Short-Term Rental Design Made Easy (And Why Your Own Home Needs These Tips Too)
Creating a stunning and functional short-term rental doesn’t have to be daunting. By following a few simple design principles, you can transform your space into an inviting haven that you and your guests will love. Whether you’re setting up a profitable rental or simply want to bring that vacation-home feeling into your own house, these design tips will help you create a stylish and functional space. Let’s get started!
This post was updated on 2/2/2025.
1. Create an “Insta-Worthy” Space (That You’ll Actually Love)
Let’s face it: in the world of rentals, photographs are the first impression. But even if you aren’t listing your home on a platform, designing with a “photogenic” eye helps you create a space that feels curated rather than cluttered.
For the Host: You want to stand out from the competition. Go for that bold floral mural or a dark, moody, color-drenched room. These “scroll-stopping” moments are what turn “just browsing” into a booked guest. Choosing a specific design style—such as Modern Mountain, Urban Industrial, or Coastal—provides a roadmap for furnishing and helps keep the listing looking professional.
For the Homeowner: Creating an “Insta-worthy” space is really just about giving a room a clear personality (let your personality shine through here). Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone! A bold wallpaper or a statement color is often what transforms a “plain room” into your favorite place to drink coffee. Designing for the camera actually teaches you to look at your home’s lighting and layout more objectively.
Pro Tip: Use the “Rule of One Bold Move.” Whether you are designing a rental property or your primary residence, every room should have one element—a mural, a piece of art, or a unique rug—that serves as the visual anchor.
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2. Emphasize the ‘Wow’ Factor.
A “Wow” factor is that one standout element that makes a guest (or a friend) stop in their tracks and say, “OOh, I love this!” I like to design every room with at least one statement piece. It’s the difference between a space that feels functional and one that feels truly memorable.
For the Host: In a sea of similar listings, you need a visual hook. Think of your “wow” factor as your brand’s signature. This could be a sculptural light fixture, a vibrant accent wall (I’m a huge fan of wallpaper in unexpected places), or a piece of large-scale art that references the local area. These are the details guests remember—and mention in their 5-star reviews.
For the Homeowner: In your own home, the “wow” factor is what keeps the design from feeling flat or “cookie-cutter.” Don’t be afraid to go big or quirky! My favorite trick is to use a vintage furniture find—something with a history and a soul that you can’t just buy at a big-box store. Whether it’s wallpaper in an unexpected place like a ceiling or a powder room, these “wow” moments are what give your home its unique character.
Design Secret: If you’re stuck, look up. Lighting is the “jewelry” of the room. Swapping a standard builder-grade fixture for something bold is the fastest way to add a “wow” factor without a full renovation.
3. Prioritize Comfy Furniture.
Invest in high-quality, cozy furniture that feels as good as it looks. I know it can be tempting to save money here, but trust me: quality furniture feels better and—more importantly—it actually holds up to the wear and tear of daily life.
For the Host: Your furniture is a workhorse. It has to withstand a constant rotation of guests, suitcases, and kids. Investing in solid pieces means fewer replacements and better reviews (because no one likes a saggy sofa!). To keep costs down while maintaining quality, consider joining organizations such as Minoan or HostGPO, which offer significant discounts specifically for STR owners and designers.
For the Homeowner: If you have kids, pets, or love hosting Friday night dinners, you need “host-grade” durability. The same pieces that survive a beach rental will survive your living room. My favorite design tip is to mix old with new. Shop your local Facebook Marketplace or consignment shops for “good bones” (like solid wood tables or vintage frames) and pair them with a high-quality new sofa. It adds instant soul to a room without the designer price tag.
Shopping Tip: When buying used, look for brands known for their joinery. Rowe, Smith Furniture, Pottery Barn to name a few. A well made piece found on Marketplace will often outlast a brand-new piece made of particle board.
4. The Art of the Thoughtful Detail.
The difference between a “stay” and an “experience” is always in the details. Whether you are prepping for a guest or just trying to make your own mornings run more smoothly, designing with the “end-user” in mind is the secret to a functional home.
