Add details guests will love

When guests enter The Beach Lodge in Hollywood Beach, California, they immediately gain a sense of who Tiffany Caliva-Talledo is. Her thoughtfulness and love of design is felt through her choices in decor – the colours, textures, and every personalised touch. As a former creative director, she’s always had an eye for details. Here, she shares her secrets to Airbnb success.

“Before we fixed up The Beach Lodge, it was this ugly putrid green home. People called it the ‘Drug Den’ and used to run by it when they passed! Neighbours thought we were crazy to buy it, but I saw something special in it – and I had this thought that if we could restore it, people would come. I’ve poured so much love into it – and I think guests come back for that very reason.”

Craft a vibe
“Creating unforgettable experiences always starts with setting the right tone. When designing a space, I tell my clients to start with a feeling rather than a theme. What do you want your guests to feel when they step into your home – comfort, joy, serenity? For The Beach Lodge, rather than go with a literal seaside theme, I thought holistically about the colours, textures, and details: patterns that pop against airy neutrals, textures that evoke the sand, and plenty of plants to bring the outdoors in.”

Design on a budget
“Decorating doesn’t have to be expensive! Flea markets and thrift stores are filled with inexpensive treasures and one-of-a-kind pieces that feel like they have a story. You just have to do a little hunting. I’ve especially been drawn to objects that represent my Filipino and Asian heritage. The items you choose for your space should say something, and together they’ll help tell the larger story of your home.”

Play around
“Another piece of advice I share with my clients is to give yourself permission to play. Change up the decor. Try new things. Make refreshes each season. It’s the best way to discover what works for what you are trying to achieve and what doesn’t. Think of your space as a person with its own complexities and character. Like you, it should be shifting, changing and evolving to be the best version of itself for the moment.”

Create mini escapes
“I love to play with space and visual interest in unexpected ways. One tip that I recommend is to create mini escapes around your home – little getaway areas where guests can get lost in a book. I might add some blankets, pillows, and a painting to a corner so that it invites people to just melt away. Think of how you can create these little nurturing nooks throughout.”

Make it personal
“Where possible, help personalise your guests’ stay with extra special touches. For example, if someone mentions that they’re celebrating a birthday, I’ll leave cupcakes from my favourite local bakeries. If they’re vegan, I’ll create a local restaurant list. If it’s a family with kids, I’ll switch out the pillows and linens for more durable ones. These thoughtful touches really stand out to guests. You’ll see them reflected in your reviews and repeat bookings.”

Give ‘em a take-home treat
“I recommend giving guests a memento or a keepsake when they arrive as a simple gesture that feels special and welcoming, like gift cards to businesses nearby or postcards from local artists.”

“To take that idea even further, guests can shop items from The Beach Lodge directly, including eco-conscious robes and linens plus vintage pieces, or from the online store I created. I’ve also been featuring women-owned and local brands, which are important to me. I don’t take any profits. It’s all about connecting people to these brands. It’s so much more than just a getaway to me.”

Put on your cruise director hat
“We named our home The Beach Lodge because, to us, a lodge is a cosy space for people to gather. I stock it with board games, yoga mats, crafts, art materials, a BBQ grill, beach towels, bikes, books to get lost in, and a record player. Travel is about expanding your horizons and these activities can help people create memories and new ways of being. Consider what amenities can help enhance their overall experience.”

Remember that it’s all about the details, details, details! Through these thoughtful touches, guests will truly feel the care that you’ve poured into your space – and they’ll continue coming back.

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