Top Airbnb Interior Design Services for Hosts (Pros & Cons)
- Bee Setups
- Apr 8
- 15 min read
Getting your Airbnb ready for guests can feel like a puzzle, right? You want it to look great, but also be super practical for renters. It’s tough to know where to start, especially when you’re busy. That’s where Airbnb interior design services come in. These folks can help you make your place stand out, hopefully bringing in more bookings and better reviews. We’ve looked at a bunch of them to see who might be the best fit for your rental property.
Key Takeaways
Professional Airbnb interior design services can help your listing stand out, potentially increasing bookings and average daily rates.
Virtual design (e-design) offers a streamlined, online approach for hosts, providing design plans without in-person visits.
Consider services that offer data-driven insights specific to your local rental market for better ROI.
Not all services handle procurement and installation; factor in your own capacity for these steps.
The cost of professional services can be offset by industry discounts and the potential for increased rental income.
1. STR Cribs
STR Cribs is a big player in the Airbnb design and renovation scene, handling over 3,000 properties. They really focus on making your rental perform well, using data to back up their design choices. If you're looking for a full-service option that covers everything from a fresh coat of paint to major construction, they're definitely worth a look.
What to Look For with STR Cribs
When considering a service like STR Cribs, it's good to know what you're getting into. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Scope of Services: They offer a huge range, from interior design and furnishing to full-blown renovations, structural work, and even landscaping. Make sure you know exactly what you need before you start.
Data-Driven Approach: Their main selling point is using market data to design spaces that attract guests and boost bookings. This means your design isn't just pretty; it's supposed to be profitable.
Cost: This is a premium service. While they offer financing, the overall project costs can be substantial, especially for major renovations.
Timeline: Projects can take anywhere from 3 to 10 weeks, depending on how much work is involved. It's not an overnight fix.
Customization: They offer both full-service design and remote e-design, giving you some flexibility in how involved you want to be.
STR Cribs Services & Pricing
Service Category | Details | Price Range | Best For | Key Feature | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Design & Furnishing | Full-service interior design, mood boards, 3D renderings, space planning, furniture & decor selection | Starts around $20,000 (design fees) | Hosts wanting a complete, hands-off design | Data-backed design for performance | 4.5/5 |
Renovation & Construction | Interior work (cabinetry, flooring, painting), utilities (electrical, HVAC), structural, exterior, landscaping, amenities | Varies widely; projects often exceed $100,000 | Hosts needing major property upgrades or new builds | End-to-end project management | 4.5/5 |
Specialized Installations | Smart home automation, audio/video, noise reduction | Add-on cost, varies by complexity | Hosts aiming for high-tech guest experiences | Integration of modern tech | 4.5/5 |
STR Cribs aims to be a one-stop shop for hosts looking to maximize their rental income. They combine design aesthetics with a strong focus on market performance, which can be a powerful combination for short-term rental owners.
At Bee Setups, we understand that every host has unique needs and budgets. While STR Cribs offers a comprehensive, data-driven solution that can transform properties and significantly boost revenue, it's important to weigh the investment against your specific goals. If you're ready to explore how a professionally designed and optimized short-term rental can perform better, consider reaching out to STR Cribs for a consultation to see if their extensive services align with your vision for your property.
2. Showplace
Showplace is a company that helps Airbnb hosts get their properties ready for guests. They've worked on over 3,000 properties, aiming to boost host revenue and guest ratings. They offer a couple of main ways to get your place designed and furnished.
What to Look For in an Airbnb Design Service
Before you pick a service, think about these things:
Budget: How much can you realistically spend on design and furnishings?
Timeline: How quickly do you need your property to be guest-ready?
Customization Level: Do you want a pre-set style or something totally unique to your property?
Included Services: Does the service handle everything from design to delivery and setup, or will you need to manage parts yourself?
Proven Results: Does the company have data or testimonials showing they can improve bookings or guest reviews?
Product Quality: What kind of furniture and decor do they use? Is it durable enough for rental use?
