Interior Design in Des Moines: ALT’s Local Take for 2025
Interior design in Des Moines has a unique heartbeat. With limited space for new construction inside the city limits, much of the work revolves around reviving and preserving the character of existing homes. At ALT Design Studio, we see design as a way to honor a home’s history while making it shine for modern living.
Why Des Moines Design Is So Distinct
Old Homes, Fresh Life
Instead of tearing down and starting from scratch, homeowners here often want to breathe new life into historic houses. From century-old bungalows to mid-century gems, we help preserve good bones and enhance them for today’s families. Our job? Celebrate the architecture and charm that already exists—and then make it even better.
The Rooms We Get Asked About Most
Kitchens, Living Rooms, and Basements, Oh My
Whether it’s someone who just moved in or a client who’s lived in their space for a decade, the kitchen and main living areas always top the list. These are the heart of every home, and clients want them to reflect their style.
Lately, basements have been having a moment—especially as people rethink how to use these flexible spaces for entertaining, working, or relaxing. We help clients figure out what makes the most sense for their lifestyle and create spaces that feel intentional and complete.
The Most Common Design Mistake We See
Playing It Too Safe
Modern farmhouse is a go-to for new builds and remodels in Iowa, but sometimes it becomes a crutch. We often find clients are hesitant to get bold—worried it won’t blend with their neutrals. At ALT, we love challenging that hesitation. Through vision boards and one-on-one exercises, we help clients define their personal style, even if it means introducing bold design elements in a subtle, strategic way.
A Project That Says It All
Reviving Historic Homes in the Drake Neighborhood
One of our favorite recent projects was a collaboration with InvestDSM on 31st Street and Cottage Grove. We took on three historic rehab projects and one new build on an open lot—and every home had to blend into the neighborhood while standing on its own. These were once grand homes that had been converted into apartments. We transformed them back into stunning, character-filled single-family homes with modern kitchens, spacious bedrooms, and thoughtful touches that honored their original architecture.
Home Staging Secrets: Sell Faster & For More in 2025
Staging a home isn’t just about making it look pretty—it’s about helping buyers see themselves living there. The right staging techniques can speed up a sale, increase the selling price, and eliminate objections before they even arise. If you’re thinking about selling in 2025, here’s how to maximize your home’s potential with expert staging strategies.
Staging a home isn’t just about making it look pretty—it’s about helping buyers see themselves living there. The right staging techniques can speed up a sale, increase the selling price, and eliminate objections before they even arise. If you’re thinking about selling in 2025, here’s how to maximize your home’s potential with expert staging strategies.
The Most Important Areas to Stage
Where Buyers Focus First
Not all rooms carry the same weight when it comes to staging. The key areas that have the biggest impact include:
Main living room – The heart of the home where buyers visualize daily life.
Kitchen and dining room – Essential for entertaining and everyday functionality.
Primary bedroom and bathroom – Buyers want a relaxing retreat.
Additional bedrooms and hall bath – Showcasing how the spaces can be used is key.
Flex rooms – Multi-purpose spaces are a growing trend, and buyers love seeing how they can function.
Seeing furniture in an open-concept kitchen or an empty bedroom helps buyers gauge scale and imagine how their own belongings will fit. A well-staged space is a space that sells.
How Professional Staging Impacts Price & Time on Market
The Numbers Don’t Lie
If you think staging is just a “nice-to-have,” think again. According to the 2023 Profile of Home Staging by the National Association of Realtors:
81% of buyer’s agents said staging made it easier for buyers to visualize the property as their future home.
39% of buyers found the living room to be the most important space to stage, followed by the primary bedroom (36%) and kitchen (30%).
20% of sellers’ agents reported staging increased offers by 1% - 5%.
21% of sellers’ agents said staging significantly decreased time on the market.
Well-staged homes sell faster and often at higher prices with fewer negotiations. Whether you’re in Des Moines or a smaller surrounding town, ALT Design Studio’s staging services have helped homes stand out and sell efficiently.
Home Staging Trends for 2025
What’s In, What’s Out
Staging trends have shifted in recent years, focusing on neutral, welcoming spaces that don’t feel sterile. Here’s what’s making waves in 2025:
Neutral furniture to ground the space – A blank canvas that still feels inviting.
Bold accents in art, pillows, and rugs – Adding personality without overwhelming.
Minimalism with character – Clean, comfortable, and not overly staged.
Natural materials – Think wood, bamboo, and stone for a touch of organic warmth.
Earthy tones – Rich, warm, and nature-inspired hues.
Greenery and plants – Adding life beyond just furniture.
Flex spaces – Multi-purpose rooms are in demand—buyers love seeing a home office double as a guest space or a basement that functions for both work and play.
Want to see how professional staging can transform your home? Explore our home staging services for expert guidance.
Ready to Sell? Let’s Stage Your Home for Success
Home staging isn’t just an extra step—it’s a game-changer in today’s market. Whether you’re looking to sell quickly, maximize your sale price, or simply present your home in the best light, the right staging strategy can make all the difference.
Need expert help? Contact ALT Design Studio to learn how we can make your home irresistible to buyers.
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.
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!