Designing for retreat: A second home with purpose

A designer’s seasonal experiment sparked deeper conversations about what makes a great second home

In the years since the pandemic, many of us have re-evaluated not only how we live, but where we live. As remote work became more common, the idea of a second home became less of a dream and more of a practical consideration for many.

At Shelter, we’ve seen growing interest in second homes designed not just for escape, but for flexibility, comfort, and everyday functionality. Whether it’s a warm-weather retreat or a cabin closer to home, these spaces can offer much-needed balance—and deserve the same design intention as a primary residence.

One of our designers, Jackie Millea, offers an interesting case study in approaching the second home conversation.

The Palm Springs experiment

During the early days of the pandemic, Jackie and her husband realized that their cozy Minnesota home, while perfect in many ways, wasn’t built for two full-time remote workers. So, they decided to try living somewhere else for the winter, and Palm Springs checked all the boxes: warm weather, outdoor living, space to host their adult children, and of course, a pool.

They rented a four-bedroom home for two months in Palm Springs as a test run. It was their first chance to “practice” the idea of living somewhere else seasonally – and it was an overwhelming success. Over the next two years, they returned to the desert several times, eventually spending months at a time there. What started as a temporary solution during the height of the pandemic turned into something more: a new understanding of what they valued in a second home.

That experience led to deeper conversation and questions about homes-away-from-home, ones we think are worth asking for anyone thinking about a second property.

Questions to consider before you buy (or build) a second home

A second home isn’t just a duplicate of your primary residence. It should function differently – more relaxed, more flexible, and maybe even more fun. Here are a some design considerations we believe a second home should address:

1. Does it feel like a true escape?

Whether it’s a desert landscape or lake view, your second home should offer a distinct experience from your primary residence. Location matters. Look for places that feed your energy, support your lifestyle, and offer contrast to your day-to-day life.

2. Can it host the people you want to spend the most time with comfortably?

Many people envision a second home as a place for family and friends to gather. That means enough bedrooms (ideally with their own bathrooms), shared spaces that encourage connection, and thoughtful layouts that allow guests to come and go without disrupting the whole house.

3. Is it designed for many ages and abilities?

Universal design isn’t just about accessibility, it’s about ease, comfort, and intuitive use. Think single-level living, wide doorways, step-free showers, and rooms that make sense to everyone. These features don’t just future-proof the second home, they make it better for everyone today.

4. Does it offer spaces of retreat and respite?

Hosting is wonderful, but we all need space to recharge. Consider guest suites that include small seating areas or private patios, as well as quiet zones where early risers and night owls can coexist without friction.

5. Does it accommodate real life?

A second home should work hard in the background with ample storage, smart zones for gear (bikes, pool toys, extra linens), and spaces that support both activity and rest. Little details like a coffee station outside of the main kitchen or towel hooks near the hot tub go a long way.

6. Can it flex between work and rest?

Even if it’s a vacation home, chances are someone will need to hop on a Zoom call now and then. Creating zones for quiet work makes a big difference in how a second home supports longer stays or seasonal living.

Thinking beyond beautiful

At the end of the day, what matters most is that your second home feels easy to use and welcoming to everyone who visits. One of the best pieces of advice Jackie gathered from friends during her Palm Springs stays? Don’t make it too precious.

If the furnishings are too delicate, the layout too confusing, or the vibe too curated, guests won’t relax, and neither will you. Design with hospitality in mind. Let the space reflect your style, but also let it breathe.

A second home isn’t just about getting away, it’s about creating to a place that expands what your life can look like.

Thinking about your own second home or vacation property? Let’s talk.