What actually worked in short-term rental design in 2025—and what quietly cost STR owners money?
In this episode, STR designer Cara Shimizu breaks down what truly moved the needle in 2025 vacation rental performance, based on real bookings, real guest behavior, and real listing photos—not trends or theory.
You’ll learn:
What STR design choices increased bookings and nightly rates in 2025
Why some popular Airbnb decor trends hurt performance
How guests decide whether to book your STR before reading your amenities
What smart STR owners are doing differently heading into 2026
Why design is no longer optional—but revenue infrastructure
This episode also shares my top 3 2026 STR design predictions.
If you’re an Airbnb or short-term rental owner planning updates, furnishing a new property, or wondering why your listing feels stuck—this episode gives you clear, practical guidance for designing once and profiting repeatedly.
🎧 Perfect for:
Airbnb & VRBO owners
Multi-unit STR investors
Property managers
Hosts planning upgrades for 2026
👉 Learn more or book a strategy call: VRDecor.co/contact
⭐️ AirBnB Owner: What if You Miss Black Friday? Here’s Why STR Owners Shouldn’t Panic.In this video, I break down why missing Black Friday doesn’t hurt your business—and how to shop smarter all year long so you don't waste money on panic deals.You’ll learn:*Why STR essentials go on sale year-round*The simple system I use to decide what’s worth buying*The categories that actually matter for STR upgrades*If you want to run your STR like a business—and spend like one—this will help you avoid the #1 mistake hosts make during big sale weekends.🎙 About Me: I’m Cara, a revenue-driven AirBnb designer helping hosts earn more with smart, budget-friendly updates.Subscribe for more STR design + operations advice.Book a Discovery Call: www.VRDecor.co/contact
What do professional AriBnb designers ACTUALLY bring to an install?
🔧 Get the FREE List of Tools & Items Mentioned: https://www.vrdecor.co/installtools
See the YouTube video of this episode here: https://youtu.be/oilWwCQWmfM
Today I’m sharing the real list—the unexpected, ultra-practical, revenue-boosting tools I take to every single Airbnb or vacation rental installation. Yes, you’ll see Goo Gone, red duct tape, museum wax, cord-hiding kits… and the surprisingly powerful items most designers never think to pack.If you want your short-term rental to look finished, polished, and photo-ready (without wasting hours on install day), this episode is for you.In this video, you’ll learn:✔ The exact items I bring to every STR install✔ The weird-but-essential tools that save me HOURS✔ Cleaning products that make your rental look instantly more expensive✔ How I hide cords, fix scratches, polish spaces, and prevent guest damage✔ My personal system for making installs fast, smooth, and stress-free✔ Why these tools directly affect your listing photos and revenueWhether you’re an Airbnb host, a property manager, or a designer wanting smoother install days, these must-haves will completely change how you prep a space.✨ Want more revenue-driven STR design help?I specialize in revenue-driven interior design for short-term rentals — including Makeovers, E-Design, and design consultations.Contact me Here--I'm happy to answer your questions! https://www.vrdecor.co/contact🎙️ Listen to the full podcast series:Episode 1 — Install ToolsEpisode 2 — Pre-Install + Layout Techniques COMING SOONEpisode 3 — Room-by-Room Styling Tips COMING SOON
Click here to download the No-fail Paint Color Freebie: https://www.vrdecor.co/paint
Click here to contact us for a complimentary consultation: https://VRDecor.co/contact
Hi, I'm Cara Shimizu, AirBnb interior designer.
✨ Celebrating episode 50! ✨ In this milestone episode of Step Up Your STR, I’m sharing the 5 Golden Rules of STR Decorating—the timeless design strategies that will help you attract more bookings, impress your guests, and earn more revenue from your short-term rental.
🏡 Whether you manage one property or several, design is not just about looking good—it’s about creating spaces that sell themselves in photos and deliver unforgettable guest experiences.
