How to create a guest-ready holiday park

Picture this: guests step into your holiday cabin, welcomed by a space that's both inviting and stylish. Achieving that 'wow' moment is easier than you think with some smart planning.

Recently, our Director of Insights & Trends, Lucy Sutherland, shared expert tips on creating functional, stylish spaces as a panelist at the BIG4 Holiday Parks conference. In this guide, we walk through Lucy's advice—from setting a clear vision to budget-savvy choices—to help you create a memorable, guest-ready holiday park.
 

Temple & Webster's Director of Insights & Trends, Lucy Sutherland (right), and Key Account Manager, Bayley Baldwin, at the BIG4 Holiday Parks Conference.

   

1. Start with a clear vision

"Instead of approaching your project in a piecemeal fashion, it’s essential to know what you want your holiday park to look and feel like," Lucy shares. "Do your research—visit parks you admire, explore online for inspiration, and consider guest feedback."

She notes that it’s all about understanding what’s best for your unique space. "You know your park and its unique environment better than anyone. Once you’ve established that vision, you can begin planning with confidence, knowing the direction you want to take."
 

2. Plan Your Budget

According to Lucy, careful budget planning is key, regardless of your budget size. "Whether you’re working with $5,000 or $20,000, decide where to allocate your funds to make the biggest impact. If your budget is on the smaller side, prioritise the essential items like beds, sofas, and dining chairs—these are the pieces that guests interact with the most and are key to providing a great experience."

"You can save on smaller items like artwork and decor, which can always be updated over time," she adds. "Guests are more likely to remember the comfort of a high-quality bed or sofa rather than an expensive painting on the wall."
   

   

3. Allow Time for Sourcing

Giving yourself enough time to source is another essential step. “If you're working against tight deadlines, you might end up compromising on quality or suitability,” Lucy explains. “On the other hand, realistic timelines allow you to source the right products that will last. Avoid last-minute decisions whenever possible, as they could impact the overall quality of your park.”
 

4. Choose the Right Products

Lucy highlights the importance of durability: “Think long-term when selecting products. In the holiday park industry, durability is everything. Do your research to ensure the pieces you choose will withstand high guest turnover. The last thing you want is to replace items every six months because they weren’t fit for purpose. Investing in quality now saves you headaches and costs down the line.”
   

   

5. Utilise Your Suppliers' Expertise

“Your suppliers are there to help, so don’t hesitate to lean on them for support,” Lucy points out. "At Temple & Webster Trade+Commercial, we have a team of designers who can assist you in creating a beautiful space, helping to reduce the stress of juggling multiple tasks. Our experts can assist with mood boards, schedules, floor plans, and more—freeing you up to manage other important aspects of your business.”
 

6. Promote Your Park with Professional Content

When it’s time to showcase your newly refurbished park, Lucy emphasises the importance of great photography. “High-quality photos are essential for capturing your new space,” she says. “Think about the message you want to convey. Browsing Pinterest or international sites can help you get a sense of what resonates. Whether you hire a professional photographer or do it yourself, make sure the shots truly reflect the quality of your park.”
       
 
 

Lucy’s Tips for Creating a Cohesive Style

Consider the Environment: Think about the climate when choosing your colour palette. Cooler areas can benefit from warm shades like clay, terracotta, and mustard, paired with cosy textures. In warmer climates, opt for cooler hues like blues and greens to create a refreshing feel. Incorporate these colours into your accessories—cushions, artwork, and accent chairs.
Use Artwork as a Guide: Select artwork that reflects the surrounding environment. This can serve as inspiration for your colour choices, helping to tie the room together seamlessly.
Create a Mood Board: Lay out fabric swatches, decor pieces, and colour samples. Include neutral wall colours and check that everything works visually. This approach will help ensure your cabin’s design feels cohesive and balanced.
 

 

Upgrade Your Space for Unforgettable Stays with Temple & Webster Trade+Commercial

Ready to transform your holiday park with stylish, durable furnishings? Join Temple & Webster Trade+Commercial today to enjoy exclusive benefits, including personalised support, tailored offerings, and trade discounts.