5 Design Tips to Make your Airbnb Stand Out

Whether you already list your investment property on Airbnb or you are just thinking about creating a listing for your own home, there are a few things you should know.

Have a quick look at the holiday rentals available around your neighbourhood and you’ll see that the competition out there is real. And being able to stand out from the crowd is even more important when you’re just starting and need to collect those valuable reviews. But there’s a great way to make your property shine out like a diamond: interior design!

To help you on your way, we’ve asked our Airbnb expert aka Milray Park Designer Mardi Mason, to share her best design tips to make your Airbnb catch any eye, secure glowing reviews, better ratings and best of all, more bookings!

Follow these 5 tips and in no time you’ll be a Superhost.

Clever design in use of space | Credit Airbnb

Sundrenched living spaces | Credit Airbnb

Private deck with hanging chairs | Credit: Airbnb

When it comes down to styling properties for Airbnb, what are some crucial things to keep in mind?

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#1 First Impressions

Decorate and style the property to feel luxurious and inviting. You want guests to feel like they’re staying in a hotel, not someone’s house. Keep the colour palette simple and clutter to a minimum, this will create a refined feel and only put items in the space that guests will use.

#2 Select a style that reflects the rental’s location

Make guests feel like they’re totally immersed in the location of their holiday by styling the property to reflect its surroundings. You could opt for a coastal style for a beachside holiday rental for example. You can also take this further by sourcing furnishings and art from local creatives.

A Quintessential Melbourne Pad in North Carlton styled by Milray Park Designer Mardi Mason

Mardi went for a monochrome and contemporary look that reflects Melbourne’s vibes

#3 Functionality and durability

All pieces should be sourced to withstand the wear and tear of a rental property. Make sure the furniture you select suits the number of people the property sleeps. You should have enough lounges and dining chairs to seat everyone comfortably. Look at selecting fabrics with a commercial rating. Maximise revenue by including a sofa bed instead of a normal sofa.

Milray Park Designer Mardi Mason transformed a classic Airbnb listing into an outstanding home away from home in Melbourne inner city.

#4 Anticipate your guest’s needs

Other than furniture, you’ll be best to think about all the other things you could do to make your guests feel comfortable. Make sure the kitchen is properly equipped, have a detailed welcome book with information on local activities and relevant accessories like beach towels, umbrellas, maps, toys and kids’ furniture etc.

When functionality meets comfortability | Design Mardi Mason

A dash of pink to complete the moody colour scheme | Design Mardi Mason

Greenery is always on point! | Design Mardi Mason

#5 Invest in some professional photography

Guests will choose to stay with you based on the images they see online so make sure the photos communicate the space. So I always recommend using a professional photographer.

Need some help revamping your Airbnb listing? Get started on your design project on Milray Park now and seriously step up your Airbnb game!

Milray Park gives all Australians access to personalised interior design services for one simple $299 flat-fee price.

Learn How it works and Get started on your design project.