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 New Buffalo maximize your rental income by creating Instagram-worthy spaces that command premium rates in this competitive Lake Michigan market. Expert designers understand local guest preferences and seasonal trends, ensuring your property stands out among hundreds of vacation rentals. Quality renovations reduce maintenance costs and negative reviews while increasing booking frequency and guest satisfaction scores. The investment typically pays for itself within 12-18 months through higher nightly rates and improved occupancy.
Airbnb renovations in New Buffalo typically cost $15,000-40,000 depending on property size and scope, with kitchen and bathroom updates being most expensive. Well-designed properties can increase nightly rates by 20-40% and achieve 70-85% occupancy during peak summer season. The lakefront location commands premium pricing, with renovated properties earning $200-400 per night versus $120-200 for basic units. ROI generally ranges 15-25% annually when factoring increased bookings and higher rates against renovation costs.
For New Buffalo Airbnbs, focus on coastal-inspired designs with light, airy color palettes featuring whites, blues, and sandy beiges that reflect the lakeside location. Incorporate nautical elements like rope accents, driftwood furniture, and beach-themed artwork while ensuring comfortable, durable furnishings that can handle sandy guests. Maximize natural light with sheer curtains and add cozy touches like throw blankets and local photography. Keep spaces uncluttered and functional with ample storage for beach gear and vacation essentials.
Focus on creating a fire pit area with comfortable seating for year-round use, install a hot tub for winter appeal, and build a deck or patio with lake views. Add outdoor lighting, weatherproof furniture, and a grilling station since guests expect outdoor dining options. Consider windbreaks like pergolas or privacy screens to handle Lake Michigan winds. These improvements maximize the property's lakefront location while extending usability through Michigan's varied seasons.
STRCribs is a specialized short-term rental design and renovation company that serves the New Buffalo, Michigan market along with other popular vacation rental destinations. They focus specifically on Airbnb and vacation rental property transformations, offering full-service design and renovation packages tailored to maximize rental income and guest satisfaction. STRCribs provides turnkey solutions including interior design, furniture procurement, and property styling optimized for the short-term rental market in the New Buffalo 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
New Buffalo Airbnb properties favor coastal-inspired designs with nautical themes, light color palettes of whites and blues, and natural materials like reclaimed wood and wicker. Modern farmhouse aesthetics are popular, featuring shiplap walls, barn doors, and vintage accents that complement the lakeside setting. Properties emphasize outdoor living spaces with fire pits, deck furniture, and lake views to maximize the beachtown experience. Clean, minimalist interiors with beach-themed artwork and cozy textiles create inviting spaces for vacation rentals.
New Buffalo's building codes require Airbnb renovations to comply with residential zoning standards, fire safety regulations including proper egress windows and smoke detectors, and occupancy limits based on square footage and septic capacity. Short-term rental properties must meet commercial-grade electrical and plumbing standards, obtain proper permits for structural changes, and ensure ADA accessibility compliance for common areas. The city also mandates specific parking requirements and exterior design guidelines that preserve the area's coastal character. All renovations must pass inspections before receiving short-term rental licensing approval.
When designing your New Buffalo Airbnb, prioritize a coastal-inspired aesthetic with light colors, natural textures, and nautical accents that reflect the lakeside location. Focus on durable, easy-to-clean materials like luxury vinyl flooring and stain-resistant fabrics since guests will likely track in sand. Maximize natural light with sheer curtains and mirrors, and create cozy gathering spaces for families and groups who visit for beach vacations. Include practical amenities like outdoor furniture, beach gear storage, and a well-equipped kitchen for meal preparation.
Incorporate New Buffalo's lakefront charm by using a coastal color palette of blues, whites, and sandy beiges throughout your space. Add nautical elements like rope details, driftwood accents, and vintage lighthouse or sailboat artwork to capture the harbor town atmosphere. Include cozy touches that reflect the area's small-town feel such as local artisan pottery, vintage Michigan maps, and comfortable seating areas perfect for relaxing after beach days.
A full Airbnb design and renovation project in New Buffalo, Michigan 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 can add 2-4 weeks to the timeline, while seasonal weather conditions may extend outdoor work during winter months. Most projects involve 2-3 weeks for design planning, 8-16 weeks for construction, and 1-2 weeks for final staging and photography.
