Apply 12 Tweaks to Turn your Airbnb into a Guest Magnet

Creating a home away from home for your guests is all about the details, and that’s where Airbnb decorating ideas come into play. You want your guests to walk in and feel instantly at ease, embraced by a space that’s both inviting and unmistakably yours. You’ll need more than clean accommodations to set your listing apart in the ever-growing marketplace. Style and character that make a lasting impression.

Personal touches in your Airbnb decoration can define the overall look and make all the difference in garnering those coveted 5-star reviews. I know I’m going to ruffle some feathers with this opinion because so many Airbnb hosts swear by bland generic decor, but that’s not going to attract the type of guest who will pay the most money. It’s a rental industry mistake to keep decor boring.

Think about what makes a space memorable—it’s more than just a place to sleep, it’s small details like pieces of art or interesting lighting. Whether you’re opting for a bohemian vibe with mixed patterns and colors, or keeping it sleek with minimalist design, the key is to create a cohesive aesthetic that resonates with your target guests.

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• 12 Airbnb Decorating Tips
• Where to Get Decor

Key Takeaways

• Personal touches in decor create memorable experiences for Airbnb guests.
• A well-decorated listing can significantly enhance guest satisfaction and lead to higher ratings.
• Balancing aesthetics with comfort is crucial for a 5-star Airbnb listing.

Setting the Scene for a Memorable Stay

Creating an inviting atmosphere begins the moment your guests step through the front door of your vacation rental. With the right Airbnb decorating ideas, you can ensure a stay that’s both aesthetically pleasing and comfortable, setting the stage for positive reviews.

Understanding the right blend of color and lighting, and sourcing decor that’s as functional as it is beautiful, can transform a mere rental space into a sought-after retreat. Your Airbnb decor ideas should not only be photo-worthy but also frame the unique experience your guests will have. From the moment they step through the door, every element should contribute to that great first impression. Let’s get ready to give your Airbnb listing the personality boost it deserves!

#1 Capitalizing on First Impressions

Your entryway is the first encounter guests have with your home, and it sets the tone for their entire stay. To make a strong first impression:

• Enhance the Front Door: A vibrant coat of paint and a welcoming mat signal a warm invitation.
• Organize with Style: Use hooks and shelves to offer guests a convenient spot for their belongings.
• Frame Emergency Numbers: You will look like the professional host you are by having your address, personal contact information, and emergency numbers hanging in a photo frame.

Real Life Example: My front door is fire engine red and my welcome mat says ‘Wipe Your Paws’ highlighting the fact that my Airbnb is dog friendly.

#2 Comfortable Living Room

In the living room, balance is key. You want to combine comfort and style to create a space where guests can both unwind and feel inspired:

• Furnish for Function and Flair: A cozy sofa with an array of throw pillows and blankets invites guests to kick back.
• Liven up the Room: Indoor plants add a touch of vibrancy and freshness, enhancing the guest experience.
• Endless Entertainment: Make TV watching easy for rental guests by being logged in to Netflix, Hulu, Apple TV, and Amazon.

#3 Bedrooms Inspire Deep Sleep

A restful night’s sleep is paramount in garnering positive reviews. Focus on these bedroom details to create an irresistible retreat:

• Luxurious bedding sets: Choose high-quality, soft fabrics that promise a good night’s sleep.
• Extra blankets: Keep a few extra blankets on hand for guests who may need them during their stay.
• Blackout Curtains: From babies to light sleepers providing thermal blackout curtains is an easy way to get rave reviews.

Color or Neutral That is the Question

When decorating your Airbnb, the right combination of color and lighting can significantly enhance the aesthetic of your space. Thoughtful choices can create an inviting ambiance that resonates with potential guests.

#4 Choosing a Color Palette for Appeal

Your color palette is essential in crafting the desired atmosphere in your Airbnb. Everyone seems to start with neutral colors like white or beige. If you want to look like all the other short-term rentals on the market you can go for neutral colors. I’m more drawn to a consistent color scheme that can include bold colors, dynamic patterns, pops of color, and exude personality. The end result of an out of the box interior design of your Airbnb will be more eyeballs which is a great way to increase bookings.

• Do Color: If you’re afraid of color than at least do an accent color that creates some visual interest.
• Try Patterns: Even on a relatively generic color like flat matte grey you can make it fun by putting an overlay stencil of high gloss clear paint as I did below.
• Right Reasons: Create the color scheme based on your personality like a love of peacocks or a famous landmark in the local area, infuse your personality.

#5 Memorable Lighting

Ample lighting is crucial to showcase your Airbnb’s decor and create the right mood. Utilize natural light by keeping windows unobstructed and using sheer curtains that allow sunlight to filter through. Lighting is one of the best ways to stand out and be memorable since most homes just have nipple lights and recessed can lights.

