If you are considering buying a luxury vacation home, 2024 may be the year to invest. In the wake of the pandemic, the once-occasional escape has become an integral part of our everyday lives, and secondary homes can quickly become more full-time. According to some industry experts, second-home transactions show no signs of a slowdown. Keep reading to understand some trends we are seeing this season in vacation home design to make sure your getaway is ready every day.

Invest in Outdoor Spaces at Your Vacation Home

Second homes are typically designed with integrated outdoor spaces tailored for year-round enjoyment. Investing in outdoor spaces is crucial as they can enhance the value and appeal of your property while also providing a way to reconnect with the beautiful landscapes surrounding your home. For example, we recently designed a custom seaside cottage on the Eastern Shore in St. Michaels, MD, where we included a porch off the main bedroom for a beautiful view of the water. This design was the epitome of a “room with a view” because we wanted to embrace the natural beauty of the environment and let the unique charm of the water become the showstopper.

Durability

As second homes are getting more use, making sure your home combines luxury and durable designs is important. Second homes are usually located in places where the environment might have a harsh season or near the stunning yet corrosive sea air. Consequently, understanding that creating a sanctuary home needs a commitment to durability can help to avoid constant concerns about maintenance.

Lingering Leisure

Adding guest suites to your home that encourage extended stays is becoming more popular. Consider adding a private guest suite to your vacation home to encourage long-term visits. Including coffee bars and kitchenettes or private entrances are also popular. If you don’t want a separate suite, consider adding a bathroom to every room in the home. Additionally, consider reaching for furniture with maximum comfort, such as chaises, ottomans, and other features that make the perfect nap spot!

Service Kitchens for Your Vacation Home

Full kitchens are pivotal in elevating the overall experience of your second home, particularly during prolonged stays. Make sure your second home has top-shelf appliances, and adding a butler’s pantry or a back kitchen can also help keep everything streamlined. See our article Creating a More Functional Kitchen for more ideas for creating a serviceable kitchen.

Storage and Spacious Living

Overall, ensuring your luxury vacation home has plenty of storage options and the living areas feel spacious and comforting is critical to feeling relaxed and rested. Unique architectural features offer stunning views and a distinctive atmosphere for dining and enjoying the surroundings.

Over the past decade, I have been fortunate to design numerous luxury vacation spaces. If you would like to discuss your project or have any general questions, please get in touch with me today!