Travel has the power to transform us, not just by where we travel, but by how we see our own homes. Every trip introduces new accessories, colours, and stories, all of which can bring new life into our homes. Whether it’s the vibrant fabric of a marketplace in Marrakech or the calming landscapes of Bali, those memories can inspire the way we feel in our own home. In this article, I’ll show you how to bring the essence of your travels into your everyday surroundings and create a space that is at once intimate and global.
Photo by Anna Sullivan
Incorporate Textures and Fabrics
One of the easiest and most effective ways to bring the spirit of your travels into your home is through textures and fabrics. These tactile elements can instantly evoke the feeling of a distant place. A handwoven rug from Morocco, with its intricate patterns, or colourful cushions made of Malaysian batik can add warmth and personality to any room. A soft linen throw from Italy, with its effortless charm, can bring a sense of relaxed luxury to your space. Think about the fabrics that caught your eye during your travels—whether it’s vibrant textiles from Southeast Asia or cozy wool blankets from the Scottish Highlands. These are not mere accessories; they carry the stories and beauty of the places you have been to.
Photo by Spacejoy
Display Art and Souvenirs
By displaying art and collectibles in your living room, you can have a house that truly reflects who you are and is filled with memories. Whether it’s a bright painting from a Spanish museum or a plain ceramic bowl made by a street vendor in Mexico, these objects come alive in your travels in a way that even words can’t.
To avoid overwhelming your house, mix travel-inspired furniture with your existing decor. An antique map of Paris on the wall next to a modern minimalist sofa is a stunning combination of old and new. Hang photos from your travels, display wooden accessories from Asia or colourful prints from South America. Every piece of art or keepsake you display is a window into a specific moment and place, giving your house character and history. Make your home space unique by blending modern and worldly elements, with minimalist line art paintings or travel-inspired designs such as Art by Maudsch collection.
Photo by Afker Moiz
Use Global-inspired Colour Palettes
Colour has a powerful way of evoking memories and emotions from our travels. When choosing a colour palette for your home, look to the places that have left a lasting impression. Global-inspired hues can help you capture the spirit of your adventures and bring that energy into your space.
- Earthy Tones: Inspired by the deserts of Morocco or the rich landscapes of South America, earthy colors like terracotta, ochre, and deep browns create warmth and a grounded, cozy vibe.
- Coastal Blues: Think of the calm Mediterranean waters or the bright turquoise of Caribbean beaches. Soft blues and aquas add a refreshing, serene touch to any room.
- Bold, Vibrant Colors: Bring in the energetic reds, oranges, and yellows seen in markets around the world, like in India or Mexico. These colors can energize a space, especially in accent pieces.
- Neutral Elegance: Soft grays, whites, and beiges, inspired by Scandinavian or Japanese design, create a serene and balanced backdrop, allowing other global elements to shine.
By carefully selecting colours from your travels, you can infuse your home with the spirit of the world, creating a space that feels both personal and vibrant.
Scented Memories
Our sense of smell is strongly connected with memory, so it is one of the most evocative ways of bringing the spirit of travel into your own home. One scent can take you instantly to an evening of serene time in the fields of lavender outside Provence or along the peaceful roads of Kyoto.
Smells of flowers, incense sticks, candles, or essential oils from where you have been can help you relive those special moments and envelop you with a peaceful atmosphere at home.
Bringing the World Into Your Space
- Lavender from Provence: The calming, floral scent of lavender can instantly fill your space with a sense of tranquility and nostalgia, reminiscent of the sun-soaked fields in southern France.
- Sandalwood from India: The warm, earthy aroma of sandalwood can transport you to a serene temple or a quiet moment in the heart of India.
By incorporating these scents into your home, you can relive your travels with every breath.
Photo by Joanna Kosinska
Bring Nature Indoors
There’s something undeniably grounding about nature, and bringing elements of the outdoors into your home can help create a peaceful, balanced environment.
As John Muir once said, “In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.” Whether it’s the sight of lush greenery or the soothing sound of water, nature can instantly calm and uplift your space.
- Houseplants: Adding plants like ferns, succulents, or palm trees not only purifies the air but also adds a touch of natural beauty to any room.
- Natural Materials: Wood, stone, and wicker furniture bring the outdoors in, creating a harmonious connection between your home and nature.
- Flowers and Branches: Fresh flowers or branches from your local surroundings can bring color and life to your space, making it feel fresh and vibrant.
By embracing nature, your home becomes a true sanctuary.
Photo by Anna Nekrashevich
Conclusion
Travel can change the way we think about what “home” really is. By incorporating elements of where we’ve been, we can create spaces that not only reflect our travels but also the feelings and memories that accompany them. The wonder of travel is that it endures—distorting our places into a mix of the familiar and the strange.
So the next time you’re reconfiguring your living room or adding new pieces to your place, think about how it could evoke the places and moments that have made you feel at home. Home is, after all, where your heart—and your memories—are.