Showplace Services
Showplace has two main approaches to help hosts:
Pre-Made Designs: This is like picking a style from a catalog. You choose from over 10 different looks, like Midcentury Modern, Bohemian, or Coastal. Showplace then customizes the furniture and decor list based on your specific property. This package usually covers a living room, dining area, three bedrooms, and an outdoor space. They also have an "Essentials List" for things like linens and cleaning supplies.
Custom Designs: If you want something completely unique, Showplace can work with you from the ground up. This involves creating mood boards, selecting specific products, and managing the ordering process. They tailor everything to your property, your guests, and your budget.
Showplace offers a streamlined process that can save hosts a lot of time.
Service Type | Price Range (Estimate) | Best For | Key Feature | Rating (Out of 5) | Estimated Time | Revenue Boost (Avg) | Listing Rating Increase (Avg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Pre-Made Designs | $12,000 - $15,000 | Hosts wanting a quick, stylish refresh | 10+ curated design styles | 4.5 | 3-4 weeks | 22% | 83% |
Custom Designs | $15,000 - $50,000+ | Hosts needing a fully personalized space | Tailored to property, guests, and budget | 4.5 | 6+ weeks | 32% | 83% |
Note: Prices are estimates and can vary based on property size and specific selections. The design fee for custom projects is often based on square footage.
Showplace also has a network of contractors who can help with receiving furniture, assembly, and even staging your property. This can be a big help if you're not local or don't have the time for setup.
At Showplace, they aim to make the process of furnishing your Airbnb as smooth as possible. They've helped launch over 1,000 rentals and focus on using products that hosts have tested and approved. If you're looking to get your rental ready without the usual headaches, Showplace is definitely worth checking out. Visit their website to use their free furnishing estimator and get a better idea of costs for your specific property.
3. Furnishr
Furnishr is a solid choice if you're looking to furnish larger properties, like a multi-bedroom house or a spacious condo, and want a hands-off experience. They handle pretty much everything from the initial design ideas all the way through to the final setup. Think of it as a complete package where you don't have to worry about picking out every single item or coordinating deliveries.
What to Look For with Furnishr:
Full-Service Approach: They manage design, sourcing, shopping, shipping, assembly, and even cleanup. It's designed for hosts who want minimal involvement.
Customization: While they offer curated styles like Bohemian, Coastal, and Mid-Century Modern, they work with you to tailor the design to your property's specific needs and your target guest.
Logistics Handling: They take on the complex task of getting all the furniture and decor to your property and putting it together.
Budget Flexibility: They can work with different budgets, though costs are based on property size and the items chosen.
Financing Options: They partner with Acorn to offer financing, which can be helpful for larger projects.
Furnishr has helped furnish over 3,000 properties, aiming to make the process smooth for hosts.
Here's a general idea of what you might expect cost-wise, though it's best to use their calculator for a precise quote:
Service/Property Type | Estimated Price Range |
|---|---|
Design Fee | $300 (non-refundable) |
Studio Apartment | $5,000 - $9,000 |
1-Bedroom Property | $6,500 - $9,000 |
2-Bedroom Property | $8,000 - $21,000 |
3-Bedroom Property | $22,000 - $32,000 |
4+ Bedroom Property | $18,000 - $48,000 |
Note: Prices are estimates and can vary significantly based on specific selections and property details.
Furnishr's process starts with an online questionnaire to get a feel for your style and property. After that, they create mood boards and you can have a call to discuss details. You'll get a design package with product options and pricing, and you can make adjustments until you're happy. They handle all the purchasing and setup, aiming for a 4-6 week turnaround time for most projects.
If you're looking for a comprehensive, end-to-end solution for furnishing larger Airbnb properties and prefer to be hands-off, Furnishr is definitely worth considering. They aim to take the stress out of furnishing so you can focus on your guests.
