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Designing a Calm, Considered Guest Experience

This project was a self-led redesign of my Airbnb guest room. The goal was to move beyond functionality and create a space that feels emotionally grounding, calm, and welcoming for short- and long-stay guests.

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My Role:
Host, Creative Lead, and Experience Designer.

The intention:
The intention was to design a room that feels safe, quiet, and comforting; a space where guests can rest, work, and reset without feeling watched or overwhelmed. Every choice was made to support privacy, calm, and ease.

Design Decisions:

  • Warm textures and soft lighting to reduce visual noise

  • A dedicated desk area to support independence and focus

  • Day and evening lighting shown to communicate different moods

  • Minimal but personal details to avoid the space feeling cold or impersonal

  • Balanced colour palette to create visual harmony and a sense of calm

  • Intentional layering of elements to move the space from purely functional to emotionally inviting

  • Open, breathable layout to prevent the space from feeling boxed in or heavy

  • Clean lines and uncluttered surfaces to support mental rest and ease

  • Consistent styling across the room to make the space feel intentional and complete

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Before

After

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Before

After

The Actual Images On The Listing

The Guest Experience:

The hosting experience was designed to mirror the space itself: respectful, calm, and unobtrusive. Guests are given privacy and space, with support available when needed. The goal was to create an environment that feels independent yet cared for.

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The Outcome:

Guest feedback consistently reflects a calm, comfortable, and trustworthy experience. Reviews highlight cleanliness, peacefulness, and a sense of feeling at home, supported by warm but unobtrusive hosting and clear communication.

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This work highlights how designing with emotional intention can turn a simple room into a space that feels calm, considered, and welcoming.

© 2026 By Thulisa Sigwabe

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