For the Host: Think through a guest’s entire day. Do they have a place to put their suitcase? Is there a bedside lamp with an easy-to-reach switch? A charging station for phones in every room? You can see some additional small bedroom design tips here. Providing a well-stocked coffee bar with all the accouterments or a cozy reading nook with a selection of books and games shows guests that you’ve anticipated their every need. These small gestures are what lead to those glowing “felt like home” reviews.
For the Homeowner: We often forget to be “guests” in our own homes. Adding a luggage rack or extra charging stations to your guest room makes visitors feel truly welcome. But don’t stop there—apply these tips to your own bedroom! A dedicated spot for your phone, a comfortable chair for reading, and a clutter-free bedside table with your favorite candle will make your daily routine feel like a luxury hotel stay.
Design Tip: Side tables and Nightstands are non-negotiable! Always ensure there is a surface within arm’s reach of every seat in the house (a drink table is great for smaller spaces). People love having a place to set things down.
5. Let that Sunshine in! (and Block it Out!)
Maximize your natural light. It’s the easiest way to make a space feel airy, clean, and expensive. Once you’ve captured that light, the next step is making sure you can control it.
For the Host: Bright, sun-drenched photos are what get people to click on your listing. Open up those curtains and use strategically placed mirrors to reflect light into darker corners. However, here is the golden rule of hosting: add blackout curtains to your bedrooms. No one wants to wake up at 6:00 AM on the first day of their vacation because of a rogue sunbeam.
For the Homeowner: Natural light is a proven mood booster. In your own home, keep window treatments light and high to let in as much vitamin D as possible. But take a cue from the hospitality world—if you’re a light sleeper, don’t settle for “room darkening” shades. Go for the full blackout treatment in your primary suite. It’s a simple upgrade that can significantly improve your sleep quality.
Pro Tip: When hanging curtains, go “High and Wide.” Hang your rod 4–6 inches above the window frame and extend it past the sides. This makes the window look massive and lets every drop of light in during the day.
6. Incorporate Local Vibes.
One of my favorite design elements is adding a sense of place. Whether it’s a vacation rental or your forever home, your decor should tell a story about where you are. This is what moves a room from “showroom” to “soulful.”
For the Host: Guests choose an Airbnb over a hotel because they want a local experience. Give it to them! This can be literal, like a neon sign with your town’s name, or subtle, like a jar of beach glass from Lake Michigan. I love using items in the shape of our state or personalizing decor with the specific names of our lake towns. Just keep it tasteful; you want a “coastal vibe,” not a “souvenir shop.”
For the Homeowner: Decorating with local elements is the best way to make your house feel grounded in its community. Support your local makers! A pillow from a neighborhood boutique, a map of your city from a local artist, or even a vintage sign from a nearby town adds a layer of authenticity that you just can’t get from a big-box store. It’s about celebrating your “Home Sweet Home.”
Design Tip: Use “Tile Typography.” In our Lake Michigan cottage, we used floor tiles to spell out “Fresh Coast Vibes.” It’s a permanent, high-end way to add a local touch that serves as a perfect photo op for guests and a fun conversation starter for friends.
7. Design with Easy Maintenance in Mind.
If you’re choosing finishes or furniture, opt for durable, easy-to-clean materials that will withstand the test of time. A beautiful room is only successful if it doesn’t cause you stress every time someone sits down with a glass of red wine.
For the Host: When shopping, look for items labeled “Commercial Grade.” These are rated for the hospitality market and are built to handle high turnover. Choose fabrics that are easily cleaned—I personally love a slipcovered sofa that can be tossed in the wash or a wipeable leather piece. Also, always check the weight limits on chairs (300 lbs should be your minimum) to ensure everyone’s safety.
For the Homeowner: The same “commercial grade” logic applies to a busy household. If it can survive an Airbnb, it can survive your kids, your pets, and your dinner parties. Look for performance fabrics and rugs that are stain-resistant. One of my favorite tips: make sure your throw pillows have removable, washable covers. It’s a small detail that keeps your home feeling fresh and hygienic without a lot of effort.
Maintenance Hack: Leather (or high-quality vegan leather) is a host’s best friend. It develops a beautiful patina over time, it’s easy to wipe down, and it doesn’t trap allergens or pet hair like traditional upholstery.
