‘Jet Set’ lifestyle but don’t have a place that feels like home? Here’s why.
There’s nothing worse than seeing the interiors of wealthy global travellers within the covers of a magazine, that are basically just a calling card for the interior designer who created it. A home that has been designed to wow. A showpiece. A ‘project’. It’s been designed with the ton in mind, not the client.
The task of crafting a sanctuary for clients who traverse the globe for their business endeavours is a challenge that gets me out of bed in the morning. Picture this: a CEO with global business interests, jet-setting across continents, yet yearning for a haven to unwind with their loved ones come the weekend. Our job is not just to create a beautiful interior (they experience enough of those at the hotels they spend 80% of their time in). Our job is to create a welcoming, familiar atmosphere where they love spending quality time with their families and friends – switching off from their busy schedules and enjoying the fruits of their endeavours.
Let me take you on a design journey…here’s how it should be done.
The Elegance of Tranquility: Imagine a home where timeless elegance meets serenity. As our client steps into their home, they’re greeted by a symphony of classic furnishings, design details, and refined finishes. Each element speaks of sophistication and grace. Think more cosy gentlemans den, than generic polished hotel interior.
A Tapestry of Global Influences: Envision a space that mirrors the richness of our client’s travels. From the intricate patterns of a Persian rug to the delicate craftsmanship of Asian ceramics, every corner tells a story of exploration and cultural immersion. These global accents weave a narrative of wanderlust and worldly sophistication, grounding our clients in memories of their far-flung adventures and colourful experiences.
Embrace Comfort, Embrace Home: Picture plush sofas that beckon weary travellers to sink into their embrace, oversized armchairs that cradle tired bodies, and sumptuous bedding that promises nights of blissful rest. In this sanctuary, comfort reigns supreme, offering respite from the demands of hectic schedules and endless journeys.
Sunlit Serenity: Avoid the grips of jet lag with a home bathed in natural light, where the sun’s gentle rays dance across the room, illuminating every corner with warmth and vitality. Floor-to-ceiling windows invite the outdoors in, blurring the boundaries between interior and exterior, while sheer curtains billow softly in the breeze, creating an ethereal ambiance of tranquility.
Zones of Relaxation: Picture secluded alcoves nestled within the home, each a sanctuary unto itself. A cozy reading nook bathed in the glow of a flickering fireplace, a tranquil meditation corner adorned with plush cushions and fragrant incense, a verdant indoor garden alive with the soothing sounds of nature. These zones encourage our clients to pause, to breathe, to find solace in moments away from the constant ping of emails and buzz of boardrooms.
Seamless Integration of Technology: Envision a home where modern convenience meets timeless elegance. Smart home technology seamlessly woven into the fabric of the space, offering effortless control over lighting, temperature, and entertainment systems. From voice-activated commands to intuitive interfaces, every aspect of the home is designed to enhance comfort and convenience without compromising on style.
A Retreat from the World: For our clients privacy is paramount. Their homes should offer a haven from the outside world in every corner of every room, without feeling like a fortress. Soundproofing measures ensure peace and tranquility, while strategic landscaping provides a buffer against prying eyes. Discreet window treatments afford glimpses of the surrounding landscape without sacrificing intimacy, creating a cocoon of serenity within the bustling world outside.
Artistic Expressions: Family photographs capture cherished moments, vintage maps evoke memories of past journeys, bespoke artwork commissioned specifically for the space adds a touch of individuality and warmth. These artistic expressions imbue the home with a sense of personal connection and authenticity, transforming it into a true sanctuary for our clients to be fully themselves.
Biophilic Bliss: Flitting from planes to offices, from cars to hotel rooms and constantly being surrounded by technology and concrete can be draining. Creating a home that captures the beauty and aliveness of nature is paramount for both mental and physical wellbeing. Natural materials such as wood, stone, and living plants infuse the space with warmth and vitality, while earthy tones and organic textures evoke a sense of harmony and balance. Biophilic design principles promote health and well-being, fostering a deeper connection with the natural world and nurturing the body, mind, and spirit.
Moments of Connection: A home is a place where cherished memories are made and treasured for a lifetime. Inviting spaces for family gatherings, intimate dinners, and quiet moments of togetherness foster meaningful connections and deep bonds. Whether it’s a laughter-filled game night, a leisurely brunch on a sunlit terrace, or a cozy movie marathon by the fireside, these moments of connection remind our busy clients of the true meaning of home: a sanctuary where love resides and memories are made.
A home should not just be another ‘luxury box’ to spend time in. It should be personal, comfortable, familiar and indulgent.
So if you’re signing up with a designer, ask them first what THEIR goals are for the space. If they start their sentence with ‘I THINK it should be…’ – run.