Holidays At Home

You don’t need to travel far for your next holiday. Look to an island-worthy outdoor area for all your relaxation needs

- John Storch

With time-poor lifestyles and holidays few and far between, skip sitting in an airport and maximize your time off by relaxing at home. While the summer break can sometimes feel like it’s a million years away, now’s the time to prepare your outdoor area for a summer stay-cation (or simply a weekend at home). To create this personal oasis, it’s imperative to integrate external design elements with the home to create strong flow and fusion. Don’t let your outdoor space be an afterthought!

Open up the rear of your house with large sliding or concertina doors, build a high ceiling and remove internal walls (or design an addition) so you can see and enjoy your garden. Glass is your friend, so use clear glazing between the pool and outdoor room to reduce the visual barrier and bring the two spaces together. Link the indoors to the out with an attached outdoor room with kitchenette facilities. Go the extra mile with this space and include a barbecue, pizza oven, flat-screen television set, sound system, and daybed for your own private oasis.

Consistency is key, so use the same architectural styles throughout your property. For example, a contemporary house will look best with a contemporary pool and cabana, succulent plants, and monotone colors.

Maintain the same paving, furniture, paint colors, and planting styles throughout the project for consistency. The flexibility of use is also important. Whether catering for an intimate family meal or accommodating larger numbers for Christmas and birthdays, space should look great and function well.