8 Renovation Ideas for Vacation Homes

A vacation home should feel like exactly that—a vacation.

Do you want to sneak away for long weekends or a short-term rental that welcomes guests year-round? The right renovations can take it from good to unforgettable.

Think breezy outdoor hangouts, bunk rooms made for cousins and chaos, and finishes that stand up to sand, sunscreen, and everything in between. With just a few thoughtful upgrades, your vacation home can be more comfortable, more functional, and a whole lot more fun.

On this page:

1. Add a Second Primary Suite for Multi-Family Stays
2. Create Dynamic Entertainment Spaces for Family Vacations
3. Build an Outdoor Oasis
4. Add a Bunk Room or Multipurpose Guest Room
5. Focus on Easy-Clean, Durable Materials
6. Add a Dedicated Work or Reading Nook
7. Invest in an Entry Experience
8. Install Smart Home Features

Vacation Home Design Ideas

Here are 12 creative upgrades to inspire your next vacation home remodel:

1. Add a Second Primary Suite for Multi-Family Stays

When two families vacation together, having only one primary suite can be tricky. Who gets the suite and who's sleeping in twin beds? 

Here are a few ways to make your second suite feel like a resort (for more than one family):

• Include an ensuite bathroom with double vanities and a walk-in shower

• Add a private entrance or patio for extra independence

• Use calming, coastal-inspired colors and layered lighting

• Opt for durable, easy-to-clean finishes for low-maintenance luxury

• Include space for a desk or reading nook—because vacations look different for everyone

2. Create Dynamic Entertainment Spaces for  Family Vacations

Vacation homes are for gathering, relaxing, and making memories. No matter if it's game night with the kids or cocktails with friends, thoughtful entertainment zones are what take a vacation home from good to unforgettable.

Here are some ways to level up your vacation home's entertainment potential:

• Add a built-in banquette or oversized dining area for family-style meals

• Create a media room with blackout shades, surround sound, and comfy seating

• Design a flex space with a pool table, foosball, or board game storage

• Include a wet bar or coffee station that guests can use throughout the day

• Use durable materials like performance fabrics and luxury vinyl flooring for worry-free hosting

• Install sliding or accordion glass doors to connect the living room with a deck or patio

3. Build an Outdoor Oasis

A well-designed outdoor space gives your vacation home that resort-like feel, perfect for everything from sunrise coffee to sunset cocktails. Think zones: a place to dine, a spot to lounge, and a feature that brings people together.

Here are some design ideas to bring your outdoor oasis to life:

• A covered patio with a ceiling fan for all-weather comfort

• Built-in bench seating around a fire pit for cozy evenings

• An outdoor kitchen with a grill, sink, and mini fridge

• Durable lounge furniture and outdoor rugs for added comfort

• Low-maintenance pavers or composite decking for longevity

4. Add a Bunk Room or Multipurpose Guest Room

When you're designing a vacation home, flexibility is everything. A bunk room or guest space that pulls double duty can be a game-changer—especially if you plan to host extended family, reunions, or rent to larger groups.

Here are a few design ideas to consider:

• Custom bunk beds with built-in storage underneath

• A fold-out sleeper sofa paired with a Murphy bed for versatility

• Under-bed drawers or wall shelving to keep clutter off the floor

• A fun, themed design that makes the room feel special (nautical, forest cabin, etc.)

5. Focus on Easy-Clean, Durable Materials

Vacation homes see a lot of traffic. Sandy feet from beach days, extra guests during the holidays, or a steady stream of short-term renters make choosing materials that are both durable and easy to clean one of the smartest renovation moves you can make.

Some of our go-to picks for hardworking, stylish materials include:

• Quartz countertops: Stain-resistant, nonporous, and effortlessly elegant

• Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring: Waterproof, durable, and available in wood-look styles

• Wipeable, satin-finish paint: Great for high-touch areas like hallways and bunk rooms

• Indoor/outdoor performance fabrics: Ideal for furniture that needs to look good and last

• Tile backsplashes and shower surrounds: Easy to clean and moisture-resistant

6. Add a Dedicated Work or Reading Nook

Even in a vacation home, it’s nice to have a quiet corner to check emails, take a call, or just unwind with a good book. A dedicated nook doesn’t require much square footage, but it makes a big impact on how the home functions for every type of guest.

Some simple ideas for integrating a work or reading nook include:

• Floating shelves and a wall-mounted sconce for a compact reading corner

• Built-in bench with storage under a window for lounging or reading

• Fold-away desk or secretary cabinet for a pop-up workspace that tucks away

• Pocket door alcove to create a quiet zone without needing a whole room

7. Invest in an Entry Experience

A well-designed entry blends form and function with durable materials, thoughtful lighting, and storage that actually makes life easier. It could be a foyer, a mudroom-style back door, or a breezy covered porch. No matter what, this space should feel like an invitation to relax.

A few favorite ideas for vacation-ready entryways:

• Hooks and open cubbies to keep things tidy (and easy to find)

• Built-in bench with storage underneath for beach towels, flip flops, or backpacks

• Durable flooring like sealed concrete, tile, or waterproof LVP

• A statement light fixture that sets the vibe from the moment guests walk in

• Outdoor shower or rinse station just outside the door to keep sand at bay

8. Install Smart Home Features

Today’s vacation homes aren’t just about palm trees and patios. They’re about convenience, comfort, and control. Smart home upgrades make life easier for both homeowners and guests, especially in rental properties or second homes you don’t live in full-time.

Here are a few smart upgrades we often recommend:

• Keyless entry locks for easy guest arrivals (no more lost keys!)

• Programmable thermostats that save energy when you’re away

• Smart lighting systems for both ambiance and security

• Leak detectors or water shut-off valves for peace of mind when the home is vacant

• Voice assistants to control everything with just a simple command

Ready to Make Your Vacation Home Work Harder (and Smarter)?

From multipurpose bunk rooms to double primary suites and smart tech to outdoor kitchens, these upgrades aren’t just nice to have. They’re strategic investments that pay off in enjoyment and value.

At Robinson Renovation & Custom Homes, we help Florida homeowners turn those ideas into beautifully built spaces that reflect their goals, style, and budget. If you’re ready to reimagine your vacation home, we’d love to hear what you’re thinking.

Contact us and let's talk about your dream vacation home!