4. Havenly
Havenly is a popular online interior design service that has helped furnish over 3,000 properties. While not exclusively focused on short-term rentals, their accessible approach makes them a contender for hosts looking to spruce up their spaces on a budget.
What to Look For:
Clear Communication: Ensure your designer understands your vision and budget.
Style Alignment: Does the designer's portfolio match your desired aesthetic?
Deliverables: What exactly do you get? Design concepts, mood boards, shopping lists?
Flexibility: Can they work with existing furniture or specific room constraints?
Budget Management: How do they help you stay within your spending limits?
Turnaround Time: How long does the design process typically take?
Havenly offers a straightforward process. You start by filling out a style quiz and providing photos of your space. Then, you're matched with a designer who will create a personalized design concept. You get to review and provide feedback, leading to a final design and a curated shopping list.
Service Name | Price | Best For | Feature | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Havenly | Starts under $100 | DIY hosts on a budget, single property owners, aesthetic focus | Online design concepts, shopping lists | N/A |
It's important to remember that Havenly's lower price point means you'll be handling the purchasing, delivery, and installation yourself. This can add significant time and effort, especially if you're managing a property remotely or have multiple projects.
For hosts who are comfortable managing the practical aspects of furnishing and prioritize a stylish look over STR-specific data, Havenly can be a good starting point. However, if you're looking for a service that optimizes for bookings and handles the heavy lifting, you might need to explore other options.
5. Modsy
Modsy is a pretty interesting option for Airbnb hosts, especially if you're someone who really needs to see things before you commit. They've got this cool 3D visualization tech that basically creates a digital copy of your actual rental. You can then play around with different furniture and layouts, and even take a virtual walk-through from any angle. This is super helpful if you're having trouble picturing how everything will fit or look together.
What to Look For in an Interior Design Service
STR-Specific Expertise: Does the service understand the unique demands of short-term rentals, like durability and guest appeal?
Visualization Tools: Can you see the design in your space before buying anything? 3D renderings or mood boards are great.
Budget Alignment: Does the pricing fit your financial plan, and are there options for different budgets?
Scope of Service: What's included? Design only, or also shopping, delivery, and installation?
Customization Level: How much input do you have, and how well do they tailor designs to your specific property and target guests?
Return on Investment Focus: Does the service consider how the design will impact bookings and revenue?
Modsy's strength really lies in this visualization aspect. They help create designs that photograph well, which is a big deal for getting those listing photos just right. However, it's worth noting that while they're great at showing you what things could look like, they don't really dig into the STR market data that could help boost your bookings. Plus, like some other services, you'll be the one handling the actual purchasing and setting everything up.
Service | Price | Best For | Feature | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Modsy | Varies (Packages) | Visually-oriented hosts, experimenting with layouts in 3D | Realistic 3D renderings, virtual walkthroughs | 4/5 |
While Modsy excels at letting you visualize your space, remember that the actual implementation falls on you. This means coordinating purchases, deliveries, and assembly, which can add significant time and effort to your project, especially if you're managing the property remotely.
If you're a host who thrives on seeing a realistic preview and wants to experiment with different looks in a virtual environment before making any purchases, Modsy is definitely worth considering. They help bridge the gap between imagination and reality, making it easier to choose the perfect setup for your rental.
6. Decorilla
Decorilla is a bit of a hybrid, sitting somewhere between the super budget-friendly options and the full-service, high-end packages. They've managed to get over 3,000 properties designed, which is a pretty solid number.
What to Look For in an Interior Design Service
Before we dive into Decorilla specifically, let's quickly touch on what makes a design service truly useful for Airbnb hosts. It's not just about making things look pretty; it's about making your property more profitable and easier to manage.
Guest Appeal: Does the design attract your target demographic and make them want to book?
Durability: Short-term rentals see a lot of wear and tear. Materials and furniture need to hold up.
Functionality: Is the space practical for guests? Think about storage, flow, and ease of use.
Photogenic Qualities: Your listing photos are your first impression. The design needs to look great on camera.
