Web design for accommodation websites

Top 6 things to consider for creating impactful web design for accommodation rentals

The market for renting holiday accommodation is super competitive. Having a well-designed and high-performing accommodation rental website becomes critical to attracting and converting potential guests. From a customer perspective, there is a lot to choose from. And depending on who the customer is, they may want their own luxury villa, a cosy retreat, or a holiday accommodation for their family.

Of course, your accommodation is different from other nearby rental properties, so web design becomes critical to conveying that difference. This is something to bear in mind when you look for someone to design your accommodation website and how they think about your website design.

The importance of search engine optimisation for accommodation rentals

Building a well-performing website for accommodation has many aspects; in fact, the list is long. It should cover everything from what your potential guests want to know, as well as understanding what search engines look for when ranking websites and why they appear in relevant searches. By optimising your website’s content and structure to meet these criteria, you increase the likelihood of it being presented to users searching for your type of accommodation, which is, therefore, part of the SEO strategy for web design.

Critical web design elements for accommodations

Here are a list of some critical web design elements and technical aspects when designing an accommodation website:

• Responsive design
• User-friendly design
• On-page search engine optimisation (SEO)
• Website speed
• Optimised Image sizing for web
• Social proof
• Easy navigation
• Call to action with some booking process
• Reviews and Testimonials

Top 6 web design aspects for holiday accommodations

In this blog, however, in addition to these essentials, I have outlined my top 6 things to consider for web design for accommodation and why these elements are critical for rental success.

1. Explain why your holiday accommodation is different from others

Communicating how your accommodation rental differs from others on your website is essential.   Remember that people browse many websites at the same time, looking for information to decide where to stay. It depends on how far they have come in their decision-making process of what they look for; for example, if they have narrowed the search to one or two holiday accommodations, they are likely to compare amenities, rates, etc. If they have just started their search, it begins with the visitor’s need to feel the property is for them and why they should keep your property as a contender.  By understanding who is most likely to rent your property, if its families or couples, you can highlight what makes your accommodation unique and appealing to your target audience upfront.

Accommodation benefits vs. location benefits

If young families are your primary guests, you may have features like a child-friendly environment, large play areas, or safety measures you want to emphasise. If you are located near popular tourist attractions, you may want to focus on the convenience and easy access to these attractions. If your property is designed for relaxation, you may want to highlight areas perfect for unwinding, such as a tranquil garden, a cosy reading nook, or a luxurious spa-like bathroom.

If you think about who your current guests are, you can use that knowledge to communicate what sets your holiday accommodation apart. This means you combine web design appeal with an attractive value proposition to stand out.

2. Detailed descriptions of amenities in your web design for accommodation

First of all, put yourself in the customer’s shoes. Potential guests are often miles away and will decide based on the information on your website. Providing as much detail as possible helps them make an informed decision, plan their holiday, and feel confident in their choice.

Detailed description of your amenities

Comprehensive descriptions of amenities build trust by reassuring visitors about what to expect. Detailed information helps guests determine if your property meets their needs and highlights unique features that can set them apart from competitors. To implement this, create thorough descriptions of each room and shared space. Highlighting unique amenities, such as a private pool, hot tub, outdoor space, and views is, of course, a must, but what matters a lot is the detailed and practical information about the property.

Measurements, layout, and what’s in the rooms

For instance, what is the size of the bedrooms and the size of the beds? Does it come with linen? What type? What about the bathrooms? Do they have towels and soap? What about the kitchen? What kind of dinner table does it have? Have you provided a detailed list of utensils, cups, pans, etc? The guest will know if they manage to cook for the entire family. Is everything covered, or do I need to bring anything, down to the smallest of things. Is it gas or electricity? Wi-Fi is expected these days, but don’t take it for granted; mention it; if you don’t have it, mention it; perhaps there are reasons for not having it. These sorts of details are fundamental for the guest to have a complete understanding of what the property offers so they can have the perfect holiday.

