At Hotelise, we believe that a well-designed vacation rental is the key to getting more bookings. After all, first impressions are everything. If guests are not impressed by the pictures of your property or if your entryway does not make them feel at home, they are less likely to book your vacation rental. This is why we attended “An Interior Designer’s Guide to Creating a Bookable Space,” a webinar hosted by Avalara MyLodgeTax, featuring Kylee Trunck, an online interior design expert from Havenly.
Here are some of the top tips from Kylee to create a vacation rental that guests cannot resist. Even if you are not an interior designer, you can use these tips to create a space that feels like home away from home.
1. Personalize Your Vacation Rental
When it comes to vacation rentals, one size does not fit all. Guests who opt for vacation rentals over hotels typically expect a unique experience that reflects the local area. However, many vacation rental owners fall into the trap of using generic furniture and decor that can be found anywhere. If you want your guests to feel like they are truly experiencing the region, it's important to inject some personality into your vacation rental.
One way to do this is by incorporating unique items that are representative of the local area. For instance, if you own a beach house, consider using driftwood or shells as decorative accents. Artwork from local painters or photographers can also be a great way to add a personal touch to your vacation rental. By using these unique items, you can create a space that truly reflects the region and its culture.
But injecting personality into your vacation rental doesn't just mean using unique items. You can also incorporate colors and patterns that reflect your personal style and the local area. For example, if you live in a region with bright, vibrant colors, consider using bold patterns and colors in your decor. Alternatively, if you prefer a more minimalist style, stick to simple, clean lines and muted colors.
By personalizing your vacation rental in this way, you're creating a space that feels like home to your guests. It's not just a place to stay - it's an experience. And that's what will keep guests coming back time and time again.
2. Pay Attention to Lighting
When it comes to creating a comfortable and inviting vacation rental space, lighting is an essential aspect that should not be overlooked. Proper lighting can enhance the ambiance of your rental and create the perfect mood for your guests. Consider using a variety of lighting types such as ceiling lights, table lamps, floor lamps, and even string lights to create a warm and welcoming environment.
Bright overhead lighting is essential in areas like the kitchen and dining room, where guests will need to see clearly for cooking and dining. However, when it comes to the bedroom and living areas, softer lighting is more appropriate for creating a cozy and relaxing atmosphere. Dimmer switches can be a great option for allowing guests to adjust the lighting to their liking, depending on the time of day and their activity.
To create a truly unique and memorable experience, you can also experiment with colored lights, accent lighting, or even installing a statement piece like a chandelier or pendant light. These small details can make a significant impact on the overall look and feel of your vacation rental property.
When it comes to lighting your vacation rental, the possibilities are endless. Whether you want to create a warm and inviting atmosphere or a modern and chic space, the right lighting can make all the difference.
3. Declutter Your Space
Decluttering your space is an essential aspect of interior design that can significantly impact your guests' comfort and overall experience. Too much clutter can be overwhelming and make your rental feel cramped, which can negatively affect your guests' perception of your property. Therefore, it's crucial to ensure that everything is organized and that you keep your property neat and tidy.
One effective way to declutter your space is by getting rid of any unnecessary items that take up space. Consider investing in multi-functional furniture that can serve multiple purposes and free up more space. For instance, you could purchase a sofa bed or a storage ottoman to provide additional seating while also offering extra storage space.
Another thing to keep in mind when decluttering your space is to avoid displaying too many personal items or family photos. While you may want to personalize your rental space, it's best to keep it neutral to make your guests feel more comfortable. Consider limiting the number of family photos you display to avoid reminding your guests that they are staying in someone else's home.
Overall, decluttering your space can help create a more inviting and relaxing atmosphere, making your guests feel at home during their stay. By keeping your property neat and tidy, you can also show that you care about their comfort and well-being, which can lead to more positive reviews and repeat bookings in the future.
4. Incorporate Eye-Catching Wall Art
Wall art can be a great way to add personality and style to your vacation rental. It's an easy way to make a statement and create a focal point in the room. Plus, it's an opportunity to show off your taste and creativity. There are many different types of wall art to choose from, including paintings, photographs, tapestries, and more.
