August is a time for those last minute get-a-ways before the harsh realization that summer is coming to a close really sinks in.  No matter where or what you are doing, a vacation should be filled with relaxation and enjoyment. Be it with family, friends, or just you and a loved one, it should be a memorable experience.  I’ve recently returned from an incredibly relaxing and enjoyable mini-vacation in Arizona with my family. We rented out a custom designed villa at The Boulders resort in Scottsdale.  The villa itself was beautifully designed with a modern southwest style that appealed to all. Natural earth tones found throughout the home brought the Arizona landscape in.  Richly colored wooden beams decorated the ceilings and brought fun design elements to the space.  The granite counter tops in the kitchen, bathrooms, and bar area were full of character and elaborate natural design, and warm colored tile work brought it all together. Accessories throughout the home were inspired by the natural setting as well.  These included items such as branches, gourds, baskets woven in elaborate designs, and various plants native to the desert.  The home was a perfect display of how natural elements should be utilized within all rooms of the home.

A vacation home would not be complete without an outdoor space to relax and enjoy nature from.  This particular villa had a spacious outdoor patio that allowed us to enjoy the breathtaking desert backdrop.  Complete with chaise lounge chairs and a number of armchairs surrounding a beautiful, round stone top dining table, the patio gave us an inspiring focal point for conversation and meals.

Many of our fond memories were not made in the villa however, but in the time spent keeping cool in the refreshing waters of the pool.  Decked out in our sunhats, bright colored swimsuits, sunglasses and pina coladas in hand, we all headed out to the water.  Due to the nature of Arizona summers, the pool area was full of numerous chaise lounges and large umbrellas to provide much needed shade.  The chaise lounges had lush, earth tone cushions on them, which were incredibly comfortable and perfect for taking an afternoon snooze.  Terry cloth covers both protected the cushions and proved to be great for allowing us to jump from pool to chaise and dry off quickly simply by lying on them.  With the combination of the cool water of the pool and the shade of the umbrellas, we were all able to remain comfortable and relaxed, despite the rising Arizona temperatures.

Though it is always hard to come home from such a relaxing and pleasurable get-a-way, it is important to remember that anyone can create a luxury resort type setting within their own backyard with the right combination of comfort and indulgence. Chaise lounges and armchairs are great for relaxing, be it poolside or not.  Be sure to include the added comfort and style of colorful cushions and even outdoor throw blankets for those cooler summer evenings.  Umbrellas of any size provide the much-needed shade to keep cool in the summer sun.  Additionally, misters and outdoor fans are also great ways to keep temperatures down in your outdoor space.