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 Iowa City maximize your rental income by creating spaces that attract more bookings and command higher nightly rates. With the University of Iowa driving consistent demand from visiting families, prospective students, and business travelers, a well-designed property stands out in the competitive market. Expert designers understand local preferences and create Instagram-worthy spaces that generate positive reviews and repeat guests. The investment typically pays for itself within 12-18 months through increased occupancy rates and premium pricing.
Airbnb renovations in Iowa City 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 renovations, with modern amenities like updated kitchens, fast WiFi, and stylish furnishings commanding premium pricing. The investment usually pays back within 2-3 years through increased bookings and rates. Focus on cost-effective improvements like fresh paint, quality bedding, and local artwork for maximum ROI.
For Iowa City Airbnbs, focus on modern farmhouse or contemporary designs with neutral color palettes, durable furniture, and local artwork featuring Iowa landscapes or University of Iowa themes. Include functional spaces like dedicated work areas for visiting academics and families, plus cozy seating arrangements for game day gatherings. Emphasize cleanliness with easy-to-maintain materials like luxury vinyl flooring and washable fabrics. Add Iowa-specific touches like corn-themed decor or Hawkeye colors to create memorable local character.
For Iowa City Airbnb outdoor renovations, focus on creating a cozy fire pit area with seating for year-round use, as winters are long and guests appreciate warmth. Add a covered patio or pergola to provide shelter from Iowa's unpredictable weather while maintaining outdoor dining space. Install outdoor lighting and heating elements to extend usability through fall and early winter months. Consider adding a hot tub or outdoor games area to differentiate your property in the competitive university town market.
STRCribs is a specialized Airbnb design and renovation company that operates in Iowa City, Iowa, focusing specifically on short-term rental property optimization. They provide comprehensive services including interior design, furniture selection, and property staging tailored to maximize booking rates and guest satisfaction for Airbnb hosts. The company offers turnkey solutions from initial consultation through complete property transformation, emphasizing modern aesthetics and functional layouts that appeal to travelers. STRCribs stands out as the primary dedicated STR design provider in the Iowa City 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 Iowa City focus on modern farmhouse aesthetics with neutral color palettes, incorporating local Iowa elements like reclaimed wood and vintage agricultural decor. Properties emphasize cozy, functional spaces with open floor plans, updated kitchens featuring subway tiles and butcher block countertops, and comfortable seating areas perfect for University of Iowa visitors. Industrial touches like exposed brick and metal fixtures are common, along with locally-sourced artwork and photography showcasing Iowa landscapes. Clean, minimalist designs with warm textures create inviting spaces that appeal to both business travelers and families visiting the university.
Iowa City 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. The city also enforces occupancy limits that may restrict renovation designs intended to maximize guest capacity.
When designing your Iowa City Airbnb, prioritize durable, easy-to-clean furnishings that can withstand frequent guest turnover while maintaining a welcoming atmosphere for university visitors and families. Choose neutral colors with local touches like Iowa-themed artwork or Hawkeye accents to appeal to the strong University of Iowa community. Focus on functional layouts with adequate seating, workspace areas for students or business travelers, and reliable Wi-Fi throughout. Consider seasonal needs with proper heating/cooling and cozy elements for Iowa's variable weather conditions.
Incorporate Iowa City's literary heritage by creating cozy reading nooks with built-in bookshelves and vintage typewriters as decor, reflecting the city's UNESCO City of Literature status. Use warm wood tones and prairie-inspired colors like golden yellows and deep greens to echo Iowa's agricultural landscape. Display local artwork from Iowa City artists and include vintage University of Iowa memorabilia to celebrate the college town atmosphere. Add corn-themed accents or farm-to-table dining elements to honor the region's agricultural roots.
A full Airbnb design and renovation project in Iowa City 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 Iowa City usually adds 2-4 weeks to the initial timeline. Weather conditions during winter months may extend construction timelines by 1-2 weeks due to Iowa's harsh winters.
