Want to Boost Your Rental's ROI? Let's Talk About Design.
⏳ Reading time: 5 - 6 minutes
If you're a short-term rental host, I bet you spend a lot of time staring at your calendar. You're probably tinkering with nightly rates, checking out the competition, and trying to figure out the magic formula for more bookings and fewer empty nights.
But what if I told you one of the biggest levers you can pull has nothing to do with spreadsheets and everything to do with... interior design?
I get it. When you hear "interior design," you might think it's just about picking pretty pillows and paint colors, the "fluffy stuff" that feels like an expense, not an investment. But for your rental, design is one of the most powerful marketing tools you have. It's the secret sauce that can seriously boost your bottom line.
It's More Than Just a Pretty Space - It's a Smart Investment
Think about it this way: your property isn't just a place to stay; it's a product people are shopping for online. When a potential guest is scrolling through listings, what makes them stop and click on yours?
It's the photos. It's the vibe.
Strategic design is what makes someone stop scrolling and say, "Wow, I want to stay there." It’s about making smart, targeted updates that give you a real return on your investment by making your property stand out from the crowd.
Justifying Those Higher Nightly Rates
Let's be honest, people aren't just looking for a bed; they're looking for an experience. They want an escape from their everyday life. That's what a beautifully designed space delivers. It creates that "wow" moment and makes them feel like they're booking a special treat, not just a generic room.
And when guests feel like they're getting a premium experience, thanks to that gorgeous kitchen or the cozy, stylish living room, they're more than happy to pay a premium price. You're not just decorating; you're building a feeling that people will pay more for.
Getting More Bookings and Keeping that Calendar Full
It's simple: better photos lead to more clicks, and more clicks lead to more bookings. A strategically designed space looks incredible in photos, making your listing pop in a sea of beige and boring.
But it's not just about getting that first booking. A thoughtfully designed space leads to a better stay. It's comfortable, functional, and memorable. Happier guests leave glowing reviews, and those 5-star reviews convince the next guest to book. It's a cycle that leads to higher occupancy and a healthier business for you.
So, Which Updates Actually Make a Difference?
Okay, so you're on board. But the big question is: where do you actually put your money to see the best return? You want to make changes that count, not just waste money. L’Atelier By ATB Interior Design Studio can help you pinpoint exactly that, but here are a few of the biggest wins:
1. Go for Finishes That Last (and Look Great)
Let's be real: rentals get a lot of wear and tear. Suitcases scuffing walls, kids with sticky fingers, the occasional wine spill... it happens! That's why choosing durable, beautiful materials is one of the smartest moves you can make.
This isn't about sacrificing style. It's about finding that sweet spot, gorgeous finishes that can handle the chaos. This is a savvy long-term investment that keeps your property looking amazing and saves you from constant, costly repairs.
2. Get the Kitchen and Bathrooms Right
Think about the first two things you check out in rental photos. It's almost always the kitchen and the bathroom, right? A dated bathroom or a dingy kitchen can be an instant deal-breaker for a guest.
Now, this doesn't mean you need to install a professional chef's kitchen. The goal is a space that feels modern, clean, and functional. Think updated cabinet hardware, a fresh backsplash, good lighting, and clutter-free countertops. For the bathroom, aiming for a clean, spa-like feel can go a long way. These are the areas where smart updates make your entire property feel more luxurious and valuable, giving you the biggest bang for your buck.
3. Create One "Instagrammable" Moment
Beyond the basics, the most successful rentals today have something extra—a unique feature that makes people stop and say, "I want a picture there!"
This is your "wow" factor, your Instagrammable moment. It’s a specific, highly visual feature that acts as a marketing magnet, encouraging guests to not only book but also to share their experience on social media (which is free advertising for you!). It doesn't have to be expensive, just memorable. This could be a cool neon sign with a fun quote, a striking accent wall with bold wallpaper, a cozy hanging chair on a balcony with a great view, or even an awesome outdoor space with a fire pit and string lights. This one feature can become the signature image for your listing and do a ton of your marketing for you.
A Little Help Goes a Long Way
I know what you're thinking: "Can't I just do this myself and save some money?" And while the DIY spirit is awesome, it can sometimes backfire. Have you ever bought a piece of furniture that looked great online but was totally the wrong size for the room? Or spent a whole weekend painting a wall a color you ended up hating?
L’Atelier By ATB helps you avoid those costly "oops" moments. We know which updates will actually increase your income and how to create a cohesive, stunning look that guests will love. Even if you're managing your property from afar, we can set you up with virtual plans and shopping lists to make it incredibly easy.
And because we know consistency is key for getting those 5-star reviews, we create a simple, visual guide for your property's setup. It's a breeze to share with your property manager or cleaning crew, ensuring your rental stays looking picture-perfect and guest-ready long after the project is done. This keeps the quality constant, protecting your investment and your income.
Ready to Put These Ideas into Action?
Feeling inspired is great, but having a plan is even better. I’ve put together a free, actionable guide called "10 Steps to Maximize Your STR ROI Through Design" that walks you through exactly where to focus your efforts for the biggest impact.
It’s the perfect next step to turn inspiration into income. Click on the guide to download it.
P.S. If you're past the planning stage and know you want one-on-one help, you can skip the guide and book a quick, no-pressure discovery call with me right here.
Our studio is based in Petaluma, CA and serves the north San Francisco Bay Area, but we can design your STR remotely.
