The Airbnb Host Earning 40% More With a Victorian Glasshouse Addition

The Problem: Just Another Country Cottage

I’m Sarah, and I’ve been renting out my cozy cottage in the Cotswolds for five years. Business was good – until suddenly it wasn’t. Last year, I noticed my bookings were dropping even though nothing had changed. Turns out, the market was flooded with similar “quaint country cottages.” I needed something special to make my place stand out.

After browsing Instagram (where all good ideas start these days), I noticed how many people were booking unique stays just for the photos. That’s when I got the idea for a Victorian glasshouse addition. Not just any greenhouse – a proper ornamental showstopper that would make my listing irresistible.

What I Needed From This Project

My wish list was simple but specific:

• A space that would justify higher prices (at least 30% more per night)

• Something usable year-round (British weather is unpredictable)

• Low maintenance (I don’t have time for fussy cleaning between guests)

• Instagram-worthy looks (let’s be honest – this matters these days)

• Classic charm to match my cottage’s style

Why I Chose a Victorian Glasshouse

I considered several options – a hot tub, a garden office, even a treehouse. But a Victorian greenhouse ticked all my boxes:

1. Timeless Appeal – That classic 19th century look never goes out of style

2. All-Weather Use – Glass keeps you dry but still feels outdoorsy

3. Photogenic – All those pretty lines and light make perfect backdrops

4. Flexible Space – Could be breakfast room, reading nook, or evening cocktail spot

The Transformation Process

Working with a local specialist, we designed a 4m x 3m ornamental glasshouse with:

• Traditional curved roof and decorative ironwork (proper Victorian character)

• Double-glazed panels (keeps the heat in during winter)

• Stone flooring with underfloor heating (no cold feet in December)

• French doors opening to the garden (for that indoor-outdoor flow)

Installation took just three weeks from start to finish. The team worked around my booking calendar so I didn’t lose any rental income.

The Results: Beyond My Expectations

Since adding the glasshouse last spring:

💰 40% Higher Rates – I now charge £180/night instead of £130. 📅 Better Occupancy – Booked solid 4 months in advance. 📸 Free Marketing – Guests post hundreds of photos with #glasshousegetaway . ⭐ Consistent 5-Star Reviews – 94% mention the glasshouse as a highlight.

“My partner proposed in your gorgeous glasshouse! The morning light through the windows was magical.” – Recent guest review

glass conservatory

What Makes This Work So Well

1. Unique Selling Point – There are thousands of cottages, but very few with proper Victorian greenhouses

2. Many Uses – Guests enjoy it at all times of day for different purposes

3. Year-Round Appeal – Even in rain or snow, it’s a beautiful space

4. Easy Maintenance – Quick wipe-down between guests is all it needs

My Tips for Other Hosts

If you’re considering something similar:

✔ Think like a guest – What would make you pay extra to stay there? ✔ Quality matters – Cheap materials won’t impress or last ✔ Make it photogenic – Dark corners don’t get shared on social media ✔ Add small luxuries – I include a coffee station and blankets in mine

Was It Worth It?

Absolutely. The glasshouse paid for itself in 14 months through increased rates alone. More importantly, it’s made hosting fun again – seeing guests’ reactions when they first see it never gets old.

For anyone wanting to elevate their rental property, I can’t recommend a Victorian greenhouse enough. It’s been a total game-changer for my business.

Final Cost Breakdown:

• Design & materials: £18,500

• Installation: £3,200

• Additional furnishings: £1,800

• Total investment: £23,500

• Additional annual income: ~£16,000

• Payback period: 1.5 years