Hello and welcome to my world!
I’m Élodie Langevin, an interior decorator based in the Bassin d’Arcachon, specializing in mid- to high-end projects. You’re here to learn more about the best ways to enhance second homes in the Bassin d'Arcachon.
After reading this article, don’t leave just yet! Take a moment to explore my creations, my personalized advice, and let yourself be inspired for your interior.
Happy reading!
The Bassin d'Arcachon is an exceptional place, prized for its natural beauty, its peaceful setting, and its unique way of life. This region on the Atlantic coast has become, over the years, a sought-after destination for second homes, where many homeowners seek to combine comfort, aesthetics, and functionality.
Whether you already own a property or are considering transforming a house into your weekend and vacation retreat, the layout and decoration of these spaces are essential to maximize their potential.
In this article, I’ll reveal the current trends in interior and exterior decoration for second homes, along with my tips for enhancing these spaces, drawing on my expertise as an interior decorator specializing in the Bassin d'Arcachon.
The Specificity of Second Homes in the Bassin d'Arcachon
The Bassin d'Arcachon has long been a favored destination for nature lovers and maritime landscapes. With its beaches, pine forests, and charming villages, the Bassin offers an idyllic living environment for second-home owners. These houses are not just vacation spots but also refuges where one seeks to disconnect from daily life and recharge in serenity.
However, second homes present particular challenges in terms of layout. It often involves finding the right balance between a decorating style that reflects the surrounding nature and spaces that remain practical for intermittent use. The goal is to create a welcoming cocoon where the design is thought to maximize comfort while remaining aesthetic and easy to maintain.
Key Statistics:
About 1 in 10 second homes in France is located on the coast, and the Bassin d'Arcachon is one of the most sought-after destinations on the Atlantic coast.
According to a recent study, second-home owners spend an average of 15 to 20% of their total budget on the interior and exterior layout of their home.
Current Decoration Trends for Second Homes
The current trends in decoration for second homes are moving towards a more refined, natural aesthetic inspired by the local environment, while incorporating contemporary touches to keep everything modern and functional.
Reimagined Coastal Chic
While traditional seaside style has long dominated vacation home interiors, today’s "Coastal Chic" is taking a more sophisticated and subtle direction. We’re moving away from obvious clichés like seashells and nautical symbols in favor of more organic and timeless design elements. Light wood, natural materials like linen or rattan, and soft tones such as off-white, sandy beige, or pearl gray bring a warm and soothing atmosphere without becoming outdated.
Concrete Example:
Imagine a living room open to the outside, where a large beige linen sofa is accented with raw linen cushions and soft wool throws. The curtains are light, made of ecru sheer fabric to let in the light while preserving privacy. The coffee tables are in raw wood or woven rattan, evoking sand and the surrounding nature, while a few carefully selected art objects subtly recall the marine environment without overloading the room.
Nautical Inspiration in Subtle Touches
While some elements inspired by the marine environment can still have their place, they must be integrated sparingly to avoid the somewhat kitschy "postcard" effect. Opt for subtle details: a braided rope bedside lamp, textured textiles reminiscent of fishing nets, or a discreet frame illustrating a stylized marine landscape.
What to Avoid:
Wooden anchors hanging on the wall or model sailboats can quickly appear dated and kitschy. Instead, prefer more abstract pieces that evoke the marine spirit without falling into pastiche. For example, a contemporary painting inspired by waves or a cobalt blue ceramic vase placed on a minimalist shelf.
The Importance of Versatility and Comfort
In a second home, the versatility of spaces is essential. These houses are often inhabited intermittently and must be able to adapt to various situations: a romantic getaway for two, a large family vacation, or a weekend with friends.
Choosing Multifunctional Furniture
To optimize space, choose versatile furniture. Elegant sofa beds, nesting coffee tables, or storage benches with cushions are excellent choices. The goal is to maximize the functionality of each room while maintaining a neat and contemporary aesthetic.
Easy-to-Care-for Materials and a Sense of Luxury
When decorating a second home, it’s important to choose durable and easy-to-clean materials. Removable linen for sofas, natural fiber rugs, and tables with ceramic or marble tops are ideal options. They bring a sense of luxury while being practical for short stays where you don’t want to spend too much time maintaining surfaces.
Suggested Color Palette:
Opt for natural shades that evoke the Bassin’s environment: blue-gray reminiscent of the ocean, soft sand for the walls, and moss green accents that echo the surrounding nature. These colors create a sense of calm and serenity while remaining elegant and timeless.
Designing Comfortable Outdoor Spaces
Outdoor spaces are just as important as the interior in a second home. The mild and sunny climate of the Bassin d'Arcachon allows you to enjoy terraces and gardens for much of the year, so it’s essential to design these spaces to be both practical and welcoming.
Terraces and Pergolas: An Extension of the Interior
A well-designed terrace can become a true extension of the living room. Install comfortable furniture like teak armchairs with plush cushions, and consider elegant shading solutions such as wooden or lightweight metal pergolas, dressed in white fabrics for a chic and airy ambiance.
Reading Corners and Dining Areas
Creating dedicated areas for relaxation and conviviality can transform a simple garden into a true living space. A reading corner with a lounge chair, a linen throw, and a small coffee table for placing a book can become a peaceful retreat. A dining area with a solid wood table surrounded by comfortable chairs is ideal for family meals or gatherings with friends while enjoying the sea breeze.
Increasing Property Value Through Design
Beyond personal enjoyment, good decoration of your second home can significantly increase its value. If you intend to rent your house for seasons or long-term, a carefully thought-out design can attract more tenants and justify higher rates. Details like a modern open kitchen, a well-designed outdoor space, or a luxury bathroom with noble materials can make all the difference.
Case Studies: Profitable Transformations
Many homeowners have seen the value of their property increase significantly after redesigning their interiors.
For example, the renovation of an Arcachon apartment with contemporary materials and high-end design elements doubled its seasonal rental value.
Hire an Interior Decorator to Enhance Your Second Home
Hiring a professional can help you save time, avoid costly mistakes, and most importantly, achieve a result that perfectly meets your expectations.
My Expertise at Your Service
As an interior decorator specializing in mid- to high-end projects in the Bassin d'Arcachon, I can assist you in creating a space that reflects your personality, in harmony with the unique environment of the Bassin. Whether you want a complete renovation or just wish to add a few subtle touches to your interior, I would be delighted to use my experience to help you realize your vision.
Enhancing a second home in the Bassin d'Arcachon requires a careful blend of local inspiration, natural materials, and contemporary touches. It’s essential to create a space where comfort and aesthetics meet.
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