How to Design for Island Rentals

As a travel enthusiast, there is just something special about staying in an exotic place where new adventures and memories await. On your way to your destination the anticipation to just get there builds. Your excitement bubbles over into a giddy-ness that is hard to contain. Once you finally arrive, your new environment should welcome and delight you and your family. If we take a step back, and look at the selection process when it comes to finding your place to stay, what stands out? Are there specific rentals you would pick over others based on location, size, or interiors? There are many factors that go into the final decision and as a rental owner, you will want to be able to distinguish your property from others available online. Your goal is to provide an escape that everyone can enjoy. We have the preparation for a successful vacation rental down to a science when it comes to curating the best materials that make guests feel right at home, and here they are.

How to Set Things Up for Success

How you set up your vacation get-away will help its overall success. While this blog is geared more towards island rentals the same guidelines can also apply to mountain retreats, sleek city stays, or anywhere that is considered to be a popular vacation destination for visitors to come and relax. When you decide that you want to rent your home out to travelers, you have to start thinking of your home as a commercial space that can accommodate someone who has never been there. This is where hiring a professional interior designer can make all the difference. Bringing in a fresh perspective can help improve the flow, function, and aesthetic of the space. Ease of use is a key component to keep in mind and let’s not forget home safety. That is part of business, and if you are renting, then you are in the business of hospitality, my friends. 

If you are in the market for a short-term rental property, you’ll need to review your options with a different lens rather than if you were buying for your family home. Your rental could be the backdrop to a family vacation or wedding weekend and having all the pieces in place will just add to the overall experience. Beautiful design adds a huge return on your investment and keeping your rental’s interiors fresh, and on-trend will help you maximize your investment.

1. Your rental will stay booked.
2. You will attract those higher-quality guests that are willing and able to pay
   a little more for an exceptional and more comfortable stay.
   3. Once you are ready to sell, the investment you’ve made in your rental will be apparent. You will not only be selling a beautiful property but a business that produces income.

Do Not Forget

Hiring a design professional can also help your home be more accessible to individuals with disabilities or families who may have elderly family members. Interior designers know how to accommodate their needs as well as limit your liability in-home safety. Don’t forget, you are making decisions for your guests who deserve to feel safe and comfortable in their home away from home. Making things safe does not mean they have to lack in pizzazz or island flair.

First Impressions

The moment when someone walks into your home should be warm and memorable. Create a personalized welcome for your guests and make them feel more at home by designating a place for them that includes a welcome binder and guest book. Take a moment and customize items where you can and let your guests know about some of your favorite activities or restaurants in the area. First impressions are everything, and here are some ways to keep that white-glove service without the resort.

1. BEDROOMS
a. Buy plenty of the same white sheets. This makes cleaning a breeze and will make the room feel crisp and fresh.
b. You can add color and a layer of soft comfort with cozy rugs, or warm throw blankets across the bed.
c. Use layers to build in that personality.
d. Protect soft furnishings with covers or fabrics that are easy to clean and maintain.
e. Designate a space to sleep and a place to get work done. Depending on how long their stay is, some guests may need to pop in for work from time to time, and having a place available can make working on vacation less of a hassle.

2. BATHROOMS
a. Floors and walls get cleaned more than any other place in the rental, so make sure these are materials that are easy to clean. Porcelain is our recommended tile of choice. It is durable and alleviates the likelihood of someone slipping on a slick tile.
b. When it comes to plumbing fixtures, consider adding a handheld in the shower. This will help elevate your guests showering experience and help you in tidying up after their stay.
c. Lighting should include overhead and sconces to cover all the bases and keep the bathroom well-lit and beautiful.
d. Personalize the bathroom with an intricate pattern or brightly colored mirror
e. Make sure there are plenty of towels and just as many, if not more places to store or hang them.

3. LIVING & KITCHEN SPACES
a. This is the place for everyone to gather so it should be comfortable, and durable.
b. Make sure you have plenty of space for seating.
c. Since this room is a heavily used space, slipcovers will extend the life of your furniture.
d. Performance fabrics have also come a long way and you no longer have to sacrifice performance for a look.
e. A well-stocked fridge and pantry are a luxury and are always greatly appreciated.
f. Have a space for entertaining and plenty of refreshments. Cocktail anyone? Set up a bar if you have the room or leave extra fridge space for water and sodas.
g. Technology and entertainment options are expected nowadays in a more high-end rental.

Other Things to Consider

Quality in all aspects of interiors should always come before the price. If you go with a cheaper option, you may end up paying for it later with hidden costs in buying the cheaper stuff. There is also freight to consider if you’re in a remote location. If you purchase pieces that will last a long time you may only have to pay for freight once especially on those bigger items. Make the most of what is available to you at your rental, especially if you have an outdoor space. A breath of fresh air is always welcome especially when it involves a grill, some drinks, and great company. Those finishing touches can make all the difference in your rental’s overall success and your investment. Let us help you bring those pieces together so the next time someone is looking to book, there will be no question of where they choose for their families to stay. Safe travels to all in the upcoming holiday season and we can’t wait to begin working with those of you who will be bringing that luxurious home away from home for others to enjoy.

Want to book a stay in the home featured in this article click here to book your reservation. 

Interested in updating your vacation rental? Grab a copy of our e-book today for easy rental recipes to create an amazing experience for all your visitors.