You’ve finally decided to rent out your Mediterranean vacation home, but now you’re wondering how to make it stand out from the rest. Well, look no further than this Vacation Rental Design Guide! With the help of these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to create a space that not only looks great but also feels like a home away from home for your guests.
Key Takeaways
- Know your ideal guests: Different guests are looking for different experiences. Your interiors need to be inviting for the right person.
- Pay attention to details: Invest in throw pillows for color and personality, and trim tags and loose threads for a polished look.
- Create a comfortable space: Choose comfortable furniture, good lighting, and colors that promote relaxation. Add personal touches for a homey feel.
- Maximize bookings: Identify your target guests, stage your property, and effectively market it through social media and online platforms.
- Invest in quality and durability: Choose durable furniture and invest in high-quality materials for linens, kitchenware, and flooring.
Understanding Vacation Rental Design
So, you’ve decided to enter the world of the vacation rental business, but you’re not sure where to start with interior design. Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Designing a vacation rental can be a daunting task, but it’s also an opportunity to create a unique and memorable experience for your guests.
Functional And Gorgeous
When it comes to vacation rental design, you want to create a space that is both functional and beautiful. Your guests are looking for a comfortable and relaxing space that feels like a home away from home.
Location
You want to create an environment that reflects the personality of your property and the location it’s in. Your visitors visit the vacation location because of the surroundings and what they can experience while they are there – your interiors should reflect that. If you’re in a beach town, consider incorporating coastal elements like blue hues and natural textures. If your vacation home is in the Pyrenees, don’t go for the beach hut look.
Experiences Tailored For the Right Guests
One of the most important things to consider when designing your vacation rental is the guest experience. You want to create a space that is comfortable and inviting, with plenty of room for guests to relax and enjoy their stay.
Think about the types of travelers you want to attract and what they are looking for in a vacation rental.
High-Quality Furnishing & Decor
Another important factor to consider is the quality of your furnishings and decor. You want to invest in durable, high-quality pieces that will stand up to the wear and tear of short-term rentals.
Ambiance
When it comes to colors and lighting, think about the mood you want to create in your space. Soft, neutral colors can create a calming and relaxing atmosphere, while bold colors can add energy and personality. Good lighting is also important, both natural and artificial.
Personal Touches – But Not Private
Don’t forget to add personal touches to your vacation rental. This can be anything from local art and souvenirs on your walls to throw pillows in fun patterns. You want to create a space that feels personal, but, there’s a fine line between personal and private.
People who visit your space want to feel it’s their own dream vacation home – keep private items such as pictures of your family to a minimum!
Designing a vacation rental is all about creating a well-thought-out space that reflects the personality of your property and the location it’s in. With a little creativity and some investment, you can create a space that will attract potential guests and increase your occupancy rate.
Creating a Comfortable Space
When it comes to vacation rental design, creating a comfortable space is essential. After all, your guests are looking for a home away from home where they can relax and unwind. Here are some tips to help you create a comfortable space that your guests will love.
Furniture and Decor
The furniture and decor you choose can have a big impact on the comfort level of your vacation rental. Opt for comfortable seating options like plush couches and chairs, and make sure there are plenty of pillows and throws for your guests to use. When it comes to decor, keep things simple and uncluttered. Too many knick-knacks can make a space feel cramped and overwhelming.
Create plenty of seating areas where your guests can hang out. Here are some ideas:
- Sectional Sofas: Sectional sofas are a great way to create a cozy seating area for your guests. They come in a variety of sizes and styles, so you can choose one that fits your space and decor.
- Armchairs Facing Each Other: This layout is built with conversation in mind; where four or more chairs are all facing each other. Keep the chairs off the wall to make room for walking behind them.
- Bean Bag Chairs: Bean bag chairs are a fun and casual seating option that can be easily moved around to create different seating arrangements.
- Floor Pillows: Floor pillows are a comfortable and low-cost seating option that can be used in a variety of ways. They can be stacked to create a makeshift sofa or spread out to create an informal seating area.
- Outdoor Seating: If you have a patio or outdoor space, consider adding some outdoor seating options. Adirondack chairs, hammocks, and outdoor sofas are all great options for creating a comfortable and inviting outdoor space.
- Ottomans: Ottomans are versatile pieces of furniture that can be used as extra seating or as a footrest. They come in a variety of sizes and styles, so you can choose one that fits your space and decor.
