In the vacation rental market, standing out above the competition is key. But, with so much competition out there, having a story is so important. In this article, you’ll learn some actionable ways to make your Airbnb really a one-of-a-kind destination!
I recently interviewed Amanda Holstein, a talented Interior Designer + Digital Marketer from the Bay area. She specializes in creating dreamy vacation rental spaces for her clients, which are oh so beautifully styled and Instagramable! Let’s find out some of her best tips to help make your Airbnb a one-of-a-kind destination!
Tell us a little about you!
Hi, I’m Amanda! I live in a beautiful little town called Mill Valley – just outside San Francisco, and about 15 min from the Pacific Ocean. Over the last 3 years, my husband and I completely renovated our 1950s cabin (tons of photos in my feed!) into our little beach home. After 10 years of creating digital content for brands like Anthropologie, World market & Amazon, and building 2 brands of my own (@advicefroma20something + @advicefroma30something), I’ve taken my marketing & styling background and turned it into an interior design biz!
As an Interior designer and digital marketer, you definitely have an eye for detail, what tips can you give to hosts about branding/ re-branding their Airbnbs?
It’s important that you start with a solid concept — a sort of “theme” that captures your property’s story. Once you know what that story is and what message you want to get across to your guests, then you can start incorporating that into your design. Don’t just look at your property as a place for guests to crash. Think of it as an entire experience for travelers visiting your city. Better yet, think of it as a unique destination that people from around the world want to stay in because your property is just that special.
How important is having a brand image for your Airbnb what steps can hosts take to achieve this?
If you want your property to stand out in a crowded market, be memorable among its competitors, and to become a one-of-a-kind destination, then it’s incredibly important to have a brand identity for your Airbnb. I would begin with a brand identity exercise to really nail down your concept.
What advice can you give hosts to make their property a one-of-kind destination?
Think outside the box! Design your space with a standout feature, a spot that everyone wants to share on Instagram when they visit. Whether that be a unique wall mural, a meditation room, or a special architectural element, it really depends on your space and your brand. The important thing is that these features make sense for your property and your story.
Your Interior design company offers services for both small to full renovations of Airbnbs, with beautiful modern results. What can hosts expect to gain from professional design and branding?
The end goal of working with me on the design and branding of your property is to truly make a business out of your Airbnb. By creating a solid brand strategy for your property and designing your space to reflect that, you’ll be equipped to grow your online presence, and increase your ratings, your bookings, and even your nightly rate. Bringing out the full potential of your Airbnb and creating a holistic experience for your guests will turn your rental into a successful business.
Are the costs of using a designer much higher than a regular renovation and furnishings?
No, they’re not much different! I include Brand Strategy as a step in my design process. I always do the math to show you what your investment will get you and exactly how much more money you’ll be able to earn. You’ll basically be getting an entire business makeover for an investment that you’ll earn back within months. I also offer additional services, such as styling & photography, and guest experience that you can add on.
As for the way pricing works, every interior designer is different. I offer packages that make things a bit more simple. You can view more information on them right here. If you’d like to inquire about how much your specific project would cost, then book a call with me right here! Let’s turn your Airbnb into something spectacular, unlike any other property out there!
Thank you Amanda for sharing your insight and advice with us! You’ve shared some really valuable advice with our hosting community!
P.s To grab MammaMode’s free Airbnb Shopping List “The Essentials” click here! It’s filled with tips and tricks for hosts and a room-by-room checklist!
No Comments