March 24, 2020
Fall in love with luxe resort style
If you love that holiday-at-home vibe, take your cue from tropical resorts like this blue oasis on Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.
I’ve always been a fan of checking out resorts and boutique hotels for design inspo then bringing that luxe, holiday vibe into the home. There’s something about the idea of barefoot style that is so seductive - to embrace that WOW factor yet still invite you in with casual, comfy, fuss-free living.
During a recent stay at The Ville Resort on the Great Barrier Reef, I was lucky enough to explore the lush gardens, exotic eateries and plantation-style interiors in between poolside cocktails overlooking the Coral Sea.
It's an alluring mélange of Palm Springs and Colonial style
- Emerald green palm trees and azure swimming pools pop against whitewashed walls.
- Whitewashed wicker outdoor furniture.
- Textured timber tones and rattan furniture soften the interiors.
- Shadows are cast by palm fronds, huge umbrellas and louvre-style outdoor roofs.
My favourite barefoot luxe looks
- Tropical floral fabrics + cane furniture
- Emerald green velvet cushions + snowy white bed linen
- French navy striped umbrellas + white rattan armchairs
- Herringbone natural pavers + acres of timber decking
- Black nautical style outdoor lamps + white panelled walls
Get the Look : Barefoot Luxe Style at Home
- Start with a chalky white or neutral backdrop.
- Add warmth and texture with rattan, sisal area rugs, pavers and bleached timbers.
- Be bold and big with umbrellas - preferably striped.
- Create lushness with plants - licuala palms, frangipanis, bougainvillea, coconut palms and Zanzibar Gems.
- Use giant textured planters filled with tropical plants as sculptural pieces.
- Adirondack chairs - the timeless choice for barefoot luxe.
- Keep furnishings comfy and inviting with low maintenance fabric choices.
- Don’t overdo décor - it’s more luxurious to have a few WOW factor items than multiple.
- Consider feature wallpaper in palm prints on one single wall - like a giant artwork.
- Clear clutter from table tops to allow the natural beauty of the surface to shine … and to create space for those lazy summer cocktails.
See you soon | À bientôt
Barbara