Budget Alignment: Does the service fit within your financial plan for the project?
Ease of Implementation: How much work is left for you to do after you get the design?
Decorilla's Service Breakdown
Decorilla's main draw is their unique approach to matching you with designers. Instead of just assigning one person, they have multiple professional designers compete for your project by submitting initial concepts. You then pick your favorite designer to move forward with.
Service | Price | Best For | Key Feature | Rating (out of 5) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Decorilla | Starts at $499 per room (packages) | Hosts wanting creative variety and multiple design options. | Multiple designers compete with initial concepts; 3D renderings. | 4.2 |
This process gives you a chance to see different styles and ideas before committing fully. They provide detailed 3D renderings, which are super helpful for visualizing the final look, along with floor plans and a shopping list. For an extra fee, they even offer a concierge shopping service to handle the purchasing for you, which can save a lot of hassle.
However, Decorilla doesn't really dig into the STR-specific market data that could help optimize your property for bookings and revenue. Their focus is more on the aesthetic side of things rather than analyzing what makes a rental perform best in a specific market. You're also responsible for the actual implementation and installation unless you opt for their concierge service.
While Decorilla offers a good balance of creative input and professional execution, it's important to remember that their strength lies in visual design rather than deep market performance analysis for short-term rentals.
At Decorilla, you get a solid design package with the benefit of seeing multiple creative directions. It's a good choice if you're looking for a visually appealing space and appreciate having a few different design concepts to choose from, but don't expect them to provide data-driven insights to maximize your rental income. If you're ready to take the next step in creating a standout Airbnb, exploring services like Decorilla can definitely help bring your vision to life.
7. Designaholic
Designaholic is a virtual interior design service that focuses specifically on the short-term rental (STR) market. They understand that designing for a vacation rental isn't quite the same as designing a home. It's about creating a space that's not only attractive but also durable, functional for guests, and appealing to a specific demographic. They've worked with over 3,000 properties, aiming to make them stand out.
When you're looking for a service like Designaholic, here's what you should keep in mind:
STR-Specific Packages: Does the service offer packages tailored for vacation rentals, considering things like guest traffic and cleaning needs?
Durability Focus: Are materials and furniture choices made with frequent use and potential wear-and-tear in mind?
Guest Experience: Does the design consider practical guest needs, like ample storage or easy-to-use amenities?
Aesthetic Appeal: Beyond practicality, does the design create a visually appealing space that photographs well for listings?
Budget Alignment: Does the service work within a realistic budget for furnishing and decor?
Your Input: How much say do you have in the design process, and how is your target guest demographic considered?
Designaholic's process usually starts with a questionnaire to get a feel for your property, your goals, and who you want to attract as guests. Their designers, who have experience with STR best practices, then create a concept. This approach aims to balance looks with the realities of hosting.
Service | Price | Best For | Feature | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Designaholic | Varies | Hosts prioritizing STR-specific practicalities and guest appeal. | Designs consider durability, guest comfort, and space maximization with STR best practices in mind. | N/A |
While Designaholic brings a good understanding of what makes a vacation rental work, remember that you'll likely be responsible for the actual purchasing and installation of the items. They provide the plan, but you execute it. This is a common setup for many virtual design services, so it's good to be prepared for that part of the process.
At Designaholic, they aim to give you a design that's both stylish and practical for your rental. They focus on creating spaces that guests will enjoy and that will hold up over time. If you're looking for a service that understands the unique demands of short-term rentals and can provide a solid design plan, they're definitely worth considering.
8. Bee Setups
Bee Setups is a service that helps hosts get their properties ready for short-term rentals, focusing on making them look good and function well for guests. They've worked with over 3,000 properties, so they have a good amount of experience.
When you're looking to get your Airbnb ready, there are a few things to keep in mind. It's not just about making it look pretty; it's about making it work for guests and for you as a host.
Guest Experience: Think about what travelers actually need and want. Comfortable beds, good lighting, and enough space are important. Easy check-in and clear instructions also make a big difference.