👉 In this episode, you’ll discover:
1️⃣ Why vivid color makes your listing photos pop and sets you apart
2️⃣ Which wall paint creates flexibility and brightness for every space
3️⃣ The power of an “Instagrammable moment” (and how it markets your STR for free)
4️⃣ Which design choices save you money in the long run
5️⃣ How to achieve perfect decorative balance so your space feels intentional, not accidental
Here are 10 of my FAV Gold Items:*Gold sconces: https://amzn.to/46uYiiI
*Gold framed art: https://amzn.to/3KOcavQ
*Gold bathroom hardware: https://amzn.to/42jYoXX
*Gold doorknob: https://amzn.to/4gUaEEL
*Gold footed bowl: https://amzn.to/4nEy1EU
*Gold accented chandelier: https://amzn.to/4pRk4EQ
*Gold-framed mirror: https://amzn.to/42kHgBt
*Gold hooks: https://amzn.to/4gT43Kv
*Gold: https://amzn.to/474DaA2
🌟 Plus: I share my bold prediction for the next 5 years of STR guest expectations.
🔥 If you’re an STR owner who wants:
More bookings
Higher nightly rates
Better guest reviews
…then this episode is for you.
Don’t just decorate—design for revenue.
🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on STR design, hosting strategies, and how to maximize your rental income through smart, intentional decorating.
#AirBnbDecor #STRDesign #AirbnbTips #InteriorDesign #AirbnbHost #VacationRental #Superhost
In this special 50th episode, we discuss the growing pressure on free speech, what the tragedy surrounding Charlie Kirk teaches us about truth and responsibility, and why entrepreneurs and STR owners must stand up for themselves in today’s climate.
From defending freedom of speech to challenging unfair Airbnb practices and corporate overreach, we explore how strong convictions, personal responsibility, and free markets drive both democracy and success in the short-term rental world.
If you believe in free speech, capitalism, and the right to speak up for what’s fair, this episode is for you.
Book a FREE Clarity Call here: https://VRDecor.co/contactAnd want some MORE FREE STR decorating resources? Grab a bunch here: https://VRDecor.co/freeresourcesAre you pouring tens of thousands into remodeling your STR… only to wonder why bookings & revenue aren’t where they should be?
In this episode, STR design expert Cara Shimizu of VR Decor uncovers the $10K design mistake that most STR owners never see coming: spending big on construction, then skimping on the design + furnishings that actually sell the stay.You’ll learn:*Why cutting corners on design quietly drains your revenue*How to avoid the most common STR owner objections (& myths!)*A 5-step action plan to create a guest-ready space that performs*Real-life examples of owners who wasted thousands—& how to do it rightWhether you’re new to STRs or managing multiple units, this episode will help you transform your property into a revenue-driving, guest-attracting asset instead of a money pit.
Check out these helpful video podcasts, on more STR decorating to earn max revenue:*The TOP decor strategy for more bookings: https://youtu.be/iA0eeuUEEfM*How to decorate a small STR: https://youtu.be/MefF6jh8g2Y*Reviews of STR designers + freebie printable! https://youtu.be/lmmHF7bn3BA
Want the FREE DOWNLOAD that summarizes ALL 24 STR Designers? Just click here: https://VRDecor.co/designersHave questions about STR decorators? Book a FREE Clarity Call here-- https://VRDecor.co/contactAnd want some MORE FREE STR decorating resources? Grab a bunch here-- https://VRDecor.co/freeresources
Are all Airbnb designers the same? Not even close. In this episode, we’re comparing 7 short-term rental (STR) interior designers—breaking down their styles, services, pricing, and strategy so you can figure out which one is the right fit for your rental property.
