Travel Home summary

Designing Homes Inspired by Travel

In Travel Home by Caitlin Flemming, the author and design writer Julie Goebel take the readers on a captivating journey through the homes of twenty designers who have been deeply influenced by their international travels. The book is a study of how travel informs our taste and how the experiences from various cultures and places find their way into our homes.

We start our journey in Marrakesh, where the authors explore how the city's vibrant colors, patterns, and textures have influenced the interior designs of the homes they visit. We then move to Paris, where the focus shifts to the city's timeless elegance and the art of mixing old and new, followed by a visit to Cuba, where the focus is on the use of vibrant colors and the preservation of the city's architectural heritage.

Lessons from Tokyo and Portugal

Next, we travel to Tokyo, where the authors emphasize the Japanese concept of wabi-sabi, the beauty of imperfection and impermanence. This is followed by a visit to Portugal, where we learn about the country's rich tradition of craftsmanship and the use of azulejos, the famous Portuguese tiles, in interior design.

Throughout these journeys, the authors provide insights into the design philosophies of the homeowners and the lessons they have learned from each place. They also include practical tips on how to incorporate these global design influences into our own homes, whether it's through textiles, furniture, or color palettes.

Curating a Global Home

In the second part of Travel Home, the authors delve into the process of curating a global home. They emphasize the importance of collecting pieces that have personal meaning, whether it's a souvenir from a memorable trip or a piece of art that resonates with a particular culture.

They also discuss the idea of slow design, the art of collecting and curating pieces over time, and the value of creating a home that tells a story. Through interviews with the homeowners and stunning photography, the authors showcase how these design philosophies have been put into practice in real homes.

Bringing the World into Our Homes

In the final part of the book, the authors reflect on the lessons learned from their travels and the homes they have visited. They emphasize that travel isn't just about exploring new places, but also about bringing the world back home with us.

They encourage readers to approach their homes as a reflection of their personal journeys and to be open to the influence of different cultures and design styles. Ultimately, Travel Home is a celebration of the transformative power of travel and a guide to incorporating the beauty of the world into our living spaces.