When it comes to designing and operating a holiday home, the most memorable and sustainable stays are born from something deeper; a local mindset backed by a global lens. What I mean by this is understanding how design, comfort, and community intersect, and how thoughtful choices made at a local level can have lasting impact far beyond your holiday home’s postcode.

Designing with context, not trends

I believe that every destination has its own rhythm, palette, and personality. The charm of the NSW South Coast feels completely different to the energy of Byron Bay or the quiet magic of Kangaroo Valley – and your interiors should reflect that. When I style a holiday home, I always start by asking: what does the surrounding landscape feel like, sound like, and smell like?

It’s not just about creating a “look”; it’s about creating a grounded sense of place. A local mindset means letting your surroundings influence your decisions; timber that echoes the tones of nearby bushland, artwork by a regional artist, or vintage furnishings sourced from a neighbouring town. When guests walk in, they should instantly feel connected to the area as opposed to feeling like they’ve stepped into a cookie-cutter short term rental that could be anywhere.

Too many holiday homes have fallen into the trap of sameness. The same uncomfortable sofa, the same mass-produced “coastal” art, and the same templated welcome booklets that feel much more like a policy than a heartfelt introduction. It’s a one-size-fits-all approach that might look okay in an online listing but completely misses the mark in person. Guests can immediately feel when a space lacks personality, and it instantly shifts their holiday energy from “someone truly thought about me being here” to “someone could care less if I was here.” The most memorable holiday homes are those that tell a story; where the design, materials, and details carry the heart and soul of their surroundings.

The ripple effect of local partnerships

Local consideration extends far beyond interiors. Partnering with nearby businesses transforms your property from a simple accommodation listing into a living part of the community you chose to invest in. It could be welcome hampers filled with produce from the town market, a breakfast voucher for the local bakery, or a discounted lesson at the local surf schools.

Not only does this create a richer, more authentic experience for guests; it also strengthens small businesses, encourages repeat tourism, and contributes to the “cycle of good” that every thriving regional town depends on. The success of one property can positively impact an entire local economy when done with intention.

Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword

A sustainable holiday home isn’t just defined by solar panels or recycled materials – it’s a mindset woven through every decision. It’s about choosing quality over quantity, investing in timeless design that won’t need replacing every season, and sourcing second-hand where possible. It’s also about creating spaces that are easy to maintain and genuinely comfortable to live in, so that both guests and owners can enjoy longevity in every sense.

I often tell clients that sustainability begins with restraint. Resist the urge to overfill a space, to start buying just for the sake of buying, or charming trends that will feel outdated in a year. Instead, focus on durable materials, natural fabrics, and local craftsmanship. The end result? A home that feels effortless, ages gracefully, and tells a story that respects both people and place.

Thinking globally, acting locally

Having lived and worked across multiple countries over the years, I’ve seen firsthand how design and tourism intersect around the world. The best hosts, regardless of location, are those who understand the value of community connection. Whether it’s an Irish farmhouse, a New Zealand lake cabin, or a coastal Australian cottage, the principles remain the same: guests crave authenticity, comfort, and a story that ties them to where they are.

Operating your holiday home with a global lens means you’re aware of how travel is changing. Guests are increasingly conscious of where their money goes and how their stays impact local environments. A home that supports local makers, operates responsibly, and feels deeply connected to its surroundings stands out for all the right reasons.

The bottom line

Sustainability and local consideration aren’t afterthoughts, they’re fundamental to a smart business strategy. They build loyalty, attract conscious travellers, and create experiences that guests can’t help but share.

When you design and operate your holiday home with both heart and foresight, you’re not just creating a beautiful space – you’re shaping the way people experience a place. And that’s where real impact, and real purpose, begins.