Where Luxury Meets Function: Transforming Michigan Homes & Airbnbs with Transitional Design

Hi there—it’s Hanna & Tracey here! We’re the mother-daughter duo behind Hanna Mae Design Studio, and if there’s one thing we’ve learned designing homes across Michigan, it’s that people crave beauty and practicality in equal measure. Whether you’re styling your forever home or preparing an Airbnb for guests, the sweet spot lies in creating interiors that feel luxurious, functional, and timelessly stylish. That’s where transitional design steps in—it’s the bridge between classic charm and modern ease, and it just happens to be one of our favorite ways to elevate spaces.

Why Michigan Homes Call for Transitional Style

Michigan architecture is as varied as the seasons. From historic colonials to lakeside cottages, our homes carry stories and character that deserve to be honored. But just because a home has history doesn’t mean it has to feel dated.

That’s why transitional style works so beautifully here. It respects architectural details while introducing a fresh perspective—think clean-lined furniture paired with traditional millwork, or airy coastal hues layered over warm wood tones. The result? A space that feels both grounded and updated, perfectly suited to the way we live today.

Luxury Interior Design That Actually Works for Real Life

Let’s be honest: luxury can sometimes get a bad rap for feeling impractical. But to us, luxury interior design isn’t about velvet sofas no one’s allowed to sit on—it’s about thoughtful, elevated choices that make daily life more enjoyable.

Here’s what that looks like in practice:

• Investing in durable yet beautiful materials (like performance fabrics that stand up to family life or short-term rental guests).
• Adding statement lighting that transforms a room instantly, whether it’s in your dining room or over a rental property’s kitchen island.
• Prioritizing storage and function so every piece feels intentional and keeps clutter at bay.

Luxury and function aren’t opposites—they’re best friends. When designed thoughtfully, they work hand in hand to create spaces that feel as good as they look.

Bringing Luxury to Airbnb Design.

If you’re a rental property owner, you already know: competition is fierce. What makes a listing stand out isn’t just price or location—it’s the experience you create for guests.

This is where Airbnb design intersects with luxury and function. Guests want to walk into a space that feels polished, cohesive, and photo-worthy. At the same time, hosts need furnishings and finishes that are low-maintenance and durable.

Our favorite ways to elevate short-term rentals:

• Use a neutral, cohesive color palette with layered textures for universal appeal.
• Add a few luxury touches—a gorgeous accent chair, a framed piece of art, or hotel-style bedding—that make the space feel special.
• Design with flow and practicality in mind: easy-to-navigate layouts, multi-purpose furniture, and guest-friendly details like full-length mirrors and well-lit entryways.

It’s these touches that create 5-star reviews and keep guests coming back.

How We Blend Inspiration + Product Selections

Designing the perfect space is never about randomly picking pretty pieces—it’s about curating a blend of inspiration and product selections that together tell a story. We start with mood boards and inspiration imagery to capture the feeling our clients want. Then we layer in carefully sourced products—furniture, lighting, art, finishes—that bring that vision to life in a tangible way.

For our Michigan homeowners and Airbnb hosts alike, this approach ensures that the final design isn’t just beautiful—it’s personal, functional, and enduring.

Aesthetic Homes That Feel Like You

At the end of the day, design isn’t about following trends or replicating a Pinterest board. It’s about creating an aesthetic home that feels authentic to you (or inviting to your guests), while offering the comfort and functionality you need every day.

That’s the power of transitional style: it’s timeless, versatile, and perfectly suited to Michigan living. Add a touch of luxury, a foundation of function, and a sprinkle of creativity, and suddenly your space is more than just a house—it’s a place that inspires and serves.

✨ Ready to bring that blend of luxury + function into your home or Airbnb?

We’d love to help. Reach out to us here and let’s create a space that feels elevated, effortless, and uniquely yours.

With love,

Hanna & Tracey