8. Design for Form and Function.
Design isn’t just about how a room looks; it’s about how it works. A common mistake is choosing a beautiful table that only seats four in a house meant for six. Combining form and function ensures your space feels intentional, not accidental.
For the Host: Your furniture needs to match your occupancy. If your listing sleeps eight people, you need to provide seating for eight in the living room and at the dining table. There is nothing worse for a guest than “taking turns” to sit on the sofa. Also, think about the kitchen—ensure there is enough counter space for meal prep for a full house.
See some of my favorite home pieces here on my Shop My Page.
For the Homeowner: This is the secret to a house that stays organized. If you love to host large family gatherings, don’t just “squeeze in” folding chairs. Look for extendable tables or nesting ottomans that can be tucked away when not in use but provide that essential seating when the whole crew arrives. When form follows function, your home becomes a place where people can actually relax, rather than feeling cramped.
The “8-for-8” Rule: Always do a headcount of your “social zones.” If you have the bed space for a specific number of people, make sure your dining and lounging areas can accommodate that same number comfortably.
9. Smart Home Essentials for Everyone
Integrating technology isn’t just about showing off the latest gadgets; it’s about removing friction from daily life. Whether it’s a smart lock or a programmable thermostat, the best tech works quietly in the background to make a space feel more intuitive and secure.
For the Host: Smart tech is your 24/7 virtual co-host. A smart lock with unique entry codes eliminates the “lost key” crisis and allows for seamless, contactless check-ins. Meanwhile, a smart thermostat ensures you aren’t heating an empty house between stays, but allows you to turn the AC on ten minutes before a guest arrives so they walk into a cool, welcoming environment.
For the Homeowner: These same tools offer peace of mind and effortless routines. Forgot if you locked the front door while you’re already halfway to work? Check your phone. Want the porch lights to turn on automatically at sunset so you never come home to a dark house? Set a schedule. Smart home essentials aren’t just “techy”—they are practical upgrades that save you time and lower your monthly utility bills.
The “Set It and Forget It” Rule: Only invest in tech that simplifies your life, not complicates it. If a device requires a 10-page manual for a guest (or a family member) to turn on the lights, it’s too complex. The goal is automation, not frustration.
10. Stocking for Success
The best-designed room in the world will still feel hollow if it lacks the essentials. True design extends into the cabinets and onto the countertops. It’s about anticipating needs before they arise, ensuring that anyone—whether a traveler or a family member—has exactly what they need at their fingertips.
For the Host: Think of your “stock” as your hospitality signature. A high-end coffee bar, a basket of local snacks, or even just high-quality white towels can elevate a guest’s review from “nice place” to “unforgettable stay.” Don’t forget the invisible essentials: a first-aid kit, a fire extinguisher, and a printed “cheat sheet” for the house. When a guest doesn’t have to message you to find a bottle opener, you’ve succeeded in your design.
For the Homeowner: Stocking thoughtfully is the ultimate gift to your future self. It’s the “open-house” feeling every day. By keeping your pantry organized with beautiful glass jars or your guest bathroom stocked with “spa-level” soaps, you turn mundane chores into luxurious moments. Styling with intentionality—like a curated stack of coffee table books or a fresh vase of greenery—keeps your home feeling fresh and ready for an impromptu dinner party at any moment.
The “Keep it Handy” Rule: Every “area” should have its tools within an arm’s reach. If there’s a fireplace, the matches should be right there. If there’s a coffee maker, the mugs and sugar should be in the cabinet directly above it. Logic is the highest form of style.
Bonus Tip: Provide a “Have you forgotten basket.”
Anticipate your guests’ needs by filling the basket with essentials they may have forgotten.
By following these simple design tips, you can create a short-term rental that’s both beautiful and functional. Remember, prioritizing your guests’ comfort and experience is the key to success. With a little creativity and attention to detail, you can transform your space into a sought-after destination. Short-term rental design made easy!
If you would like to see a few of my listings on Airbnb.
You can shop for some of my favorite furniture, rugs, and wallpaper for Short-Term Rental Design here:
You can shop my Amazon Pics for STRs at my Amazon Storefront Here.
Until next time,
-Libbie
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