In Conversation with Patricia
When artist Patricia, and her husband Simon converted an old potting shed in their garden into a charming annexe, they had her ageing parents in mind. But when they couldn't move in due to health issues, Patricia decided to open the space to guests. Hosting has given Patricia the financial freedom to reduce her work hours and focus on caring for her parents.
When artist Patricia, and her husband Simon converted an old potting shed in their garden into a charming annexe, they had her ageing parents in mind. But when they couldn't move in due to health issues, Patricia decided to open the space to guests. Hosting has given Patricia the financial freedom to reduce her work hours and focus on caring for her parents.
“We built this little house in our garden for my parents, but when that didn't work out, it seemed only right to share it with others.”
“We built this little house in our garden for my parents, but when that didn't work out, it seemed only right to share it with others.”
Guests are drawn to the peaceful setting of Ashburton and the “Potting Shed”, where they can enjoy the vibrant birdsong and the creative touches Patricia has added from her travels. She loves to see their reactions and enjoys meeting people from all walks of life.
Guests are drawn to the peaceful setting of Ashburton and the “Potting Shed”, where they can enjoy the vibrant birdsong and the creative touches Patricia has added from her travels. She loves to see their reactions and enjoys meeting people from all walks of life.
Guests are drawn to the peaceful setting of Ashburton and the “Potting Shed”, where they can enjoy the vibrant birdsong and the creative touches Patricia has added from her travels. She loves to see their reactions and enjoys meeting people from all walks of life.
“Living somewhere rural, it's amazing to see the variety of people who come to stay and share our love for Ashburton.”
Patricia is passionate about supporting her local community. She encourages guests to explore the unique shops and eateries in Ashburton, contributing to the town's vibrant economy.
“We live in quite a small place, and hosting is brilliant for our community as it allows us to encourage guests to engage with the town, explore the galleries, and spend money in the local shops.”
The prospect of restrictive short-term lets rules concerns Patricia, as it could impact her ability to continue hosting. This would not only affect her personally but also impact the local businesses she relies on for her guests.
“If we couldn’t host on Airbnb, it would have a significant impact on my ability to support my parents in the way that I do. Without guests, we also wouldn't need to employ our cleaner or other local tradespeople.”
For Patricia, hosting is more than just a way to boost her income—it’s a way to support her loved ones and contribute to Ashburton’s vibrant community.
Read more here about Airbnb’s support of new, modern rules for short-term lets.