Holiday Home Turned Into High-Performing Rental: Designing for Long-Term Flexibility
| Property Type: | Three-Bedroom Holiday Home |
| Client: | Overseas homeowner |
| Postcode: | SW10 |
| City: | The Powerhouse, Chelsea Waterfront, London |
| Services: | Fully Bespoke Interior Design |
| Result Achieved: | Private holiday home to long-term tenancy |
Overview
Originally furnished as a private London holiday home, with the intention that it could also be used for short-term letting when not in use, The Powerhouse, Chelsea Waterfront flat was designed by Ani M by InStyle Direct with long-term value in mind.Our client, an overseas investor, needed the home designed for mixed use, potentially with a back-and-forth of different uses. With InStyle by Ani M, our client not only gained high-end interior design but also the benefit of an experienced team that anticipates changing needs. Every single decision was carefully balanced to deliver both immediate enjoyment and long-term investment value.
Within one week of listing as a holiday short let, the apartment quickly secured a tenant who has since transitioned to a long-term rent, generating a four-figure monthly income.
It shows the value we bring as a furnishing partner by designing spaces that remain flexible and profitable for both foreseeable and unforeseen shifts in property use and goals.
The Challenge
From the outset, we anticipated the property’s end use would evolve over time, although the exact direction, and whether it might change more than once remained uncertain. We ensured these uncertainties were considered in the wider strategy and design. While the initial plan was for a family holiday home, overseas investors often need flexibility as lifestyle needs, rental opportunities, or family circumstances change.
The challenge was to create a space that felt personal, operated as a second residence and holiday home, and could also transition smoothly into the long-term rental market without frequent and costly redesigns. Should the property’s purpose shift, the interiors should generate high rental income. The focus was to guide the client toward investment-aware interior choices that would maintain the property’s appeal across different scenarios.
The Approach
The furnishing strategy prioritised timeless design, durability, and versatility. Given the numerous possibilities for long-term use, the interiors were designed to accommodate mixed (and potentially back-and-forth) use between private stays, short-term rentals, and longer tenancies.
Each room was designed to maintain wide market appeal while still delivering the comfort and sophistication expected of a high-end London property. Materials, layouts, and furnishings were selected for longevity and adaptability, ensuring the property would remain attractive to both personal users and suitable tenants.
While positioned firmly within the luxury segment, the approach differed from traditional high-end homeowner projects. The design very strongly balanced lifestyle comfort with investment thinking, and every furnishing and interior decision considered how the home would perform as an asset over time.
The Outcome
Within a week of listing as a short let, the property secured a tenant, then went on to secure a long-term tenancy, generating a four-figure monthly income.
This project is a perfect example of how styling high-end homes can be approached with a balance that supports personal goals and long-term financial performance.
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