While it is true that today's hotels are increasingly becoming all-encompassing 'destinations' - locations where one can have a gourmand experience, sip the latest creation of the trendy mixologist, relax in a spa or even take a cooking class - the fact remains that the historical 'core business' of a hotel remains the same: sleeping well.

"The guest is looking for a memorable experience," explains Fabio Formenti, CEO of Simmons, a leading company in hotel mattresses, "and for this increasingly travel-educated and environmentally sensitive guest the 'sleep experience' is even more important. Simmons' green philosophy - for example, using natural components and post-consumer plastics - is combined with the know-how to offer products that meet the specific needs of large hospitality chains as well as independent hotels".

"Hotel guests are increasingly demanding personalised and tailor-made experiences," agrees Flavia Gamba, Contract Manager of Gamba 1918, which has been producing high-quality linens for hôtellerie for more than a hundred years, "starting with offering products with an emotional value, among which linens certainly belong. Sustainability is also increasingly important, and for our green collections we use sustainable and ecological materials such as organic cotton, linen and natural or recycled fibres that are also used in the furniture".

Andrea Rovea, CEO of Parotex and Casarovea, adds that “The trend in luxury linen for hotels and restaurants can be summed up in two key words: sustainability and customisation. Sustainability, in the search for an eco-friendly product designed to reduce consumption. Customisation, because the hôtellerie world is increasingly demanding a recognisable product that harmonises with its surroundings".

And there are many details that can harmonise with the sleeping solutions to make us enjoy our stay in the room. Even, perhaps, an iconic and functional bucket for our champagne. "Silver is a precious and versatile material that lends itself to discreet yet impressive solutions. One of our proposals is the combination of our traditional ice bucket with a special pair of goblets, also in silver: the ideal choice for a romantic toast for two in a hotel during a city break or a trip for two,” point out Robbe & Berking.