PEOPLE love to take a part of their holiday home with them, and keep that holiday feeling alive once back in their day-to-day lives, according to homewares designer Rayna Hooper.

It’s this concept which inspired Holiday, her range of coastal chic-inspired quilts, cushions, rugs and occasional furniture.
“I wanted to create a beautiful product that embodies the spirit of holidays, travel and adventure,” says Rayna.

The idea was inspired when she moved to a small coastal town called Robe in SA.

“I packed up my life in Sydney, married a local boy and moved to the bush,” she says.

As a city girl, Rayna says she could see business opportunities in Robe that would cater to the holidaymakers who flocked there from Melbourne through the summer months.

“I started a property business, purchasing and redeveloping beach houses to cater to holidaymakers looking for cool, hip places to buy or rent,” she says. “The rental business grew quickly and I still have that today.

“As the business grew, I realised our customers wanted to buy all the beautiful things that were in the beach houses. So I decided to start a retail homewares and lifestyle store, with a product that embodies a holiday spirit, but can be a part of everyday life.”

Mother of three, Rayna says she travels constantly to get new ideas.

“I love fossicking and discovering, sneaking down laneways to unearth hidden treasures, traipsing through colourful markets, looking, listening and gathering – and finally blending beautiful fabrics and materials until the story of each piece is ready to be handed over to the customer.

“The downside is that, unfortunately, the travel is torrid as is the pace of the business and the hours,” she says. “But I’m like every other mother trying to keep many balls up in the air each day. When I get home from the office it’s all about the kids – homework, sports practice. The older two, who are 12 and 14, have been on some trips with me now as well, so that’s a wonderful experience for all of us.”

The Holiday range uses all-natural fibres – cotton, voile, jute, leather and bleached timbers. The latest range features paisley quilts and cushions in turquoise, aqua, driftwood and indigo blue that are beautifully soft and light for summer, says Rayna. She has also created a range of resort-wear fashion, jewellery and handbags.

“I love the discovery each day of beautiful new things. I love designing a range that makes people feel happy,” she says.

Visit www.holidaydesign.com.au