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Retreats with intention and ROI: Insights from a Luxury Interior Designer in Chicago

Updated: Aug 8


This post was originally shared in an earlier form but has been thoughtfully reworked to explore the dual purpose of designing for both owner/host and short-term vacation rental guest.


When you try to please everyone, you end up delighting no one -- least of all yourself. The in-town loft featured in this article proves the opposite. My client is a venture capitalist, jumping from coast to coast with Chicago as his hub. He asked me to style this condo as a comfortable retreat. So, I layered comforts that felt personal to him. I've worked for him on several projects like this, so I could anticipate his expectations.


The scene: The iconic river view offered an everchanging display from almost every area of the space; including the open kitchen, dining, and lounging spaces within a space. It was a classic loft with a classic urban environment informed by his taste and desire for simple luxuries, but also inviting for vacation renters to enjoy while he was traveling. In essence, the home was also in motion; so practicality was a driving factor in composition. His desires meeting a successful guest experience.


Here's what I've learned:


Get specific. Start by getting clear on what makes your get-away feel right for you -- then shape those preferences that resonates with your ideal guest. The marketing will follow naturally.


When your space reflects what you truly love -- comfortable , stylish, homey - it begins to tell a story. And, it will be felt in your listing photos, sensed in the tone of your descriptions, and eventually confirmed the moment your guest renter arrive. From the first full impression of the spatial design to the journey of discovery finding details, for example, the espresso bar set for morning ritual, the spa bath stocked with plush towels, the bed layered in hotel-style linens -- every moment reinforces the care behind the design: intention and clarity.


  • Leverage professional photography. Shoot not only wide shots but also selective close-ups lending your listing a clear and descriptive, moody impression which evokes desire.

  • Bonus, shoot at different times of day a sense of ambience.



Cozy bedroom with a neatly made bed, patterned pillows, dark curtains, a landscape painting, and a ceiling fan, creating a calm ambiance.
Comfortably appointed Master Bedroom Suite -- In soft color Palette

  • Don't just list amenities -- emphasize the ones that matter most to your ideal guest. Describe for example: "Rest peacefully inside a sanctuary bedroom furnished with remote controlled black-out roller shades, hotel quality mattress and pillows -- dressed with luxuriously soft bamboo sheets and cozy down-alternative comforter."

  • "Your suite is connected to a fully appointed spa bath with specially selected amenities including luxury toiletries, and thick cotton towels."



Gray towels, a clock, and a potted orchid sit on a bathroom countertop. A striped basket and a soap dispenser add detail. Soft lighting.
Spa Bathroom Amenities - Thoughtfully Arranged

  • "Wake up from your peaceful sanctuary and find your personal coffee bar furnished with English and Chinese imported teas and your personal espresso machine." Style it with newspaper, tea caddy, cookie jar or pastries. Photograph this, editorially, up-close.




Bar cart with whiskey bottles, a crystal glass, a lemon, and a metallic shaker under a lamp. Background has framed art and a window.
Stylishly set Bar or Serving Cart for Casual Entertaining

  • "Your family getaway is only steps from the city's greatest feature attraction - walk out your front door to find multiple sandy beaches, extensive bike trail, and shady picnic to enjoy the view -- something for everyone."



Modern living room with gray sofas, orange chairs, and a table with fall decor. Exposed concrete ceiling and TV on a white wall. Cozy vibe.
Open Concept Layout - Rooms Within a Room and a Place for Everyone and Everything

Speak in the voice your ideal guest would appreciate. Casual and conversational? Elegant and composed? Your tone should mirror the experience they'll find -- and evoke it emotionally.


When your messaging reflects the soul of the space and the sensibility of your audience - the right guests will find you and will look forward to returning.



Skyline over calm water at sunset, reflecting tall buildings. Warm tones and clear sky create a serene, cityscape view. No text visible.
An Iconic Urban Environment Offers Moments of Reflection


About Joseph Szymczak, SLATE interior design - Chicago


Joseph Szymczak is a luxury interior designer in Chicago and founder of SLATE interior design, a boutique studio specializing in developing interiors that reflect a life well lived. His work spans the U.S. and Arab Gulf, where he has collaborated on high-end residential projects in culturally and architecturally significant locations. In the U.S. his contributions have earned recognition through award-winning collaborations on custom homes and honors for outstanding entries in the Grand Rapids Symphony Showhouse and Lake Forest Infant Welfare Society Designer Showhouse.



Joseph is available for speaking engagements and editorial commentary on topics related to high-end residential interiors, design process, and cultural influence in luxury spaces and lifestyles.








 
 
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