The designs must have a wow factor, take the environment into consideration, and be completed by August 2023. A panel of judges including American designer Iris Apfel and Sydney architect Koichi Takada will evaluate submissions and select projects.
In May, Airbnb redesigned its website to help travelers discover off-the-beaten-track, exclusive locations. The fund, titled “OMG!”, aims to highlight more one-of-a-kind destination homes, like the Grand Idaho Potato Hotel in Boise, Idaho, which looks like a giant potato from the outside and features cozy Accommodations include fireplaces and chandeliers carved from antlers. Caravan farm stays near Las Vegas also offer local entertainment such as horseback riding and cattle driving.
Airbnb, along with its rivals Expedia Group and Booking Holdings, both said they expected this summer to be one of the best ever in the industry, despite rising oil prices and flight cancellations. Focusing on a differentiated lodging experience will help the company differentiate its offerings, as the debate rages over the merits of staying in a B&B versus a hotel room. From 2019 to 2021, bookings for special homestays increased by more than 49% globally, the San Francisco-based company said.
