Short-Term Rentals: Ins and Outs for 2025

The short-term rental market is booming, and as competition grows, standing out requires thoughtful design that balances sustainability, functionality, and style. Whether you’re new to the game or looking to refresh your space, here’s how to make your rental a guest-favorite while maximizing durability and efficiency.

Designing Sustainable and Budget-Friendly Rentals

Durable, Eco-Friendly Choices That Last

Sustainability doesn’t have to break the bank. In fact, it can often save you money in the long run. One of the best ways to balance cost and durability is through thrifted and locally sourced furniture. Vintage and second-hand pieces are often higher quality and built to withstand heavy use. Plus, they add character to your space without the hefty price tag of new, mass-produced items.

• Paint is your best friend – A fresh coat can completely transform a space without excessive costs or waste.

• Mindful textile selections – White linens and towels aren’t just chic; they’re easy to clean and maintain over time.

• Slipcovers for furniture – These provide a practical way to keep seating fresh and stain-free while extending the lifespan of your pieces.

Looking for a sustainable refresh? Check out our rental property design services for expert guidance.

Adding Local Flair Without Overwhelming the Space

Balancing Theme and Broad Appeal

Guests love unique touches that connect them to the local area, but going overboard can alienate a broader audience. The trick? Keep the main furniture pieces neutral and layer in local charm through decor and artwork.

• Murals and wall art – A feature wall with a mural or locally inspired artwork can be a striking yet easy-to-change focal point.

• Interchangeable accents – Think throw pillows, small sculptures, or framed photography showcasing the destination.

• Targeted themes – If your property is near the beach, for example, a light coastal color scheme with subtle nautical elements works well. If it’s in the mountains, earthy tones and rustic textures will resonate with visitors.

Need inspiration? Browse our design portfolio to see how we bring local influence into our projects.

Creating Multifunctional Spaces for Modern Travelers

Work, Play, and Relaxation in One Space

The demand for multifunctional rentals is skyrocketing as more people travel while working remotely. Your rental needs to accommodate both leisure and productivity without sacrificing aesthetics.

• Dedicated workspaces – A desk in a walk-in closet or an unused nook can provide a private work area without encroaching on shared spaces.

• Garage game rooms – If your property has an underutilized garage, consider converting it into a hangout spot with a pool table, arcade games, or a cozy lounge setup.

• Zoning through design – Use area rugs, shelving, or even furniture placement to subtly separate work and relaxation areas.

Explore our interior solutions to make your rental more functional and inviting.

Avoiding Common Staging Mistakes in Short-Term Rentals

What Not to Do and How to Fix It

Many property owners make simple mistakes that can cost them bookings and five-star reviews. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Not catering to the intended audience – Ensure your rental has the right bed configurations, entertainment options, and amenities for your target guests. A family-friendly space should prioritize bunk beds or multiple sleeping arrangements, while a high-end rental might benefit from a stocked bar or premium outdoor lounge.

• Using personal, outdated decor – While thrifted pieces can be charming, mismatched and overly personal decor can make a space feel cluttered. Stick to a cohesive, curated look that feels intentional rather than random.

For a professionally staged rental, check out our staging services to ensure your property stands out.

Make Your Short-Term Rental Shine in 2025

Refreshing your rental doesn’t mean starting from scratch. With thoughtful design, multifunctional spaces, and sustainable choices, you can create a guest experience that keeps them coming back. Want expert help bringing your vision to life? Connect with ALT Design Studio today and let’s make your rental a standout success!

Refreshing Your Space for the New Year

The start of a new year is the perfect time to take a step back and reimagine the spaces where you live and work. From embracing emerging design trends to incorporating intentional touches, refreshing your environment can transform not just your home or office but also your mindset and productivity. Let’s dive into how you can bring fresh energy into your spaces for 2025.

Embracing 2025’s Design Trends

What’s New in Living and Workspaces?

The buzzword for 2025 design trends is intentional minimalism. People are moving away from cluttered spaces and choosing simplicity that prioritizes efficiency and functionality. This trend isn’t just about having less; it’s about making thoughtful choices with:

• Warmer, richer colors: Think earthy tones and cozy hues that bring a sense of calm.

• Natural materials: Stones, bricks, and wood accents are making a strong comeback, helping spaces feel more grounded and connected to nature.

• Sustainability: Thoughtful purchasing with an emphasis on eco-friendly materials and timeless pieces reflects a deeper care for the environment and long-term usability.

These choices don’t just look great; they also cultivate a sense of peace and harmony—perfect for starting the year on the right foot.

Refreshing Workspaces: Boosting Functionality and Well-being

The Rise of “Resimercial” Design

Businesses are embracing “resimercial” design—a blend of residential coziness and commercial sophistication. This approach prioritizes comfort and productivity, making employees feel more at home in their work environments. Key elements include:

• Flexible workspaces: Open concepts and hybrid layouts with comfortable furniture that adapt to varying needs.

• Technology-integrated spaces: Conference rooms equipped with seamless tech solutions that still feel inviting.

• Collaborative zones: Spaces that encourage teamwork while maintaining personal comfort.

Easy Ways to Refresh Your Office

1. Declutter and Deep Clean: Start fresh by purging unnecessary items and giving the space a thorough clean.

2. Add Texture and Color: Rugs, artwork, and decorative acoustic panels can inject personality and energy.

3. Incorporate Natural Elements: Plants and other organic touches can enhance the atmosphere and improve air quality.

Looking to transform your office? Explore our workspace design services for expert help.

