Watch the original video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W0At2FZgz9w

The Art of Interior Design in Short-Term Rentals

In the latest episode of the STR Sisterhood, host Stacy St. John sits down with Ashida Lullen, an innovative interior designer specializing in short-term rental properties. Their conversation delves into the intricate world of interior design and how it intersects with real estate investments to build wealth and create homes that stand out in the market. With a career that began in architecture, Ashida’s transition to the short-term rental realm wasn’t just a pursuit of financial independence but also a natural evolution of her passion for creating beautiful, functional spaces.

Transformation Through Design

Ashida’s journey into the short-term rental market started in 2019, rooted in her efforts to make real estate acquisitions appealing investments due to her design expertise. By focusing on creating turnkey projects and aesthetic upgrades, Ashida gained recognition and a growing client base via word-of-mouth and online communities. Her approach isn’t just about designing spaces—it’s about creating environments where real estate investors can maximize their return on investment through strategic upgrades and forced appreciation.

The Role of Creativity and Community

With an academic background in architecture, Ashida brings a deep understanding of structural spaces to her projects. She emphasizes that her work is rooted in the joy of seeing a vision come to life and helping others benefit from beautifully designed spaces. Beyond creativity, she focuses on the community aspect—the opportunity to provide jobs and uplift local economies, which reflects her broader commitment to positive social impact through her design work.

High ROI Upgrades and Common Mistakes

For real estate investors, Ashida highlights the significance of looking beyond mere cash flow to comprehensive property value appreciation. She underscores the value of adding square footage or converting unused spaces into functional rooms. Ashida stresses the importance of understanding market demands and delivering unique but essential features that differentiate properties and drive high returns. Additionally, she cautions against common design mistakes, such as neglecting the interior while focusing on exterior upgrades, which can lead to missed opportunities in creating cohesive spaces.

Navigating Renovations and Design Challenges

Discussing the challenges of keeping renovations on track, Ashida offers practical insights: planning, understanding your capacity, and bringing in trusted professionals as needed. Managing contractors effectively involves a clear communication of expectations and staying informed about project specifics. Ashida also shares creative solutions like maximizing small spaces and reconfiguring existing layouts to enhance both aesthetics and functionality.

The Future of STR Design

The evolution of short-term rental design is akin to the hospitality industry’s progression towards more personalized and luxurious guest experiences. Ashida articulates how thoughtful design and the inclusion of unique elements like ceiling detailing or value-adding outdoor enhancements, such as game rooms or landscape features, can significantly elevate a property’s appeal and market position. Her advice to property owners? Strive for a balance where creativity, guest needs, and market trends align to offer inviting living spaces.

To explore more insights from Ashida Lullen and learn how you can transform your short-term rental properties, watch the full video interview.