• Natural Light: Maximize sunlight entry with appropriate window treatments.
• Pendant Lights: Hang pendant lights in key areas for stylish, focused illumination.
• Ample Lighting: Ensure each room has sufficient lighting options, whether for functionality or ambiance.
• Unique Fixtures: Get the sparkly fixture or the one that you can’t stop staring at.

Incorporating these Airbnb decorating ideas will create a space that’s photo-ready, highly functional, and appealing to guests looking for their next stay.

Curating Unique Spaces and Experiences

When considering Airbnb decorating ideas, the goal is to curate spaces that offer unique and memorable experiences for guests. This means thoughtful placement of furniture and decor to create a comfortable, engaging environment.

#6 Creating Nooks for Relaxation and Work

Incorporating a reading nook can transform an unused corner into a tranquil retreat. Place an accent chair with plush cushions by a window, accompanied by a small coffee table for books and a cup of tea. A relaxation place is an excellent way to get a target guest who wants home-like experiences. 

To cater to the remote worker, ensure there’s a dedicated space with a desk and comfortable seating, where focus comes naturally. I scored a 14 month at full-price booking because I was the only house in the city with two full sized desks they could use for remote work. Catering to digital nomads is a smart move for any rental host.

#7 Personalizing with Art and Decor Accents

Wall art and decorative elements are a good idea for Airbnb decorating ideas that infuse personality into the space. Create a gallery wall as a focal point in the living area, showcasing a collection of art that reflects the locale’s culture or history. Scatter unique vases or sculptures across shelves, and add character with a mix of textures and colors through pillows and throws.

Don’t be shy in being your interior designer for your rental property like adding fake plants (or live plants), vintage pieces, wooden furniture, and unusual art pieces. Just make sure that your any personal items you include are not sentimental because there is a good chance they will eventually get ruined. 

#8 Enhancing Outdoor Areas for Enjoyment

Your outdoor spaces can be a major draw for guests. Set up areas for relaxation and socializing with comfortable seating, a fire pit, and perhaps a hot tub for that extra touch of luxury. A well-designed patio or garden encourages guests to unwind outdoors and makes your listing stand out. My Airbnb has a trampoline, blow up outdoor movie screen, and playground for our target audience with kids. 

#9 Something Worth Sharing

If you want your Airbnb property to be successful you are goin to need at least one element of your home to be worth sharing online or with friends and family. Ask yourself, what is something wild about my house that someone would want to take a photo of and post one social media? Overall, your guests are renting your house to visit a particular area. However, you need to make something in your house worth talking about.

Some Ideas:

• Chalkboard Wall
• Classic Arcade Games
• Living Plant Wall
• Built-in Bunk Beds
• Slide from One Floor to Another
• Conversation Pit

Smart Sourcing and Placing Decor Items

When decorating your Airbnb, finding the right pieces at the right price can transform your space without breaking your budget. Careful sourcing from thrift stores and flea markets, along with strategic placement, can create a unique and inviting atmosphere for guests.

Pro Tip: I get all my decorations at Ross because they have a high end look to boost appeal while still being very inexpensive.

Thrift Store Finds & Flea Market Treasures

Thrift stores and flea markets are gold mines for one-of-a-kind Airbnb decorating ideas. You can often find high-quality, vintage, and unique items that add character to your rental. Here’s how you can maximize your finds:

• Inspect for Quality: Look for solid construction and materials that will withstand regular use by guests.
• Consider Size: For small spaces, choose items that don’t overcrowd the room but enhance the existing aesthetic.
• Mix and Match: Don’t be afraid to pair old with new for a dynamic decor scheme.

Overall, accessorizing small spaces with these treasures can also highlight the personality of the Airbnb. This makes it memorable and photogenic for guests who love to share their travel experiences on social media.

Accessorizing Kitchens and Additional Rooms

Your Airbnb’s kitchen and additional rooms should not only be functional but also stylish. To get started, here are some targeted Airbnb decorating ideas for these spaces:

• Functional Elegance: Opt for kitchen accessories that blend style with utility to your Airbnb rental, like a chic set of knives or a rustic spice rack.
• Storage Solutions: Use decorative baskets and wall shelves to keep extra room spaces tidy and appealing.
• Personal Touches: Add small plants or local artwork to make the space feel lived-in and welcoming.

Incorporating these elements with a conscious approach to sourcing and placement can greatly enhance your Airbnb’s appeal, making it stand out in a crowded marketplace.

FAQ: Airbnb Decorating Ideas

Decorating your Airbnb is an exciting yet challenging task. In this section, you’ll discover answers to frequently asked questions that arise for Airbnb hosts or owners seeking decorating ideas. Consequently, let these insights inspire and guide you in creating a space that’s not only appealing but also welcoming for your guests.