Around The Globe: International Design Influences

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The top five destinations inspiring Canadian interiors

From Cuba’s impact on Hemingway’s literary works, to Van Gogh’s oil paint masterpieces depicting Japanese traditions, world travel has been inspiring people for centuries. Travel inspires art, industry, and innovation, but there’s one unexpected way travel also influences the world: decorating the home.

According to new research from Booking.com, Canadians are taking decor ideas home with them from their vacations. Almost half of all travellers are inspired by the chance to stay somewhere new, and eager to take on interior design work in their own homes upon their return.

“Most Canadians start by taking a piece of art home with them from their travels, or a soft furnishing like pillow covers or curtains,” says Nuno Guerreiro, regional manager of Canada for Booking.com. “The majority are inspired by local designs and new cultures, but over half of all travellers are actually motivated by the interior design of their holiday accommodations—this way, they’re able to recreate the experience of being on vacation in their own homes.”

From Mediterranean colours to northern comforts, Canadians are looking beyond Pinterest for their next home decor project. Here’s a look at the top five destinations inspiring Canadian travellers to redecorate, and how you can bring the other side of the world into your own home:

1 – Santorini MEDITERRANEAN BLUES The sun, sand and seaside views in Santorini make it the perfect inspiration for a relaxing home oasis. Adding bold royal blues to a Canadian home will call to mind a breezy, beach vacation in the sun, while white walls and furniture will remind travellers of Santorini’s unique seaside architecture. Plus, accents like mosaic tiles and beach-wood patterns truly brighten a room, transforming living areas into a Greek haven.

For an authentic taste of Santorini style, travellers can get inspired by the Kima Villas Suites. The resort’s infinity pool, combined with stunning coastal views, will have you craving the style in your own home.

2 – South Africa COUNTRY FARMHOUSE A country farmhouse, like those common in South Africa, is the ideal inspiration for city-dwelling travellers looking to transform their homes into a quiet retreat. Using warm earth tones and textural accents, plus elements like wood panels, ceramic and patchwork fabric, Canadians can revamp even the busiest home into a tranquil, pastoral oasis.

The Orange Grove Farm in beautiful South Africa is an ideal destination for an in-depth look at this design style, with accents and a private terrace  overlooking a working wine and olive farm.

3 – Copenhagen SCANDINAVIAN SIMPLICITY Scandinavian design is already a popular trend in Canadian homes and is gaining more and more momentum with a recent surge in popularity (thanks, Ikea!). A natural inclination for hygge, the “newlydiscovered” Danish trend of living a cosy, charming and content way of life; natural light, simple design and minimalist decor are at the foundation of this utilitarian design—no clutter allowed. Travellers looking to embrace this lifestyle need only add a few simple decorations to complete the look.

A great place to discover the modern, simplistic designs in Scandinavia is the Woodah Hostel in Copenhagen, where there’s a place for everything and  everything is in its place.

4 – Kyoto JAPANESE ZEN Japanese author and organizing consultant, Marie Kondo was onto something—Japan’s impeccable organization, Buddhist faith and minimalist decor are the perfect way to bring Zen into your home. The peaceful decor trend focuses on form and function, using neutral tones to improve tranquility. Plants and manicured trees are a must, adding to a toned-down atmosphere.

Find your inner (home) Zen with inspiration from the hotel Nazuna Kyoto Aneyakoji Tei, where a welcoming energy flows through glass floors, gardens and strong wooden accents.

5 – Canada COSY SKI LODGE Canadians know how to make the most of a cold winter, so it’s no surprise that a cosy ski lodge is one of our top inspirations for home decor. Warm colours, real wood elements and a fireplace stacked with crackling logs will bring a feeling of warmth and comfort to any home.

Not just any ski lodge will do here—the beautiful Westin Resort and Spa in Whistler offers the ultimate inspiration for Canadian home relaxation.

SOURCES
kimavilla.com , orangegrovefarm.co.za , woodah-hostel.com , nijo-nazuna.jp