27 bhgrecollection.com | 26 | THE DISTINCTIVE LIFE® Volume 14 KITCHEN Your kitchen should include all the necessities for preparing breakfasts, lunches, dinners, and even desserts at home. Ideally, you wouldn’t need to leave the house for anything during your escape. So, plan on having the supplies you need to make everything, including a gourmet coffee or sweet treat. The key to not overstocking or overcrowding a vacation home kitchen is to take inventory of what you like to eat and drink and have only the quantities of items you need. Stock cupboards with a pot and pan set, mixing bowls, a baking sheet, a French press or small espresso machine, measuring cups and spoons, a mixer, and a waffle iron or griddle. Ensure you have enough casual dinner and glassware for your family and specialty cooking tools like spatulas, whisks, a grater, and storage containers. BATHROOM Turn your vacation home bathroom into one that resembles what you’d see in a high-end spa. Essentials for creating this restful space include a plush rug and sumptuous towels, pretty jars for cotton pads and swabs, fragrant soaps and toiletries, and vacation basics like sunscreen, bug spray, and an emergency kit. OUTDOOR AREAS Spending time outside can be one of the most rewarding parts of a vacation, so don’t neglect your porch, patio, or balcony when designing your restful retreat. Assemble an area outdoors where you can eat, drink, read, or enjoy the scenery. Keep a couple of umbrellas available and consider adding fun touches like a barbecue or outdoor kitchen and bar. GENERAL DECORATING AND DESIGN TIPS When designing your vacation home, it’s important to think about the quality of the pieces you’ll use to furnish and decorate the space. Keep longevity in mind as well as how each item looks. Opt for solid wood over laminate and metal instead of plastic if you don’t want to replace furniture often, especially in areas with a lot of moisture. Choose fabrics that are weather-friendly and easy to clean. Take the time to search for unique and meaningful works of art and accent items that add to the joy of the space. Pay special attention to your design style, incorporating colors and a theme that will stand the test of time. While there are many ways to decorate a vacation home, sticking with something that mimics the property’s locale is always wise, such as going with a coastal vibe for an oceanfront property, or a lodge look for a home tucked into the forest. LIFE & LEISURE
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