Some properties have all the ingredients to become a fantastic holiday rental, they just need the right vision.
That was the case with this Drummoyne apartment.
When Air Design Australia took on the property, we saw an opportunity to create something with real personality. Rather than simply furnishing the apartment, we approached it as a complete renovation and design project, considering how the space could look, feel and function as a short-term stay.
The result is a memorable, character-filled apartment with a distinctive retro-inspired interior that has quickly become a favourite with guests.
Before: Original Living and Bedrooms
Before: Original Kitchen and Bathrooms
Creating the Vision
The first step was establishing a clear design direction for the property.
The apartment gave us a blank canvas to work with, with plenty of potential to create something with real personality. We wanted to move away from a divided room layout and create a space that was distinctly retro, warm and character-filled, while still feeling modern and comfortable for guests.
This vision informed the renovation itself. We opened up the layout, introduced warm timber features and created a stronger sense of flow throughout the apartment, building the foundations for the retro-inspired design that would carry through the entire home.
From there, every room was approached as part of one cohesive theme.
Bringing the Design to Life
With the major renovations done and direction established, we brought it to life through the details that make the apartment feel considered, comfortable and full of character.
Lighting played a big role in creating the right atmosphere. We used warm, ambient lighting throughout, combining funky table lamps with a statement ceiling light to create a soft, inviting feel.
Furniture was chosen to go with the theme, while still being genuinely comfortable. Retro-inspired pieces were paired with practical, inviting seating, so the apartment feels designed without feeling like a showroom.
Colour was carried throughout the apartment in a considered, retro palette of oranges, reds, blues and browns, with artwork selected to complement the furniture and tie each room together.
We also introduced details that give guests something to discover, including a record player that adds to the character of the space and encourages guests to settle in and enjoy the apartment.
The same design was carried through into the bedrooms, with complementary colours, artwork, vases, lamps, books and textures and styling creating a cohesive feel throughout the entire stay.
After: Renovated, Styled & Managed by Air Design
After: Renovated, Styled & Managed by Air Design
Preparing it for market
Once the interiors were transformed, we focused on everything else required to turn the apartment into a fully functioning short-term rental.
The property was professionally cleaned, styled and prepared for guests, with the finishing touches carefully considered before launch.
Professional photography and video was then captured to showcase the transformation online.
Once the listing went live across major booking platforms, the property quickly gained traction and began receiving bookings from day one.
With Air Design managing the setup, presentation and ongoing operations, it was positioned to attract guests seeking a well-located Drummoyne stay.
The Result
This stay’s transformation has translated directly into its performance.
The apartment is now a high-performing short-term rental managed by Air Design and attracts consistent bookings and strong guest feedback. Its design has become one of its biggest selling points, with guests regularly commenting on the interiors and the character of the apartment in their reviews.
That performance is reflected in guest feedback, with a 4.63 rating on Airbnb and 8.8 “Fabulous” on Booking.com, reinforcing the strength of both the setup and ongoing management.
Ratings that reflect the Air Design guest experience.
And importantly, creating a standout property did not mean an excessive investment. Our interior design team knows where to spend and where to save, while our industry relationships and trade discounts allow us to source furniture, artwork, lighting and other finishes at better prices.
The result is a property that looks distinctive, gives guests a reason to choose it, and performs as a successful short-term rental.
What This Means For You
Your property doesn’t need to look like every other short-term rental to perform well.
With the right design direction, setup and strategy, it can become a property with its own identity, one that attracts attention, creates a better guest experience and is positioned for stronger performance.
At Air Design, we take care of all the details, from property setup and interior styling through to professional photography, marketing and ongoing property and guest management.
