Furnishing your serviced apartment? Read our tips to get you started
Serviced apartments have been around for longer than many people are aware of. Once only popular among business travellers, serviced apartments now attract leisure travellers, families hosting parties, group travel and those looking for flexible stays.
According to The Association of Serviced Apartment Providers (ASAP), ‘Serviced Apartment is the umbrella term for a type of furnished apartment available for short-term or long-term stays, which provides amenities, housekeeping and a range of services for guests and where most taxes and utilities are included within the rental price’.
So when it comes to furnishing a serviced apartment, the expectations are comfortable bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and a space to work and relax. Your guests won’t be bringing any items with them, so it’s important that your serviced apartment includes all furnishings and accessories to make it their ‘home away from home’.
Here are some of our tips to get you started:
Be practical and keep it simple
Keeping it simple is key here. Stay away from adding personal touches, and instead pick furniture that has neutral tones and clean lines. This way, it will appeal to a wider audience. Good quality and durable furniture will pay off, so be practical and opt for items which are easy to maintain. For example, picking sofas that are upholstered in fabrics that are easy to clean is logical, as you’ll need to clean furniture more often.
Stay clutter free
It’s so easy to over clutter a room, thinking you’re offering everything a guest may want. But over cluttering becomes busy and can make spaces look smaller. Picking furniture that blends and works together will provide a better living space for your guests. You can also add clever storage spaces – such as ottoman beds so guests can place their suitcases out of the way, reducing the amount of cupboards you may need.
Pay attention to flooring
It may not cross your mind but choosing the right flooring for your serviced apartment is important. There are advantages and disadvantages to using carpets and wooden flooring. We love the cosy feeling you get from carpet, and if this is your choice, go neutral. Patterns and extravagant carpets can put people off. On the downside, carpets are easier to stain and harder to clean so it’s worth considering this.
Wooden floors are harder to stain and easier to clean. If you opt for this, bear in mind that it can feel cooler on your feet and it’s noisier – think tapping heels.
Dress the beds
Another overlooked feature, but an important one. Make the effort to dress the beds in your serviced apartments. It makes guests feel like they’re being treated well – and in turn will make them feel like treating your serviced apartment well. Pick comfortable beds, opt for mattress protectors, and leave spare pillows and bed sheets. At Manor Interiors, dressing beds is part of our installation service, so you wouldn’t need to worry about tackling this yourself.
Accessorise your serviced apartment
This is where you can have a little fun. So we’ve mentioned you should use neutral tones in your serviced apartment and to stay clear of adding your own personality through furniture. Accessories is where you can add colour and personality.
Accent pieces – such as cushions, throws and other items provide the finishing touches. Mirrors are also great – its reflection can make a room look more spacious. Rugs are a good addition – go large or add a number of smaller ones around your serviced apartment. You also have a couple of options here – go neutral which will blend with the colour scheme used in your accessories or go bold which will add a wow factor of personality. Unsure of the best route? Contact us for advice.
Don’t compromise on quality
Serviced apartments are now used by a wider audience – as a different option to staying in hotels. Quality and style shouldn’t be compromised if you want to retain guests – who are ultimately looking for a place to stay that feels like home. Our furniture options are high quality and durable, ensuring you get longevity from your items.
A final note… first impression really do count
When it comes to serviced apartments, first impressions really do count. Your guests will be judging your apartment from the moment they open the doors, so give them something to talk about. A well designed serviced apartment, attention to detail, and comfortable furniture will leave a lasting impression.
At Manor Interiors we specialise in designing and creating spaces that leave guests wanting to stay again. Talk to our friendly team on 01618797137 or email us at orders@manorinteriors.co.uk
