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 Highwood, Illinois maximize your rental income by creating spaces that command premium rates and attract more bookings. Expert designers understand what guests expect in this affluent North Shore market, incorporating luxury finishes and functional layouts that earn 5-star reviews. Professional renovations ensure compliance with local codes and safety standards while optimizing space for maximum occupancy. The investment typically pays for itself through higher nightly rates and increased booking frequency.
Airbnb renovations in Highwood, Illinois typically cost $15,000-$40,000 depending on property size and scope, with kitchen and bathroom updates being most expensive. Properties can see 20-35% higher nightly rates after renovations, with modern amenities and stylish decor commanding premium pricing in this affluent North Shore market. The investment usually pays back within 18-24 months through increased bookings and higher occupancy rates. Focus on high-impact improvements like updated kitchens, spa-like bathrooms, and professional photography to maximize returns.
For Airbnbs in Highwood, Illinois, focus on modern farmhouse or contemporary designs that appeal to Chicago-area visitors seeking a suburban retreat. Use neutral color palettes with warm accents, comfortable furniture that can accommodate families, and local artwork featuring Lake Michigan or prairie themes. Prioritize functional spaces with dedicated work areas for business travelers, well-equipped kitchens, and cozy living rooms with quality seating. Include durable, easy-to-clean materials and furnishings while maintaining an upscale, hotel-like aesthetic.
For Highwood, Illinois Airbnb outdoor renovations, focus on creating a cozy fire pit area with seating for year-round use given the climate. Add a covered patio or pergola with outdoor heaters to extend usability through shoulder seasons. Install professional landscaping with native Illinois plants and a hot tub for winter appeal. Consider outdoor kitchen elements like a grill station and dining area to capitalize on summer months.
STRCribs is a specialized Airbnb design and renovation provider that serves the Highwood, Illinois area, offering comprehensive short-term rental property transformation services. They focus specifically on creating Instagram-worthy, guest-optimized spaces that maximize booking potential and rental income for Airbnb hosts. The company provides end-to-end services including interior design, furniture sourcing, staging, and renovation management tailored to the short-term rental market. STRCribs stands out as a dedicated STR-focused design firm in the Highwood market.
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 Highwood, Illinois focus on modern farmhouse aesthetics with neutral color palettes, shiplap accents, and rustic wood elements that appeal to Chicago-area visitors seeking a cozy retreat. Properties feature open-concept layouts with updated kitchens, spa-like bathrooms, and outdoor entertaining spaces that capitalize on the area's proximity to Lake Michigan. Local hosts emphasize clean, minimalist decor with pops of navy blue and forest green to reflect the lakeside location. Smart home technology and high-speed WiFi are essential amenities that distinguish successful listings in this competitive North Shore market.
Local building codes in Highwood, Illinois significantly impact Airbnb renovation designs by requiring compliance with residential zoning regulations, fire safety standards, and occupancy limits. Property owners must obtain proper permits for structural changes, electrical work, and plumbing modifications, which can delay renovation timelines and increase costs. The city's historic preservation guidelines may restrict exterior modifications in certain areas, limiting design flexibility. Additionally, short-term rental regulations may require specific safety features like smoke detectors, carbon monoxide alarms, and emergency exits that influence interior layout decisions.
When designing your Airbnb in Highwood, prioritize neutral, timeless decor that appeals to diverse guests while incorporating subtle local touches like Lake Michigan-inspired blues or Chicago-area artwork. Focus on durable, easy-to-clean materials and furnishings that can withstand frequent turnover. Ensure adequate lighting, comfortable bedding, and functional spaces that maximize the property's layout. Consider the proximity to downtown Highland Park and North Shore attractions by providing modern amenities that cater to both business and leisure travelers.
Incorporate Highwood's lakefront charm by using nautical blues and whites throughout your space, displaying local art from nearby galleries, and adding vintage touches that reflect the town's historic character. Feature natural materials like reclaimed wood and stone to echo the area's connection to Lake Michigan's shoreline. Include cozy reading nooks with views toward the lake direction and use warm lighting to create the intimate small-town atmosphere Highwood is known for.
A full Airbnb design and renovation project in Highwood, Illinois typically takes 3-6 months from start to finish. The timeline includes 2-4 weeks for design planning and permits, 6-12 weeks for construction and renovation work, and 1-2 weeks for final staging and furnishing. Factors like project scope, contractor availability, and permit approval times can extend the timeline. Smaller refresh projects may complete in 6-8 weeks, while extensive renovations could take up to 8 months.