Lighting and Mood
Lighting is another important factor when it comes to creating a comfortable space. Make sure there is plenty of natural light, and supplement with soft, warm lighting in the evenings.
Consider adding dimmer switches to your overhead lights so your guests can adjust the mood to their liking.
No Candles
A major question I often get is whether to provide candles or even allow candles in a vacation rental. I’d recommend not allowing any open flames in the vacation home, candles are a landlord’s nightmare: Fire risk, soot, and wax mess.
There are, however, beautiful flameless candles in the market, you can add those. Another trick is to make sure you work with your lighting scheme and add plenty of mood-enhancing lighting around the property.
Colors and Patterns
The colors and patterns you choose can also affect the comfort level of your vacation rental. Stick to neutral colors like beige, gray, and white for your walls and larger pieces of furniture.
Then, add pops of color and pattern with accent pillows, throws, and rugs. This will help create a cohesive and comfortable space without overwhelming your guests.
Local Art and Personal Touches
Finally, don’t forget to add some local art and personal touches to your vacation rental. This can help your guests feel more at home and give them a sense of the local culture.
Hang some local artwork on the walls, add some books about the area to your bookshelf, and leave a welcome basket with some local treats.
These small touches will go a long way in creating a comfortable and memorable vacation rental experience.
Maximizing Bookings Through Design
If you want to increase your vacation rental bookings, you need to pay attention to the design of your property. Here are some tips to help you maximize your bookings through design.
Targeting Your Guest
The first step to maximizing your bookings is to know your target guest.
- Who are they?
- What do they like?
- What are their interests?
Once you know your target guest, you can design your property to meet their needs.
For example, if your target guest is families with children, you may want to include a play area or a pool with safety features. If your target guest is young couples, you may want to create a romantic atmosphere with mood lighting and a cozy seating area, preferably a spa pool too.
Staging Your Property
Staging your property is an important part of maximizing your bookings. You want your property to look its best, so potential guests can envision themselves staying there.
Here are some tips for staging your property:
- Keep it clean and clutter-free
- Use high-quality, professional photos
- Create a welcoming atmosphere with greens
- Highlight the unique features of your property, such as a pool or a balcony with a view
Marketing Your Rental
Once you have designed and staged your property, it’s time to market it to potential guests. Here are some tips for marketing your vacation rental:
- Use social media to showcase your property and attract potential guests
- List your property on vacation rental websites, such as Airbnb or VRBO
- Offer special promotions or discounts to attract guests during slow seasons
- Respond promptly to guest inquiries and reviews to build a positive reputation
By targeting your guests, staging your property, and marketing your rental effectively, you can maximize your vacation rental bookings and increase your revenue.
Investing in Quality and Durability
When it comes to furnishing your vacation rental, you want to make sure your investment lasts. Choosing durable furniture and investing in quality materials can save you money in the long run. Here are some tips to help you make the right choices.
Choosing Durable Furniture
You want your furniture to withstand the wear and tear of vacationers. Look for pieces made of sturdy materials such as solid wood or metal. Avoid materials like particleboard or plastic that can easily break or warp.
Consider the weight of the furniture as well. Heavy pieces are less likely to tip over or get knocked around. This is especially important if you have young children or pets staying in your rental.
Another factor to consider is the ease of maintenance. Choose furniture with easy-to-clean surfaces and materials that won’t stain easily. Leather and microfiber are good options for sofas and chairs, while metal and glass are easy to clean on tables and other surfaces.
Don’t go cheap with your vacation rental furniture. The potential savings you make at the beginning will cost you way more when they fall apart after a short while, and when your guests complain about them. And yes, they do complain about them publicly, which is bad for your future bookings!
Investing in Quality Materials
Investing in quality materials can also help your rental stand out and attract more guests. Consider upgrading your linens to high-quality cotton or linen. These materials are not only more comfortable but also more durable than cheaper alternatives.
When it comes to kitchenware, invest in stainless steel or cast iron cookware. These materials are long-lasting and can withstand high heat and heavy use. Plus, they look great in photos and can make your rental feel more luxurious.
Finally, consider investing in high-quality flooring. Hardwood or tile floors are not only durable but also easy to clean and maintain. Plus, they can add value to your rental property in the long run.
