Design Tips to Boost Your Listing
Design plays a critical role in the success of any short-term rental business. Guests expect a well-designed, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing space that feels like a home away from home. However, creating a stylish and functional environment doesn't need to break the bank. With a little creativity and smart planning, you can elevate the look and feel of your rental without overspending, resulting in happier guests and better reviews.
In this blog post, we’ll explore affordable design ideas that will help you create a welcoming and visually appealing space that attracts guests, boosts satisfaction, and keeps them coming back.
1. Start with a Neutral Base and Add Pops of Color
A neutral color palette for your walls, floors, and large furniture items sets a clean and timeless foundation for your rental. Shades of white, beige, and light grey make spaces look more open and inviting, while also providing a blank canvas that can be easily updated as design trends change. From there, you can layer in pops of color through accessories and decor.
Affordable Tip: Paint is one of the least expensive ways to refresh a space. Choose neutral shades for a sophisticated look, and add accents of bold colors through throw pillows, rugs, and artwork.
DIY Solution: If you’re on a tight budget, paint an accent wall or piece of furniture in a bold hue. This allows you to inject personality into the space without committing to a full-room overhaul.
2. Mix High and Low Furniture Pieces
It’s not necessary to furnish your rental with high-end designer furniture to create a luxurious atmosphere. By mixing budget-friendly furniture with a few carefully chosen statement pieces, you can achieve a polished look for less. Invest in durable items like a comfortable sofa or a sturdy dining table, and save on accessories like side tables, lamps, and decor.
Affordable Tip: Look for deals at secondhand stores, online marketplaces, or clearance sales. You can often find gently used furniture at a fraction of the cost. Websites like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and local thrift stores are excellent places to hunt for affordable gems.
DIY Solution: Consider upcycling older furniture by painting or reupholstering it. This adds a personal touch to your space while saving money. You can transform a basic chair or table into a unique design feature with a little creativity.
3. Prioritize Comfort in Key Areas
Guests expect comfort above all else, especially when it comes to sleeping and relaxing. A good night’s sleep is one of the most important factors in ensuring guest satisfaction, so don’t skimp on the quality of your mattress and bedding. Comfortable seating in living areas also enhances the guest experience.
Affordable Tip: While you don’t need to buy the most expensive mattress, investing in a quality, medium-priced option will pay off in the long run. Pair it with high-quality bed linens, which you can find at affordable prices by shopping sales or online discount retailers.
DIY Solution: Layer bedding with a plush comforter, extra pillows, and soft blankets. This creates a luxurious feel without having to invest in expensive materials.
For the living room, opt for a sofa that’s both stylish and functional. Add a few cozy throw pillows and blankets to make it an inviting place for guests to relax after a long day of exploring.
4. Use Mirrors to Create the Illusion of Space
Mirrors are an inexpensive yet effective design tool for making spaces feel larger and brighter. They reflect natural light and can open up even the smallest rooms, making your rental feel more spacious and welcoming. Consider placing mirrors strategically in areas where light is limited, such as hallways or entryways.
Affordable Tip: You can find stylish, affordable mirrors at discount home stores or online retailers. Full-length mirrors can also serve as both functional decor and a practical amenity for guests.
DIY Solution: If you have basic mirrors that need a facelift, consider creating your own frames using inexpensive materials like wood or metal. This adds a custom touch without the price tag of designer mirrors.
5. Add Unique, Inexpensive Art to Elevate the Space
Art can drastically change the atmosphere of a room, giving it personality and style. You don’t need to splurge on expensive, original pieces to make an impact—affordable art prints, DIY projects, and local finds can add character and warmth to your rental.
Affordable Tip: Websites like Etsy, Society6, and even local craft fairs offer affordable art prints in a variety of styles. You can also frame personal photographs or travel-themed prints to give the space a personal touch.
DIY Solution: If you’re artistically inclined, create your own wall art. Simple abstract paintings, framed fabric swatches, or a gallery wall featuring vintage postcards are great ways to incorporate creativity into your rental decor.
6. Layer Lighting for a Cozy Atmosphere
Good lighting can transform the look and feel of your short-term rental. Avoid harsh, overhead lighting and opt for softer, layered lighting instead. A combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting creates a warm and inviting environment for your guests.
Affordable Tip: Use inexpensive table lamps, floor lamps, and string lights to add layers of lighting. Look for affordable yet stylish lighting options at home improvement stores or budget-friendly retailers like IKEA or Target.
DIY Solution: Swap out outdated light fixtures with modern, inexpensive alternatives, or give your existing lamps a makeover by changing out the shades or painting the bases.
7. Create Functional Storage Solutions
Guests love convenience and easy access to their belongings. Well-organized spaces with ample storage make for a more comfortable stay. When your rental is both stylish and functional, guests can enjoy a clutter-free experience.
Affordable Tip: Use multifunctional furniture like ottomans with hidden storage, floating shelves, or under-bed storage bins to maximize space. Baskets and bins also provide a chic and practical way to store extra blankets, pillows, or guest supplies.
DIY Solution: Repurpose furniture for storage purposes. An old dresser can be converted into a hallway console, or floating crates can serve as open shelving in the kitchen or bathroom. Be creative with storage solutions to make every inch of space count.
8. Accessorize with Budget-Friendly Decor
Decorative accessories are the finishing touches that bring personality and warmth to a space. Even small updates like fresh plants, new throw pillows, or trendy knickknacks can elevate the overall look of your rental.
Affordable Tip: Look for seasonal sales or clearance events to snag affordable decor items like vases, candles, and textiles. Stores like HomeGoods, Marshalls, or TJ Maxx often have designer items at a fraction of the cost.
DIY Solution: Make your own decor with simple projects. For example, paint a few inexpensive terracotta pots and add houseplants to breathe life into the space. If you’re crafty, macramé wall hangings, homemade candles, or DIY planters can add a personal, trendy touch.
9. Upgrade the Bathroom with Small, Affordable Touches
Bathrooms are a key area where design and functionality matter. A well-appointed, clean, and stylish bathroom can leave a lasting impression on guests. Luckily, making your bathroom feel more like a spa doesn’t have to be costly.
Affordable Tip: Replace worn-out towels with soft, fluffy ones, and update your shower curtain with a modern design. Add budget-friendly amenities like a stylish soap dispenser, toothbrush holder, and a basket filled with guest toiletries.
DIY Solution: Install new cabinet hardware or add a peel-and-stick backsplash to give the bathroom a fresh look without expensive renovations.
10. Add Personal Touches to Make Your Rental Feel Like Home
Finally, the most successful short-term rentals feel cozy and personal. Adding thoughtful touches that make guests feel welcome will set your space apart from others.
Affordable Tip: Consider leaving a welcome note or guidebook with local recommendations. A small basket of snacks or a bottle of wine can be a pleasant surprise for guests and doesn’t have to cost much.
DIY Solution: Personalize the space with a guest book where travelers can share their experiences or leave recommendations for future guests. You could also create a small “local guide” with hand-drawn maps, restaurant menus, or local event flyers.
Conclusion
Creating a stylish, functional, and welcoming space for your short-term rental doesn’t have to be expensive. By focusing on key design elements such as comfort, functionality, and thoughtful details, you can transform your property into a desirable vacation spot on a budget. With these affordable design ideas, you’ll be able to create a space that not only looks great but also provides an unforgettable experience for your guests. By mixing high and low furniture pieces, incorporating DIY projects, and using budget-friendly decor, you can elevate the look and feel of your rental while maximizing guest satisfaction.