STR Cribs is the only provider of design, furnishing and renovation for Airbnb and short-term rentals in all 50 states.
Book your FREE intro call
Professional Airbnb design and renovation services in Durham maximize your rental income by creating spaces that command higher nightly rates and attract more bookings. Durham's competitive short-term rental market demands properties that stand out with modern amenities, functional layouts, and Instagram-worthy aesthetics that guests expect. Expert designers understand local preferences and can optimize your space for both guest satisfaction and operational efficiency, leading to better reviews and repeat bookings. The investment typically pays for itself through increased occupancy rates and premium pricing within 12-18 months.
Airbnb renovations in Durham typically cost $15,000-40,000 depending on property size and scope, with kitchen and bathroom updates being most expensive. Properties can see 20-40% higher nightly rates after strategic renovations, with modern amenities and local design elements performing best. The investment usually pays back within 18-24 months through increased bookings and premium pricing. Focus on high-impact areas like updated kitchens, stylish bathrooms, and creating Instagram-worthy spaces that appeal to Durham's tech and university visitors.
For Durham Airbnbs, focus on modern farmhouse or industrial chic designs that reflect the city's blend of historic charm and tech innovation. Use neutral color palettes with warm wood accents, exposed brick elements, and vintage-modern furniture pieces. Incorporate local art from Durham's vibrant arts scene and ensure spaces are functional with dedicated workspaces for business travelers. Add cozy textiles and plants to create welcoming, Instagram-worthy spaces that appeal to both leisure and business guests.
For Durham's humid subtropical climate, focus on creating covered outdoor spaces like screened porches or pergolas with ceiling fans for year-round comfort. Add fire pits or outdoor fireplaces for cooler months, and install outdoor kitchens or grilling stations since outdoor cooking is popular. Native landscaping with drought-resistant plants like Carolina jasmine and oakleaf hydrangeas reduces maintenance while attracting guests. Include outdoor lighting and seating areas to maximize the space during Durham's mild evenings.
STRCribs is a leading Airbnb design and renovation provider serving Durham, North Carolina, specializing in short-term rental property transformations. They offer comprehensive services including interior design, furniture sourcing, and complete property makeovers specifically tailored for Airbnb hosts. The company focuses on creating Instagram-worthy spaces that maximize booking potential and guest satisfaction. STRCribs handles everything from concept to completion, making them a top choice for Durham property owners looking to optimize their rental income.
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
Durham Airbnb hosts are embracing industrial-chic designs that reflect the city's tobacco warehouse heritage, featuring exposed brick walls, metal fixtures, and reclaimed wood furniture. Modern farmhouse aesthetics with shiplap walls, barn doors, and vintage accents are also trending, appealing to guests seeking cozy Southern charm. Local art integration is popular, with hosts showcasing Durham artists' work and incorporating Duke University or local brewery themes. Neutral color palettes with pops of Carolina blue create welcoming spaces that photograph well for social media.
Durham's building codes require Airbnb renovations to comply with residential safety standards including proper egress windows, smoke detectors in all sleeping areas, and electrical systems meeting current NEC standards. Short-term rental properties must obtain special use permits and meet additional requirements like off-street parking and occupancy limits that directly impact renovation scope. Fire safety upgrades are mandatory for properties built before modern codes, often requiring costly sprinkler systems or fire-rated assemblies. Zoning restrictions in certain neighborhoods may prohibit Airbnb operations entirely, making renovation investments risky without proper permit verification.
When designing your Durham Airbnb, prioritize durable, easy-to-clean furnishings that can withstand frequent guest turnover while maintaining a welcoming atmosphere. Incorporate local elements like tobacco barn wood accents or Duke University colors to create a sense of place that appeals to visitors. Focus on neutral color schemes with pops of personality through artwork and textiles, ensuring broad appeal while photographing well for listings. Invest in quality bedding, reliable WiFi, and functional lighting since these directly impact guest reviews and repeat bookings.
Incorporate Durham's tobacco heritage with exposed brick walls, industrial lighting fixtures, and vintage tobacco barn wood accents. Add local art from Durham's vibrant arts scene, particularly pieces from the American Tobacco Campus or local galleries. Use a color palette of warm browns, deep reds, and forest greens that reflect the area's historic tobacco barns and lush tree canopy. Include modern touches that nod to Durham's tech boom and Research Triangle identity through sleek furniture and smart home features.
A full Airbnb design and renovation project in Durham, North Carolina 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 2-3 weeks for furnishing and staging. Factors like property size, scope of renovations, contractor availability, and permit approval times can extend the timeline. Smaller projects with cosmetic updates may complete in 2-3 months, while extensive renovations requiring structural changes can take 6-9 months.
