Despite current legal obstacles, a growing number of HDB owners are considering Airbnb as a possible source of income due to increased living expenses. Whether for short-term rental during extended travel or future-proofing for a possible policy change, designing your space with flexibility in mind is strategic.
Discover how to incorporate Airbnb interior design features into your current plan for HDB renovation in Singapore.
Design for Durability and Easy Maintenance
Your materials need to survive more than just daily wear and tear when renovating with Airbnb in mind. HDB owners should invest in durable finishes—quartz countertops, vinyl flooring, and high-quality laminates that are resistant to moisture, scratches, and impact. Soft furnishings should be removable and washable, especially in high-traffic areas like the living room and bedroom. Choosing these elements from day one avoids costly upgrades later for those starting with a fresh BTO renovation.
Fixtures also matter. Avoid fussy designs that require constant upkeep or are hard to replace. Think modular and standardised sizes for cabinets and fittings. This approach streamlines replacements in case of damage and appeals to potential guests looking for neat and functional interiors.
Create a Guest-Ready Layout
A layout that serves your personal lifestyle today should also be adaptable to guests later. For instance, if your HDB renovation project involves knocking down walls, consider maintaining at least one room with privacy. Studio-style open plans might be your style and trendy, but they aren’t ideal for future guests who value boundaries.
Built-in seating that converts to a guest bed or dining areas that double as workspaces add flexibility. Space-saving furniture also ensures the flat remains functional when occupied by multiple guests. If you’re currently doing a complete overhaul, consider smartly zoning the home to accommodate both private and semi-public areas without needing major restructuring in the future.
Go for a Neutral Yet Stylish Aesthetic
Your preferred colour palette might lean bold or personal, but when you’re targeting Airbnb users in the future, neutrality wins. Earth tones, whites, greys, and light wood textures appeal to a broader audience. They also make your flat look brighter and more spacious in photos—a key factor for Airbnb listings.
Ask your designer to avoid anything too specific to your personal taste if your interior design & renovation are already underway. Instead, introduce character through easily swappable items like cushions, rugs, or wall art. These are easy to replace or refresh depending on the type of guest you wish to attract in the future—young travellers, business people, or small families.
Smart Technology as a Selling Point
Future Airbnb guests will expect tech integration. Smart locks, app-controlled lighting, and remote climate control are not just nice-to-haves—they’re functional features that improve guest experience and streamline host management. Even if you’re not listing immediately, wiring your flat during your current renovation for smart systems saves you from rework later.
These systems also enhance your own lifestyle. For example, app-controlled air-conditioning helps manage electricity use, while digital locks eliminate the hassle of physical keys if someone else is handling check-ins in the future.
Stay Within Legal Boundaries
Even if you’re designing for potential Airbnb usage, it is still necessary to not violate current HDB renovation regulations. Remember, Airbnb is not currently legal in most public housing settings, and URA regulations still apply. However, keeping your renovation flexible ensures that you can quickly adapt your unit for legal co-living scenarios or future changes in short-term rental policies. Avoid fixed partitions or permanent conversions that could breach guidelines.
Conclusion
Plan your HDB BTO renovation with adaptability, longevity, and international appeal in mind if you intend to make money from Airbnb in the future. Even if policy restrictions remain, this approach creates a functional, stylish, and adaptable home that’s easier to rent, sell, or share in the long run.
Contact Hamid and Sons Interior Design for a renovation project that balances personal comfort and future guest-readiness.
