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Airbnb Design Tips Every New Host Should Know

  • Writer: Marifil Limpahan
    Marifil Limpahan
  • Jan 11
  • 3 min read
Airbnb Design

How to Design Your Airbnb for 5-Star Reviews


With millions of properties listed on Airbnb, great reviews alone aren’t enough to stand out anymore.


Your interior design plays a direct role in:

  • Click-through rate

  • Booking conversions

  • Nightly pricing power

  • Guest expectations vs. reality


At BNB Guardians, we teach hosts that interior design is a revenue tool, not just decoration. When paired with professional photos and smooth operations managed through Guesty, strong design helps your listing sell itself.


Here are 10 proven Airbnb interior design tips to help your property look incredible online, and feel even better in person.


1. Accentuate Natural Light Wherever Possible


Natural light is one of the most valuable (and free) design features you have.

  • Keep windows unobstructed

  • Use sheer or light-filtering curtains

  • Arrange furniture to highlight bright areas


Bright listings photograph better, feel larger, and convert more browsers into bookings.


2. Add Local Touches (Without Overpersonalizing)


Guests love staying somewhere that feels connected to the destination.

Smart local accents include:

  • Artwork from local artists

  • Framed photography of nearby landmarks

  • Coffee table books about the area


Avoid overly personal items, your goal is curated, not sentimental.


3. Add Color Strategically (Not Everywhere)


White walls and bedding photograph best, but color adds personality.


Best places for color:

  • Throw pillows

  • Area rugs

  • Art pieces

  • Accent chairs


Stick to 1–2 accent colors for a clean, cohesive look.


4. Remove Clutter Ruthlessly


Clutter kills:

  • Perceived space

  • Visual appeal

  • Guest comfort


Remove:

  • Excess décor

  • Personal storage items

  • Overcrowded shelves


A decluttered space feels larger, cleaner, and more welcoming.


5. Use Mirrors to Create the Illusion of Space


Mirrors are one of the easiest design upgrades with high impact.


They:

  • Reflect light

  • Make rooms feel larger

  • Photograph extremely well


Great placements include entryways, bedrooms, and smaller living areas.


6. Decorate With Plants (Real or Faux)


Plants instantly soften a space and make it feel calm and intentional.


Options:

  • Low-maintenance real plants

  • High-quality faux plants (great for remote hosts)


If you use real plants, mention watering instructions in your digital house manual.


7. Design for Your Target Guest


Interior design should match who you want to book your property.


Examples:

  • Business travelers / digital nomads: desk, task lighting, clean lines

  • Couples: layered lighting, cozy seating, softer textures

  • Families: durable furniture, open layouts, storage


Designing for everyone usually means converting no one.


8. Invest in Durable, Photo-Friendly Furniture


Your furniture must do three things:

  1. Look good in photos

  2. Hold up to frequent use

  3. Be easy to clean


You don’t need luxury brands—focus on function + aesthetics.


Great sourcing options:

  • IKEA

  • Facebook Marketplace

  • Estate sales

  • Local furniture outlets


9. Match the Design to the Location


Your Airbnb’s theme should reflect its surroundings.


Examples:

  • Mountain property → warm, rustic textures

  • Beach property → light colors, natural materials

  • Urban condo → modern, minimalist design


In competitive markets, a tasteful theme can work—but it must still feel relevant.


10. Study What’s Working in Your Market


Your competitors are your best teachers.


Do this regularly:

  • Review top listings in your area

  • Analyze their photos, layouts, and décor

  • Identify common design patterns


Then refine—not copy—what works.


The BNB Guardians Takeaway


Airbnb interior design isn’t about personal taste, it’s about conversion.


When your design:

  • Photographs beautifully

  • Aligns with your target guest

  • Matches your location

  • Feels clean, intentional, and comfortable


You get:

  • More clicks

  • Higher nightly rates

  • Better reviews

  • Fewer complaints


And when operations are managed through Guesty, great design isn’t just attractive, it’s scalable.


👉 Want help optimizing your Airbnb for higher revenue and smoother operations?Join the Airbnb Super Host Academy on Skool or book a call with the BNB Guardians team.

 
 
 

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