The demand for serviced apartments and short-term holiday lets has increased considerably over the past few years, giving stiff competition to traditional hotels. Whether it’s the convenience of more space, enhanced privacy, or other benefits like a dedicated kitchen and cookware to save on dining out, platforms like Airbnb, Vrbo, etc., have transformed the holiday experience for travellers.
From the charming villages of the Cotswolds to the coasts of Cornwall and across London, private landlords and investors in the UK are noticing the advantages of providing top-quality residences for short-term stays. Prime neighbourhoods in the capital, like Notting Hill and Kensington, are some of the most sought-after for Airbnb bookings. They have a high occupancy rate of over 80% and average nightly rates of over £184.
As many landlords realise the potential benefits of listing their properties as short-term holiday lets, a few considerations will ensure they perform well and deliver the expected results.
Why must Airbnb properties stand out?
Travel habits have evolved over the past decade as tourists increasingly prioritise unique, design-led spaces that offer comfort with a touch of luxurious living. In a competitive hospitality and rental market like London, making your Airbnb stand out from the regular serviced apartments is essential to ensure quick bookings and positive guest reviews or feedback.
From thoughtful, open layouts to premium furnishings and exclusive decor themes, working towards creating a bespoke aesthetic can do wonders for the marketability and performance of a short let. Remember, your property is more than just a home away from home. It’s an experience and an opportunity for guests to create cherished memories.
What makes a short-term let successful?
For a short-term let to thrive on platforms like Airbnb, hosts must prioritise features that enhance guest experience. Focus on design innovations like providing a unique colour theme or statement artwork that stands out in the pictures and videos shared on listing websites. You can also optimise the property’s layout by utilising under-stairs storage space or creating a functional workspace, which guests will surely appreciate.
Adding literature such as books and city guides or installing artwork featuring famous monuments and native culture can incorporate local characters into your property and make guests feel welcome. For London properties with scenic riverfront and city skyline views, adding outdoor furniture with appropriate window dressings allows guests to enjoy a property to its fullest. Finally, comfort is a top priority, and ensuring high-speed broadband, Wi-Fi, ambient lighting, dedicated workspaces, and a stocked kitchen are the finishing touches that make a stay truly memorable.
Airbnb furnishing essentials: A quick visual guide
Title: The Airbnb Design Formula: 5 Essentials to Maximise Bookings & ROI
Flexible Layouts
- Select multi-functional furniture pieces for compact spaces
- Foldable beds and desks to optimise space when not required
- Modular storage options for neat presentations
Durable, Stylish Furniture
- Opt for easy-to-clean, stain-resistant fabrics
- Invest in scratch-proof surfaces for long-lasting appeal
- Prioritise quality products that can endure high booking volumes
Local Styling Touches
- Add artwork and showpieces by local artists and artisans
- Regional representation in colour and broader interior themes
- Add a personalised area guide of top attractions nearby
Lighting Layers
- Ensure seamless coordination between the ceiling, task and ambient lights
- Use energy-efficient light bulbs that set the right mood
- Opt for warmer tones to create a cosy and welcoming vibe
Soft Furnishings and Comfort Additions
- Choose stylish layer throws, cushions and textured rugs
- Add blackout curtains and sleek blinds to ensure privacy
- Enhance soft decor with attractive upholstery and table linens
Real-life Airbnb case studies: From vacant to booked
As a London-based interior design and furnishing expert, InStyle Direct has transformed hundreds of properties into stylish, sought-after holiday homes. Here are some stand-out case studies and success stories where hosts have witnessed immediate results with our dedicated Airbnb furniture packs.
i. Transformation of a one-bed apartment for an overseas host
An overseas property owner with a one-bed apartment on Campden Street in Notting Hill contacted us to deliver a quick turnaround. Led by our Diamond Furniture Package for a superior aesthetic, we chose a warm palette of sage green with elegant black finishes to create an inviting and neutral theme.
In addition to new furniture and painting, this ground-level apartment also needed layout changes, including replacing the narrow front and bathroom doors and adding new window dressing features to elevate the overall look. While the entire project was managed remotely for the overseas client, this apartment was booked on Airbnb just one week after completion.
ii. Enhanced appeal for an Airbnb host in Notting Hill
The Pembridge is a high-end development in Notting Hill, and when the owner of a short-term let contacted us to improve the functionality of a one-bed apartment, we knew exactly what was needed. Prioritising comfort and style, the furnishings were led by our hybrid Gold and Diamond Furniture Packages.
Layout enhancement efforts included adding earthy tones to create a warm interior while soft finishes and sleek, space-saving units enhanced overall functionality. The client was impressed with the quick turnaround and elevated appeal that positioned the holiday home for a quick let.
iii. ROI-focused transformation for a three-bedroom penthouse
An Airbnb host with a three-bedroom seaside penthouse in Kent sought a cost-effective interior upgrade to boost bookings. Proceeding with our Gold Furniture Package, we added beautiful soft furnishings with trendy lights and local artwork to give the space a personalised character.
While a cosy green sofa with durable and easy-to-clean fabrics was ideal for recurring bookings, thoughtful storage solutions kept the interiors clutter-free. The result was a quick reservation just a week after completing the project.
Why do Airbnb clients choose InStyle Direct?
ROI-focused design and furnishing solutions are key to success as an Airbnb host or landlord of a short-term rental property. At InStyle Direct, we understand the needs of different types of vacationers and customise our furniture packages and services to create bespoke home interiors that stand out and justify the premiums applied to them.
For landlords, this one-stop approach of getting furnishing, refurbishments and renovations under one roof is both hassle-free and cost-effective. Backed by a team of expert designers, project managers, architects and other skilled professionals, InStyle Direct has a proven track record of over 20 years of delivering exceptional client results. Contact us today if you have a short-term let or Airbnb home that you want to get ready before the next holiday season.
