Vacation Home Trends
Today’s vacation homes are no longer simply a place to unwind—they’re becoming destinations in themselves, carefully crafted to reflect a blend of luxury, sustainability, and a connection to the surrounding environment. Here’s a look at the top vacation home trends emerging, designed to inspire your next getaway.
Bringing the Outdoors In
The desire to connect with nature is driving a rise in “biophilic design”, a concept that emphasizes integrating natural elements into interior spaces. This trend is especially popular in vacation homes, where the aim is often to escape the hustle of urban life and reconnect with the natural world.
Biophilic design in vacation homes can be seen in the use of large windows that frame stunning outdoor views, skylights that bring in natural light, and living walls that incorporate greenery directly into the home. Natural materials like wood, stone, and natural textiles are frequently used to enhance the organic feel of the space. Furniture and decor pieces inspired by nature, such as woven rattan chairs or stone accents, add texture and warmth to the interiors.
Finding the right blend of materials, colors, and textures is the key to creating a relaxing and harmonious environment that feels as natural indoors as it does outdoors.
Indoor-Outdoor Living Spaces
Vacation homes are increasingly designed with spaces that blur the lines between indoor and outdoor living. Homeowners want flexible spaces that allow them to enjoy the beauty of nature without leaving the comfort of their homes. To achieve this, designers are creating areas that seamlessly transition from interior rooms to outdoor patios, decks, or courtyards.
Sliding glass doors that open fully, retractable walls, and screened-in porches are popular features that make it easy to combine the indoors and outdoors. Outdoor kitchens, fire pits, and lounge areas with comfortable seating provide an inviting setting for family gatherings or quiet evenings under the stars. This trend not only adds functional living space but also allows for year-round enjoyment of the home’s natural surroundings.
Minimalist and Multi-Functional Spaces
Minimalism is making its way into vacation homes, especially those with limited square footage. Homeowners want spaces that are uncluttered, calming, and easy to maintain. This trend favors simplicity in furnishings, with an emphasis on functionality and quality over quantity.
Alongside minimalism, multi-functional spaces are becoming increasingly important, particularly in smaller vacation homes. A single room might serve as both a bedroom and a workspace, or a dining area that doubles as a lounging space. Fold-away furniture, built-in storage, and convertible furniture like sofa beds or Murphy beds are great options for maximizing flexibility without sacrificing style.
In spaces like this, we work to achieve a minimalist look that still feels cozy and inviting. Using innovative furniture pieces and layout options to make the most of your space while keeping it clutter-free and comfortable bridges both comfort and the minimalist aesthetic.
Wellness and Spa-Like Amenities
Another major trend in vacation homes is the focus on wellness and relaxation. People want their vacation homes to feel like a personal retreat where they can recharge physically and mentally. This trend is driving the inclusion of spa-like amenities such as saunas, steam rooms, soaking tubs, and yoga spaces.
Designers are creating bathrooms that feel like luxury spas, complete with rainfall showers, natural stone finishes, and ambient lighting. Meditation rooms or designated wellness areas provide a calming space to practice yoga, meditate, or simply unwind. These dedicated areas allow homeowners to escape stress and focus on well-being, turning the vacation home into a true sanctuary.
When we are asked to transform a vacation home into a wellness haven, we start with the layout, and work to suggest materials, layouts, and accessories that foster relaxation and create a sense of tranquility.
Smart Home Technology
Smart home technology is making vacation homes more convenient and enjoyable. Features like smart thermostats, lighting control systems, and automated security make it easy for homeowners to manage their property remotely or set everything up before they arrive. Voice-activated systems, smart locks, and even remote-controlled blinds are becoming common additions.
For vacation homes that are rented out seasonally, smart locks allow owners to grant guests access without physical keys, enhancing security and convenience. Energy-saving smart thermostats help maintain a comfortable environment while minimizing energy use. Smart lighting systems allow you to adjust brightness or color to create different moods, all controlled via a smartphone or voice commands.
By seamlessly incorporating these technologies into the home’s design, we can ensure that the latest technology blends naturally with the aesthetic, avoiding a cold, tech-heavy feel while providing the benefits of a fully connected space.
Personalized and Unique Decor
Vacation homes are also trending toward more personalized and unique decor. Homeowners want their getaway to reflect their personality and passions rather than adhering strictly to current design trends. This has led to an increased interest in custom-made furniture, locally sourced decor, and artisanal pieces that add character to the home.
From handcrafted ceramics to art collections and custom textiles, designers are helping clients source pieces that give vacation homes a unique, one-of-a-kind charm. This trend celebrates individuality and creativity, resulting in a space that feels truly personal and meaningful.
For those who aren’t sure where to begin, working with an interior designer can be invaluable. We have access to unique, high-quality decor items and can recommend pieces that complement the overall theme of the home while making it distinctly your own.
Embracing the Local Culture and Environment
Vacation homes are increasingly designed to connect with the local culture and environment. Whether it’s a coastal cottage or a mountain retreat, incorporating elements that reflect the area’s natural beauty and cultural influences makes the home feel grounded in its location.
Designers achieve this by using materials and colors that reflect the surrounding landscape and by incorporating local art, textiles, and decor. Coastal homes might feature soft blues and sandy neutrals, while a forest cabin might include darker wood tones and warm earth colors.
Why Work with an Interior Designer on Your Vacation Home?
Creating a beautiful and functional vacation home involves countless decisions, from choosing the right materials to incorporating personalized touches and ensuring the design reflects your vision. This is where an interior designer can make all the difference. With expertise in residential interior design, we can transform your ideas into a cohesive plan, bringing their knowledge of current trends, sustainable practices, and space optimization to the table.
Working with a designer takes the stress out of the process and ensures that every detail aligns with your vision and lifestyle. Whether you’re dreaming of a serene coastal retreat, a rustic mountain cabin, or a modern city escape, an interior designer can help turn that dream into reality. By combining our creative expertise with your unique preferences, We can create a vacation home that’s perfectly tailored to you, ready to be enjoyed for years to come.