests a personal and unique experience. The retro feel and colors of the hotel spill out here as well, tying the entirety of the property together. Luscious landscaping reminiscent of the tropics is the final layer which calls back to the Palm Springs inspiration. The Dryden team was tasked with remodeling the previous motel into a vibrant and luxurious space unlike any that exists in Pigeon Forge. Collaborating closely with our client and our consultants, we iterated the design until we found the perfect balance. The result: The Wayback.