The Actual Art of Airbnb
I’ve spent years in hotels where every detail — from the crease in a pillowcase to the angle of a wine glass — was deliberate. In a 6-star environment, perfection wasn’t negotiable. We were trained to anticipate a guest’s needs before they even thought to ask.
That mindset doesn’t switch off when you leave hotels. Which is why, when I stay in Airbnbs, I notice everything — the details that delight, and the ones that break the illusion.
The difference between a “good” Airbnb and a great one isn’t a marble bathroom or designer sofa. It’s the small touches that make a guest feel prepared for, thought about, and valued.
First Impressions Count — Every Time
In a hotel, the first impression begins the second you step into the lobby. In an Airbnb, it starts the moment the guest opens the door.
Beds that invite — Two pillow types on every bed: one firm, one soft. Guests shouldn’t have to choose between a sore neck and a sleepless night.
Clean, clutter-free surfaces — A pantry and fridge with only true staples like salt, pepper, and olive oil. No half-used sauces or mystery jars.
Towels in harmony — Matching bath sheets, hand towels, and face washers, all fresh and neatly folded. Mismatched towels look like leftovers, not hospitality.
The Comfort Layer — For Every Type of Guest
In hotels, comfort is a silent service — it’s only noticed when it’s missing.
Two types of hangers — standard for shirts and jackets, clip hangers for trousers and skirts.
Extra blankets — stored neatly, ready for cooler nights or personal preference.
Soft lighting — bedside lamps or dimmable lights. No one wants to spend a week under the glare of the “big light.”
Functionality is Luxury
Luxury isn’t always crystal and silver service — it’s when everything works and is where you expect it to be.
Quality shampoo, conditioner, and body wash — even in bulk, uniform and replenished.
Sharp knives and a good cutting board — blunt knives send a silent message of neglect.
Working corkscrew and bottle opener — small, yes, but holiday essentials.
Fresh kitchen sponge or dish brush — no guest should touch someone else’s washing-up history.
Charging points by the bed — easy, accessible, no moving furniture.
Invisible Touches — The Signature of Service
In luxury service, the invisible touches are what make the difference.
A mirror near a power outlet — for drying hair, doing makeup, or tying a tie.
Clear rubbish and recycling system — with liners ready in place.
A clean, working hairdryer — easy to find, not hidden in a tangle of cables.
Think about scent - your silent handshake
In luxury hospitality, the fragrance in the air is never chosen for the staff — it’s chosen for the guest. Your Airbnb is no different. What you find comforting or familiar might be overpowering or alien to someone else. Select a light, neutral scent that complements the style and location of your property, and remember: freshness matters more than strength.
Diffusers and scent machines should be checked and refreshed regularly — nothing says “we’ve stopped paying attention” like a stale or fading aroma. The aim is for your guest to walk in and feel immediately at ease, not to wonder what you were trying to cover up.
Why It Matters More Than You Think
When you host an Airbnb, you’re not just renting out a property — you’re stepping into the role of concierge, housekeeper, and front desk, all at once. Guests remember the feeling you created.
In hotels, we were trained to make the guest feel the room was prepared just for them. That principle translates directly to hosting: nothing should feel like it belongs to the previous guest, and nothing should leave your guest wishing they’d packed more.
The art of Airbnb is in the discipline of details. Get them right, and you create more than a stay — you create loyalty, word-of-mouth, and a reputation for being the host who gets it.
