James Kuester is the founder and principal designer of Küster Design, a boutique interior and experiential design studio for independent inns, lodges, and boutique hotels under 50 rooms.

His path into hospitality began with a Master's thesis comparing Hilton's corporate design approach with two independent properties, and the gap between a brand's promise and a guest's experience has shaped his work ever since. Alongside full design engagements, he leads the Guest Experience by Design Critique, staying overnight as a guest to document what a property is really saying, and speaks to owners and associations, including ALP Unlocked, on high-impact changes that often cost little or nothing.

Today, James helps independent owners design for how guests actually feel, from the light and the quiet to the bath and the small details that let someone exhale. He serves as Director and Treasurer of the Association of Lodging Professionals.