Many “regular” interior designers make homes look pretty… but STR design has to be different in order to be successful. The best STR designers know how to:
Maximize bookings & revenue 💰
Create scroll-stopping photos for Airbnb/VRBO 📸
Deliver guest-friendly layouts that boost reviews ⭐
Make your property stand out in a crowded market 🏡
✨ What You’ll Learn in This Video:
A breakdown of 7 specific STR designers and what they offer
Which designers focus on E-Design vs. full-service installs
Who offers nationwide services vs. local only
Where pricing is transparent (and where it’s hidden)
How to tell if a designer’s strategy is truly revenue-driven
My insights on who each designer is best suited for
🎧 This is Part 2 of a 3-part series where I review a total of 21 STR designers. Don’t miss Part 1 (8 designers) and stay tuned for Part 3 (the final 6 + my full comparison article).
👉 Whether you’re an Airbnb host, VRBO owner, or STR property manager, this will help you hire the right designer for your goals.
Get a FREE Design Clarity Call HERE
Want a bunch of FREE STR decor resources? Click HERE
Thinking about hiring an interior designer for your STR (Airbnb / VRBO)?
In this episode of Step Up Your STR, Cara shares an honest review of 7 STR-specific interior designers: Quill Decor, Vacay Rental Design, STR Cribs & more.
We break down:
Services each designer offers (E-design, full-service, virtual consults, branding)
Pricing & timelines (what’s disclosed & what isn’t)
Which designers are truly revenue-focused vs. just making your space pretty
The type of STR host or investor each one is best for
Whether you’re planning an Airbnb makeover, thinking about a new short-term rental, or just want to know which STR designer can help you book more nights & increase your nightly rate, this episode will give you clarity.
This is Part 2 of a 3-part series reviewing 20+ STR designers. Don’t forget to subscribe so you can catch Part 3, where we wrap up with the final designers and share a full comparison guide.
If you want help deciding on the right designer for your STR—even if that ends up being someone besides Cara—book a free Discovery Call HERE
Visit https://vrdecor.co/contact to book a free Discovery Call with Cara
Wondering which STR interior designer is worth your money? In this episode of Set Up Your STR, I compare 8 different STR design services—from high-end makeover firms to free design help from big furniture sellers.
I break down pricing, turnaround time, design strategy, and most importantly… who actually helps you increase your Airbnb revenue.
✅ Ideal for Airbnb hosts, vacation rental investors, and property managers
✅ Includes insights on STR Design Lab, Somerled Designs, Paige Hayes, and more
✅ Hosted by Cara Shimizu, STR design expert and founder of VR Decor
🎯 You’ll learn:
Which designers are truly revenue-focused
Who’s best for DIY hosts vs. hands-off investors
Why some “free” design services might cost you in the long run
Which style of STR design leads to higher bookings and rates
👉 Ready to make your STR work harder for you? Listen in, and subscribe!
#Aribnbdecor #CaraVRDecor #airbnbdesign #strinteriordesign #vacationrentaldesign #airbnbsetup #airbnbtips #strhost #strdecor #vrdecor
Grab the FREE LIST of items here: https://www.vrdecor.co/fifty
Click here to CONTACT US with your AirBnb decor questions: https://vrdecor.co/contact
Want to charge $50+ more per night for your Airbnb or short-term rental—without renovating? In this episode, I'm sharing 4 high-impact STR design upgrades that attract better guests, boost your booking rate, and justify premium pricing. These aren’t fluff—they’re real, tested strategies I use with my own clients to drive revenue through smart, visual design.
🏆 What you’ll learn:
The #1 wall upgrade that creates an “Instagram moment” and gets more bookings
How to turn a boring coffee maker into a luxury guest experience
The outdoor setup that adds perceived square footage
Why a king bed isn’t optional in competitive STR markets
Bonus spa-style bathroom touches guests rave about in reviews
🎯 These tricks are fast, affordable, and designed to pay you back.
Click HERE to get the FREE "Homey Trinity" printable here
Click HERE to WATCH this on YouTube
In this episode, Cara reveals why the most profitable STRs often rely on a color most hosts overlook—or misunderstand completely.
Learn how a strategic paint choice can completely shift your short-term rental’s performance, helping you book more often, photograph better, and appeal to a higher-paying guest.
Whether you're just launching or managing 20+ units, this episode gives you a proven, design-backed strategy for increasing ROI—without blowing your budget.
