One of the biggest challenges for small properties in the city is finding efficient space. Of course, Airbnb properties need enough space in order to comfortably accommodate guests, so how can small properties really become Airbnb friendly?

With the right styling, arrangements and planning, it’s not too difficult!

Hosts can follow these tips to make their small space Airbnb friendly.

Minimal clutter

Clutter tends to build up much quicker in small spaces than in larger ones, which can make small spaces look even smaller and cramped. Although hosts want to make their properties look stylish and quirky with the use of decorations, overusing these in a small areas only creates the clutter. This is not to say that hosts should completely banish decorative items from their properties, but they should choose which decorations they use wisely. For example; rather than adding small bits and pieces here and there, add one big statement piece to each room that will really draw the eyes.

Smart storage

Properties might look spacious before they are occupied, but as soon as guests arrive with all of their luggage, things don’t seem so spacious anymore. Guests need some separate storage space for their belongings, away from living areas to ensure they are able to comfortably move around. Finding sufficient storage shouldn’t be too much of an issue – not when it’s smartly planned. IKEA interior designer, Nina Parkeborn, suggests: “When space is tight, use every inch all the way up to the ceiling.” Shelves are particularly useful for smart storage, as they keep things out of floor space. To keep shelf clutter to a minimal, storage boxes can be sat on top too.

Create illusions

Luckily, there are various tricks that can create the illusion of a bigger room, so guests may feel like they have got more space.

Colours

Strategic use of colours used on walls is the most effective way to create the illusion of a bigger space. Bright neutral colours such as light tans and grays, white and rich blue-green tones can make rooms appear larger and add more depth. Whilst darker colours can make a room appear smaller.

Mirrors

Well-placed mirrors can create a sense of openness as they reflect light and therefore trick the eye into recognising more space. Mirrors work particularly well in narrow hallways where there is minimal light.

Lighting

Never underestimate the power of good lighting. Allowing as much natural lighting in as possible is a good place to start. If not a lot of natural lighting is available in a room, artificial lights can still be useful. Spreading a few light sources around a room, rather than just one, can open the room up and spread the focus across the whole area.

Furniture arrangement

Space is about arrangement. Hosts of small properties should avoid arranging furniture tightly together as it only closes in the floor space, so this won’t do the property any favours in terms of creating the illusion of a bigger area. We recommend placing larger pieces of furniture against walls to maximize the open area.

Use multifunctional furniture

There is no doubt that small spaces can be tight for fitting in essential furniture like sofas and beds, but this can easily be worked around by using multifunctional furniture instead. Day-beds or sofa-beds are the perfect example. With these, guests have the best of both worlds – comfort and maximum space. Even if a property already has the space for both a bed and a sofa, multifunctional furniture increases sleeping arrangements, creating room for more guests and in turn hosts could increase their earnings.   

Want to find out more? Get in touch with us today here for an informal chat about how we can help your property reach its full potential and boost your bookings and income.