Today we’d like to introduce you to Taylor Hudson.
Hi Taylor, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Oof, that’s a long story—so here’s the cliff notes version!
I was hired into the hospitality design industry by my now-business partner, Franciska, in June of 2020. We instantly clicked—the perfect yin and yang team—but we found ourselves in a less-than-ideal work environment. I’ll spare the details, but it eventually led us both to leave that firm and start our own company… after knowing each other for only three months!
We launched 21FHD, a boutique interior design firm focused on the hospitality industry, in late 2020 and officially debuted in 2021. Yes—during the pandemic, when travel was still very uncertain. But we believed in our mission and built an incredible network of industry professionals that brought us to where we are today.
After four years, a failed collaboration with a larger firm, and many sleepless and stressful nights… we finally landed the big project. The one that changed everything.
The best part? The opportunity came just in time—right when we had exhausted every resource and every last drop of patience from our families (without whom we wouldn’t have made it).
So all that to say: if you believe in it, keep going. Your moment is coming.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Definitely not a smooth road—but I don’t think any worthwhile journey ever is. Starting our business, 21FHD, in the middle of a global pandemic was a bold (some might say crazy) move. The hospitality industry was full of uncertainty at the time, and launching a boutique firm focused entirely on that market felt like walking a tightrope without a safety net.
In the early days, we faced everything from financial instability to imposter syndrome. We were building a brand, pitching clients, and teaching ourselves the ins and outs of being business owners. There were moments when it felt like we were pouring from an empty cup, both financially and emotionally.
One of our biggest challenges came when we partnered with a larger firm that ultimately didn’t align with our values or vision. That experience tested our resilience, but it also reminded us of the importance of staying true to ourselves and the kind of company we want to build.
It hasn’t been easy—there have been many late nights, tough decisions, and personal sacrifices—but every obstacle has shaped us and made us stronger. Looking back, I wouldn’t trade the hard parts, because they’re what got us to where we are now.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
As I said, 21FHD is a boutique interior design firm that specializes in hospitality design—think hotels, resorts, restaurants, and curated guest experiences. We design spaces that not only look beautiful but also feel intentional, immersive, and on-brand for our clients. Our work blends creativity with strategy—every design choice supports the bigger vision of guest experience, brand identity, and long-term value. Oh and did I forget to mention, sustainability?! One of our major core values!
We’re known for being small but mighty. Clients often say we bring the polish of a large agency with the heart and hustle of a boutique firm. What sets us apart is our ability to translate big ideas into functional, livable, and memorable design moments—without ever losing sight of the guest’s journey. We’re not afraid to mix vintage with new, bold with timeless, or luxury with practicality.
I’m most proud of the fact that we’ve built this business from the ground up—with no investors, no safety net, and during one of the most unstable times for our industry. We’ve created strong relationships with clients, vendors, and collaborators who trust us and return to us project after project. That’s the most validating part of it all—knowing we’re building something real, lasting, and deeply personal.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
Resilience—with a heavy dose of positivity. There have been so many moments where giving up would’ve been easier, but staying optimistic, even when things felt uncertain, helped us push through. I truly believe in looking for the silver lining, learning from every challenge, and keeping the energy hopeful. That mindset, combined with flexibility, a clear vision, and a commitment to building genuine relationships, has been key to our growth.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.21FHD.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/21_fhd
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/21-flaneur-hospitality-design/
