By Tamara Hill, Founder, The Hill House
When I founded The Hill House Group, I envisioned more than a design firm or a vacation rental company — I imagined a bridge between beauty and business. Between the laid-back rhythm of life in Puglia and the pulse of international travel and design. Between historic architecture and contemporary comfort. Now, as I split my time between Italy and Los Angeles, I’ve learned a few things about building a design-forward business from abroad — and what it takes to turn a property into a true destination.
If you’re dreaming of designing a vacation rental in Italy — or building a creative business from a place you love — here are a few lessons I’ve learned along the way.
1. Design with Story, Not Just Style
Every property should have a narrative. At The Hill House, we don’t just style homes — we curate experiences. The vaulted ceilings, local ceramics, and curated art collections in our homes in Puglia aren’t just beautiful, they tell the story of a place. Ask yourself: What do I want guests to feel? Design from that feeling.
2. Think Like a Guest, Build Like an Owner
Aesthetics matter, but so does functionality. Our most successful homes include seamless indoor-outdoor flow, spa-like bathrooms, comfortable beds, well-equipped kitchens, and cozy nooks that invite long afternoons. Good design is intuitive. Make sure your space works for people who’ve never been there before.
3. Build a Local Network You Trust
Being part-time in Italy means building full-time relationships. Local artisans, contractors, architects, property managers — these are the lifelines of a successful renovation or rental. Invest in those partnerships early and often. When you treat your team like collaborators, they’ll treat your project like their own.
4. Understand the Rental Landscape
Not all design decisions are worth the ROI — and not all markets respond the same way. In the Valle d’Itria, guests value authenticity and privacy. In cities, it might be walkability or views. Do your homework. What’s “luxury” here might be different than what you’re used to. And make sure you’re designing with your guest, not your ego, in mind.
5. Layer Passion Projects into Profit Models
For me, design is personal. It’s creative. But it’s also strategic. As I prepare to launch my first book of poetry this fall, The Threads of Becoming, I’m reminded that every creative project — even a vacation rental — is about connection. With The Hill House Group, we’ve developed properties that deliver over 50% of the purchase price in annual rental revenue, while preserving history and curating soul. That’s not an accident — it’s by design.
6. Create Unique, Immersive Experiences
The most memorable rentals go beyond four walls — they offer guests something they’ve never experienced before. At our Palm Springs property, we collaborated with artist Alex Proba to design a one-of-a-kind pool featured in Elle Decor, The Wall Street Journal, and Art Escapes of the World. Our first property in Puglia introduced a serene spa and yoga offering — well before it became a trend in the region. Future properties will continue to push boundaries, incorporating everything from private art exhibits to restored cathedrals. Design becomes unforgettable when it’s immersive, unexpected, and inspired by place.
Looking Ahead
If you’re ready to bring a property to life, collaborate on a design project in Italy, or just want to learn more about building a beautiful business across borders — I’d love to connect.
Because great spaces don’t just look good. They feel good. And they leave a lasting impression — like any good story.
