Creating an inviting and memorable space for your guests goes beyond a fresh coat of paint or new linens. It’s about crafting an experience, a moment in time that stays with your guests long after they've checked out. Whether you’re sprucing up a room or overhauling your entire property, this guide walks you through the essentials of interior design for short term rentals like Airbnb.
What types of homes do best on Airbnb?
While location and property type are key considerations for guests, styling also contributes significantly to how much you can earn. In fact, well-styled properties can earn up to 2x more than comparable, less-attractively styled properties.
Current styling trends in the short-term rental market include:
- Modern and welcoming homes: Clean, contemporary interiors styled with artwork, decor, and soft furnishings create a polished yet inviting feel that makes guests feel right at home.
- Dedicated workspaces: Many remote and hybrid workers travel for extended stays, blending work with lifestyle. A dedicated workspace appeals to this segment of business travellers and helps a home stand out and secure bookings.
- Uniquely-styled homes: From Scandinavian to rustic, having a one-of-a-kind theme will also stand out in the property market for their charm.
- Incorporating local elements: Adding local touches to your property is important, especially for interstate or international travellers who don't frequent your area. For example, homes on the Gold Coast or other beachside locations benefit from having modern coastal, resort-style, Hamptons, or relaxed beach chic vibes.
Best practices for styling an Airbnb in 2026
- Ask yourself: What’s your interior design style?
Start with the soul of your space—your design style. Not everyone's a born decorator, and that's perfectly fine! Kick things off with a mood board. This visual tool will help you gather and organise your interior inspiration. Flip through magazines, scour Pinterest, or take cues from your favourite holiday spots to pick out preferred colours, textures, and layouts. Visualise how your guests will live in and enjoy each area, making every choice with their comfort and delight in mind. - Select a theme
Next, dial in on a design theme that fits perfectly with the location of your property and speaks directly to your ideal guest. A beachside house whispers of sandy hues and relaxed, coastal vibes, while a city apartment might echo with modern, sleek lines and a monochrome palette. Remember, your property's theme should mirror the expectations and dreams of your guests, be they families, couples, or solo travellers. Some popular themes to explore include:
- Farmhouse: Homely and rustic, perfect for country retreats.
- Modern: Sleek and minimalist for the urban explorer.
- Rustic: Nature-inspired, ideal for mountain or forest getaways.
- Industrial: Bold and raw, suited for trendy urban spaces.
- Traditional: Timeless elegance for those seeking comfort and warmth.
- Scandi: Minimalist and cosy, offering a tranquil retreat.
- Find unique furniture pieces
Avoid the predictable. While it’s easy to fill a space with cookie-cutter Airbnb furniture, the most captivating interiors showcase a blend of old and new. Hunt for pieces that tell a story—a classic armchair, a quirky table lamp, or a repurposed chest of drawers. These elements add character and create talking points for your guests. But it's also important to choose furniture for comfort, not just aesthetics.
Incorporate local artwork to give your space a sense of place and support local talent. Art isn’t just about what hangs on your walls; consider sculptures, crafts, or even books that reflect the local culture and landscape. These elements personalise your space and connect your guests to their surroundings.
Remember, the smallest touches can make the biggest impact on your guest’s experience. From plush pillows and throws to strategically placed lighting , these elements enhance the ambience and functionality of your space. And don’t overlook the power of a well-placed coffee machine in your vacation rental's kitchen, a stack of engaging books, or a welcoming entryway to impress your guests from the moment they arrive. - Design your property room-by-room
Planning out an entire house may get too overwhelming, so it's better if you take it one room at a time. Start small with Airbnb bedroom essentials, then tackle the bathroom, the kitchen, the living room, and proceed until you're done decorating your home. - Other things to remember:
- You may need to declutter first, before you proceed with decorating. Start with personal items to maintain a neutral, inviting space, and keep only what guests need for their stay.
- Always stay on top of cleaning; a well-styled property with cleaning complaints will still get bad ratings.
Get help with interior design for short term rentals
Designing a home for Airbnb is a journey toward creating unforgettable experiences for your guests. At Hometime, we're passionate about helping you unlock your property's full potential. Whether you're looking for tailored advice on Airbnb styling or comprehensive management solutions, we're here to support you every step of the way.
