Hawaiian’s enjoy the unique experience of living somewhere many people only dream of visiting. So when paradise is your own backyard, why travel anywhere else? 

Residential architects and home designers are increasingly focusing on spaces that feel like a luxury spa or resort. From small details (think custom soaking baths) to big design features (in-home saunas and radiant floor heating) here’s our tips for making your next home your favorite place to visit. 

Luxury-Forward Design

All the add-ons and gadgets in the world can’t compensate for a poorly-designed home, so the first step in building or renovating a space is developing the right floor plan. Start by brainstorming what makes your favorite spa or resort  feel luxurious ,and work with your design team to incorporate those elements into your building plans. 

Some things to consider? Plenty of exclusive spaces that aren’t accessible to everyone in the home. Think spa-style ensuite bathrooms, limited-access indoor/outdoor spaces, and personal gyms, saunas, or meditation spaces that are kept private and just for you (and maybe an invited guest.)

But even a home designed for families or entertaining can still feel luxurious with the right design plan. A series of large scale windows brings in plenty of natural light, and mimics the relaxing atmosphere of your favorite day spa. Adding additional indoor/outdoor living spaces in communal areas can also mimic the feel of a beautiful resort, especially when paired with luxury-minded landscaping that includes water features, zen gardens, and outdoor dining and lounging. 

Beautifully Sustainable 

Once you’ve developed the perfect floorplan, it’s time to find the right materials and products to help maintain your home. Look for building materials that are humidity and weather resistant, like thermally modified wood, which is heat-treated to improve durability and is less prone to shrinking or cracking when exposed to moisture or weather changes. 

Other options include stone exteriors, which help regulate temperature within the home and are more impervious to the elements—while also adding to the luxury destination aesthetic of your home.

Weather-proof insulation is also important for homes in locations that experience a rainy season and frequent high humidity, which means options like mineral wool insulation or closed-cell spray foam are a good choice. Both of these types of insulation are water and mold resistant, while also adding structural stability to your home. 

Stay Smart 

Lastly, smart technology plays a crucial role in building a long-lasting and luxury-focused home. There are endless options for automating your home for your convenience, but don’t forget to consider features that can help maintain your home long-term. 

For example, smart ventilation systems adapt and adjust to the humidity levels in your home, and smart leak detection monitors identify excess moisture in order to prevent water damage.

Tech-enhanced shower and bath systems now include water-saving features that pause water-flow until it reaches the ideal temperature, and include overflow protection for a worry-free spa experience. 

From an ensuite spa-style bathroom to fully-integrated sound systems, there’s now a smart appliance or system capable of customizing your home to your exact preferences, making it easier than  ever to recreate a luxury spa or resort experience from home. 

Stress-Free Construction and Renovation 

Of course, a stressful construction experience is the furthest thing from a luxury resort vacation or a day at the spa. 

At Home Planning Hawaii, we specialize in helping you find the right professionals for your project, from architects and contractors specializing in luxury construction to experienced designers knowledgeable in the latest smart technology. Contact us today for help getting started, and make sure to check out our online estimator tool for a free cost analysis of your project.

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