Designing a Home: Permanent Residence vs. Holiday Getaway – What’s the Difference?
A house isn’t just a house—it’s a lifestyle. But the way you design a home for year-round living is completely different from a holiday retreat. Whether you're dreaming of moving to Spain full-time or creating the perfect vacation escape, understanding these differences is key to designing a home that truly works for you.
At Clarante Concepts SL, we specialize in crafting homes tailored to our clients’ unique needs—whether they’re staying forever or just a few weeks a year. Let’s break down how permanent residences and holiday homes differ, and how to get the best design for your lifestyle.
Space & Layout: Functionality vs. Relaxation
Permanent Home:
Designed for daily life, meaning more storage, functional spaces, and durable materials.
A well-equipped kitchen that can handle everyday cooking, rather than just quick holiday meals.
Dedicated workspaces – With remote work becoming the norm, having an office or study area is essential.
Practical layouts that focus on comfort and convenience for long-term living.
Holiday Home:
Open, airy designs that emphasize social areas—think spacious living rooms, outdoor lounges, and poolside dining.
A focus on entertaining guests, with multiple seating areas and a seamless indoor-outdoor flow.
Compact or minimal storage, since visitors bring only essentials.
More bedrooms, fewer everyday-use rooms—you don’t need a home office in a vacation home!
Kitchen & Dining: Everyday Use vs. Entertaining
Permanent Home:
A larger, fully equipped kitchen with high-end appliances and plenty of prep space.
Functional storage for pantry essentials, cookware, and everyday groceries.
Comfortable dining space that works for both quick weekday meals and sit-down family dinners.
Holiday Home:
Simpler kitchen setup—perfect for easy meals but not necessarily for complex cooking.
Outdoor kitchens or BBQ areas are a must, maximizing alfresco dining.
A focus on style over storage—because nobody needs 15 pots and pans while on holiday!
Outdoor Spaces: Year-Round Living vs. Seasonal Enjoyment
Permanent Home:
Low-maintenance landscaping that looks good year-round.
Covered terraces and shaded areas to handle both hot summers and mild winters.
A mix of private and social outdoor spaces—somewhere to relax in peace as well as entertain guests.
Holiday Home:
Maximizing sun exposure—infinity pools, open terraces, and rooftop lounges.
Lush, tropical-style landscaping that adds to the vacation vibe.
Outdoor entertainment spaces—think large dining tables, fire pits, and poolside bars.
Bedrooms & Bathrooms: Daily Comfort vs. Guest-Focused Design
🛏️ Permanent Home:
Spacious, custom-designed bedrooms with large wardrobes and extra storage.
Luxury bathrooms that feel like a spa—because you’re using them every day!
A focus on comfort, not just aesthetics.
Holiday Home:
More bedrooms, but smaller—ideal for guests but not for year-round living.
En-suite bathrooms for convenience, but not necessarily full spa-like setups.
Stylish, hotel-like interiors that are easy to maintain.
Durability & Maintenance: Long-Term vs. Seasonal Upkeep
Permanent Home:
High-quality materials built to last—because replacing things every year isn’t an option.
Energy-efficient systems (solar panels, proper insulation) to keep costs down.
Smart home automation for security, climate control, and daily convenience.
Holiday Home:
Easy-to-clean materials—because who wants to deep-clean on vacation?
A focus on lock-up-and-leave security features.
Remote monitoring systems for temperature, alarms, and maintenance checks while you’re away.
Final Thoughts: Which Home is Right for You?
Whether you’re designing a forever home or a luxury getaway, the key is planning a space that fits your lifestyle.
At Clarante Concepts SL, we help you design and build homes that make sense—tailored to the way you live (or vacation!). Ready to start your project? Contact us today, and let’s bring your dream home to life!