When choosing wall art for your vacation rental, consider the style and color scheme of the room. If the room has neutral colors, you may want to choose a bold piece of art that adds a pop of color. If the room is already colorful, you may want to choose a more subtle piece of art that complements the existing colors.
In addition to considering the style and color scheme of the room, also think about the size of the wall art. A large piece of art can make a big impact in a room, but it's important to make sure that it's in proportion to the size of the wall. Conversely, a small piece of art can get lost on a large wall.
Another thing to consider is the placement of the art. Hang it at eye level so that it's easy to see and appreciate. Also, don't be afraid to mix and match different types of wall art to create a dynamic and interesting display. By incorporating eye-catching wall art, you can add a touch of sophistication and creativity to your vacation rental, and help to attract more bookings.
5. Create a Comfortable Layout
When it comes to creating a comfortable and inviting space, the layout is just as important as the furniture itself. As a vacation rental owner, you want to ensure that your guests feel at home and have a space where they can unwind and enjoy their stay.
One way to achieve this is by putting some thought into the layout of your rental space. Rather than simply filling the room with furniture, take the time to consider how guests will use the space. Will they gather around a central focal point, like a coffee table or fireplace, or will they need ample space to move around and socialize?
Arranging seating around a central focal point not only encourages guests to gather and enjoy each other's company, but it also creates a sense of coziness and intimacy. For example, a well-designed living room with ample seating invites guests to relax and unwind, making them more likely to book your vacation rental again in the future.
In addition to arranging furniture around a central focal point, consider the flow of the room. Are there any obstacles that guests might trip over or bump into? Are there areas of the room that feel cramped or cluttered? By optimizing the flow of your rental space, you can ensure that guests feel comfortable and at ease throughout their stay.
Ultimately, creating a comfortable layout requires a balance between functionality and style. You want to provide guests with a space that is not only practical but also visually appealing. By taking the time to consider the layout of your vacation rental space, you can create a warm and inviting atmosphere that guests will love and remember for years to come.
6. Invest in Quality Furnishings
Investing in quality furnishings is an essential step in creating a successful vacation rental. While it may be tempting to cut corners on costs and opt for inexpensive linens and furniture, doing so will ultimately cost you more in the long run. Low-cost materials are prone to wear and tear, leading to frequent replacements and unhappy guests.
When furnishing your rental, consider investing in durable, high-quality materials that can withstand the test of time. Not only will they last longer, but they'll also create a more luxurious and comfortable atmosphere for your guests. Quality linens, sturdy furniture, and warm blankets are all important basics to start with.
Of course, investing in quality furnishings can come with a higher price tag. If you're on a tight budget, focus on the essentials first and gradually add luxury items over time as you earn more from your bookings. Consider prioritizing the areas of your rental that will have the most impact on guest satisfaction, such as comfortable mattresses and seating, and high-quality linens and towels.
When it comes to decor, choose timeless pieces that will appeal to a wide range of guests. Avoid trends and flashy designs that may quickly go out of style, as this can make your rental feel outdated and unappealing. Instead, opt for classic pieces that are both functional and stylish, such as neutral-colored sofas and chairs, simple yet elegant artwork, and soft lighting.
Remember, the quality of your furnishings can make or break the guest experience. By investing in high-quality materials and prioritizing guest comfort, you'll create a vacation rental that guests will want to return to time and time again.
HOTELISE.COM
Hotelise.com is a young and creative company that started three years ago and has rapidly expanded to three cities in Armenia. Recently, we have started working in Glendale, California, as well. We are proud to be partners of Marriott homes and villas and strive to provide our clients with the best possible hosting experience.
At Hotelise.com, we understand that interior design plays a critical role in creating a successful vacation rental. It is all about creating a comfortable, inviting atmosphere that encourages guests to book your property again and again. By implementing the tips we've provided above, you can create a special space that guests will love and feel at home in.
From investing in quality furnishings and personalized decor to creating a comfortable layout and keeping your space clutter-free, there are many ways to make your vacation rental stand out. By paying attention to the small details, you can elevate your property to a whole new level.
At Hotelise.com, we pride ourselves on providing hassle-free hosting services to our clients.
We understand that managing a vacation rental can be overwhelming and time-consuming, which is why we take care of everything from marketing and booking to cleaning and maintenance. With us on your side, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the profits.
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