Step into the world of Sarah Bronstein, a seasoned short-term rental designer whose career spans nearly a decade and countless markets across the U.S. Before launching her own firm, Sukkha Interior Design, she led interior design at Vacasa for four years; leveraging data and analytics to transform vacation homes nationwide. Since founding Sukkha in 2020, she’s continued to bring a strategic-meets-stylish approach to every project, designing spaces that are not only beautiful but built to perform.
From luxury cabins in North Carolina to sleek bungalows in Austin, her portfolio is as diverse as the destinations she designs in. With a passion for creating spaces that stand out in photos and deliver unforgettable guest experiences, Sarah has become a trusted name in the STR design world.
We sat down with her to learn more about her journey, favorite projects, and the design philosophies that make her spaces shine.
A Natural Niche in STR Design
“I’ve been designing for STRs for going on eight years,” Sarah shares. “Before starting Sukkha, I was the lead interior designer at Vacasa for nearly four years, where I used their data and analytics to strategically design and set up vacation homes all over the country.”
That foundation shaped how she approaches every project today. After leaving Vacasa, focusing on STR design came naturally. “My favorite part is getting to design for so many different and unique locations,” she says.
And she really has designed everywhere, Oregon, Washington, Utah, Colorado, California, Maine, Vermont, Florida, the Carolinas, Tennessee, Georgia, Texas, Arizona, and beyond. Looking ahead, she’s dreaming of a Wyoming ranch with full Yellowstone vibes, and manifesting a boutique hotel or multi-unit project next.
A Portfolio That Spans Coasts & Styles
Her portfolio is filled with projects that balance personality and performance, from playful mountain cabins to mid-century gems.
Designing for STRs vs. Traditional Interiors
When it comes to short-term rentals, priorities shift. “The priorities are completely different for functionality,” Sarah explains. “You’re likely trying to maximize occupancy in a rental more than in a traditional residence.”
She approaches each project with a mix of data and vision: “I use analytics to understand what renters want, then layer in design that connects to the location and stands out in photos. Standing out in photos is crucial, but so is making sure the experience lives up to (or exceeds) expectations.”
Favorite Design Moments & Guest Reactions
When asked to pick a favorite design detail, she laughs. “That is SO hard—but probably the naked rabbit lamp at my Black Mountain cabin project. It’s this quirky brass bunny standing up holding the lampshade around her like a towel. Guests just love it and mention it all the time in reviews!”
Comfort is another consistent hit. “Guests love comfortable beds, and especially sleeper sofas or beds they aren’t expecting to be comfortable. I also love creating ‘special moments’, things guests wouldn’t typically have at home, like egg chairs, game rooms, or unique outdoor spaces.”
Systems, Tools & Minoan Magic
Running so many projects requires structure. She relies on Dubsado to keep everything organized, and uses Minoan to streamline procurement.
“My account rep Charlotte is fabulous and makes my life so much easier when I’m managing full-service projects,” she says. “I also love that I can send my design plan clients who are managing the ordering/installation process themselves to Minoan, knowing the time they’ll save and the support they’ll receive.”
She’s a big fan of Article, along with Tumble and Wayfair, for creating spaces that balance durability and design.
“Minoan saves me so much time, and the customer support is incredible when issues arise.”
Lessons Learned & Advice for New STR Designers
Her biggest piece of advice? “Make sure you have the knowledge and expertise to back it up! I’ve seen a lot of residential designers add STRs to their resume without really understanding how different these projects are. The timelines and budgets are typically really challenging on investment properties, and traditional trade vendors often don’t make sense.”
She also wishes she’d known more about realistic pricing early on—a key factor for ensuring projects run smoothly.
Success Story Spotlight: Bryson City Cabin
Among her many rewarding projects, one recent cabin in Bryson City, North Carolina, stands out. The project was scheduled for installation just after Hurricane Helene, which delayed it for a month while trucks were unable to access the area.
Despite launching during a period of record-low tourism, the property has been a breakout success—achieving 80% occupancy and outperforming expectations at the top of the market.
Looking Ahead
While she hasn’t started hosting her own properties just yet, she hopes to in the near future. And with her dream projects on the horizon—a Wyoming ranch and boutique hotel—it’s clear she’s just getting started.
Want to save on outfitting thoughtful, successful short-term rentals like Sukkha Interiors? Sign up for Minoan for free today.