Inside, you’ll hear:
The science behind why white walls earn more
The most common mistakes STR hosts make with color
How to choose the right white (and the wrong ones to avoid)
A simple 3-part design strategy to make white walls pop
A real-world case study and results from actual Airbnb listings
This is branding for more $. And this episode shows you how to make it work.
Submit your photos for advice here: VRDecor@yahoo.com
Want some FREE AirBnb Decor resources? Just click here: https://www.vrdecor.co/freeresources
In this episode, I walk you through 2 real-life short-term rentals and break down exactly what I’d change to dramatically boost their performance. These aren’t hypothetical fixes—these are strategic, revenue-focused design moves tailored to real properties with untapped potential, and very FEW new purchases are needed!
You’ll hear:
*What’s holding each space back from charging more
*The fast, high-impact design upgrades I’d implement
*How layout, furnishings, and focal points affect booking behavior
Whether you’re a seasoned STR owner or just getting started, these case studies will help you see your own property with fresh eyes—and show you how design done right directly translates into dollars.
Have questions about AirBnb decor?
In this episode, Cara Shimizu—expert in revenue-driven STR design—breaks down the 8 most common design questions asked by STR owners who want to stop blending in & start booking out.
Whether you’re new to STRs or have a whole portfolio, you’ll discover:
What STR design really costs—and what that includes (and doesn’t)
The ROI you can expect when your space is specially designed
Why “regular decorating” just doesn’t cut it in this industry
Common design mistakes that are silently costing you money
Whether you can reuse existing furniture
How long a professional STR design takes (spoiler: way faster than you think)
Who STR design is for (and who should skip it)
This episode is your shortcut to a smarter, more profitable rental.
📍 Want to turn your space into a scroll-stopping, revenue-earning listing? HERE ARE THE LINKS:
*Pre-made EDesigns--super budget-friendly! https://VRDecor.co/store
*Want FREE STR decorating helps? Here ya go: https://www.vrdecor.co/freeresources
CONTACT Cara HERE for a FREE DISCOVERY CALL: https://www.vrdecor.co/contact
And this more more Instagrammable info: https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/4wKPZJNcsTb
Struggling to make your small short-term rental (STR) stand out—and earn more? In Part 2 of this two-part deep dive, STR design expert Cara Shimizu unpacks advanced, revenue-driven strategies to transform tight spaces into luxurious, high-performing rentals.
If you own or manage multiple STRs and want to turn every square foot into a money-maker, this episode is packed with practical guidance and high-end design thinking tailored for income growth.
What you’ll discover in Part 2:
How mirrors make your unit feel 2x bigger
The secret to cozy, layered lighting using the 3-source rule
Why uniform flooring and skipping rugs can modernize your look
Design tricks to elongate space using ceilings!
Art placement for balance
Compact, luxe additions
How STRs with “wow” design convert more views into bookings
Want to turn small square footage into serious revenue? You don’t have to DIY it at all.
Click here to contact VR Decor: https://www.vrdecor.co/contact
Click here for FREE STR Decorating Resources: https://www.vrdecor.co/freeresources
Got a ~SMALL~ Airbnb or STR that needs to feel amazing—but without feeling crowded? In Part 1 of this 2-part series, expert STR interior designer Cara Shimizu walks you through revenue-boosting design strategies specifically for small vacation rental spaces.
Whether you’re working with a studio apartment, guesthouse, or compact unit, these strategies will help you increase bookings & make more revenue—all through intentional, strategic décor choices.
✅ Ideal for short-term rental owners with multiple properties
✅ Designed for those ready to invest in higher returns
✅ No fluff—just smart, high-design decisions that make small spaces shine
🎧 What You’ll Learn in Part 1:
How to choose a tight, cohesive color palette for a high-end look
The furniture scale mistake that shrinks your space (and what to use instead)
Why vertical storage is a must for STRs
How rounded furniture can improve guest experience
The visual trick that makes rooms feel airier instantly
The one type of wall art that adds value—and what to avoid
If you’re ready to elevate your STR’s design—and your revenue—this episode is packed with practical takeaways you can implement right away.
