The Terra Haus

The Art of Booking: The Terra Haus Strategic STR Design

This project was a masterclass in designing for both aesthetics and analytics. Our goal was to transform a large, single-family home into a high-performing Airbnb that could accommodate groups and families; a lucrative segment in the Durham STR market.

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From the outset, every design decision was made with the lens of booking appeal and operational efficiency in mind. We chose a bold yet neutralized color palette to stand out in listing photography while maintaining mass guest appeal. The open-concept layout was styled with large, low-profile furnishings to maximize perceived space and seating, essential for guest satisfaction and positive reviews.

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Each bedroom was uniquely styled to photograph beautifully on its own while offering versatility; from a dedicated bunk room for families with children to a serene, primary suite designed to anchor the listing headline. Layered textures and art-forward styling increased visual richness, which translates directly to scroll-stopping thumbnails and higher nightly rates.

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We also extended the guest experience outdoors, enhancing the porch and lounge areas to support both leisure and social gathering. These zones were curated not just for style but for Instagram-ability, a key factor in viral bookings.

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By pairing strong design narrative with functionality and comfort, this home is positioned to stand out in a saturated market, commanding premium rates, reducing vacancy, and earning faster ROI for the host.