For those that love the open road, it can be important to retain that feeling of freedom in your everyday surroundings. Whether you’re keen to undertake some bold renovations or simply want to brighten up your existing interiors, there are a number of ways to create the relaxing, spacious and light feeling of holidays abroad. Read on for some ideas for fashioning a cosy and charismatic traveller’s retreat perfect for raconteurs everywhere.

French doors

For those keen on introducing a spacious feel to their existing layout, it is worth considering a French doors exterior. As many firms offer to custom make French doors using a broad range of materials, you can hand pick the style and colour to complement your home. Add a flash of Continental charm to your house with a set of elegant glass doors that look out onto a lush and colourful garden and flood your home with light.

Murals

If you’re a big fan of the sunny Riviera then a hand painted mural might be just the thing for you. As many people seek to de-clutter their homes from everything from excess furniture to garish wallpaper, murals are seeing a resurgence in popularity. Hire a professional modern mural artist to give your home the kind of texture and warmth associated with Italian frescos.

Shabby chic

Whether you’re on a budget or simply a big fan of cottage holidays, another great interior design style is shabby chic and the kitchen is a particularly great canvas on which to experiment. To create your ideal stylish sanctuary, pair distressed furniture in tones of cream with a natural wood or stone flooring, and add charmingly mismatched table linen and handmade china to add character and individuality to the scheme. Keep your walls white to retain that spacious and bright feel.

Asian fusion

f you long for your home to ooze the peace, tranquillity and minimalism of a Japanese tea house, introducing a few signature furnishings can go a long way to creating the right vibe. For example, placing a low, square table in the centre of the room with large cushions arranged in place of chairs, can work wonders. Remember to opt for pale colours in the room and emphasise the contrast between dark and light with a table made of dark wood. Choose flooring that mimics the Japanese aesthetic by choosing light-coloured hardwood floors and covering them with rugs made from bamboo or rattan.