Designing an Airbnb

I was recently tasked with outfitting two Apartment Units in Center City Philadelphia for Parallel Travel.  The units are now up and running as Airbnb units.  This project had me thinking about what to consider when designing an Airbnb space.

The first thing to consider is Your audience.  Start by identifying your ideal guests. Who do you want to host in your property? Are you appealing to families, business travelers, weekend warriors, or budget-minded backpackers?  Once you understand the needs of your core audience, you can create a listing they find irresistible. This leads to more bookings and a higher Airbnb income. Invest in items that appeal to your potential guests. For example, business travelers appreciate a workspace and printer. If you live by the beach, provide beach toys and chairs. Some hosts even offer free iPhones to international travelers.  It's about providing extra amenities to enhance your guest's stay.

When it comes to the décor of the space, it’s worth making the effort to create the perfect ambiance for your guests.  Airbnb guests are seeking a unique experience. They don’t want a cookie cutter hotel room. Your goal is to create an authentic, local getaway. You can do this by integrating aspects of the surrounding area into your rental property.  For the units I designed, I utilized the photography of Philadelphia local, Dan Vallacchi.  He has a creative eye and his photographs of Philadelphia were the perfect addition to each of the spaces.  Instagram handle:  @thedvent

Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Select neutral colors for walls and natural woods for furnishings. This ensures that your decor appeals to the greatest number of people.
• Choose accent pieces to add character. Start with one statement piece such as a painting, colorful piece of furniture, or accessory. Use this statement piece to select complementary colors for other items in the room.
• Use a variety of textures to add interest. Decorative fabrics can be used in throw pillows, slipcovers, window coverings, and wall hangings.
• Maximize your number of beds to increase rental income. For example, always provide a pull out sofa in the living room. This ensures that even a one bedroom unit can accommodate at least four.  
• Fragrance.  Everyone loves a good smelling apartment and there is no exception with Airbnb units.  An easy way to ensure that your unit smells welcoming is to use Scentsy plug in air refreshers.  Scentsy are wickless candles and scented fragrance wax for electric candle warmers and scented natural oils and diffusers.  To purchase, visit:   www.denisehurler.scentsy.us/
• Hang mirrors in strategic spots to add light and make your place appear more spacious. 
• Eliminate unnecessary clutter. You may have a collection of anime figurines, but chances are the vacationing Japanese anime enthusiast market is small.
• Remove personal items such as family photos, clothing, and toiletries.
• Avoid any religious or political pieces. The goal is to make every guest feel comfortable and at home.
• Don’t invest in antique or high-end furniture.  You don't need to spend a fortune to achieve a high end look.

Want to stay in one of these two units?