S1 E3: Ordinary isn’t Profitable: The real difference between decorating and designing a profitable vacation rental
Vacation rental design is not an extension of residential design—and it’s definitely not staging. In this episode of Pretty Smart, the hosts unpack what vacation rental design really is: a strategic blend of hospitality, business strategy, psychology, logistics, and data-driven decision-making.
From durability, guest behavior, and photogenic design to pricing strategy, replenishment models, and long-term ROI, this conversation reveals why successful vacation rental designers are far more than decorators. They are ROI strategists—designing spaces that look incredible, function effortlessly, and generate sustained revenue.
The episode also dives into hard-earned lessons: when “lipstick on a pig” doesn’t work, why saying no to the wrong clients is essential, and how trusting your instincts creates room for bigger, more aligned opportunities. Through real project examples, including a transformational case study, the hosts show how thoughtful design decisions can change not just a property’s performance—but how owners view their role in creating meaningful, wellness-driven guest experiences.
Whether you’re a designer, host, investor, or creative entrepreneur, this episode reframes vacation rental design as a powerful, scalable business model with long-term impact.
Timestamps
00:00 – 02:30
Why vacation rental design is hospitality, psychology, logistics, and business strategy—not decorating
02:30 – 05:30
Residential vs. vacation rental design: timelines, durability, and real-world use
05:30 – 08:00
Designing with data: ADR, competition analysis, reviews, and market insights
08:00 – 11:00
How to sell design to investors by speaking the language of ROI
11:00 – 14:00
“You’re designing a store people sleep in”: branding, merchandising, and experience
14:00 – 18:00
The replenishment model and why vacation rentals create recurring design revenue
18:00 – 21:00
Photography, stopping the scroll, and refreshing listings every 2–3 years
21:00 – 24:00
Why saying no to the wrong projects is a growth strategy
24:00 – 29:00
Case study: The Gathering—data, accessibility, branding, and transformation
29:00 – 33:00
Wellness, inclusivity, and designing spaces that create lasting memories
33:00 – 36:30
Vacation rental design as a long-term, scalable business model
36:30 – End
Invitation to the Vacation Rental Design Summit
