The Design Files: Lynda Gardener creates a serene apartment in St Kilda

Who: Designer and decorator Lynda Gardener

Where: St Kilda, Victoria

What: Art deco apartment/boutique Airbnb

Having been in the design, decoration and styling industry for 35 years, Lynda Gardener has built a strong reputation as a talented designer and creative businesswoman, with a distinct aesthetic.

The Apartment is Lynda’s latest project. This serene one-bedroom apartment in St Kilda was bought by Gardener more than 16 years ago, but was rented to tenants. In 2016, Gardener reclaimed and updated it, creating her latest boutique accommodation offering.

Part of a charming 1920s building, the apartment has needed very little renovation work over the years. “Thankfully, it was in perfect original condition, so all my changes have been cosmetic,” Gardener says.

These have included painting all floors, walls and ceilings in various shades of white (the original walls were all terracotta and the floorboards black).

Shutters were added to the windows, and new cabinetry doors to the old cupboards that were in place. The general layout, tiled flooring and aged walls in the kitchen are all original. “It was quite an easy renovation, when the bones were this good,” Lynda says.

It was the architecture and style of the building which attracted her to the property.

“It commands attention as soon as you drive up the street. It’s very striking with wonderful old circular staircases, and it is from a very beautiful era of apartment architecture which I have always adored. The apartment is so spacious, with lots of room, which sadly you don’t come across often these days.”

Gardener’s knack for styling has been a big part of the transformation. Her exquisite collections of old and new artworks, furnishings, cushions, layers of rugs, and beautiful linen lift this sweet abode to the next level.

• Related: Inside a historic St Kilda mansion
• Related: Annie Price restores a mid-century gem
• Related: A lovingly restored weatherboard cottage

“I’m always inspired by Dutch and Nordic spaces that feel fresh, simple, open and not too cluttered,” she says. “I think this apartment was really influenced by my many travels to Amsterdam, and their great aesthetic.”

Having previously leased the property to lovely tenants, Lynda has enjoyed the opportunity to reclaim and re-energise the home, and transform it with her signature style. It is now part of her stable of boutique accommodation properties – along with The White House in Daylesford, The Estate Trentham and The White Room in Fitzroy.

Each of Gardener’s properties is available for accommodation, events and photoshoots.

How to host

Whether transforming a section of your home, or renovating an investment property for the short-term rental market, consider the following:

• Cultivate a distinct aesthetic to attract great guests. “You need to stand out among the thousands of rentals on offer.”
• Use a well-known agency or service that offers insurance protection for both host and guest.
• Be realistic with expectations of guests – while most are respectful, wear and tear and the odd breakage is part of the package.
• Great photos are your number one marketing tool – invest in professional photography.
• Capture all guest details in a database and communicate regularly to stay front of mind.