Design for Your Guest, Not Your Ego

One of the biggest mistakes new hosts make is decorating a bedroom based on what they like rather than who they're hoping will stay.

Before you buy a single cushion or choose a paint colour, ask yourself: Who is this space for?

A room designed for a family will look very different to one designed for a couple on a romantic weekend away. Business travelers have different needs again.

If you're hosting families, think practical. Is there enough space to move around? Somewhere to put suitcases? Hooks for towels and jackets? Good storage? Families don't need fancy. They need easy.

Couples, on the other hand, are often looking for a little escape from everyday life. Soft lighting, beautiful bedding, cozy

throws, somewhere to sit with a glass of wine or morning coffee. The feeling is just as important as the furniture.

Business travellers usually appreciate functionality over frills. Fast Wi-Fi, charging points beside the bed, a small desk or workspace and a quiet place to unwind after a long day can make all the difference.

No matter who you're hosting, comfort should always come first. Invest in the things guests actually touch and use: a great mattress, quality pillows, soft sheets and good lighting. These are the details people remember.

I'm also a big believer in giving a space a sense of place. Some of my favorite stays have included local artwork, old photographs, handmade pieces or quirky treasures that tell a story. Guests aren't just booking a bed. They're booking an experience.

The best Airbnb bedrooms aren't necessarily the most expensive or the most stylish. They're the ones that feel thoughtful. The ones where guests walk in and immediately think, "This place was created with someone like me in mind."

And when that happens, the five-star reviews tend to take care of themselves.