Nature, Nurture and Togetherness: Designing Holiday Lodges for the Way We Live Now

What if the secret to a truly memorable holiday lies in something as instinctive as our connection to nature?

Known as biophilia, our innate desire to be close to the natural world is transforming the way people holiday in the UK. Today’s guests and holidaymakers are looking for more than just a place to stay – they want somewhere that brings them together, feels like home, and connects them to the outdoors.

As more people look to spend quality time together in the outdoors – with extended families, pets in tow, and accessibility in mind – holiday parks are increasingly expected to cater to everyone.

From accessible multi-generational breaks to dog-friendly stays, modern lodge holidays and homes, aren’t a one-size-fits-all anymore. Instead, tailored thoughtful and inclusive design must come top of a lodge design brief.

Pinelog: Leading the way in inclusive modern lodge design

With a 40-year history of creating bespoke timber lodges, tailored to users’ needs, whether it’s a holiday park or family home, Pinelog leads the way in inclusive design.

Since the 1980s we’ve worked closely with holiday parks and individuals across the UK to help them meet ever-evolving guest expectations. We’re seeing increased demand from holiday parks for pet friendly accommodation and larger, accessible lodges that can accommodate multi-generational family holidays and groups of friends.

In a survey of 1,000 UK staycation goers, Sally’s Cottages found that seven in 10 (71%) Brits say they specifically look for outdoor recreation holidays when booking their next trip.

The demand for couples luxury is on the rise too. Many of our bespoke lodges can include indulgent features like saunas and / or hot tubs for the ultimate relaxation, and a utility room which also doubles as a muddy boot room after a romantic walk.

What is clear however is, that when it comes to planning for the needs of today’s lodge guests, flexibility, comfort, and connection to nature are key.

Designing for the modern family getaway

Families want more than just a base – they want a home-from-home that supports how they live, relax and enjoy time together. That’s why our bespoke lodges are designed to accommodate everyone, with:

• Open-plan living areas that bring the family together
• Layouts with multiple bedrooms, en-suites and space for cots or pet beds
• Practical open-plan kitchens and generous dining spaces for sociable mealtimes
• Practical utility areas for storing outdoor gear, muddy boots and pet essentials

Whether it’s parents, grandparents, teenagers or toddlers, we help parks and owners to design lodges to comfortably host all ages.

Pet-friendly by design

Any dog-family will know, holidays are better with pets. And that’s why our pet-friendly options are a popular choice with guests and park operators alike. Features include:

• Stable doors
• Durable, easy-clean floors and fabrics
• Outdoor taps or dog showers for mucky paws
• Enclosed decking to let pets roam safely

Parks offering pet-friendly accommodation often find higher occupancy rates and longer average stays, making it a smart business decision as well as a thoughtful one.

Accessibility that doesn’t compromise on style

We believe accessible design should feel seamless – not clinical. That’s why we offer:

• Wider doorways and halls
• Step-free entrances and ramps
• Wheelchair turning circles and carefully considered furniture layouts
• Wet rooms and walk-in showers designed with safety and style

Whether for guests with mobility needs or multi-generational stays, accessible lodges ensure inclusivity without sacrificing aesthetics.

Maximising the outdoors: Views, decks and nature-inspired living

With longer days and warmer weather, there’s never been a better time to think about outdoor space. Our lodge layouts are designed to bring the outside in, with:

• Floor-to-ceiling windows that frame views and flood interiors with light
• Verandas and decks for morning coffees, evening BBQs, or hot tub soaks
• Smart siting advice to make the most of surrounding landscapes

Creating a sense of place is more than landscaping and with guests increasingly seeking calm, green, and light-filled spaces to escape to, this is where thoughtful design makes all the difference.

It all starts with smart planning

Whether you’re looking for a luxury lodge to make your own on a holiday park or your own land, adding a few bespoke lodges or expanding a larger holiday park site, early-stage planning makes all the difference. Our team supports park owners with:

• Bespoke layout and design consultations
• Furniture, fittings, and extras tailored to you or your audience – families, couples, pet owners, or accessible stays
• After-sales support for peace of mind

As the summer season builds, now is the ideal time to evaluate your offering—and consider how your next lodge development could create memorable stays for everyone.

Ready to design your next lodge?

We’d love to talk. From layout to finishes, we’ll help you create a space that works for your park or family – and everyone who stays there.

Explore our design services here and get in touch today on 01246 942 842 or contact us here.