Chasing that Holiday Feeling at Home

As I scroll through my travel photo album, I’m instantly transported back to those moments – the rustic charm of a mountain cabin in Whistler, the sun-drenched terrace of a villa in Tuscany, the warm embrace of a cozy ski lodge in Aspen. Those travel experiences have a way of seeping into your soul, don’t they? The inspiration they provide is invaluable when it comes to creating the kind of home that truly feels like a sanctuary.

That’s exactly the approach my partner Al and I took when designing our own master bedroom and ensuite. We wanted to capture that sense of luxury and tranquility we feel when staying in those beautifully designed spaces around the world. As we shared in our journal, the inspiration came from “chasing the feeling we get when we stay in really beautiful places.” We pored over images, made moodboards, and carefully curated every design element to recreate that unique ambiance.

The result? A master retreat that feels like a high-end boutique hotel, complete with a warm, earthy color palette, natural timber accents, and luxurious finishes. And you know what? It’s not just visually stunning – thanks to the thoughtful insulation and smart home technology we incorporated, it’s also incredibly comfortable and functional.

Bringing the Outdoors In with Timber Accents

One of the key design elements that helped us achieve that hotel-inspired feel was the use of natural timber throughout the space. We chose Tasmanian Oak TouchWood Timber panelling for the headboard and wardrobe doors, which instantly added a sense of warmth and character. The solid Tasmanian oak timber vanity in the ensuite perfectly complemented the rusty pink wall color, creating a cohesive and calming atmosphere.

But it wasn’t just about aesthetics – the natural timber also played a functional role. As we learned during the insulation process, the right materials can make a significant difference in the overall comfort and energy efficiency of a space. The timber panelling, coupled with our high-performance insulation, helped regulate temperature and minimize noise, transforming our master suite into a true oasis.

Curating a Cohesive Aesthetic

Of course, it wasn’t just about the timber – we carefully curated every element to create a cohesive and visually stunning space. The warm, earthy color palette anchored the design, with the rusty pink wall color and musk-colored concrete basin seamlessly complementing the natural timber tones.

We also incorporated thoughtful lighting and window treatments to set the perfect mood. The motorized blackout blinds and sheer curtains work in harmony, allowing us to control the level of natural light and create a cozy, cocoon-like atmosphere when needed. And the brushed brass hardware and tapware add a touch of luxe, while also blending beautifully with the overall aesthetic.

Multifunctional and Sustainable Design

As much as we were inspired by those high-end hotel experiences, we also wanted our master suite to be a practical, functional, and sustainable space. That’s why we prioritized features like custom storage solutions, energy-efficient insulation, and smart home technology.

The wardrobe doors, for instance, seamlessly conceal ample storage space, keeping the room feeling clean and uncluttered. And the Somfy smart home system allows us to automate the lighting and blinds, making our daily routines more streamlined and energy-efficient.

But perhaps the most important aspect of our design journey was the emphasis on sustainability. As a timber building and woodworking company, we’re passionate about using natural, renewable materials that have a lower environmental impact. From the Tasmanian oak to the low-VOC paint, every choice we made was with the planet in mind.

Embracing the Imperfections

One of the things I love most about our master suite is the way it celebrates the beauty of natural materials. The Tasmanian oak panelling, for instance, has a unique grain and character that no man-made material could ever replicate. And the brushed brass hardware will develop a stunning patina over time, adding even more character to the space.

In a world that often values perfection, I find immense joy in embracing these imperfections. They’re a reminder that a truly beautiful space isn’t about flawlessness, but about celebrating the unique qualities of the materials and the stories they tell.

Bringing the Spirit of Travel Home

At the end of the day, our master suite is more than just a beautifully designed room – it’s a tangible representation of the experiences and emotions we’ve discovered through our travels. Every time I step into this space, I’m transported back to those moments of wonder and inspiration, reminding me that the true magic of design lies in its ability to evoke a feeling.

So, if you’re looking to infuse your home with that same sense of tranquility and luxury, I encourage you to look beyond the surface-level aesthetics and focus on capturing the spirit of those places that speak to your soul. Whether it’s the rustic charm of a mountain cabin or the sun-drenched elegance of a Mediterranean villa, let your wanderlust be your guide, and create a space that truly feels like a sanctuary.