The Top Design Features that will Get Your Airbnb Noticed
First impressions matter. A well-thought-out design, with luxurious touches, creates a memorable experience for your guests. This provides a highly valuable service which justifies higher nightly rates compared to generic accommodations. When the Air BnB feels like a luxury hotel or home, you make a lasting impression on the guests, and they'll remember you for future visits and friends who are looking for accommodation in the future.
Tip #1: Design with a Target Guest Top of Mind
It's always a good idea to pick a specific target demographic that you want staying at your Air BnB. Choose something that makes sense for where it's located and what the city has to offer. Then, tailor the design for their specific needs. Pay attention to detail for what that ideal guest needs. Is it great WIFI and a place to work, a playroom, a fenced backyard, suggestions for local restaurants, shops or spas? Make it easy to access everything they may need for their stay. This creates memorable experiences for them and gets you glowing reviews!
Tip #2: Furnish with Longevity at the Forefront
A great Air BnB sees a lot of traffic and you want everything in the space to be durable so that it has a long and happy life! Designing with high-quality, easy-to-clean finishes reduces maintenance costs and keeps your property looking new for longer. These include items like Porcelain & Ceramic tiles or Engineered Hardwoods for flooring and Quartz or Butcher block for countertops. You also want furniture that is made of solid wood or has sturdy metal frames. The upholstery needs to be a performance material that is machine washable or easy to spot clean. Designing with durability in mind is a large investment up front that saves you money in the long run.
Tip #3: Create Spaces with Multiple Functions
When a guest is booking an Air BnB, they're looking for a full experience and want to feel like they're at home. Having multi-use spaces can enhance this experience. For example, having a guest room or corner of the living room function for a working professional with an office set-up would be a huge benefit. Or a loft becomes a playroom and a sleeping space when there's a large number of guests staying there. Make sure the dining room has a large table that can fit board games and easily see the TV so that a casual night of entertainment is a breeze. Having a space that is designed for people to live there, even if just temporarily, will make a difference for your guests.
Tip #4: Bear in Mind that Bedding & Linens Matter
The bedroom and what your guests sleep on is supremely important. You should have top-notch mattresses, and the sheets should feel like a dream. Look for sheets that are a type of cotton, linen or bamboo viscose sheet with a good thread count. A quality duvet with a down-alternative fill with a cotton or linen cover gives you ease for cleaning and a luxurious look and feel. You want the bedroom to feel like a retreat so investing in this space is a wise move.
Tip #5: Opt to Accommodate with Storage Space
Another way to pay attention to details and enhance a guest's stay is when you meet their potential storage needs. For instance, have a console table or hooks by the front door for keys, jackets and purses. In each bedroom there should be a convenient spot to put the suitcase and unpack their bags. The bathroom should have a nice toothbrush holder and a good place to put their toiletry bags. Make sure there's room in the pantry and fridge for them to put their personal groceries in while they're there. Think through this in each room you have and provide something specific and you're sure to impress your guests.
Whether you're doing a full renovation or simply furnishing your Air BnB, some easy adjustments can be made to really wow your guests and keep them coming back again and again! Pick a target demographic and select quality furnishing materials to create a luxurious and durable environment for your guests. Then be considerate as your walk through each space and make sure it functions well for their use and storage needs. Making these adjustments will really help you make it to the next price tier and make your business more successful because of their fabulous experience.
If you would love a design professional's help taking your property to the next level (or price tier), let's chat!
Until next time,
Marcie