Transforming a small old home into a speakeasy themed Airbnb
In the heart of every renovation project lies a story waiting to unfold. Our design idea began with a quaint, unassuming house and a wild dream: to create a speakeasy-themed Airbnb on a shoestring budget for one of our clients. What ensued was a journey of creativity, thriftiness, and a lot of elbow grease.
The Vision Takes Shape
It all started with a vision board filled with images of jazz-age decadence, and flickering candlelight. The goal was clear: transform every corner of our small house into a nod to the Prohibition-era speakeasies that once dotted the streets of America.
Planning and Preparation
Before painting the first wall, meticulous planning was essential. We scoured thrift stores, antique stores, and online marketplaces for period-appropriate furniture and decor. Old armchairs, a gold bar cart, and a speakeasy sign became our treasures. The key was to find pieces that spoke to the era without breaking the bank.
DIY Magic: Crafting Authenticity
With limited funds, do-it-yourself projects became our best friends. We repurposed all of the lamps with some spray paint, displaying vintage glassware and jazz art. We painted accent walls and added some peel and stick wallpaper, the backdrop for an artfully distressed "secret" entrance sign. Each project added layers of authenticity and charm to our speakeasy hideaway.
Setting the Scene: Designing the Space
Creating the right ambiance was crucial. Deep, moody colors painted the walls—rich greens, velvety rusty orange, and muted gold reminiscent of a bygone era. Soft, dim lighting from thrifted lamps and strategically placed candles cast shadows that danced across the room, evoking the intimacy of a speakeasy.
Bringing the Theme to Life
No detail was too small. We stocked the bar cart with antique cocktail shakers, crystal decanters, and ornate glasses. The Speakeasy theme starts from the outside where we updated the colors of the little house with dark greens , added new lighting and made a welcoming front door entrance so when you walk inside your transporting guests back to the roaring twenties. The final touch? A curated selection of classic cocktails.
Budget-Friendly Tips and Tricks
- Embrace Secondhand Finds: Thrift stores, flea markets, and online classifieds are treasure troves for vintage pieces that fit your theme.
- DIY Décor: Get creative with inexpensive materials to craft bespoke decorations and furnishings.
- Paint Magic: A fresh coat of paint can work wonders in setting the mood—opt for deep, rich colors to create a cozy atmosphere.
- Focus on Atmosphere: Lighting plays a crucial role in creating ambiance. Soft, warm lighting can transform any space into a welcoming retreat.
Welcoming Guests to Our Speakeasy
As we just recently opened the doors to the first guests, the thrill was palpable. Their eyes widened as they stepped into our speakeasy, a world away from the hustle and bustle outside. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive—many marveling at the attention to detail and the immersive experience we had created.
The Journey Continues
Transforming a small house into a speakeasy-themed Airbnb on a tight budget was a labor of love—a testament to creativity, resourcefulness, and a shared passion for storytelling through design. Each guest who passes through our doors now becomes a part of the ongoing narrative, adding their own chapter to the story of our speakeasy hideaway.
As we continue to refine and enhance our space, the journey remains as exhilarating as the day we started. Our speakeasy Airbnb stands as a testament to what can achieve as designers with a dash of imagination, a sprinkle of thriftiness, and a whole lot of dedication.
If you find yourself wandering through our corner of the world, step inside, and let the magic of the twenties envelop you. Our speakeasy awaits, ready to whisper tales of a bygone era to all who dare to listen. If you are ready for us to give your airbnb a theme to bring more guests to your home, we are ready to get your design started.
