For start-up property investors who want a unique vacation rental that reflects a more personal design style without the fear and anxiety that often comes with spending money?

>>>>>>

A common mistake in redesigning a vacation rental interior is shopping without a plan and selecting a sofa you love. 

>>>>>>

Seth Godin “The space matters. It might be a garage or a sunlit atrium, but the place you choose to do what you do has an impact on you.”

>>>>>>

But by now, you know that means you need to catch up on a heap of critical preparatory steps to ensure you’re getting the right couch, a colour that will work and an overall cohesive look that tells your personal story.

>>>>>>

You need to create the initial vision with what style you want. To avoid ending up with a mismatched set of furniture pieces, a boring interior story and a budget that goes wayward.

>>>>>>

Following is a set of 5-pointers that will help you create a look and feel that reflects your style without the anxiety when it’s time to make purchasing decisions.

>>>>>>

Now, let’s dive in.

>>>>>>

#1 What do you feel is your design style now?

>>>>>>

(this can reflect something other than the current look of your home).

Your starting point will indicate where you want to head or what you want to leave out.

Our last home was near the ocean and had a coastal vibe. I loved the simplicity and freshness, yet I felt it wasn’t representative of our family. It needed the story of our roots. Living now in the country, I love the cosiness of a fireplace and bringing a more rustic chic feel into my new style.

>>>>>>

#2: Who are you at your core?

>>>>>>

Look at personality traits that could influence the feel of your vacation rental.

Are you someone who loves to travel, Or does the idea of travelling unsettle you? Would you rather have a space to retreat to? Or one that makes you feel like you are on holiday all year round. How can you create more of what you love for your guests?

A love of Travel, the greenery that surrounds me here in the country, and my South-African upbringing is steering me towards a Lodge design style.

>>>>>>

#3: What sort of character would you like?

>>>>>>

Reflect on some memories of places you have been to and look for cues that give you that “feel good” feeling.

Elegant… sophisticated… warmth… glamour… converted barn… old stone

Whilst you think about the character, it’s also a chance to consider how decorating your rental is an opportunity to tell a personal story. Now, this doesn’t mean making your rental a museum of your past or a literal depiction of your upbringing.

In this respect, ‘telling your story means expressing a particular point of view, realising a vision, or infusing elements of your personality into a space.

“Living in Africa, then Australia and now England. The modern lodge interior design style exists at the intersection of contemporary and rustic. It opens the window to see how I could infuse safari lodge luxury. Contemporary Australian design features such as panelled feature walls and punches of colour in deep, muted tones and textures. I also love the Soho farmhouse vibe here in the UK. Bringing together influences from Georgian architecture alongside Moroccan tones and materials from northwest America, these surprising contrasts, focusing on comfort and calm, will depict my style.

>>>>>>

#4: Think of design icons or inspirational people you would love to make a note of.

>>>>>>

Looking at Pinterest allows you to collate images that will inspire your direction. You could also be influenced by TV shows such as the hit design series from Mcgee and Co.

I love Jean Stoffer’s design work. The unique mix of materials, textures and colours. Lauren Buxbaum Gordon  Partner at Nate Berkus Associates with her relatable, stylish style and Albionnord who create spaces with soul.

>>>>>>

#5: Being mindful of the feeling you want to evoke

>>>>>>

The process of designing is very exciting, so it mustn’t distract you from the reality of your goal with the feeling you want your guests to feel whilst still maintaining functionality. It’s essential to be aware of this while developing your style and assessing the needs of your creative project, which is why I want you to take a moment to turn your focus to being mindful.

Let’s take a closer look at the decision-making process. Say you’re looking at the space you want to redesign and thinking of different pieces of furniture. Keen to get some ideas, you find yourself wandering through a gorgeous furniture shop when you spot it: an amazingly designed couch. Its dimensions would fit your space. It’s even within your price range.

The only problem is it’s COMPLETELY out of alignment with the plan you had in place based on the desired feelings and needs of your vacation rental guests. ‘But it’s so pretty’, you say to yourself, ‘But I want it!’

>>>>>>

It would help if you made your purchases after clearly defining your style and the purpose and feel of the pieces you want to buy within the bigger picture. 

>>>>>>

Following these pointers is a sure way to eliminate the fear and anxiety that often comes with spending money on purchases!