Designing for the Experience Economy: Why Guests Want More Than Just a Place to Stay
- Brandi Giovanetto
- May 9
- 3 min read
I’ll never forget the first time I stepped into Hogwarts at Universal Orlando’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter. My kids and I were instantly transported into a world of cobblestone streets, spell shops, and total magic. It wasn’t just a theme park—it was an experience. Every detail pulled us deeper into the story, and from that day on, we were hooked. We’ve returned again and again, not just for the rides, but for the way that place makes us feel.
That feeling? That’s the Experience Economy in action—and it’s changing the way we travel, stay, and design.
In today’s short-term rental market, offering a clean and functional place to sleep isn’t enough. Guests want more than four walls and free Wi-Fi—they want a memory. The Experience Economy is a shift in consumer behavior that prioritizes emotion, immersion, and storytelling. For Airbnb hosts, vacation rental owners, and even residential homeowners, it’s a powerful opportunity to create a space that’s not only functional, but unforgettable.
What is the Experience Economy?
Coined in the late 1990s and made more relevant than ever by the rise of platforms like Airbnb, the Experience Economy centers around consumers valuing memorable moments over material goods. Instead of just a bed and four walls, today's travelers crave stories, novelty, immersion, and connection.
Think about the last time you booked a stay. You probably read the reviews, looked at the photos, and tried to imagine yourself in the space. That emotional connection is exactly what the Experience Economy is all about.
Design is No Longer Just Aesthetic—It's Strategic
For vacation rentals, especially in high-competition markets like Arizona, themed or thoughtfully curated interiors aren't just pretty—they're profitable. Research from Airbnb and AirDNA shows that listings with standout design and immersive environments book more often, earn better reviews, and command higher nightly rates.
A funky speakeasy lounge, a jungle-inspired bunk room, or a serene desert retreat—these aren't just gimmicks. They are strategic moves designed to:
Inspire share-worthy moments on social media
Set clear expectations around the vibe of the space
Help your listing stand out in a sea of sameness
Create emotional memories that lead to return visits
What Today's Guest Is Really Looking For
The modern guest wants:
A sense of place
A cohesive story or theme
Comfort that feels curated (not generic)
Design that makes their stay feel special, even if it's just a weekend getaway
You don't have to create Disneyland in your guest room. But a few intentional choices can transform your property from functional to unforgettable.
How We Approach Experience-Driven Design
At Gio Design Co, our mission is to design spaces that feel as good as they look. Whether we're styling a luxury Airbnb in Mesa or reworking a family home in the East Valley, we always start by asking:
Who is this space for?
What emotions should it evoke?
What experience will guests walk away with?
From there, we layer in visual storytelling, immersive design elements, and practical touches that support real-life use. The result? Spaces that guests rave about and hosts are proud of.
Final Thoughts
In a world where people are investing more in how they live and travel than where, experience-driven design is no longer optional—it's expected. And when it’s done right, it becomes the reason guests book your space, remember your name, and return for more.
Just like my family continues to return to the immersive magic of Diagon Alley, your guests will return to spaces that make them feel something. It doesn’t have to be over-the-top—but it does have to be thoughtful.
Design for the story. Design for the memory. Design for the experience.
Want to create a destination, not just a listing? Let's start designing for the experience.
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