A growing number of travelers are looking for destinations based on high-design homes — properties where architecture, interiors and service come together in curated harmony. Analysts pegged the global luxury vacation-rental segment anywhere from around $6 billion to over $26 billion in 2024. These properties boast bespoke furniture, floor-to-ceiling windows, and amenities like smart-home features and spa-style bathrooms. Here are a couple homes that offer an elevated design experience as well as a getaway:
The Reef House
Vomo Island, Fiji
Guests: 10
The year was 2020, and a family was looking for an escape from their busy lives in San Francisco. Their goal: a white sand beach; warm water; low-key surroundings; and an architecturally inspiring home that could fit all of their children as well as nannies, extra family and friends. They envisioned a tropical compound, where they could surf, swim and explore the local towns and then reconvene in the evening to watch the sunset. On the advice of a friend, they visited Vomo, which is part of the Mamanuca Islands near the border of the Yasawa Islands in Fiji, and were instantly captivated by its natural beauty and sense of seclusion. The island is about 225 acres, with 28 resort villas and six residences. During their first visit, they decided to build a retreat-style home that embraced indoor-outdoor living and the warm, welcoming spirit of Fijian culture.
Their dream took shape through the award-winning design of architect Mark Ritchie, co-founder of Architecture Building Culture, who had designed other homes on the island.
From the moment guests arrive in Fiji, the journey is seamless — Fiji Airways nonstop flights from San Francisco and Los Angeles to Nadi International Airport connect with a chauffeured transfer by speedboat or helicopter, whisking travelers from plane to paradise in under an hour.
Inside, the Reef House exudes understated elegance across five suites and six baths, each with its own soaking tub and rain shower. Four interconnected rooms make space for families and a freestanding master suite offers a private oasis. Retractable glass doors open up to extend the spaces outward. Anchored by a 25-meter infinity pool, the residence blends world-class amenities with the genuine spirit of Fijian hospitality — whether it’s a “baby butler” caring for little ones, a staff member sharing a story of island tradition, or Fijian culture’s infectious bula welcome that greets each guest.
Stays include all meals and laundry service, with the option of private chefs, weddings or corporate retreats. More than just a residence, The Reef House embodies a Bay Area family’s dream realized in Fiji’s turquoise embrace — an exclusive escape where modern design, island culture and the warmth of Fijian tradition converge to create an experience that lingers long after guests have left its shores.
Villa Vista Mariposas
Nayarit Rivera Coast, Mexico
Guests: 10
Just north of San Pancho, which is just north of Puerto Vallarta on Mexico’s chic Nayarit Rivera coast, two Bay Area artists have dreamed a refuge into being. What began as a family escape in the jungle has blossomed into Villa Vista Mariposas — a sanctuary where the art of nature and the nature of art intertwine. This hidden aerie sits above the Pacific Ocean near a private beach in a protected reserve that feels both close to everything and blissfully far from it all.
Eight casitas spill down the hillside, linked by meandering paths and flowerdraped terraces, encompassing five bedrooms and four and a half baths, accommodating up to 10 guests. There are two kitchens — one with an outdoor bar by the pool, which in the afternoons plays host to a bevy of birds. The other, high atop the property, plays host to spectacular jungle sunrises and sunsets. Here sits the couples’ art studio just down the path. Another open room with a swing bed and hammocks serves as a gallery.
The resident caretaker family — gentle, warm and kind — tends the grounds, keeping the jungle at bay and standing watch over this quiet paradise. (They can also prepare simple, homestyle meals upon request, and a bilingual concierge is on call for anything else you may need.) Cell service is strong and Wi-Fi is reliable, so when night falls, you can stream a film beneath the stars. A near-private beach, shared only with a tiny eco-hotel, lies just down a rustic dirt road — 15 minutes by foot or an eight-minute drive, (four-wheel drive recommended).
Creators Karin Onsager and Bryan Birch have deep roots in the Bay Area, where they once worked as sought-after creative directors. They now devote their time to creating art rather than directing it, as well as visiting art residences around the globe. Onsager was recently commissioned to do a diptych for the San Francisco Decorator Showcase reception room and together the couple were featured in a show titled “Alchemy” at Erin Martin’s gallery in St Helena. They believe that art, like life, is not what you do, but how you do it — a philosophy that extends to time spent at Villa Vista Mariposas.
Elevated Escapes
Looking for more options? Here are a few resources to consider:
Boutique
Also founded in 2021, Boutique markets itself as the platform “for homeowners and guests who believe that good design makes travel better.” Its portfolio favors standout architecture and interiors over generic listings. Earlier this year, the company partnered with Design Within Reach (DWR) to transform the historic Miles C. Bates “Wave House” in Palm Desert into a shoppable, experiential rental. The home was furnished with DWR’s Paul Smith Collection, allowing guests to purchase pieces they used during their stay.
Onefinestay
This company launched in 2010 with a curated portfolio of luxury rentals spanning private homes, villas and apartments in sought-after cities and vacation destinations worldwide. The company provides 24/7 concierge support; professional housekeeping; and tailored services including private chefs and childcare.
Plum Guide
Through its rigorous vetting process known as “The Plum Test,” only a small percentage of homes make the cut to be included in Plum Guide’s highly curated portfolio of vacation rentals. Properties range from chic urban apartments to countryside retreats.
Wander
Founded in 2021, Wander has leaned into the “hotelification” of vacation rentals. Its portfolio consists of meticulously upgraded homes with consistent standards: high-speed Wi-Fi and ergonomic workspaces, as well as premium cleaning and 24/7 concierge service, which means guests don’t have to choose between privacy and service.