Amenities should give visitors a clear understanding of what to expect. While a list as seen below is helpful, detailed descriptions offer a richer experience, allowing potential guests to visualise and appreciate the offerings before booking.

3. Authentic and high-quality images

As the holiday accommodation market is so competitive, images are one of the most influential factors in potential guests’ decision-making process. What they see is what they expect to get, so images need to be authentic. The worst scenario is when guests arrive and find the photos misrepresent the accommodation. High-quality, authentic images are essential to portray your accommodation rental and appeal to your target audience accurately.

Professional photos vs your own photos

Professional images will for sure enhance the visual appeal of your property. You just need to make sure the images reflect reality without the risk to disappoint when guests arrive. But with high-quality mobile phones, you can perhaps take some great photos yourself. Beautiful images can evoke positive emotions and encouraging bookings. Use natural light to enhance each space’s ambience and showcase interior and exterior views. Since images are so important, consider the difference it can make if you hire a professional photographer or if you take the photos yourself.

4. Styled spaces from luxury accommodation to holiday cottage accommodation

While authenticity is critical, styling your spaces can significantly enhance the visual appeal of your website. For example, if you have a smaller house, decluttering can create a sense of more space for visitors. Rather than buying new furniture, consider purchasing accessories and styling the space to lift the appeal of rooms or areas in the house. Depending on the accommodation, this approach varies, but if you rent a luxury accommodation, the design and interior are expected to reflect that luxury. Similarly, a small holiday cottage’s web design should reflect its cozy charm and be styled accordingly, or a holiday villa accommodation has functionality and styled for the family.

Style to the accommodation for great impression

Well-styled and photographed spaces create a solid first impression, increase interest, and keep visitors on your site longer, giving you a competitive edge. You may want to consider hiring a stylist, or if you know someone with excellent interior design skills, help to arrange furniture and décor.

Photography Tip: The image illustrates the impact of styling and preparation on room aesthetics.

5. Comprehensive contact information for accessibility and transparency

Providing clear and comprehensive contact information is essential for building trust and ensuring potential guests can easily reach out with questions or concerns. Many accommodation websites need more detailed contact information or the exact location upon contact. Today, people don’t want to spend extra time figuring out the area or waiting for answers; they want this information at their fingertips to make a quick decision. Removing obstacles increases your conversion from “maybe interested” to “yes, I would like to book now.”

The importance of detailed contact information

Guests need multiple ways to contact you to ensure their queries are addressed promptly. Detailed contact information, including the exact location of your property, builds trust and credibility. Easy access to contact details enhances the user experience and can lead to higher conversion rates. Include phone numbers, email addresses, and a contact form on your website. Provide a detailed map and directions to your property and ensure your contact information is prominently displayed and easy to find on all pages.

6. Highlight local experiences and surroundings for your accommodation

Prospective guests often want to know what else they can do in the area before they book. It’s essential to be as helpful as possible and provide information about local experiences and things to do in nearby areas. Some guests may prefer to relax and use your home to rest, but many want to experience the surroundings. Providing detailed information about local attractions and activities can be critical during their planning phase, helping them understand your property’s location and these attractions.

Make sure to include the attractions near to your accommodation

Guests often choose accommodations based on nearby attractions and activities. Providing this information on your website can enhance their stay and make it more enjoyable and memorable. Highlighting unique local features can also give you a competitive advantage. Provide detailed information about local attractions, dining options, and activities. If possible, include distances and travel times to these attractions from your property, and use maps and visuals to make the information more engaging.

Examples of web design for accommodation

Some final words on website design for accommodation

Designing a website for your luxury accommodation, retreat accommodation, villa accommodation, or holiday home accommodation is critical in attracting renters. You can create a website that stands out in the competitive accommodation market by focusing on detailed descriptions, authentic images, professional styling, comprehensive contact information, and local experiences.

Ready to design a stunning website for your accommodation?

Contact us today to learn how we can help you create a website that looks great, performs well, and attracts the right renters.