📌 Don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss Part 2—where we’ll cover lighting, mirrors, flooring, ceilings, and more visual space tricks.
#airbnbdesign #vacationrentaldecor #airbnbtips #smallspaceinteriors #shorttermrental #airbnbhost #interiordesignforairbnbs
Sign up here for this episode's free printable: https://VRDecor.co/trinity
Sign up here for all VR Decor's free STR design resources: https://www.vrdecor.co/freeresources
Think your Airbnb needs another price drop to compete? Think again. In this episode, Cara Shimizu shares the most powerful design move you’re probably not using—and how it can:
--> transform your photos
--> boost your bookings
--> build a brand guests remember
--> bring you more repeat guests
You’ll hear:
A surprising road trip story that reveals exactly what your guests are craving
Why vivid color matters more than expensive furniture or trendy styles
Simple ways to add scroll-stopping color—even on a budget
The full breakdown of Cara’s “Homey Trinity” design method for STRs
Ready to for a property that's REALLY eye-catching, & gets you more clicks & bookings? This one’s for you.
For decor assistance, contact Cara here: https://VRDecor.co/contact
For FREE STR decor resources: https://VRDecor.co/freeresources
If your short-term rental is clean, functional, & looks fine—but bookings are still low—this episode is exactly what you need to hear.
We'll cover:
✨ Why decorating an STR is not the same as decorating a home
🎯 How to design intentionally for your ideal guest
📸 The real reason you’re not getting listing clicks
🌈 Cara’s signature “Homey Trinity” that makes STRs irresistible.
And a bunch more points for more bookings!
Whether you're new to STRs or already hosting but not seeing results, this episode is a must-listen if you're ready to turn “meh” into money. 💰
👉 Press play now and let’s get your bookings back on track!
Contact us to set up a Mini Design Session--we can cover a lot of decor issues in only 2 hours VRDecor.co/Contact
Click for FREE STR Decorating Resources VRDecor.co/FreeResources
Your Airbnb Looks Cheap—Fix It FAST! 🏡✨
Is your Airbnb turning guests away before they even book? 👀 First impressions matter, and we'll talk about 20 decorating mistakes that make your rental look cheap—even if it’s not!
Here’s what could be costing you bookings (and how to fix it!):
❌ Tiny rugs – A too-small rug makes your space feel unfinished. Get an 8x10 (or bigger!) for a polished look.
❌ Bad lighting – Harsh, blue-white bulbs = instant “cheap” vibes. Swap for warm, cozy lighting to make your space feel high-end.
❌ Flat, lifeless bedding – Thin, wrinkled sheets scream budget motel. Upgrade to plush, hotel-quality bedding for instant luxury.
❌ Short curtains – Curtains that stop above the floor look awkward. Go high & wide, and let them kiss the floor for a luxe feel.
These fixes are fast, affordable, and will boost your bookings—guests book with their eyes first! 📸 Want details for all 20 mistakes? Listen in now! 🎧
#AirbnbHost #VacationRental #InteriorDesign #STR
Click to sign up for FREE VR Decorating Resources – Find checklists, decor guides, and tips to elevate your property.
Got Questions? Reach Out! Contact Cara – Let’s chat about making your STR stand out for MAX Revenue!
Want to transform your Airbnb into a high-revenue powerhouse? In this episode, I’m sharing my top UNUSUAL STR decorating rules so you stand out, maximize bookings, & get repeat guests.
Tune in to learn:
Why bold pays off and why playing it safe will hurt your bookings.
How choosing the right main piece makes all the difference.
The power of working with your space’s architecture to enhance its best features.
Ready to boost your STR’s revenue? Hit play!
#AirBnbDecor #HowToDecorateAirbnb #AirbnbInteriorDesign #AirbnbDecoratingTips