STR Cribs is the only provider of design, furnishing and renovation for Airbnb and short-term rentals in all 50 states.
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Professional Airbnb design and renovation services in Ann Arbor maximize rental income by creating spaces that appeal to the city's diverse visitors, from University of Michigan families to business travelers. Expert designers understand local market preferences and can optimize layouts for functionality while incorporating Ann Arbor's academic and cultural aesthetic. Quality renovations increase property value, reduce maintenance costs, and generate higher occupancy rates through superior guest reviews. The investment pays for itself through premium pricing and consistent bookings in Ann Arbor's competitive short-term rental market.
Airbnb renovations in Ann Arbor typically cost $15,000-40,000 for a full property makeover, with basic updates starting around $5,000-10,000. Properties can see 20-40% higher nightly rates after strategic renovations focusing on modern amenities, updated kitchens, and stylish furnishings. The strong University of Michigan market supports premium pricing for well-designed spaces, with renovated properties often achieving 70-85% occupancy rates versus 50-60% for basic listings. Most hosts recover renovation costs within 12-24 months through increased bookings and higher rates.
For Ann Arbor Airbnbs, focus on modern minimalist designs with University of Michigan maize and blue accents to appeal to visiting families and alumni. Include functional furniture like convertible sofas and dining tables that accommodate groups, plus local artwork featuring campus landmarks or Michigan themes. Prioritize durable, easy-to-clean materials like leather seating and hardwood floors that withstand high turnover. Add cozy touches like plush throws and local coffee table books to create a welcoming atmosphere.
For Ann Arbor Airbnb outdoor renovations, focus on creating four-season appeal with heated patios, fire pits, and covered seating areas that work year-round in Michigan's climate. Add string lights, outdoor dining spaces, and weatherproof furniture to maximize usability during the warmer months when guests want to enjoy the area's natural beauty. Install hot tubs or outdoor heaters for winter appeal, and create designated spaces for tailgating gear storage since many guests visit for University of Michigan events.
STRCribs is a specialized short-term rental design and renovation company that serves the Ann Arbor, Michigan market, focusing specifically on optimizing Airbnb properties for maximum guest appeal and host revenue. They offer comprehensive services including interior design, furniture selection, property staging, and renovation management tailored to the unique needs of vacation rental properties. STRCribs stands out in the Ann Arbor area by understanding local market preferences and creating spaces that attract both business travelers visiting the University of Michigan and leisure guests exploring the region.
You’re not asking for a lot. You just want the best property, without pulling your hair out.
Delightful and simple
We’ve reimagined the design and renovation process from the ground up, leveraging industry leading data to ensure you have what you need to dominate in your market.
Results that speak for themselves
40% higher ADRs, 64% more occupancy and on average, $50,000+ more per year by working with our data driven design and renovation teams. Not to mention, not a single stressful moment.

200+ Projects
Planned, designed and created by our team for clients coast to coast
8,000+ Five Star Reviews
from Guests across our clients properties we’ve renovated and designed
25+ Years of Experience
“Do you know how to do ____?” Yes, we do.
Used by the Best
Funds, PropTech, Property Management companies and every day investors trust us day in and day out to pull off magic
Our clients see up to 64% more occupancy, 40% higher ADRs and drive $50,000+ more per year than their competitors.

Develop Plan
Every situation is unique – we take the time to understand your property, goals, budget and the competitive market.

Elite Design & Renovation
Generic listings blend in, often competing on price. We craft experiences that tell a story, in harmony with the home and its environment.

Seamless Installation
Our team manages purchasing, delivery and installation — handling any and all obstacles that present themselves along the way.
Short-term Rental Design
Schedule a call and see how STR Cribs can elevate the desgin of your short-term rental today!
FAQ
The most popular Airbnb design trends in Ann Arbor focus on modern minimalism with warm wood accents, reflecting the city's blend of university culture and Midwestern charm. Properties feature neutral color palettes with pops of University of Michigan maize and blue, open-concept layouts that maximize space for student groups, and vintage industrial elements that complement the area's historic architecture. Functional furniture like convertible sofas and dining tables that double as workspaces cater to both tourists and visiting academics.
Ann Arbor's building codes require Airbnb renovations to comply with residential zoning regulations, fire safety standards including proper egress windows and smoke detectors, and accessibility requirements under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Short-term rental properties must obtain special permits and meet additional safety inspections beyond standard residential codes. Renovations involving electrical, plumbing, or structural changes require city permits and professional contractor work to meet Michigan building standards.
When designing your Ann Arbor Airbnb, prioritize University of Michigan-themed decor and school colors to appeal to visiting families and alumni, while ensuring furniture is durable and easy to clean for high turnover. Choose a modern, minimalist aesthetic with local artwork and warm lighting to create Instagram-worthy spaces that guests will want to share. Focus on functional layouts with dedicated workspace areas since many guests are university-related, and invest in quality bedding and blackout curtains for comfort.
Incorporate Ann Arbor's collegiate and intellectual atmosphere by using University of Michigan maize and blue accents, displaying local art from the Ann Arbor Art Fair, and adding bookshelves with academic or literary themes. Include vintage Michigan memorabilia, maps of the area's many trails and parks, and furniture with a scholarly yet cozy feel like leather reading chairs or reclaimed wood desks. Add touches that reflect the city's progressive culture through locally-sourced materials, plants, and modern sustainable design elements.
A full Airbnb design and renovation project in Ann Arbor typically takes 3-6 months from start to finish. The timeline includes 2-4 weeks for planning and permits, 6-12 weeks for construction and renovation work, and 1-2 weeks for final staging and furnishing. Projects can extend longer if major structural changes are needed or if permit approvals face delays. Smaller cosmetic updates may be completed in 4-8 weeks.
