What I Learned from Designing My Own Vacation Home
October 24, 2025
What I Learned From Designing My Own Vacation Home
A behind-the-scenes look at how building our own family retreat shaped my approach to residential design.
Designing a home for yourself is a humbling experience. As architects, we’re used to guiding others through decisions large and small—balancing beauty, function, and cost. But when the client is you, every choice feels personal. Our Harbor Country retreat —a multigenerational getaway tucked in the woods—was no exception.
The vision was simple: create a place that brought our family together, that could weather sand, dogs, and summer storms, and that felt calm without being precious. The reality of living in the house has taught me more about design than any project before it.
At Jaffe Architecture, we believe that great design isn’t about perfection—it’s about ease, intention, and the quiet joy of spaces that work beautifully in daily life. This house became a true reflection of that philosophy: rooted in simplicity, flexible in use, and layered with small moments that make living there feel effortless.
You Can Never Have Too Much Mudroom Storage
What begins as a few pairs of shoes quickly multiplies—add rain boots, dog leashes, pool towels, and winter gear, and suddenly every hook and cubby is full. If I could do one thing differently, it would be to make the mudroom even larger. Storage for the everyday makes coming and going effortless, especially when guests arrive en masse.
Outdoor Space Requires Indoor Storage
Four acres of woods and a pool bring incredible beauty and calm—but also stuff. Yard equipment, pool toys, leaf blowers, even the occasional chainsaw all need a home. Creating dedicated storage for these items—easily accessible but out of sight—has been key to maintaining the serenity of the site.
A Little Distance Goes a Long Way
The separate pool house turned out to be one of the best decisions we made. Just far enough from the main house to feel like its own destination, it gives everyone a small sense of adventure. That short walk between the two creates a mental break—whether you’re heading to swim, nap, or gather around the fire at night.
Flexibility Beats Formality
Instead of a small, dedicated screened porch, we designed a flexible great room that opens completely to the outdoors with 24-foot-wide retractable windows. East and west exposures allow light and cross-ventilation throughout the day, and the space easily transforms—from cozy living area to open-air pavilion.
It’s a reminder that the best rooms are the ones that adapt to how life unfolds. Our full-service approach prioritizes this kind of flexibility in every home we design.
Small Spaces Can Do Big Things
At the top of the stairs, in what might have been an afterthought, we built a daybed nook using two extra-long twin beds set end-to-end. It became everyone’s favorite spot—for watching TV, reading, napping, and even the occasional kids’ sleepover. Proof that you don’t always need more square footage—you just need thoughtful use of space.
Doubling Up Makes Hosting Easier
Two laundry rooms—one upstairs, one down—and two dishwashers in the kitchen might sound indulgent, but they’ve been invaluable. When the house is full of guests, these simple conveniences keep the focus on being together rather than managing the mess.
The Real Takeaway
Designing this home reminded me that great architecture doesn’t always come from grand gestures—it’s built from small, intentional decisions that quietly support the way we live. When those decisions are made with care, the result is a home that not only looks beautiful but feels effortless—where comfort, connection, and calm all come naturally.
At Jaffe Architecture, we bring that same philosophy to every project—listening closely, refining thoughtfully, and crafting homes that elevate everyday living. Because when design works, life flows.
Curious what thoughtful design could look like for your family?
Contact us to explore your own possibilities—whether you’re dreaming of a vacation retreat or simply ready to make daily life feel easier.