👉 Get Your Free Revenue Review → https://www.freewyldfoundry.com/report
What if the real ROI in your short-term rental business isn’t just pricing or operations, but design?
In this episode of Get Paid For Your Pad, Kaye Putnam sits down with Jordan McDonough, co-founder of Summerled Designs, to reveal how intentional design and branding transform STR properties into high-performing, unforgettable guest experiences.
Jordan shares how she and her co-founder combined design expertise with marketing strategy to help investors consistently stand out in competitive markets, command premium nightly rates, and turn ordinary spaces into five-star guest favorites.
You’ll learn:
🎨 Why design is not an expense but an investment with 30–50% ROI
🏡 How to align interiors with your target guest instead of personal preference
📸 Why great photography and lifestyle visuals multiply the impact of design
📈 How design, branding, and amenities drive direct bookings and repeat guests
⚡ The Summerled process for creating standout STR properties, even 100% remotely
We also cover:
The biggest mistakes hosts make when DIY-ing design
Why brand identity is now essential for STR success
How to design “Instagrammable” moments that fuel marketing
Why strategic amenities outperform generic check-the-box features
Real examples from markets like Nashville where design directly boosted revenue
🎯 Favorite Takeaway:
“Design isn’t just décor. It’s strategy. It’s what allows you to charge more, book faster, and create experiences guests can’t wait to share.”
📍 Ready to see how design can unlock your property’s potential?
Apply for your free Revenue Review at https://www.freewyldfoundry.com/report
Keywords: short-term rental design, Airbnb interiors, STR branding, guest experience, property management, hospitality, STR success, design ROI, direct bookings, Summerled Designs
⏱️ Chapter Timestamps
00:00 – Intro and Summerled origin story
03:25 – Why design delivers ROI in STRs
06:15 – Current trends in branding and amenities
10:30 – How to define a property’s brand identity
14:05 – Summerled’s remote design process and deliverables
16:20 – The role of AI in design workflows
18:00 – Common design mistakes STR investors make
20:15 – Why photography is critical to marketing success
21:45 – Favorite projects and lessons from Nashville
24:55 – Final thoughts and how to work with Summerled