How to style your home like an award winning AirBnB
- Written by Casey McPhail
When someone is looking for a memorable get-away, part of the joy of the experience lies in where they will be staying. Airbnb has provided numerous opportunities for people to have unique experiences, which is brilliant. If you are someone who wants to Airbnb your home, but you also want to command a good price, here are some tips for styling your home for your guests to make it stand out from the rest.
Tune into your location
Do you live in a particularly unique location? Whether you live on the beach, on a farm or even in a neighbourhood with a common trend, styling your place to reflect its suburb is a trend that some of the leading AirBnB’s apply to their properties. For example, if you live by the coast you can opt for a seaside, Hamptons style vibe using light colours and timbers mixed with soft pastels and linen textures. An oversized light-coloured couch with a wicker rug and big pots is a good start if you are looking for this vibe. However, if you are in a farm stay or country environment, you may prefer to go for a more rustic look. Think unique mirrors and wall art, along with recycled timber with metal accents. Here are some examples from the McPhails Rustic Collection which we have both created and curated. Many of these pieces have been made with Airbnbs in mind.
Never underestimate convenience
Typically when someone is looking to hire a property out for a holiday stay, one of the deciding factors will be convenience! Does this property have what I need? For example, do you have enough storage, as people don’t like to have clutter lying around. Will it benefit you to have a sofa bed rather than a standard sofa in case they have kids or additional people staying. If you provide a seamless experience for someone, they are more likely to book you and give you a good review.
Furniture is key
Of course, the first thing you see in a home is its furniture! Decking your house out with unique pieces, particularly of good quality is key to making your home feel like a holiday. McPhails offer a wide variety of furniture that leading AirBnB’s use to transform their spaces into getaways, perfect for families or couples. The key things to think of when purchasing furniture is whether it is good quality, does it look nice and whether it is functional.
Have a focal point in each space.
A good stylist will often have a focal point in each space to interest the eye of your guests. It may be an artwork, a unique bookshelf, a massive Hamptons style sofa, or even an egg chair on your deck. When styling each room, think of the best way you can add a “wow” factor to the room.
Small Touches
Never underestimate the power of a small touch in a property. This can be as small as the scent, the paint colour or even the finishes such as cushions, candles and art. Working different pieces together can transform your home into a completely different space and feel, allowing any visitor to instantly be reminded of their next holiday!
De-clutter
Many people will feel anxious if they walk into a space that is cluttered and messy. Make sure you de-clutter and have everything stored and organised for your guests. A neutral colour palate also helps to make a place feel inviting and neat.
A functional layout
Make sure the layout of your furniture makes sense, and make sure there is enough seating for your guests so everyone can be comfortable.
Casey McPhail is the co-owner of McPhails Furniture, a family furniture company based in Victoria. They have helped to style and provide pieces to some of the local Airbnb businesses in the Bright area, and a bunch of them have won some major awards.
