Creating a memorable Airbnb stay begins with a beautifully designed space. With over 7.7 million listings worldwide and 150 million users, standing out in the competitive short-term rental market is more important than ever.1

Key Takeaways

• A cohesive, neutral color palette sets a relaxing and universally appealing tone.
• Design each room for comfort and usability, with durable, multi-functional furnishings.
• Framed bathroom mirrors are a simple upgrade that ties your style together.
• Guest-friendly tech and amenities help your listing stand out.
• Style spaces that photograph well to encourage shares and reviews.

Whether you’re preparing your first vacation rental or upgrading an existing one, investing in thoughtful Airbnb interior design can boost your bookings and lead to glowing reviews. Here’s how to style an Airbnb that guests will love—and rave about.

Start with a cohesive color palette.

A well-chosen color scheme sets the tone for your space. Neutrals like soft whites, warm beiges, and gentle grays create a calming atmosphere that appeals to a broad audience. Use accent colors purposefully—through pillows, throws, or artwork—to add depth and personality without overwhelming the space. Let your color palette guide the mood: beachy blues for a coastal stay, or sleek blacks and wood tones for a modern urban loft.

Be consistent with your Airbnb design.

A cohesive design makes your property feel polished and well-thought-out. While each room can have its own flavor, try to repeat materials, color tones, and styling cues throughout the space. Use similar finishes on hardware, and maintain a balance of texture, scale, and light.

Framed bathroom mirrors are a subtle touch that makes a big impact. With styles ranging from coastal to modern and farmhouse to glam, a MirrorMate mirror frame can help carry your home's aesthetic into the bathroom, tying the look together with ease.

Design each room with comfort and purpose.

Interior design for Airbnb doesn’t need to be complicated—it just needs to feel intentional. Think about how guests will use the home. Is there a place to work? A dedicated space to eat? Hooks for towels or robes? Every piece should serve a purpose, especially in smaller rentals.

Living Room: Keep the layout open and welcoming. Opt for multi-functional, durable furniture that still feels comfortable—like a sleeper sofa or an ottoman with storage—that encourages relaxation and conversation. A few well-placed plants, a cozy rug, and layered lighting can add warmth.

Bedroom: Prioritize blackout curtains, a supportive mattress, and extra pillows and blankets. Guests appreciate practical details, like a full-length mirror or a small bedside shelf.

Kitchen/Dining: Even if compact, ensure guests have access to basic cooking tools and clean, simple dishware. A well-stocked coffee station or a basket of snacks adds a welcoming touch.

Bathroom: Provide open shelving or vanity space for guests’ belongings. A combination of overhead and task lighting improves usability and helps the room feel larger and more welcoming.

Add unique design elements.

Guests are drawn to Airbnbs that feel personal, stylish, and photo-ready. Create small vignettes that capture attention: a cozy reading nook, a bench with layered textiles, or a curated gallery wall featuring locally sourced art that reflects the character of your destination.

One easy and effective upgrade? Mirror frames for bathroom mirrors. MirrorMate offers attractive, custom-crafted options that are easy to install and hide unsightly clips or metal strips—instantly giving your bathroom a boutique-hotel feel that photographs beautifully.

These thoughtful touches not only create character but also provide highly shareable moments that can boost your property's exposure and appeal.

Upgrade for guest ease and security.

Modern travelers appreciate convenience and peace of mind. Install a keyless entry system to simplify check-in and improve security. Add smart lighting or a programmable thermostat so guests can customize their comfort. A charging station with USB ports, clear house instructions, and well-placed signage all contribute to a friction-free experience. These guest-oriented upgrades can lead to better reviews and repeat bookings.

Focus on the bathroom experience.

Cleanliness is key, but presentation makes the experience memorable. Offer Airbnb bathroom essentials like refillable soap dispensers, fluffy towels, a hair dryer, and extra toilet paper. Add small spa-inspired touches—like a diffuser, eucalyptus sprigs, or a teak bath mat—to elevate the vibe.

Invest in professional-quality photos.

Once your space is styled, high-quality photography is a must. According to Airbnb, strong visuals are one of the most important factors guests consider when browsing listings—making standout images a key part of successful Airbnb property styling.2 Capture your best angles, highlight unique features, and make sure lighting is warm and natural.

Ready to upgrade your Airbnb mirror?

Explore MirrorMate's selection of stylish, easy-to-install frames that instantly elevate any bathroom. Our custom-crafted frames are designed to fit all rectangular mirrors—even those tight against a backsplash or wall corners. With over 65 styles to choose from and installation in under 30 minutes, it's the easiest way to transform your bathroom and impress your guests.
Sources

1. Search Logistics. Airbnb Statistics [2025]: User & Market Growth Data.
2. Airbnb Resource Center. Help a Host’s Listing Stand Out.