Chicago Airbnb
Each unit is approached with a clear goal: to create spaces that feel welcoming, photograph beautifully, and perform consistently in a competitive short-term rental market
Location
Chicago
Property type
Short-term rental
Scope
Interior design, furnishing, and styling for short-term rental properties
Key result
Improved booking performance
Project overview
Designing for scale, comfort, and high-occupancy living
This expansive 6-bedroom, 4-bath apartment was designed to host larger groups without sacrificing comfort or visual coherence. The primary challenge was managing scale — ensuring the space felt organized, calm, and intuitive despite its size.
Project gallery
A visual tour of the redesigned space
Scroll through the images below to see how each area was reworked – from the main living zone to the sleeping corner, kitchen and entrance.
Living area – hero view
Main living area with new shelving and warm wood tones
Living area – alternate angle
Clear conversation zone with balanced proportions
Sleeping corner
Semi-private nook with soft headboard and bedside lighting
Bedroom styling details
Warmer textiles for a more hotel-like feel
Dining & work table
Compact table doubles as breakfast spot and workspace
kitchen with bar stools Kitchen update
Refreshed fronts and improved lighting
Entrance & storage
Hooks, bench and closed storage for organized arrivals
Styling & decor
Limited decor pieces creating recognizable photo moments
Space by space
What changed in each area
Living area
The living area functions as the central gathering space for the apartment, designed to comfortably host larger groups without feeling crowded.
Challenge
With a large footprint and multiple circulation paths, the space initially lacked structure and felt visually disconnected
Solution
We anchored the room with a strong seating layout and layered lighting to define the space clearly. Furniture scale was carefully selected to support group use while maintaining openness and flow throughout the apartment.
Sleeping corner
Each sleeping area was designed to feel calm, comfortable, and visually separated from common spaces. Soft textiles, warm tones, and thoughtful lighting create a restful atmosphere that supports quality sleep for guests.
Challenge
The scale of the apartment required multiple sleeping zones, which risked feeling exposed or inconsistent if not handled intentionally.
Solution
We used layout planning, headboard placement, and accent walls to visually define each sleeping area. Consistent styling across rooms ensures cohesion, while subtle variations add character without disrupting the overall design language.
dining table large Kitchen & dining
The kitchen and dining area was designed as a functional hub capable of serving large groups. Clean lines, durable finishes, and ample seating make the space practical for shared meals, gatherings, and longer stays.
Challenge
High guest capacity placed heavy demands on circulation, seating, and durability, while the original layout felt inefficient for group use.
Solution
We optimized the layout to improve flow and introduced a large dining setup suitable for group dining. Materials and finishes were chosen for durability and ease of maintenance, ensuring the space performs well under frequent use.
Bathroom
Bathrooms were designed to feel bright, clean, and hotel-like while supporting high turnover. Neutral finishes and simple detailing create a timeless look that appeals to a wide range of guests.
Challenge
With multiple bathrooms serving large groups, functionality and durability were just as important as visual clarity.
Solution
We focused on efficient layouts, easy-to-clean surfaces, and consistent styling across all bathrooms. Improved lighting and streamlined storage enhance daily use while keeping maintenance straightforward.
Challenges & goals
What wasn’t working before the redesign
The large footprint lacked structure, making the apartment feel overwhelming and difficult for guests to navigate intuitively
Inconsistent room styling across bedrooms created a fragmented experience rather than a cohesive, high-quality stay
Common areas were not optimized for group use, limiting comfort and functionality for larger parties
Finishes and furnishings were not designed for high occupancy, leading to faster wear and increased maintenance needs
The goal was to transform a large-scale apartment into a well-organized, guest-friendly Airbnb that could comfortably host groups while maintaining a cohesive design, durable materials, and a smooth operational flow across all rooms.
Design approach
How we reimagined the space
Layout & zoning
The large apartment was organized into clear, intuitive zones that guide guest movement and support group stays. Each area has a defined purpose while maintaining a cohesive flow throughout the space.
Materials & colour
A warm, neutral palette was used to unify all rooms and create a calm, inviting atmosphere. Durable finishes and practical materials were selected to withstand high occupancy and frequent turnover.
Lighting
Layered lighting improves functionality and atmosphere across the apartment. Even illumination eliminates dark areas while allowing the mood to shift from bright and social to soft and relaxed.
Styling & photography prep
Styling was kept intentional and uncluttered, with a focus on strong visual moments. Each space was prepared to photograph clearly and consistently for high-impact listings.
Results
What changed after the redesign
After the redesign, the apartment became easier to navigate, more comfortable for groups, and visually stronger across all listings. The improved layout, cohesive styling, and upgraded lighting translated into better guest experiences and smoother day-to-day operations.
Increased occupancy
Following the redesign and updated listing presentation
Higher average nightly rate
Driven by a more polished interior
More positive reviews
Frequently mentioning comfort, space, and overall design
Fewer guest questions and issues
Thanks to clearer layouts and more intuitive room organization
Design details
Key choices behind the look and feel
1
Colour palette
A warm, neutral base was used throughout the apartment to create a calm, cohesive feel across all rooms. Subtle contrast adds depth while keeping the space timeless, inviting, and consistent in photography.
2
Materials
Materials were selected for durability and ease of maintenance without sacrificing visual quality. Hard-wearing surfaces and easy-to-clean finishes ensure the apartment performs well under high guest turnover.
3
Furniture
Furniture was chosen for scale, comfort, and flexibility to support large groups. Clean lines and thoughtful proportions maintain openness while ensuring the space remains functional and uncluttered.
4
Accessories
Accessories were kept intentional and minimal. Each piece adds warmth and character while reinforcing key visual moments that help the listing stand out without creating unnecessary clutter.
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