Holiday home style

Elaine Skinner at Camellia Interiors walks us through maximising the letting appeal of your holiday home.

Whether you’ve had a poor letting season or want to get more from your investment, now’s the time to plan ahead. Don’t over estimate the revenue you’ll get, and don’t under estimate the workload needed to generate bookings! Here are some top tips from Elaine, founder of interior design practice, Camellia Interiors.

“It’s no longer acceptable to offload old furniture and mismatched plates into your holiday let.” – Elaine Skinner

Exceed expectations with your décorand furnishings

“Remember, it’s not a hotel, it’s a home. Holidaymakers want to stay in a house that’s equal to, or better than their own. They want to revel in outstanding country and coastal locations and in interiors that complement these surroundings. Your property, irrespective of the theme, should have a consistent style and image, with stand-out features, stylish interior design and flawless décor.”

Opt for neutral furnishings with colourful accessories to maximise your appeal.

“Don’t just stick to white walls – it’s as bad as ‘80s magnolia! Be brave, make it feel like a home, not a run-of-the-mill show flat.”

If in doubt, Elaine recommends using grey and getting a designer that’s experienced in layering to help achieve the right tone. Grey is so versatile that it can work with any style, anywhere. “I fell in love with it as soon as I tried it! My darkest favourite is Farrow & Ball’s Downpipe – it’s a bold, smoky hue.”

Buy quality furniture that’ll be hardwearing 

Some items will need replacing regularly, so don’t buy top-end items that are costly to replace. “Mid-range is best, but don’t economise on the basics: good quality sheets, comfy beds, fluffy towels, power showers, a sturdy dishwasher and washing machine and a kitchen with everything a chef would need are all essential.”

Don’t lock away all your personal items 

“Guests absolutely love personal touches that reflect your individuality and personality. Also, if your guests are paying high-end prices, then don’t mistrust them, either; treat them with respect and trust them with your personal, if not necessarily expensive items, and they’ll return the favour.”

Don’t shy away from the unusual or quirky

It’s all about attention to detail. Getting a designer to add touches of flair to your décor can make all the difference. Be an alternative to the run-of-the-mill holiday homes that saturate Cornwall.

“Most importantly,” Elaine finishes, “enlist the help of a professional, pay the fees then relax and enjoy the increase in revenue
and further bookings.”