3 Ways Design Increases STR Income
How thoughtful design transforms short-term rentals into high-performing investments
If you're in the short-term rental game, you know this truth: guests book with their eyes. From the first scroll to their final review, design makes or breaks profitability. And the best part? Strategic upgrades don’t just look good—they directly boost your bottom line.
Here are three powerful (and profitable) ways design increases rental income, featuring real-world and hypothetical case studies:
1. Elevated Design = Higher Nightly Rates
Case Study: The Backyard Pool That Booked Out a Season
Before: A standard backyard with zero personality. It lacked cohesion with the home’s premium interiors and failed to impress in listing photos.
• Nightly Rate: $325
• Occupancy: 70%
• Monthly Revenue: ~$6,825
After a Custom Design Upgrade: We reimagined the backyard into a wow-worthy outdoor escape—integrating sculptural loungers, modern fencing, ambient lighting, and an Instagrammable patio for entertaining. It instantly aligned with the property's elevated indoor aesthetic.
• Nightly Rate: $425
• Occupancy: 85%
• Monthly Revenue: ~$10,838
Impact: Over $4,000/month in added revenue just from reworking the outdoor design.
Custom Pool Standout, design by Rest & Revive Design Co.
2. Better Design = More Bookings
Hypothetical Comparison: Urban Loft A vs. Urban Loft B
• Loft A: Basic furnishings, poor lighting, no intentional design
• Loft B: Curated industrial-modern decor, layered textures, styled photo moments
In competitive markets, listings with magazine-worthy photos get up to 20% more bookings. If both lofts are priced at $250/night:
• Loft A: 60% occupancy = $4,500/month
• Loft B: 80% occupancy = $6,000/month
That’s a $1,500+ monthly difference from design alone. Better visuals = better conversion.
3. Memorable Design Drives Recommendations + Repeat Stays
Client Example: Mountain Retreat STR
After transforming a dated home into a luxe, moody lodge with layered textures, signature lighting, and cozy reading nooks the design became part of the brand—and guests either recommended or returned because it felt like a boutique hotel experience.
Denver Home “Reimagined”, design by Rest & Revive Design Co.
Final Thought:
Design isn’t just about pretty spaces—it’s about building profitable properties.
Whether it’s a custom pool, a perfectly styled living room, or a better photo moment, the right upgrades can easily add thousands per month to your rental revenue.
Curious what a design refresh could do for your STR? Book a strategy call with Rest & Revive Design Co. and discover how to boost your bottom line through smart, guest-focused interiors.