Designing the perfect vacation home is about creating a welcoming, comfortable, and functional space that allows you to unwind and enjoy your time away. Whether you’re designing it for yourself or for guests, these ten tips will help you create a vacation home that is both beautiful and practical.
Creating Your Dream Vacation Home: 10 Design Tips
1. Keep Decorations Simple
Simple decorations are not only aesthetically pleasing but also practical. And we don’t mean simple as in plain and basic, but simple as in easier to clean and maintain. It’s a place which won’t be always used, so it should be practical to clean when people go for a few days. Opt for a few well-chosen pieces of artwork, decorative pillows, and tasteful accessories.
2. Choose Low Maintenance Furniture
Equally important, furniture in a vacation home should be durable and low maintenance. Materials like leather, wood, and metal, which are easy to clean and resistant to wear and tear, could be a better choice. This not only keeps the home looking fresh but also extends the life of your furnishings.
SHOP THE LOOK:
Enchanted Glass Top Dining Table
Chandra Dining Chair
3. Use Durable Materials
Following the last point, when choosing materials, focus on durability and ease of maintenance. For instance, for flooring, consider high-quality materials that can handle heavy foot traffic and are easy to clean like tiles. In the kitchen and bathrooms, opt for marble or granite countertops, which are both stylish and resilient. Outdoor furniture should be made from weather-resistant materials like teak, aluminum, or synthetic leather.
SHOP THE LOOK:
Paris Travertine Marble Oval Dining Table
Stella Mirror
4. Create Various Relaxation Spaces
A vacation home should offer multiple spaces for relaxation, as it is the ultimate goal for the space. Designate different areas for different activities – a cozy reading nook, a comfortable living room with plenty of seating, and a serene bedroom. Outdoor relaxation spaces are equally important. Include a shaded patio, a sunny deck, or a garden to provide a variety of options for unwinding.
SHOP THE LOOK:
Myth Coffee Table
Sofia Sofa
5. Maximize Outdoor Spaces
Outdoor spaces are a key feature of any vacation home. Comfortable outdoor furniture and ambient lighting can transform any outdoor area into a perfect spot for dining and relaxation. Consider adding features like an outdoor kitchen and dining space, a garden or a pool to enhance the outdoor experience.
SHOP THE LOOK:
Allure Dining Table
Enchanted Arm Dining Table
6. Ensure Excellent Lighting
Good lighting is essential for creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Use a combination of ambient and accent lighting to illuminate different areas of the home. Dimmable lights allows you to adjust the brightness to your preference. Don’t forget outdoor lighting for safety and ambiance in the evenings.
SHOP THE LOOK:
Vengeance Table Lamp
Eternity Clear Glass Sconce
7. Prioritize Functionality
Functionality is crucial in a vacation home. Ensure there is ample storage space for belongings. Built-in closets, under-bed storage, and multi-functional furniture can help keep the home organized and clutter-free. The kitchen should be well-equipped with basic appliances and utensils, so you don’t have to bring your own every time you go on vacation.
SHOP THE LOOK:
Besame Bar Stool
Flora Sconce
8. Prepare for All Seasons
A vacation home should be comfortable year-round. Install heating and cooling systems appropriate for the local climate. For colder times, have cozy blankets, a fireplace, and heated floors. In warmer climates, ceiling fans, air conditioning, and shaded outdoor areas are essential. Equip the home with seasonal amenities to ensure you are prepared for any weather conditions.
9. Include Practical Conveniences
Prepare your vacation home with practical conveniences that enhance comfort and convenience. High-speed Wi-Fi, smart home devices, and entertainment options like streaming services and board games can make a big difference. Providing essentials like toiletries, cleaning supplies, and kitchen basics will reduce the need for you to bring them every time you travel and prevent from forgetting.
10. Incorporate Local Elements
Incorporate elements of the local culture and environment into your design. Use local materials, colors, and styles to create a sense of place. This not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also provides a unique and immersive experience. Whether it’s seaside decor for a beach house or rustic touches for a mountain cabin, let the location inspire your design choices.
SHOP THE LOOK:
Lé-Lé Bench
Botanica Sconce
Designing the perfect vacation home involves a blend of practicality, comfort, and style. By keeping decorations simple, choosing durable materials, and creating various relaxation spaces, you can ensure your vacation home is both beautiful and easy to maintain. Prioritizing functionality, preparing for all seasons, and incorporating local elements will enhance the experience, making your vacation home a sought-after retreat.
We have a full catalogue dedicated to summer houses. you can flip through “Sun-Kissed Entertaining: Dining Al Fresco and Poolside Pleasures’ ” pages here.
