10 Tips for Designing an Inviting Vacation Home
These ideas make it easy to switch to relaxation mode.
This time of year, many of us are dreaming of sunshine and sand, and our team is hustling to get waterfront houses ready for our clients. Having a beach or lake house of your own is the ultimate escape. Just like your home, you want your vacation home to reflect your style and way of life. From designing second homes for longtime clients to coastal boutique hotels, I have lots of experience figuring out what works best in waterfront design.
Below are some of my best tricks for creating a home that’s modern and breezy, regardless of whether you have a water view! Try these ideas to freshen up your home for the season and breathe new life into your outdoor space.
1. Prioritize durability for your fabrics and rugs so you can relax without stressing about sand, water, and suntan lotion. Indoor/outdoor fabrics and rugs are designed to resist humidity, salt, stains, and sun fading.
2. Choose low-maintenance materials, such as teak, powder-coated metal, woven materials, ceramic, or resin for your outdoor pieces. Technology has come a long way, so you can have both form and function!
3. Instead of buying a complete outdoor furniture set, mix and match different pieces you love. You’ll end up with a more unique and customized look.
4. Make your outdoor space an extension of your home with plush cushions, outdoor lanterns, and throw pillows. Choosing elements that speak to the interior of your home creates flow.
5. Invest in an outdoor kitchen to level up your outdoor entertaining. There are lots of options these days from built in bars and grills to pizza ovens.
6. Set up a drink station, so you can easily serve guests or get yourself a refill. Keep it stocked with the essentials: ice, bottle openers, and shatterproof glasses.
7. Create zones in your backyard for al fresco dining, sitting by the fire pit, or lounging on a chaise. This will help you maximize your space and spread out when guests are visiting.
8. Take a chance with fun colors and playful patterns. Your summer home is the perfect place to try on a bolder look.
9. OR go for a serene, spa-like vibe with light colors and loads of texture. Sheer linens and neutral finishes call to mind sand, shells, and driftwood for an airy feel.
10. Bring in a sense of place in a subtle way with local artwork, natural textures, and watery color schemes. An abstract approach is more sophisticated than themed design.
With a vacation house, the goal is comfort above all else. By following these tips, you’re sure to create a space that’s ready for unwinding and spending quality time with your family and friends. Summer can’t get here soon enough!
Until next time,
