We all love vacations, don’t we? Whether it’s sipping chai by the beach in Goa, exploring the serene backwaters of Kerala, or basking in the heritage beauty of Rajasthan – that feeling of calm and joy is unbeatable.
But what if you could bring that same vacation vibe right into your living room?
At Tri City Furniture in Auburn, home styling expert Kathy Kilborn shared timeless tips on how to bring the essence of your favorite holiday back home. Inspired by that, here’s how you can adapt the idea for Indian homes and lifestyles.
1. Pick a Place That You Love
Begin by identifying your “happy place.” For some, it’s a breezy beach in Pondicherry, for others, the tea gardens of Munnar or the cozy cottages of Himachal. Choose a destination that brings you joy — this becomes your theme.
Pro Tip: Ask yourself — “Where do I feel most relaxed?”
2. Use Vacation-Inspired Colors
Once you have a destination in mind, reflect its colors into your décor.
- Goan beach house vibe? Think turquoise, sand beige, and white.
- Rajasthani palace feels? Add rich maroons, royal blues, and gold accents.
- Himalayan escape? Bring in earthy browns, off-whites, and pine greens.
You don’t need to repaint the whole house — cushion covers, rugs, wall art, and curtains can do the trick.
3. Keep Furniture Neutral, Play with Accents
Indian homes often have heavy traditional furniture, but you can balance this by:
- Keeping your sofa or large pieces neutral — think ivory, tan, or subtle greys.
- Bringing in vacation vibes using accent chairs, printed throws, tropical prints, or local handicrafts.
Remember, hotel rooms and vacation homes often stand out because of colorful and quirky elements — try that here!
4. Accessorize with Memories
Decorate with elements that remind you of your trips:
- A brass bowl from Kerala.
- Shells collected from a beach.
- Framed photos of your favorite travel moment.
- Local art or souvenirs.
These aren’t just decorations — they’re emotional touchpoints that ground your space in joy.
5. Add Plants for That Fresh, Relaxing Feel
Indoor plants like palms, money plants, ferns, or even a small Areca palm can instantly lift your space. If you’re inspired by a tropical destination, go for lush greens. For a cooler place like Ladakh, try dry florals or succulents.
6. Seasonal Transitions? Easy!
Worried about your vacation-themed space clashing with Diwali or Christmas? Don’t be!
Kathy suggests — keep your core furniture and walls neutral. Then, just swap out cushions, throws, and art depending on the season or festival. Your home becomes versatile and personal.
Final Word: Decorate to What You Love
Many of us decorate based on trends or what’s “in.” But your home should reflect you. When your space reminds you of the joy, peace, and freedom you felt while on vacation — it becomes more than just a house. It becomes a sanctuary.
So, where are you bringing home today — the backwaters of Kerala or the vibrant streets of Jaipur?
