The Key Differences Between Designing for STR and Personal Homes

Designing a space for an Airbnb or short-term rental (STR) is a whole different ball game compared to designing for someone's personal home. While personal homes reflect the taste and preferences of their inhabitants, short-term rentals need to appeal to a broader audience and withstand the wear and tear of frequent guests. Here’s a closer look at the fundamental differences and why specialized STR design is crucial for maximizing both guest satisfaction and ROI.

Practicality Over Personalization

A primary distinction lies in the level of personalization. When designing a home, it’s all about the homeowner’s unique taste, incorporating personalized decor, special mementos, and unique pieces that reflect their personality. However, in an STR, the design needs to be more universal.

Why? Guests value a clean, comfortable, and uncluttered space more than personalized knickknacks. They aim to feel at home without being overwhelmed with someone else’s personal items. The mantra for STR design is “less is more,” but that doesn't mean devoid of personality. Thoughtfully chosen elements can catch the eye and make the space unique and beautiful without cluttering it.”

Durability and Ease of Maintenance

In a personal home, you might opt for delicate fabrics and intricate decor. However, for a short-term rental, durability is key. Furnishings need to be as damage-proof as possible and easily cleanable. This means selecting hard-wearing materials and finishes that can handle frequent cleaning and occasional bumps or scrapes.

Functional and Thoughtful Furnishing

Another significant difference is the emphasis on functionality. STR guests are looking for practical solutions:

Bedside Tables and Lamps: Guests expect a bedside table and lamp on both sides of a bed that accommodates two people.

Adequate Seating: Ensure that the living and dining areas have enough seating to comfortably accommodate the number of guests the property can sleep. It doesn’t make sense to list for eight guests if your dining table only seats four.

This focus on functionality means you must put yourself in the shoes of both guests and hosts, ensuring the space meets practical needs without compromising on style.

Flexibility and Customization

A good STR designer adapts designs to suit the uniqueness of each listing and the aesthetic preferences of the host rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach. Some properties might only need minor tweaks like rearranging furniture, adding some colorful throw rugs to liven up a monochrome space, or improving lighting. Others could require a full redesign.

Educating and Partnering with Hosts

A big part of our job involves educating hosts on where to invest their money. Hard-working, high-use pieces need to be durable, while there may be areas where the budget can be more flexible. We also provide a detailed checklist so hosts have all the information they need upfront and feel in control of the whole process.

Ultimately, partnering with hosts ensures that the property is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional and ready to impress guests, leading to higher satisfaction rates and better ROI.

Conclusion

The goal of designing for a short-term rental is to create a versatile, inviting space that attracts guests and stands up to frequent use. By focusing on practicality, durability, and functionality while maintaining a stylish appearance, we can enhance guest experiences, leading to higher ratings and returns for hosts. Remember, a well-designed STR is not just about looking good—it’s about creating an experience that feels good for every guest who walks through the door.

Ready to transform your short-term rental into a guest magnet?

Our expert STR design services will deliver exactly that—a beautiful, functional, and resilient space tailored to your unique needs. Don’t wait to boost your ROI and guest satisfaction. Fill out our questionnaire today and tell us about your property. Let's get started on creating a stunning space that draws guests in and keeps them coming back!

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