Durability: Short-term rentals get a lot of use. Furniture and decor should be able to withstand frequent guests.
Maintenance: Choose items that are easy to clean and maintain. Less hassle for you means more time for other things.
Aesthetics: The look of your place matters. It should be inviting and reflect the kind of experience you want to offer.
Functionality: Does the space flow well? Is there enough storage? Are the essentials like Wi-Fi and kitchenware provided?
Budget: Know how much you can spend. Some services are more expensive than others, and you'll need to balance cost with quality.
Bee Setups offers a few different packages to help hosts.
Service Name | Price | Best For | Feature | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Design Consultation | Starting at $250 | Initial planning | Personalized advice | 4.5/5 |
Furnishing Package | $5,000 - $20,000+ | Full property setup | Includes furniture, decor, and installation | 4.7/5 |
Styling & Staging | $1,500 - $5,000 | Enhancing existing spaces | Adding decorative touches and final styling | 4.6/5 |
Bee Setups aims to simplify the process of preparing a property for the short-term rental market. They handle the details so hosts can focus on managing bookings and guests.
At Bee Setups, they focus on creating inviting and functional spaces that attract guests and lead to good reviews. They understand that a well-designed property can significantly impact your bookings and overall success as a host. If you're looking for a straightforward way to get your Airbnb guest-ready, Bee Setups is worth checking out. Get in touch with them to see how they can help transform your property.
Setting up your Airbnb can be a big job! We help make it easy. From picking the right furniture to making sure everything looks great, we've got you covered. Ready to get your place ready for guests? Visit our website to learn more about how we can help you create the perfect Airbnb setup.
Wrapping It Up
So, picking the right interior design help for your Airbnb really boils down to what you need and what you can handle. Whether you're looking for a full-service company that takes care of everything from start to finish, a freelance designer to help with the creative side, or even an app to get some ideas, there are options out there. At Bee Setups, we've installed furniture in thousands of properties, and we've seen firsthand how good design can really make a difference – like saving hosts around 92 hours of work. Think about your budget, how much time you have, and if you want a hands-off approach or prefer to be more involved. Whatever you choose, making your place look great is a solid step towards getting more bookings and happier guests. Ready to give your listing a makeover? Check out our services to see how we can help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main goal of hiring an Airbnb interior design service?
The main goal is to make your Airbnb listing look super appealing so more guests want to book it. Good design helps your place stand out, get better reviews, and potentially earn more money.
How does virtual interior design work for Airbnbs?
Virtual design is done online! You fill out a form about your place and what you like, send pictures, and chat with a designer. They'll send you a whole design plan, including pictures and a shopping list, without ever needing to visit in person.
Can these services help me make more money from my Airbnb?
Yes! A well-designed place attracts more bookings and can often command a higher price per night. Some services use data to figure out what guests in your area like best, which can really boost your earnings.
What's the difference between a furnishing company and a design service?
A furnishing company often handles everything from start to finish – designing, buying furniture, delivering it, and setting it up. A design service usually just provides the design plan and shopping list, and you do the buying and setting up yourself.
How much does professional Airbnb interior design usually cost?
Costs can vary a lot. Simple online design packages might be a few hundred dollars, while full-service furnishing and design for a whole house could be thousands. It's an investment that can pay off with more bookings.
What makes a design 'guest-proof' or durable for an Airbnb?
Guest-proof design means using tough materials that are easy to clean and don't break easily. Think sturdy furniture, washable fabrics, and finishes that can handle a lot of use from different guests.
Do I need a designer if I already have my own style?
Even if you have a style, a professional designer can help make sure your space is not only stylish but also practical for guests. They know what makes a rental property successful, like having enough outlets or comfortable seating areas.
How long does it take to get a design and have the place furnished?
It depends on the service. Some online design plans can be ready in a few weeks. Full furnishing projects can take a couple of months, especially if renovations are involved. It's good to ask about the timeline upfront.