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 DeKalb maximize your rental income by creating spaces that attract more bookings and command higher nightly rates. Expert designers understand what travelers want and can optimize layouts, furnishings, and amenities to enhance guest satisfaction and generate positive reviews. Quality renovations increase your property value while reducing maintenance issues and vacancy periods. The investment typically pays for itself through increased occupancy rates and premium pricing in DeKalb's competitive short-term rental market.
Airbnb renovations in DeKalb, Illinois typically cost $15,000-$40,000 for a full property makeover, with basic updates starting around $5,000-$10,000. These investments can increase nightly rates by 20-40% and occupancy rates by 15-25%, generating an additional $200-$500 monthly revenue. Properties near Northern Illinois University command premium rates of $80-$150 per night when professionally designed. The return on investment usually pays back within 12-24 months through higher booking rates and guest satisfaction scores.
For Airbnbs in DeKalb, Illinois, focus on modern farmhouse or industrial chic designs that reflect the area's agricultural heritage and university town atmosphere. Use neutral color palettes with warm accents, durable furniture that can withstand frequent turnover, and incorporate local artwork or NIU-themed decor to appeal to visiting families and university guests. Prioritize functional spaces with good lighting, comfortable seating areas, and well-equipped kitchens since many guests are families or groups staying for extended periods. Add cozy touches like throw blankets and local guidebooks to create a welcoming, home-like environment.
For DeKalb's climate, focus on creating a covered outdoor dining area with string lights and weather-resistant furniture that works year-round. Add a fire pit or outdoor heater for shoulder seasons, and install privacy screening with native plantings like prairie grasses. Include outdoor games like cornhole or a small putting green to appeal to families and NIU visitors. These improvements maximize usability during DeKalb's variable weather while creating Instagram-worthy spaces guests will remember.
STRCribs is a specialized short-term rental design and renovation company that serves the DeKalb, Illinois market, focusing specifically on Airbnb property transformations. They offer comprehensive services including interior design, furniture sourcing, and property staging tailored to maximize rental income and guest satisfaction. STRCribs stands out as the primary provider in DeKalb for turnkey Airbnb design solutions, handling everything from concept to completion. Their expertise in creating Instagram-worthy spaces that appeal to travelers makes them the go-to choice for property owners in the area.
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 DeKalb, Illinois focus on cozy farmhouse aesthetics with neutral color palettes, reclaimed wood accents, and vintage furniture that reflects the area's rural charm. Modern minimalist touches are incorporated through clean lines and uncluttered spaces to appeal to visiting Northern Illinois University students and families. Local artwork and prairie-inspired decor elements help create authentic regional character. Functional amenities like dedicated workspaces and high-speed internet are essential given the college town demographic.
DeKalb's building codes require Airbnb renovations to comply with residential zoning regulations, fire safety standards, and occupancy limits that may restrict guest capacity. Properties must meet electrical and plumbing code requirements, install proper smoke detectors, and ensure adequate egress routes for short-term rental use. The city also requires special use permits for short-term rentals in certain residential zones, which can limit renovation scope and design flexibility.
When designing your DeKalb Airbnb, prioritize durable, easy-to-clean furnishings that can withstand frequent guest turnover while maintaining a welcoming atmosphere for both business travelers visiting Northern Illinois University and leisure guests. Choose neutral color schemes with local touches that reflect Illinois charm, ensure strong Wi-Fi throughout the space, and invest in comfortable bedding and seating since many guests will be university visitors or Chicago-area travelers seeking affordable accommodations.
Incorporate DeKalb's agricultural heritage and Northern Illinois University connection by using rustic barn wood accents, vintage farming tools as wall decor, and NIU's red and black color scheme in throw pillows or artwork. Add corn-themed elements like mason jar lighting fixtures and display local prairie wildflowers in vintage milk jugs. Include cozy study nooks with industrial lighting to appeal to university visitors, and showcase local photography of the historic downtown courthouse square and surrounding farmland.
A full Airbnb design and renovation project in DeKalb, Illinois typically takes 3-6 months from start to finish. The timeline depends on the scope of work, with minor cosmetic updates taking 6-8 weeks and major renovations requiring 4-6 months. Permit approval in DeKalb usually adds 2-4 weeks to the initial timeline. Weather conditions during winter months may extend outdoor work and material delivery schedules by an additional 2-3 weeks.
