Practical Improvements That Reduce Maintenance and Improve the Guest Experience

In short‑term rentals, subtle upgrades can drive retention, ease upkeep, and enhance visual performance. Some are simple, DIY-worthy. Others are worth investing in once, and done properly.

1. Tile Baseboards Instead of Painted Trim

Why it matters: Wood trim in moist areas warps, chips, and traps debris. Tile resists moisture and cleans easily, helping prevent future damage, according to House Digest.

DIY? Not recommended

Why bring in a pro: Effective tile baseboards require sharp corners, precise grout lines, and careful transitions that blend into flooring and wall finishes.

2. Floating Vanities and Built‑In Seating

Why it matters: Floating fixtures clear the floor, simplify cleaning, and create visual openness—especially in tight bathrooms, as explained by Innovate Building Solutions.

DIY? Rarely

Why bring in a pro: Floating elements need secure structural backing, precise alignment, and professional install to support daily use.

3. Open Storage for Everyday Items

Why it matters: Guests appreciate visible access. Open shelving reduces cognitive load and confusion, noted by Mix & Match Design.

DIY? Yes, with careful layout

What we offer: Storage options that integrate with overall architecture and avoid visual clutter.

4. Outlets Where Guests Actually Use Them

Why it matters: Easy access to charging or hairdryer ports improves guest comfort and usability. Real Simple highlights the frustration of poor outlet placement.

DIY? Sometimes

Why bring in a pro: We anticipate real world use and place outlets thoughtfully, without compromising aesthetics or safety.

5. Showers Without Doors or Frames

Why it matters: Frameless showers eliminate frame tracks and ledges where soap and mold accumulate. They’re easier to clean and feel more spacious. Dezeen and Houzz cite maintenance and visual advantages. Block Renovation notes anti-limescale coatings further simplify upkeep.

DIY? No

Why bring in a pro: Proper slope, waterproofing, and drain placement are essential. When done well, these showers stay dry, durable, and guest-ready.

6. Recessed Niches for Storage

Why it matters: Hooks rust, caddies stain. Built-in niches provide clean, clutter-free storage. Houzz lists niches among top shower upgrades.

DIY? Sometimes

Why bring in a pro: Niches require early planning, full waterproofing, and finish continuity to blend with tile seamlessly.

7. Layered Lighting with Warm Dimming

Why it matters: A single overhead light casts unflattering shadows. Layered lighting creates flexibility, ambient warmth, and better photos, according to Dezeen.

DIY? Sometimes

Why bring in a pro: We integrate ambient, task, and accent fixtures so lighting feels intentional in all scenarios.

8. Finishes That Hold Up Over Time

Why it matters: Glossy paint scratches. Budget laminates peel or fade. Long-lasting finishes like microcement and lime plaster wear in with time, not out. Dezeen suggests these as resilient alternatives.

DIY? Not easily

Why bring in a pro: These finishes require precision layering and attention to detail to prevent cracking and ensure a seamless look.

9. Layout That Works for Guests and Photos

Why it matters: Clean flow and sightlines improve functionality and visual appeal. AirDNA demonstrates how layout design boosts listing performance.

DIY? Rarely

Why bring in a pro: We stage built-ins, tile transitions, and visual lines to create rooms that feel both intuitive and photogenic.

10. Tile Accents That Add Function and Style

Why it matters: A backsplash, mirror surround, or wall tile detail protects surfaces and adds visual texture. Fireclay Tile offers inspiration on strategic tile use.

DIY? Occasionally

Why bring in a pro: Proper scale, grout choice, and placement make tile feel thoughtful, not fussy.

Final Thought

These upgrades may seem small—but they deliver outsized returns: easier upkeep, stronger reviews, and a guest experience that feels elevated. Some you might tackle on your own. Others are worth doing right the first time.

Upwell Builders
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