Giving Your Vacation Home a New Look: 9 Things To Do

Vacation homes serve as escapes from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, places where we can relax, unwind, and make memories with friends and family. But over time, even the most cherished getaway can start to feel a bit dated or less functional than it once did. So if you’re thinking about giving your vacation home a new look, we’ve put together 9 great ideas for you to start playing with.

Photo of a person laying in bed looking out the windows of his vacation home - Giving Your Vacation Home a New Look: 9 Things To Do
Whether you are renting out your vacation home or not, there will come a time to perform some needed updates. | Photo by Rachel Claire

Remodeling your vacation home is not just about aesthetics; it’s about enhancing the quality of your stays, making your space more comfortable, and potentially increasing the property’s value. In this guide, we’ll walk you through some straightforward and effective updates to breathe new life into your vacation home. 

1. Refresh the Exterior Paint

The exterior of your vacation home is what welcomes you into your personal retreat, setting the tone for your stay. Giving your vacation home a new look with fresh paint is the easy first step. After all, painted walls will eventually get marketed up or the color may simply go out of style. A fresh paint job can significantly impact its appearance, making it feel inviting and well-cared-for.

When selecting a new color, consider the surroundings and the architectural style of your home to ensure it harmonizes beautifully with its environment. This update not only boosts curb appeal but can also protect your home from the elements, making it a practical and aesthetic investment.

2. Plan a Bathroom Remodel

A remodel can transform your bathroom into a luxurious spa-like oasis. Start with simple updates like replacing outdated faucets, showerheads, and lighting fixtures. Consider a fresh coat of paint in calming hues for an instant refresh. For more substantial upgrades, new tiles, a modern vanity, and updated shower enclosures can completely change the room’s look and feel. 

To make the entire process easier, we suggest getting in touch with local bathroom remodeling companies. Look up the keyword bathroom remodeling experts near me on any search engine to learn more.

3. Upgrade the Kitchen

Upgrading your kitchen doesn’t always mean a complete overhaul. Sometimes, replacing old appliances with newer, energy-efficient models can make a significant difference in functionality and aesthetics. Consider repainting cabinets or replacing hardware for a quick facelift.

If your budget allows, new countertops or an island can offer additional prep space and become a focal point for social gatherings. Remember, even small upgrades can make your kitchen more inviting and enjoyable to use.

4. Create an Outdoor Living Space

Outdoor patio with a dining table and a bottle of wine
Every outdoor living space should have an area designated for dining. | Photo by Dalila Dalprat

Your vacation home’s outdoor areas offer endless possibilities for relaxation and entertainment. Creating a defined outdoor living space can significantly enhance your enjoyment of the property. This could be as simple as setting up a comfortable seating area with durable, stylish furniture or as elaborate as installing a fire pit, outdoor kitchen, or even a hot tub.

Here’s an opportunity to perform some of the work yourself if you’re looking to save some money. First, you need to create a well-considered landscaping design plan. Include lighting for both ambiance and extending the usability of the space into the evening. Landscaping can also play a crucial role in creating a serene outdoor setting, with plants and pathways leading to areas of interest within your property.

5. Update the Lighting

Lighting plays a key role in setting the mood and highlighting the best features of your vacation home. Replacing old, dim, or unattractive light fixtures can instantly brighten the space and give it a modern touch. Incorporate a mix of lighting types, including overhead, task, and accent lights, to provide flexibility and enhance the functionality of each room.

Dimmer switches are an excellent addition, allowing you to adjust the ambiance to match the occasion. Don’t overlook the power of natural light; ensuring windows are unobstructed can make rooms feel more spacious and welcoming.

6. Revamp the Flooring

Flooring significantly impacts the look and feel of your vacation home. It’s one of the first things you notice upon entering and can set the tone for the entire space. If your floors are worn, outdated, or simply unattractive, consider an update.

Modern, durable options like luxury vinyl plank offer the beauty of hardwood without the maintenance, perfect for high-traffic or damp areas. If you prefer carpet in bedrooms for a cozy feel, choose a high-quality, stain-resistant option. Updating your flooring can refresh every room and make your vacation home feel new again.

7. Reimagine the Living Room

As the central gathering space, the living room should be comfortable, inviting, and reflective of your personal style. Start with a functional layout that encourages conversation and relaxation. Update the sofa and chairs with comfortable, durable fabrics that can withstand vacation wear and tear. Add vibrant throw pillows and blankets for a pop of color and texture.

Consider a statement rug to tie the room together and wall art that reflects the vacation home’s locale or your tastes. Small updates can make a big impact, turning the living room into a place where guests feel at home.

8. Decorate with Local Art and Crafts

Incorporating local art and crafts into your vacation home’s decor can add a unique touch that connects your space to its surroundings. Local artwork not only supports the community but also brings authenticity and personalization to your home.

Look for pieces at local galleries, craft markets, or even online platforms that focus on regional artists. These items can serve as conversation starters and make your vacation home feel truly one-of-a-kind. Whether it’s pottery, paintings, or textile art, these touches add depth and character to your space.

9. Implement Smart Home Technology

Smart home technology can enhance the functionality, security, and convenience of your vacation home. Devices like smart locks and security cameras add a layer of security, providing peace of mind whether you’re on-site or miles away. Smart lighting and thermostats can improve energy efficiency and allow for ambient customization with the touch of a button.

Consider smart appliances for added convenience in the kitchen or laundry room. With these updates, managing your vacation home becomes easier and more enjoyable, giving you more time to relax and make memories.

Conclusion

Giving your vacation home a new look doesn’t require a complete overhaul—simple, thoughtful updates can significantly enhance your space’s comfort, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. By focusing on these key areas, from the exterior paint to smart home technology, you can create a more inviting and enjoyable retreat for yourself, your family, and your guests.

Each update not only adds to the immediate enjoyment of your vacation home but also contributes to its long-term value. Remember, the goal is to create a space that reflects your style and meets your needs, making every visit more memorable than the last. With a bit of planning and creativity, you can turn your vacation home into the perfect getaway, a place where relaxation and joy are always in season.

Tre Pryor, Realtor

Tre Pryor is the leading real estate expert in the city of Louisville. He is a multi-million dollar producer and consistently ranks in the top 1% of Louisville Realtors for homes sold. Tre Pryor has the highest possible rating—5.0 stars on Google—by his clients and is routinely interviewed by the local NBC news. Tre Pryor is a member of the RE/MAX Hall of Fame.