In summary, investing in quality and durability can save you money and attract more guests to your vacation rental. Choose sturdy furniture and materials that are easy to clean and maintain. Upgrade your linens and kitchenware to high-quality materials. Consider investing in durable flooring to add value to your property.
Leveraging Social Media and Branding
Social media is a powerful tool for vacation rental owners to showcase their properties and attract potential guests. By leveraging social media and creating a strong brand identity, you can make your vacation rental stand out and increase bookings.
Instagram and Pinterest Inspiration
Instagram and Pinterest are two of the most popular social media platforms for vacation rental owners. These platforms allow you to showcase the unique features and amenities of your property, as well as the surrounding area.
On Instagram, you can post photos and videos of your vacation rental, highlighting its best features. Use hashtags to reach a wider audience and engage with potential guests. You can also use Instagram Stories to give your followers a behind-the-scenes look at your property and the local area.
Pinterest is another great platform for vacation rental owners. Create boards that showcase the different rooms on your property, as well as local attractions and activities. Use high-quality images and descriptive captions to entice potential guests.
More Articles About Mediterranean Design & Decor
Make Your Space Instagrammable
Whether you are a big user of social media or not, your guests most likely are. Make sure you create “Instagrammable” spots in your Mediterranean dream vacation home so your guests will snap lots of shots and share them via their channels!
Creating a Unique Brand
Vacation rental is a business, and needs to be treated like that. This is why I love this industry so much – I get to combine my business and marketing skills with interior design skills and help vacation homeowners make more money on their properties!
So, how do I do it? Let’s talk about branding.
Creating a strong brand identity is essential for vacation rental owners. A strong brand helps you to stand out from the competition and attract loyal guests.
Start by defining your brand values and messaging.
- What makes your vacation rental unique?
- What kind of experience do you want to provide for your guests?
Use these values to guide your branding and marketing efforts.
Next, create a visual identity for your brand. This includes your logo, color scheme, and typography. Use these elements consistently across all of your marketing materials, including your website, social media accounts, and email newsletters.
Finally, don’t be afraid to get creative with your branding. Consider offering unique amenities or experiences that align with your brand values. For example, if your vacation rental is eco-friendly, offer guests reusable water bottles or a compost bin. These small touches can make a big impact on your guests and help to build a loyal following.
Leveraging social media and branding is key to success in the vacation rental industry. By using Instagram and Pinterest to showcase your property and create a unique brand identity, you can attract more guests and stand out from the competition.
Frequently Asked About Vacation Rental Design
How many clothes hangers does it take to make a vacation rental feel luxurious?
Believe it or not, the answer is not 42. To make your guests feel like they’re living in the lap of luxury, you’ll want to provide at least 10 hangers per closet. This way, your guests won’t have to resort to draping their clothes over chairs or doorknobs.
Should I Allow My Vacation Home Guests To Burn Candles?
No. No candles or any other type of fire is recommended. Also, I’d advise against incense sticks too, since the smell does not go away.
Can a kettle be the key to a successful vacation rental?
Absolutely! Providing a kettle in your vacation rental is a small touch that can make a big difference. Your guests will appreciate being able to make themselves a cup of tea or coffee in the morning without having to leave the house.
Do guests prefer mattresses that are firm or squishy?
The answer to this question is a bit of a Goldilocks situation. Some guests prefer a firm mattress, while others prefer a softer, squishier one. Your best bet is to provide a mattress that falls somewhere in the middle. You can also add a mattress topper to provide a little extra cushion for those who prefer a softer bed.
Why settle for one lamp when you can have 10?
When it comes to lighting, more is definitely more. Providing multiple lamps throughout your vacation rental will help create a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Plus, it gives your guests the flexibility to adjust the lighting to their liking.
What’s the secret to making bed sheets feel like a vacation?
The secret is in the fabric. Opt for high-quality, luxurious sheets made from materials like Egyptian cotton or bamboo. Not only will your guests appreciate the softness and comfort, but they’ll also feel like they’re sleeping in a 5-star hotel.
Is it possible to furnish a rental property with only sand and seashells?
While we appreciate your commitment to a beachy theme, we’re going to have to say no to this one. To create a comfortable and inviting vacation rental, you’ll need to provide more than just sand and seashells. Stick to a neutral color palette, invest in quality furniture and decor, and don’t forget the practical amenities like a fully-stocked kitchen and plenty of storage space.
