Is Hiring a Designer for Your Airbnb Worth It?
As an Airbnb host, you’ve probably asked yourself: “Should I hire a designer for my rental?” The competition is fierce, and it can feel overwhelming trying to make your property stand out. You’ve got the basics covered—furniture, linens, amenities—but something feels like it’s missing. Maybe your listing isn’t getting the bookings you expected, or your photos just aren’t capturing the vibe you want. If you’re feeling stuck, you’re not alone. Many hosts find themselves asking if it’s worth the investment to bring in a professional designer to elevate their space.
The Benefits of Hiring a Designer
1. Transforming Your Space
One of the most immediate benefits of hiring a designer is the ability to transform your property into a space that’s not just functional but also visually compelling. A professional designer understands how to create a cohesive, inviting space that feels effortless but polished. Whether it’s optimizing the layout or choosing the right color scheme, they know what works and what doesn’t.
From a photographer’s perspective, I’ve seen firsthand how good design directly impacts the quality of your photos. A well-designed space not only looks better in photos—it feels better. When potential guests see your listing, they’re immediately drawn to a space that feels thoughtfully curated. It’s a great investment because it’s going to pay for itself, whether through higher rental rates or more frequent bookings.
2. Why It Pays to Invest in Design—Especially in Competitive Markets
In larger cities or tourist-heavy areas, standing out can be a challenge. With hundreds or even thousands of listings to compete with, your property needs to catch the eye of potential guests right away. And let’s face it—generic spaces won’t cut it.
A designer can help position your property as a premium option by crafting a distinctive style that sets you apart from the competition. Whether it’s incorporating luxury touches or creating a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, a designer helps define your value proposition. With the right design, you’ll not only attract guests but also justify charging a higher rate, making the investment in design a smart choice in high-demand markets.
3. Defining Your Style: Why It’s Important to Hire a Designer Who Matches Your Vision
When it comes to hiring a designer, it’s essential to choose one who understands your vision and matches your aesthetic. Whether you’re aiming for a modern coastal look, a rustic retreat, or a chic urban apartment, the designer you hire should be able to bring that vision to life.
The best designers don’t just push their own ideas—they listen to your goals and help you translate them into a space that speaks to your target audience. If you don’t feel connected to their style or their ideas don’t align with yours, it could lead to a mismatch that doesn’t feel authentic to your brand.
4. The Trust Factor: Letting Your Designer Do What They Do Best
Once you’ve hired the right designer, it’s important to trust them. Letting go of control can be tough, but the most successful design projects come from trusting the professional you’ve brought on board. When you hire a designer whose work you admire, you’re letting them do what they do best.
Hiring someone you trust to execute your vision allows you to focus on running your rental without getting bogged down in every detail. You hired them for their expertise, and it’s important to let them lead the process. This trust allows for creativity to flourish, and ultimately, it’s going to result in a space that feels well-curated and cohesive.
5. How to Find the Right Designer: Tips for Choosing the Perfect Fit
Finding the right designer can be a daunting task, but there are ways to make it easier. Here are some tips to help you find the perfect fit:
Ask for Referrals: As an interior design photographer, I work with many talented designers who specialize in vacation rentals. Ask for recommendations from trusted professionals—photographers, fellow hosts, or even friends in the design world.
Check Portfolios: Look through a designer’s portfolio, paying close attention to their experience with vacation rentals. You’ll want to see that they’ve worked on spaces that match your goals, whether it’s luxurious, family-friendly, or unique in other ways.
Interview Multiple Designers: Don’t settle for the first designer you meet. Take the time to interview several candidates, discuss your goals, and assess how well they understand your vision. Their responses will give you insight into whether they’re a good fit for your property.
When Hiring a Designer Might Not Make Sense
While hiring a designer can be a game-changer for many hosts, it’s not always the right choice for everyone. Here are a few scenarios where hiring a designer may not make sense, and why you might want to consider other options:
1. Budget Constraints
Hiring a professional designer is an investment, and for some hosts, it might not be feasible within their budget—especially when you’re just starting out. If your finances are tight, it might be better to prioritize essential costs like photography, marketing, or updating key amenities. In this case, a DIY approach to design, using affordable décor and online resources, could be a more cost-effective solution.
2. You’re Just Starting Out with a Small Space
If you’re new to Airbnb hosting and only have a small space, like a single room or studio apartment, a professional designer might not be necessary. In these cases, you might be able to achieve a polished look on your own with a few strategic updates like decluttering, fresh paint, and adding some stylish furniture. As your business grows and you expand to larger properties, bringing in a designer could make more sense.
3. You Have a Strong Design Sense and Time to Execute
f you already have a good eye for design and enjoy working on your space, then hiring a designer may not be essential. Some hosts love taking on DIY projects, and if you have the time and skills to execute your vision, you can still achieve a high-end look without professional help. Just make sure to research design trends and styling tips to ensure your space feels fresh and on-brand.
4. You’re Focused on Functional Over Aesthetic
Sometimes, the priority isn’t creating a “wow” factor but rather making sure your property is functional and guest-friendly. If you’re focusing on providing an exceptionally clean, well-maintained, and practical space (for example, for long-term renters or business travelers), design may take a backseat. In this case, investing in a professional designer might not be necessary if your space is already fulfilling its intended purpose.
5. You Plan to Rebrand or Sell Soon
If you plan to sell your property or make major changes in the near future, spending money on a designer might not be worth the investment. In this case, you may want to stick with more temporary updates or focus on basic improvements to enhance the space without committing to a full design overhaul.
Conclusion: Is Hiring a Designer Right for You?
In the end, whether you hire a designer or not comes down to your goals, budget, and the type of experience you want to create for your guests. A well-designed space can help you stand out, attract higher-end guests, and ultimately boost bookings—especially in competitive markets. However, it’s important to weigh the investment against your current needs and resources. If your budget is tight or your space is small, a DIY approach might be the best option for now. But if you’re looking to elevate your listing, increase your rental rates, and position your property as a premium choice, working with a designer could be a game-changer.
Remember, the right designer will align with your vision and help bring your unique space to life. Whether you decide to hire a designer or not, the key is to create an inviting, well-thought-out space that reflects your personal style and provides an exceptional experience for your guests.
Ultimately, it’s all about making smart choices that will help your Airbnb or vacation rental thrive in an ever-growing market.
