Transforming a Space into a Cozy Retreat: Our Airbnb Journey
Turning a property into a successful Airbnb rental is no small feat. From the first step of taking measurements to the final touches that make the space feel like a home away from home, the process is filled with creativity, planning, and hard work. Today, I’m sharing the behind-the-scenes journey of transforming our property into the beautiful Airbnb space it is today. Here’s how we took it from a blank canvas to a welcoming getaway.
Step 1: Taking Measurements and Assessing the Space
Every great project begins with a solid foundation, and for us, that meant finding a space in the right part of town. We purchased this property primarily because of its location and flexibility, which includes the Coach House: a 600 sq ft space above the detached two-car garage in the heart of downtown Frisco, TX.
Our property, located in a charming neighborhood (you can check it out here: our Airbnb listing), had a lot of potential, but it needed striking design elements to truly shine as an Airbnb. We decided to adopt a theme recommended by a professional, which we call "Railroad Outlaw."
Before we could proceed get design support, we began with a basic sketch of the available space. This is not a fun task for the average home owner, as you can see in my initial sketch. I started by measuring every nook and cranny, which included checking the dimensions of each room, understanding the flow of the area, and identifying spots where we could add functional features like storage or seating. With this data in hand, I was ready to contact our designer.
Step 2: Consulting with Experts
The original concept for the Outlaw Railroad emerged from a blend of stylistic influences and the redevelopment of downtown Frisco, TX. (More details on this will be available in future posts.) Initially, I was unsure of where to begin, which is why it was crucial to involve experts to ensure the project would be successful in practice. We consulted with an interior designer from Urbanology Designs who met with me remotely to develop and refine the design details. She offered professional advice on color schemes, furniture selections, and the overall flow of the space. Her recommendations for practical design elements, such as multi-functional furniture and space-saving solutions for the small rooms, were invaluable.
Additionally, we enlisted local contractors to handle various tasks. We needed to relocate the towel rack in the bathroom, and we hired an electrician to install the Samsung Frame TV and the drop-down pendant lights. Some aspects of the design, like painting the stripes, were best left to professionals. By collaborating with experienced experts, we ensured that the property was beautifully updated.
Step 3: Purchasing Furniture & Decor
Once the design was finalized, we began ordering the pieces for the space. Our goal was to create an inviting, boutique-like atmosphere, so we focused on a mix of high-end furniture and bold design elements. Our budget was set at $8,000, but we ultimately exceeded it by about $2,000. It's hard to believe we spent $10,000 on the interior of a 600 sq. ft. property, but we aimed for a truly upscale feel. That upscale feel added up quickly.
We explored local furniture stores, big box retailers, online marketplaces, and even some vintage shops to find unique pieces that would add personality to the space. If you would like more details about the items we selected, I can provide information on where to find them. The most expensive item was the couch from Interior Define, while the least expensive pieces came from Ikea. I will get more into the specifics in another post.
From a plush bed with premium linens to soft rugs, elegant lighting fixtures, and carefully chosen art pieces, every item in the property was selected with care. We also made sure to include practical touches like hangers clothes, charging stations for electronics, and a work desk. We wanted our guests to feel like everything they needed was right at their fingertips.
Step 4: Final Installation & Touches
Once all the furniture and decor orders were in place, the installation was the last big hurdle. This involved setting up the furniture, hanging artwork, matting frames, and adding finishing touches like throw pillows, plants, and plenty of kitchen essentials. The bathroom received special attention like fluffy towels that would make guests feel pampered.
We paid attention to the little things: providing extra blankets, offering local guides and maps, and ensuring that the lighting was soft and adjustable to create the perfect ambiance. Everything was designed to make our guests feel comfortable and cared for, whether they were staying for one night or several weeks.
Step 5: Going Live and Welcoming Our First Guests
With the space fully furnished, the final step was to list the property on Airbnb. We carefully curated the listing, highlighting the unique features of the space and including initial photos to give potential guests a real feel for the atmosphere. We were excited but also a little nervous about how it would be received.
Within days of listing, we received our first booking! We couldn't wait to welcome our guests. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with guests praising the cozy atmosphere, convenient location, and thoughtful touches throughout the space.
Conclusion
Starting an Airbnb is a labor of love, and the journey from concept to completion was incredibly rewarding. From the initial measurements to final installations, every step along the way was an opportunity to create a welcoming environment for travelers seeking a comfortable, stylish place to stay. Seeing the space come to life and knowing that it’s becoming a cherished home base for visitors has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of this project.
If you’re thinking about starting your own Airbnb, my advice is to start with a clear vision, plan meticulously, and don’t be afraid to seek help from professionals who can bring your ideas to life. With the right preparation and care, you too can transform any property into a fantastic space for guests!