3 Ways to Design for Experience—Not Just Aesthetics (in Your Airbnb)

In today’s short-term rental market, having a "nice-looking" Airbnb simply isn’t enough. The listings that truly succeed are the ones that create an experience—the kind that makes a guest say, “I never want to leave,” and then book again next year.

We’re officially living in the Experience Economy, a term coined by economists B. Joseph Pine II and James H. Gilmore. In it, consumers seek memorable experiences rather than just goods or services—and short-term rentals are no exception. According to a 2023 report by Airbnb, listings with unique features or standout experiences were booked up to 40% more often than comparable listings with no clear differentiator.

So how do you make sure your Airbnb doesn’t blend into the crowd?

It’s time to design for the experience, not just for the aesthetic. Here are 3 ways to do it:

1. Design for Flow, Not Just Furniture Placement

Guests shouldn’t have to step over their suitcase to get to the bathroom. That might sound obvious, but you'd be shocked how many beautifully staged rentals fall short when it comes to basic functionality.

According to AirDNA, guest complaints about poor layout or tight spaces are among the top reasons for negative reviews—right behind cleanliness.

Ask yourself:

• Is there enough room to walk freely around the bed or through the kitchen?

• Can guests easily access outdoor spaces?

• Is it obvious where to put luggage, coats, or groceries?

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Pro Tip: Do a “guest walk-through” from the moment they arrive. Imagine entering with bags in hand, trying to find outlets, light switches, coffee mugs, or the Wi-Fi password. Are things intuitive? If not, redesign your layout to support ease of use.

2. Engage the Senses

Experience is emotional—and emotion is sensory. Your guests will remember how your Airbnb felt far longer than they’ll remember your tile choice.

Design that engages the senses helps create a strong first impression, boosts comfort, and increases guest satisfaction. According to a 2022 Expedia Group study, 72% of guests said comfort and ambiance played a key role in whether they’d return to a property.

Ways to build sensory experience:

• Smell: Use subtle diffusers with neutral, clean scents. Skip overpowering fragrances.

• Touch: Layer textures—soft blankets, cozy pillows, natural wood, or stone elements.

• Sound: Set up Bluetooth or smart speakers and curate a playlist that fits your theme.

• Sight: Lighting makes or breaks a vibe. Use dimmable lights, warm tones, and layer ambient + task lighting for depth.

  
  

Bonus Tip: Have your cleaning team do a final “scent and sound” check before guests arrive. One subtle shift can turn an average stay into a memory.

3. Tell a Story With Every Detail

The most memorable Airbnbs are the ones that feel like something. They have a story—whether it’s inspired by local culture, pop culture, the outdoors, or a lifestyle. And the numbers don’t lie: Airbnbs with themed or highly styled interiors are saved 2.5x more frequently than generic listings (source: Airbnb Design Team, 2023). When your space tells a story, it becomes part of your guest’s story too. That’s what leads to longer stays, repeat bookings, and more enthusiastic reviews.

Examples of story-driven design:

• A desert-inspired escape in Mesa, Arizona with curated cactus art, soft clay tones, and warm lighting

• A retro mid-century hangout with a curated vinyl collection and vintage details

• A Harry Potter-inspired bunk room with immersive lighting and subtle nods to the wizarding world

  
  

Ask Yourself: What do I want my guests to feel when they walk in? Calm? Inspired? Playful? Then, design every detail—from welcome signs to texture—to reflect that vibe.

The Takeaway:

It’s not enough to just style your Airbnb. You need to strategically design it to create an experience your guests won’t forget—and that they’ll gladly tell others about. In a market full of options, the Airbnb that feels like something is the one that wins.

At Gio Design Co, this is our specialty—crafting immersive, high-performing short-term rentals designed with emotion, intention, and experience in mind. Want help bringing your vision to life? Just say the word.

About The Author

Brandi is the founder and lead designer at Gio Design Co, known for creating immersive spaces that tell a story. With a passion for themed design and a talent for blending creativity with function, she’s helped countless clients—from Airbnb hosts to homeowners—transform their spaces into unforgettable experiences. Whether it’s a jungle-inspired kids’ clubhouse or a coastal retreat that feels like vacation, Brandi believes good design should always feel personal, intentional, and a little bit magical.

Book your free call and find out what Gio Design Company can do for your space!