For aspiring Airbnb hosts, the kitchen can be a deal-breaker in attracting potential guests. These essential features of a functional and stylish cabin kitchen enhance the overall appeal of rental cabins for vacationers, digital nomads, and long-term tenants. Some are as simple as a few décor changes, while others may require a bit of remodeling, like new windows or some custom carpentry. Either way, maximizing the attractiveness of your rental cabin kitchen can pay off in more consistent bookings and positive online reviews.
Keep It Cozy With Wood
Wooden elements bring warmth and a sense of coziness to a cabin kitchen. From wooden cabinets and countertops to wooden floorboards and ceiling beams, wood creates a rustic charm that resonates with the cabin aesthetic. Different types of wood, such as pine, oak, or cherry, offer various colors and grain patterns, allowing for unique design possibilities.
Use Stone or Shell Accents
Echo the natural environment outside by bringing stone or shells into the kitchen design. You can use stone or shell as a backsplash, and some types of countertops incorporated river rock or ocean shells into their materials for a rustic, designer touch. Consider a shell chandelier to create visual interest. These materials not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also provide durability and longevity.
Optimize Storage for Small Spaces
In a cabin kitchen, optimizing storage is crucial. Custom-built cabinets, pull-out drawers, and wall-mounted pot racks can make the most of limited space. Clever use of corners with carousel units or installing a magnetic knife strip can free up counter space. Remember, a well-organized kitchen helps guests locate items easily, enhancing their overall experience.
Maximize Natural Light
Natural light makes a kitchen look bigger and more inviting. If possible, design your cabin kitchen with large windows or skylights. Additionally, light-colored walls, cabinets, and countertops can reflect light, further brightening the space.
Related: Airbnb Owner Spotlight – The Cabin Host
Use Rugs Strategically
Rugs add color, texture, and comfort to a cabin kitchen. They also help define areas within the kitchen, such as a dining area or a cooking zone. Choose durable, easy-to-clean rugs that can withstand high traffic and potential spills.
Ensure Proper Ventilation
Proper ventilation is essential for maintaining a pleasant and safe kitchen environment. Invest in a quality range hood to remove cooking odors, smoke, and excess heat. Windows that open can also provide fresh air and additional ventilation.
Use Dividing Walls Creatively
In an open-concept cabin, use dividing walls or half-walls creatively to define the kitchen space without obstructing the flow of the room. Yurts are growing in popularity as Airbnb rental properties, and it’s possible to add a kitchen to a hard-sided yurt along the inside of the perimeter wall, or on one side of a half wall with a bathroom on the other and a sleeping loft above.
Shelving units or breakfast bars can also serve as functional dividers while providing additional storage or seating.
A stylish and functional cabin kitchen can significantly enhance your vacation rental’s appeal. As an Airbnb host, investing time and resources into creating such a space can lead to positive reviews, repeat bookings, and a successful hosting journey.
Hey, I’m Melissa.
As an Airbnb Superhost and someone who is passionate about investing in real estate, I created Beach Life Bliss to share my experiences and help short term rental operators. I have been a landlord for over 10 years and started my first Airbnb property in 2019.
Creating a space with amenities that guests love, beautifully designed rooms, and providing exceptional hospitality will make your Airbnb business thrive.
I hope that all of my Airbnb Hosting Tips are helpful as you navigate the challenges and rewards of being a short term rental owner and operator!
