Five design ideas for homes inspired by holiday destinations from around the world
At BOWERBIRD Interiors, we find a lot of our design inspiration in different holiday destinations. We believe that whether you’re a seasoned traveller or simply dream of transporting the essence of far-flung destinations into your living places, every corner of the globe holds a unique charm and cultural allure that can inspire the way we design and decorate our homes.
Here’s how you can use five enchanting holiday destinations – France, Italy, Sweden, Morocco, and New York – as inspiration to infuse their distinct aesthetics into your home decor. No passport required!
Provencal Charm Perfected
France’s famous fields of Provence are an embodiment of the nation’s rustic elegance and timeless allure. Infusing your home with the best of this region allows you to create a haven reminiscent of the picturesque Gallic countryside.
To capture this enchanting ambience, opt for a colour palette dominated by soft pastels, warm neutrals, and soothing blues – hues that mirror the region’s scenic landscapes. Incorporate furniture with a weathered yet elegant aesthetic, featuring natural materials like wood and wrought iron. Seek out pieces adorned with intricate carvings and graceful curves to evoke the refined charm of a Provencal cottage.
For a touch of opulence, introduce ornate mirrors, delicate chandeliers, and gilded accents that add a sense of vintage grandeur. Embrace French-inspired textiles such as floral prints, ticking stripes, and charming checks that can grace your pillows, drapes, and upholstery. To complete the Provencal look, adorn your walls with artwork that celebrates the beauty of lavender fields, quaint villages, and serene landscapes, capturing the heart and soul of this timeless region.
Inspired by Italy
The Amalfi Coast encapsulates an alluring sense of coastal luxury and Mediterranean magic. So, similarly, infusing your home with the essence of this breathtaking region can transport you to sun-soaked terraces overlooking azure waters even if you’re based in suburban Sydney.
To emulate the Amalfi Coast’s unique charm, embrace a colour palette that mirrors the sea, sky, and sun – think shades of aquamarine, sun-bleached whites, and sunny yellows. These hues evoke the coastal serenity and vibrant energy that characterise the region.
Furniture in this style should be a fusion of coastal casualness and refined elegance. Choose pieces crafted from light-coloured woods, rattan, and wrought iron, reflecting the coastal lifestyle. Incorporate comfortable seating that invites relaxation and leisure, much like the ambience of an Italian seaside villa. To channel the Amalfi Coast’s famous tile work, introduce mosaic patterns through decorative accents or even tiles on tabletops and backsplashes. Accessorise with ceramics, pottery, and artisanal dinnerware that evoke the Mediterranean culture.
The key is to create a space that radiates a sense of relaxed luxury, akin to enjoying an aperitivo on a sun-soaked terrace overlooking the breathtaking Amalfi coastline. By capturing the essence of the Italian Riviera, you can infuse your home with the magic of coastal Italian living for a little less than the cost of a summer spent in Sorrento!
Scandi Style
In addition to their generally crisp climate, the Scandinavian countries of Denmark, Norway and Sweden are also known for their even cooler street style. An edgy aesthetic that extends to their home interiors.
To replicate this minimalist look in your own abode, start by embracing the concept of hygge – one of the characteristics of Danish culture – which is best defined as a feeling of coziness, warmth, and togetherness to create a calming space that lets you focus on life’s more simple yet meaningful life.
Opt for a neutral colour palette dominated by whites, greys, and muted tones to evoke a sense of airiness and tranquillity. And incorporate natural materials like light-coloured wood and stone for furniture and flooring. Invest in furnishings that focus on both form and function, and complement their clean lines with cozy textiles such as wool blankets, faux fur throws, and soft cushions to create warmth.
Finally, don’t forget to design like a Dane (and their surrounding Scandi neighbours) by keeping your decor clutter-free and only showcasing essential items, to transform your living spaces into an effortlessly inviting oasis.
Mystical Morocco
From the coasts of Casablanca to the markets of Marrakech, Morocco’s vibrant and intricate design motifs can infuse your home with an air of mystery and exotic allure. Start with a rich colour palette of deep blues, jewel tones, and fiery reds. Incorporate elaborate patterns through textiles, tiles, and wall art. Moroccan lanterns and pendant lights can add an enchanting glow to your rooms. Introduce plush cushions, ottomand, and textured rugs for comfort and a sense of authenticity. Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment with intricate geometric designs, mosaic tiles, and archways to recreate the splendour of Moroccan architecture.
New York: Concrete Jungle Where (Design) Dreams are Made
The bustling energy and iconic architecture of New York City has inspired many modern and cosmopolitan home designs. Begin with a sleek and sophisticated colour palette of black, white, and metallic accents. Opt for minimalist, streamlined furniture with clean lines and sharp edges. Embrace a mix of materials, such as glass, metal, and leather, to create an urban-industrial vibe. Incorporate statement art pieces and iconic New York landmarks into your decor. Open spaces, exposed brick walls, and loft-inspired design elements can capture the essence of the city’s loft apartments and contemporary urban living.
Alternatively, if your vibe leans towards the natural side of the Big Apple state, a Hamptons-inspired home is always a good idea.
Home & Away
At BOWERBIRD Interiors, we believe that travelling to distant lands allows us to immerse ourselves in different cultures, traditions, and aesthetics. By bringing elements of these holiday destinations into our homes, we can create spaces that reflect our passions, inspirations, and personal narratives. Whether you’re drawn to the elegance of France, the rustic warmth of Italy, the tranquillity of Bali, the mystique of Morocco, or the urban chic of New York, infusing your home with the essence of these captivating places can transform it into a unique and harmonious haven that resonates with your wanderlust spirit.