Second homes are a great opportunity to get creative and expressive yourself in a way you may be fearful of pursuing in your primary home. Due to the open and airy nature of second homes, they often begin with a bit of a blank canvas, which we understand can be quite daunting! We are here to offer some tips and tricks for designing your dream second home, where you and your guests can relax and take a break from your busy lives
1. Create a clutter free space
Image source: Pinterest
A clutter free space = a clutter free mind. Not only will reducing clutter mean less clean up after extended periods of the home being empty, but it will also help to create a serene environment, perfect for any break. Opt for hidden storage for your
essential belongings.
2. Take inspiration from your surroundings
Whether your second home be on the coastal Isle of Wight or a ski chalet in France, it's a great idea to connect your home with the surrounding areas. This could be through maximising the views through large windows, or bringing the outdoors in through colour, texture and natural materials. This helps the home to fit the context, and creates a concrete starting point for your design.
"Nature is not a place to visit, it is home."
- Gary Snyder
Image source: Pinterest
Image source: Peter Janov on Behance
3. Experiment with colour
Second homes tend to be less formal and restricted than primary homes. Why not have some fun exploring the use of your favourite colours? We know this can seem scary at first but you would be surprised on how much colour can affect how we feel.
For more tips and advice on how to use colour in your spaces, feel free to book a colour consultation with us!
"Colour is a power which directly influences the soul"
- Wassily Kadinsky
Image source: Pinterest
4. Go bold with patterns
If you're feeling really brave, you could also explore and play with layering different patterns. This could be just through decor, rugs and cushions or you could push this even further with wallpapers and larger furnishings.
The great thing about this is that it's a less expensive way of adding warmth and enhancing your decor.
Image source: Pinterest
5. Use durable materials & furnishings
Image source: Amada Wyeth
Depending on the activities you experience while visiting your second home, such as sea swimming, using durable materials will reduce wear and tear. This will save you lots of money through not having to replace things as often.
6. Comfort is key!
A comfortable environment will help you to relax and rejuvenate on your break. Soft rugs, cushions, bedding and furniture are all pieces of this puzzle which shouldn't be ignored! Different soft textures can also enhance your sensory experience, helping you to unwind and re-energise.
"Comfort is first,
Comfort is last,
Comfort it always."
- Timothy Corrigan
Image source: Chichomeliving.com
7. Elevate your outdoor spaces
Image source: Galerie Magazine
It's likely you and your guests will make the most of these social spaces in the long summer evenings. Outdoor kitchens and dining areas, cosy fire pits and comfortable outdoor seating are always great additions. You may even wish stretch to private outdoor spas, jacuzzis and swimming pools depending on the location of your home and your budget.
8. Don't be afraid to get creative
Your second home is a great opportunity to try things you would normally be scared to do in your primary dwelling. Quirky decor and artwork, sculptural furnishings and a bolder colour palette may well add more enjoyment and excitement to your time away.
"The worst enemy to creativity is self-doubt"
- Sylvia Plath
Image source: houseandgarden.co.uk
9. Support local businesses
Image source: Realsimple.com
Make use of the small local independent shops and artists to make your home feel unique and give it character. Why not make a gallery wall filled with artwork from local artists?
Not only does this connect you with the location on a deeper level, but it also supports the local community - win win!
10. Go big or go home!
Image source: Re-thinkingthefuture.com
Statement lighting, dramatic focal points and touches of luxury can instantly help to create an impressive and unforgettable interior that you wont be able to wait to go back to time and time again. Whether you would like your blank canvas to be transformed into a stimulating environment with bags of character, or a relaxed, calming and zen-like space we can help, book a consultation with us for more advice on how to make this all work!
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