Airbnb Design Made Simple

Sharing is caring!

The design of an Airbnb property is not just about making it visually appealing. It’s about crafting a memorable experience for the guests. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the creative ideas I came up with when designing this Airbnb that I’m sure the guests will rave about. The home had good bones, but I had a lot of work ahead of me.

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. 

I have to admit, when my friend asked me to help design this Airbnb, I was hesitant! What in the heck would I do with this hideous fireplace?

Living room before we removed the fireplace

I had no idea how to design an Airbnb, matter of fact, I’ve never even stayed in one. Then he told me I would have total control over the Airbnb design, as long as I stayed within budget. I decided I was up for the challenge and told him that fireplace had to go! Now this is a room people can enjoy!

Living room after removing the fireplace
Living room after renovation

What I Knew About the Airbnb Design Plan

This Airbnb design includes 5 sleeping areas, accommodating 10 guests. 2 full baths, living and dining room, kitchen, sun porch, laundry, bar/game room and a kids hideaway. Not to mention beautiful outdoor spaces which include a grilling area, firepit and hot tub.

Hot tub area
Hot tub area

The owner initially wanted to purchase the home and turn it over, ready for guests in 30 days. I thought this was a pretty aggressive timeline. Then the city tore the road out and this bought me some time. As you know, renovations, no matter how small, usually come with unexpected issues. We ended up touching almost every square inch of this home, including some not so fun stuff, like a new roof and electrical.

Heartland Airbnb
Heartland Airbnb

The design process started with the owner sending me images of things he liked and items he wanted to incorporate in the Airbnb design. I kept seeing “blue” in the images he sent. He said it wasn’t intentional, but this started what became our color scheme throughout the entire Airbnb design. Using a color scheme throughout a home will keep it feeling cohesive.

Twin Bed Nook
Twin Bed Nook

If you have been following me long, you know that blue is not “normally” my color. I am here to say, this Airbnb design has me falling in love with blue.

Airbnb Design for All Types of Guests

Understanding the target audience is the first step in designing a successful Airbnb. I had to consider the type of travelers that might be staying here—whether it’s families seeking a comfortable retreat, business professionals in need of a functional workspace, or adventure enthusiasts looking for a stylish crash pad. Maybe all of the above. So I set off to tailor the design of this Airbnb to cater to needs and preferences of all these traveler types.

Kitchen Before
Kitchen Before
Kitchen after renovation
Kitchen After

I created functional spaces so guests can have privacy when needed. Multiple social spaces, indoors and out, including a sun porch and a bar/game room which will allow for some fun photo ops!

Mural Wall Before
Mural Wall Before
Bar area mural wall
Des Moines Skyline Mural Wall

Functional for all Types of Guests

The owner of the Airbnb, knew that the home needed to sleep as many guests as possible, making sure they all have a comfortable place to sleep. Knowing that the guests could range from, business travelers, to families and even those party crowds. So we set out to create lots of spaces in the home that would function in multiple ways.

Master Bedroom Before
Master Bedroom Before

The original master bedroom had a door that led to the sunporch. Not only did this mess with the overall design of the room, I felt it would cause the guests to feel “exposed”. We made the decision to remove the door.

Master Bedroom After
Master Bedroom After

Once the door was removed, we created this beautiful wood wall as a focal point in the room. Now this is a room you can relax in.

Grab my free Guide

Discovering Your Style, Love Your Home

Decorating your home and discovering your style doesn’t have to be difficult. This guide will help you to create a home using some simple design tips that will make your house feel more like a home. A place you love to be.

Creating Spaces with Dual Function

Having spaces in the Airbnb that have dual functionality provides for a great design. For example this area of the dining room can be used as a work space for business travelers, function as a serving buffet or used for additional seating for dining.

Work Station
Work Station

The upstairs media room can be used as a movie & game area for kids or adults. While the sectional also has storage in the chase for blankets and pillows when the sofa is transformed into a double bed, providing additional sleeping area.

Media Room
Media Room

Creating memories, One guest at a time

Designing this Airbnb was a dream come true, a journey that allowed me to channel my passion for design into creating a space where others can find solace, inspiration, and connection. Every corner of this home was crafted with care, and every choice made with the guest experience in mind. Heartland Airbnb is not just a place to stay; it’s an invitation to embark on a memorable journey, where the cohesive design and the warmth of hospitality intertwine, leaving guests with cherished memories that last a lifetime.

I welcome you to experience the Heartland Airbnb, we will leave the light on for you.

Happy Hour
Happy Hour

You may also enjoy these related articles:

Did you enjoy this article? Want to hear more? Stay in touch! Sign up below to receive design tips and tricks for your home.

Let’s Be Friends

Join the Lyndale Drive Community!
Sign up to receive all the latest blog details, tips & tricks and a whole lot of fun!