Creating the ultimate holiday home is an exciting adventure that, when done well, promises relaxation, comfort, and unforgettable moments.
Melissa Bonney from The Designory shared valuable insights into curating an ideal retreat, emphasising that the key to creating a getaway sanctuary lies in the styling and choice of materials.
“As a designer, creating a feeling when you walk into a home is the epitome of success,” Melissa said.
“Designing with every amenity and detail in mind is the key to success in creating the ultimate getaway.”
Taking cues from the surroundings and focusing on natural materials that blend with the landscape helps to create a harmonious vibe from the outset.
Samudra House in Byron Bay, inspired by the pristine oceans of the surrounding coastline, showcases this principle beautifully.
“Large, well-designed windows can not only fill your spaces with natural light but can also enhance the overall experience of your holiday home,” Melissa explained.
“To gently diffuse the light when needed and to bring a relaxed mood to the room, dress with a sheer Luxaflex® S-Wave Curtain a practical and elegant finish that adds softness, movement and texture.”
Flow is another crucial aspect to consider when designing a holiday home.
Samudra House features four bedrooms, four bathrooms, two living areas, and a lushly landscaped outdoor entertaining area, making it the perfect space for larger groups to reconnect and unwind.
“In order to be successful however, considering how guests move around and interact with each other was a critical part of the design,” Melissa noted.
The house has a strong focus on light and flow throughout each of its sizeable rooms, which are connected via neutral, earthy colour schemes and soft sheer Luxaflex® window treatments in the communal areas.
Curves have been used as a stunning design element and to assist in uniting the interiors further, elevating the holiday home’s aesthetic with drama and softness.
“Curves add depth and contrast to a home,” Melissa explained.
“In designing the organic shaped ceiling in the main living rooms, we’ve created a very modern feeling, but at the same time its warm, welcoming and visually appealing.
To create flow through the home, we’ve continued with curves in the kitchen, with furnishings and light fittings.”
Privacy and a good night’s sleep are paramount in a holiday home, and selecting the right window treatment is key to achieving this.
Blockout blinds and curtains can transcend a design, framing a window while adding warmth and softness, depending on the desired aesthetic.
Luxaflex® Duette® Shades not only block out the light but also help to regulate a room’s temperature due to their unique honeycomb design.
“In each of the guest bedrooms, Duette® Shades e from the Bamboo range in blockout were incorporated.
The Bamboo range is all about finding perfection in the imperfections of this bold, raw texture, which we love and the block out fabric lends itself to the most epic of sleep ins,” Melissa said.
“The additional functionality of light and noise control, insulation and privacy needs has helped to create a more peaceful and comfortable atmosphere.”
Luxury and convenience are another critical touch towards creating an ideal holiday home vibe.
The convenience and sophistication of motorised window treatments elevate the luxury of your holiday home, providing effortless control over light and privacy with style.
“The largest advantage of smart window coverings is how much easier they make your day-to-day life,” Melissa said.
“We were beyond impressed with the smooth install and features of the motorised curtains in the living area.
Streamlined and high performance, the motorised curtains help to retain easy visual access to the exteriors timber accents while adding a certain je ne sais quoi of their own, I adore them!”
Paying attention to colour schemes and materials is key to making your holiday home a welcoming haven for family and friends.
Soft terracotta hues and walnut details in Samudra House add warmth to its white interiors.
“How a house makes you feel is important when designing a home.
With this in mind, I chose materials that had a natural and understated finish, you’ll notice there is a mix of timbers, and concrete with a neutral palette.
I wanted the home to have a feeling of space and a sense of calm.
My styling is a fusion of organic, minimalist, classical style,” Melissa said.
An open-plan kitchen and living area provides a sociable place for guests to commune, with an outdoor dining area that can be extended using the motorised Luxaflex® Arafura Folding Arm Awning if necessary, becoming an extension of the indoor space.
“The awning can make all the difference to indoor / outdoor living,” Melissa said.
“Not only does it provide a stylish shade solution for larger gatherings, but it provides the added benefit of helping maintain the home’s internal temperature by reflecting the harsh Australian UV rays and offering airflow.”
Ultimately, Samudra House offers a retreat where championing an understated approach, strips away any unnecessary noise and clutter and provides a place of relaxation and enjoyment.
Blending elements of nature, stylish design and functionality, and thoughtful finishing touches create a distinctive holiday style.