How to Design Your Airbnb Like a Pro: The PWD Process

How to Design Your Airbnb Like a Pro: The PWD Process

Designing an entire Airbnb or boutique hotel can feel like an overwhelming task, but it doesn’t have to be! With a clear plan and step-by-step process, you can transform any property into a high-performing, guest-ready space that stands out in the crowded short-term rental market.

Here's our insider guide to tackling an STR design from start to finish—complete with pro tips and examples from our own projects:

 

Step 1: Define Your Design Concept 

Start by developing a clear design concept. This step ensures that every decision, big or small, aligns with your property's goals and target audience.

a. Start with Your Target Guest: Who are you designing for? Families, couples, remote workers, or large groups? Understanding your target audience will guide everything from furniture choices to amenities.

b. Incorporate Local Flavor: Consider elements that reflect your property’s location, like local art, color palettes, or nods to regional culture.

c. Define the Experience: Is your property a cozy retreat, a vibrant city escape, or a luxurious getaway? Establishing this identity upfront creates cohesion throughout the design.

    Pro Tip: At PWD, we use this stage to also brainstorm key “wow” moments. These are the Instagrammable touches or unique features that make a property stand out online and in guest reviews.

     

    Example: Check out this inspo for a PWD project in Texas! 

     

    Step 2: Map Out Your Space with Smart Planning

    Smart space planning ensures every square foot of your property is optimized for comfort, practicality, and guest appeal. We also use this step to strategically increase guest occupancy and prioritize amenities.

    For clients working with us, we recommend getting a Matterport scan. This enables our team to conduct a virtual walkthrough and fully grasp the layout and flow of the space.

    Pro Tip: Once you have the correct measurements, we recommend using a tool to develop floor plans and space plans. We personally use SketchUp to visualize designs to scale, experiment with furniture configurations, and ensure the space includes all the amenities guests expect during their stay.

     

    Example: Space Planning for White Birch Cabin

     

    Step 3: Create a Cohesive Vision with Mood Boards

    With a vision and target audience in mind, begin sourcing items that bring your design to life. Mood boards are a fantastic way to ensure all elements work together seamlessly. At PWD, we use Canva and Photoshop to create detailed mood boards for every room. This step ensures cohesion across furniture, decor, and other design elements.

    Pro Tip: Input floor plans, furniture dimensions, wallpaper square footage, and room budgets directly into your mood board to ensure nothing is overlooked.

     

    Example: From The Tulsa Manor

     

    Check out more mood boards we created for The Tulsa Manor! 

     

    PS—Have you joined our mailing list? PWD Academy members recently received four FREE mood boards as part of a holiday bonus! Join The PWD Academy and get your copy, plus more exclusive bonuses in the future.

     

    Step 4: Prepare a Streamlined Order Sheet

    An organized order sheet ensures no item is forgotten or overlooked.

    What We Use: We start with Excel, then transition to platforms like Minoan* for simplified ordering, inventory tracking, and easy returns.

    Pro Tip: Stay flexible. Out-of-stock items happen, so have backup options ready.

      *Note: Minoan is available for our clients in the United States only.

       

      Step 5: Bring The Design to Life

      With your order sheet complete, it’s time to purchase your items and bring your design to life!

      Staging Essentials: Placement matters! Thoughtful staging elevates your property and creates those Instagrammable moments guests love.

      When you purchase a PWD package, you’ll receive detailed instructions on how to stage each room—from throw pillow placement, exact heights to hang all artwork and curtain rods, to which decor to showcase and Airbnb essentials to tuck away. These finishing touches are what elevate your property into the top 1% of the market.

      Pro Tip: Focus on guest comfort. Include amenities like high-quality linens, local touches, and curated decor that tell a story. 


        The Pink Wall Difference: Why Design Matters for Your STR

        Your design isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about creating an experience that guests will rave about. We work with a variety of clients and can customize our services to your unique goals. Explore our services here.

         

        Let’s Design Your Next Dream Short-Term Rental!

        Whether you’re preparing your first Airbnb or revamping an existing one, Pink Wall Designs is here to make the process smooth and stress-free. Let’s turn your vision into reality—book a complimentary consultation with us today!

         

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