Book your next trip at home!

Yes, I mean it! I know many of us love to travel, but sometimes the best way to relax is to stay at home. Recently, Ben and I went on a trip with our friends to a resort in Cancun. We had such a fun time, but by the end, we were really looking forward to returning home. So, how can you create a space that you look forward to coming back to and relaxing in, even after a "relaxing" trip?

One of the most important steps is blending your indoor and outdoor spaces. If you're currently renovating, I suggest incorporating floor-to-ceiling windows that lead to your backyard or patio/porch, with doors that can open up and merge the two areas. When doing this, make sure the spaces complement each other. For example, if you have a seating area inside, try adding a dining table outside to create a seamless transition. If you’re not undertaking a big renovation, look for a space in your home with a large window or doors that open outside, and try to replicate this layout. A simpler option could be creating a lounge area near an exterior opening so you can sit and enjoy the outdoor environment.

The next step is incorporating natural materials into your home. Think wood, linen, stone, jute, etc. Wood, in particular, is versatile and can be added to many different surfaces. The simplest way to incorporate wood is through your flooring, but furniture also works well. I love the idea of bringing wood onto the walls and ceilings—it can truly transform a space into a relaxing "cocoon." For the walls, you might consider wood paneling or a natural fiber like grasscloth wallpaper. On the ceiling, straw and wood beams could create a unique and calming effect. Stone works wonderfully for countertops and occasional furniture, and in the bathroom, it can be incorporated into the shower and floors. Wood floors in the bathroom could also be a cool and distinctive way to warm up the space—just be sure to seal the wood properly! For natural fibers like jute, linen, and wool, use them in rugs, window coverings, and on furniture.

As for furniture, incorporate wood and stone (as mentioned earlier), as well as wicker and woven pieces. Woven and wicker furniture can also help blend your indoor and outdoor spaces. For upholstery, again, stick with natural fibers like linen and cotton. To create a “resort” feel, opt for a neutral color palette with subtle pops of color—keep the tones muted and calming rather than vibrant. Curved and soft edges in your furniture can enhance the relaxing atmosphere.

Lastly, lighting—both artificial and natural—is key. Incorporate lanterns, woven pendants, ceramic or upholstered sconces, clusters of hanging lights, and plenty of candlelight. Use natural lighting to your advantage, and remember to choose lighting fixtures with soft, curved shapes to continue the calming theme established with your furniture.

And, as rule #72 states: take advice from nature when creating a serene home environment. As a general rule, drawing inspiration from nature for your home design will help you create spaces that are not only beautiful but also soothing.

Image 1. A room in the Singita Ebony Lodge. Image 2. The spa at Cap Rocat. Image 3. Restaurant at the Canaves Epitome resort. Image 4. A restaurant at the Santa Caterina resort. Image 5. An outdoor dining space at the Brando resort. Image 6. A bathroom in the Waldorf Astoria resort. Image 7. An outdoor lounge space at the andBeyond Mnemba Island resort.

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Book your next trip at home!

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