Creating an Inspiring Home Environment

Strategies for a Cozy and Functional Home

Home trends are moving toward individual, closed-off spaces that offer privacy and distinct functions. Here’s how to make the most of this shift:

• Define Spaces with Personality: Use rugs, murals, or wallpaper to separate open-concept areas into cozy zones with their own vibe.

• Layer in Warmth: Muted, earthy tones and warm colors make your home feel inviting.

• Personal Touches: Showcase meaningful trinkets, gallery walls, or custom art pieces to add charm and individuality.

Functional and Flexible Living

Flexible spaces are key for modern living. Turn a corner into a reading nook with a comfy chair and layered lighting, or use multifunctional furniture to maximize your square footage. Minimalism doesn’t mean sacrificing style; it’s about curating the pieces that matter most.

Explore our residential design offerings for inspiration and expert guidance.

Start Your 2025 Refresh Today

Refreshing your space isn’t just about following trends—it’s about creating environments that work for your lifestyle and bring you joy. Whether you’re revamping your home, refreshing your office, or both, intentional design can make all the difference. Need help getting started? Connect with us at ALT Design Studio for a consultation and let’s bring your vision to life.

How ALT Design Studio Works with Your Budget

Tailored, Transparent, and Stress-Free Design Solutions

Great design doesn’t have to come with an overwhelming price tag. At ALT Design Studio, the goal is simple: to bring your vision to life while respecting your budget. Whether you’re planning a full redesign, need help with a specific design challenge, or simply want expert guidance, ALT offers a customized approach that focuses on what matters most to you. 

Creating a Design Plan that Fits Budget

When you choose ALT Design Studio, the first step is understanding your budget and your vision. This ensures everyone is on the same page from the start and avoids any surprises down the line.

Here’s how the process unfolds:

• Free Onboarding Call: Every project begins with a 20-30 minute call to discuss the project scope, goals, and budget. This conversation helps to understand the big picture and begin formulating a plan that fits your needs.

• Walkthrough & Scope of Work: After the call, ALT conducts a walkthrough of the space, if applicable. Seeing the space in person allows ALT to get a true sense of what’s possible, allowing for more accurate estimates and the identification of any challenges early on.

• Tailored Solutions: Following the walkthrough, ALT creates a clear scope of work. This document details what needs to be done, who is responsible for each task, and a budget-friendly breakdown of costs. The more details gathered upfront, the less time and money are spent later, which ultimately benefits the client.

Typical Design Budget

A typical design budget at ALT Design Studio consists of several key components that ensure a comprehensive and well-planned approach. Here’s a breakdown of where your budget goes:

• Discovery & Walkthrough: Whether it's space planning, mood boards, color palettes, or reference photos, time is invested to get a clear sense of the design vision. 

• Sourcing Materials: ALT Design Studio has built a network of trusted vendors, allowing for time-saving and cost-effective sourcing; whether it’s furniture, fabrics, or lighting.

• Project Management & Contractor Coordination: If the project requires contractors or external partners, ALT manages the logistics. Upfront bids are provided for any contractors involved, and ALT handles communication and coordination. 

• Client Communication: After the initial planning and sourcing stages, ALT ensures that the client isn’t left in the dark. Regular check-ins occur to ensure clients know exactly where in the process they are. 

• Prioritizing Spending: ALT helps clients prioritize spending based on their vision. For example, if the budget is tight, the focus can be placed on key furniture pieces or structural elements, while decorative touches can be added in later phases. If additional funds become available, ALT can adjust the scope to incorporate those extras.

The goal is simple: to ensure every dollar spent is an investment in the project’s success. And with ALT’s "Looks for Less" philosophy, clients will never be upsold on materials or features that don’t align with their budget or style.

ALT Works Hourly 

While many design studios operate on a project-based fee structure, ALT Design Studio prefers working on an hourly basis. This pricing model offers more flexibility and control for clients, which translates into a tailored design experience. Here’s why hourly can be the best choice:

• Flexibility: Whether the project is small and simple or large and complex, hourly pricing allows ALT to adapt to the specific needs of the client.

• Transparency: ALT tracks time carefully and provides clients with regular updates (every 4-5 hours). Clients know exactly how the budget is being spent, and if the work takes less time than expected, they save money.

• No Pressure: With project-based fees, clients often feel pressured to stick to a rigid timeline and budget. ALT’s hourly model means there’s no rush, allowing clients the time they need to make decisions, ask questions, and ensure everything feels right.

• Tailored to Your Needs: Whether more time is needed for sourcing, project management, or detailed renderings, ALT can adjust accordingly.

• Retainer Clients: Many clients choose to continue working with ALT on a retainer basis, which offers the flexibility to engage ALT as needed. Whether it’s a quick update or a larger phase of work, ALT remains available to assist as the project evolves.

Why ALT Design Studio is the Best Choice for Your Design Needs

ALT Design Studio has been in business for several years and has refined its process to be as efficient and cost-effective as possible. Unlike some design firms that push expensive materials or try to lock clients into fixed-fee contracts, ALT works with the client’s budget to create the best solution for their space and goals.

From beginning to end, ALT offers clear communication, thoughtful planning, and practical solutions. Clients can trust that their budget will be respected and that they’ll always know exactly where their money is going. Whether it’s a full redesign or a single consultation, ALT can help make the most out of any budget without sacrificing style or quality.