The ROI of Great Design: How Thoughtful Spaces Pay You Back
I’m Mackenzie Collier, founder of Mackenzie Collier Interiors in Phoenix, AZ. For 15 years, my team and I have been helping clients create spaces that aren’t just beautiful, but truly functional. The part I love most about design is that it doesn’t stop at aesthetics—great design is an investment that pays you back.
Whether you’re a homeowner hoping to boost your property’s value or a business owner looking for more productivity and happier customers, design delivers a return in ways that impact both your lifestyle and your bottom line.
1. Productivity in the Workplace
This is the coworking space that we designed and work out of, The McKinley Club. The glass and steel combination works well in this historic downtown Phoenix adaptive reuse project.
If you run a business, your office or commercial space directly affects how your team performs.
The World Green Building Council found that better lighting, air quality, and layout can improve productivity by up to 11%.
Steelcase research shows that employees in well-designed offices report higher engagement and overall well-being—which also improves retention.
I’ve seen this with our own commercial clients: when the space works, employees feel more energized, collaborate more naturally, and actually want to be there.
2. Resale Value in Homes
This residential remodel project we completed in North Scottsdale serves as a short-term rental property when the California-based owners aren’t using it.
For homeowners, smart design can be one of the best investments you make. According to the National Association of Realtors’ Remodeling Impact Report, many common interior upgrades carry a strong ROI:
Kitchen Remodel → ~60–80% ROI
Bathroom Remodel → ~57–70% ROI
Hardwood Floor Refinish → ~147–152% ROI
New Hardwood Floors → ~118% ROI
Lighting Upgrades → ~50–70% ROI
Interior Paint → ~107% ROI
Energy-Efficient Windows → ~68–75% ROI
The takeaway? Thoughtful improvements don’t just serve you while you live in your home—they add serious value when it’s time to sell.
3. Customer Retention for Businesses
If you own a restaurant, retail shop, or service-based business, your space is part of your brand.
A study by Shop! (the retail design association) found 63% of customers are more likely to return to stores with great design and atmosphere.
Restaurants with intentional seating, lighting, and acoustics see not only happier guests but also higher revenue per square foot.
Design creates an experience. If people feel good in your space, they’ll come back—and they’ll bring others with them.
4. Returns Beyond the Numbers
Some benefits are harder to measure but just as powerful:
Smarter layouts save time and make daily life easier.
Calming, organized spaces reduce stress.
Natural light, ergonomic furniture, and sustainable materials support wellness.
Strong design tells your story and sets you apart.
After 15 years in this industry, I can say without a doubt: thoughtful design changes the way people live, work, and connect.
Ready to See the ROI of Great Design?
Whether it’s your home or your business, design is one of the smartest investments you can make. At Mackenzie Collier Interiors, we specialize in creating beautiful, functional spaces that give back—day after day, year after year.
👉 Book a Discovery Call today