Turning Large Airbnbs into Cozy Retreats: Jen Arkell’s Design Secrets

What this episode covers

What’s the secret to designing and furnishing large vacation rentals that feel inviting and functional for big groups? In this episode, I sit down with Jen Arkell, a homeschooling mom of seven and a creative force in transforming oversized short-term rentals into warm, welcoming retreats. Jen shares her expert strategies for staging and interior design, tailored to Airbnb and short-term rental properties. From creating functional spaces that cater to large groups to stocking kitchens with must-have essentials, she reveals the small details that make a big difference. Jen also dives into the personal side of her journey, opening up about how she balances running big design projects with homeschooling and family life. With faith as her foundation, she shares how she’s overcome challenges and made the design process a family affair. This episode is packed with practical tips and heartfelt stories that will inspire Airbnb hosts and short-term rental owners alike. If you’re ready to take your vacation rental design to the next level, don’t miss this conversation. Listen now and learn how to create spaces that not only look stunning but feel like home. HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [02:41] A short introduction about our guest Jen Arkell [04:57] Jen’s approach to designing large vacation rentals or expansive properties [07:02] What are the key considerations when furnishing a kitchen for large vacation rental properties [10:01] Jen walks us through her process of designing large vacation rental properties [12:55] How Jen manages the receiving and labeling of shipments for property staging [15:20] Jen explains how she intuitively designs large vacation rental spaces despite not having formal interior design training [17:40] How Jen and her husband balance budget and functionality to furnish large vacation rentals, and create a comfortable, high-quality guest experience [23:41] Jen’s approach in designing vacation rental properties with events in mind [25:06] Jen advice to those new to staging and furnishing large properties [26:42] How Jen balances homeschooling, raising her kids, and managing a short-term rental business [28:51] Jen's way of involving her kids in property setup and fostering a family-oriented work environment [33:39] Jen shares how she gets to know her cleaners builds strong relationships with them [36:00] How Jen personally deals with stress [39:05] The lightning round Golden Nuggets: “Start small, and scale from there.” “Show yourself grace when you can't always find that exact piece that you want to find; in the end, it'll come together.” “When you pour into the kids you and you're pouring into your family, there's a natural outward flow of being on the same team so that you can manage what you need to do.” “I truly know the Lord has His hand and everything allows everything to happen for a reason, and those are the most beautiful moments.” Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!

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