The vacation rental market in the US is booming, considering these properties offer more convenience and privacy than hotels. According to data provided by Statista, the expected market revenue from these accommodations by 2025 is a staggering $22.11bn. Projections show that it will reach $29.13bn by 2030, growing at an annual rate of 5.67%.

Despite the popularity and growth, stiff competition makes it challenging for rental owners to thrive. You need to make your property stand out to attract guests in the first place and retain them for the long haul. Besides location and amenities, design can be a game-changer that sets your rental apart.

Giving your vacation rental a design refresh is an impactful way to attract more guests, boost bookings, and garner positive reviews. A successful update balances aesthetics with functionality and celebrates the unique charm of your place. In this article, we will share a few tips to give your vacation rental’s design an effective makeover. 

Adopt the Local Theme

When it comes to vacation rental decor, a local theme can be magical. It connects guests with the destination and makes their stay immersive. Choose a design that reflects your property’s setting, such as a coastal theme incorporating soft blues, sandy hues, and rattan furnishings for a beachside vibe. Likewise, you can integrate sleek lines, metallic touches, and minimalist decor for an urban feel.

Let us give an example to be more specific. According to WPLN, Nashville’s tourism broke all records in 2023 despite inflationary trends. Going by numbers, it recorded 16.8 million visitors who spent a whopping $10.56 billion in 2023. If you own a vacation rental here, you can capitalize on the booming tourism sector. 

Since Nashville is known for music, you can follow a musical theme to design your vacation rental. Include authentic local artwork or crafts to reinforce the theme, and highlight regional attractions with maps or guidebooks on local events. 

Prioritize Functionality

Aesthetics should not be the only priority when planning a design makeover for your vacation rental. Of course, the space must be beautiful, but the design should also serve the needs of guests. For example, ample storage solutions should be provided for luggage and personal belongings. Hooks and shelves in entryways and bathrooms offer added convenience. Mirrors in bedrooms and hallways can enhance usability.

When redesigning your vacation rental, pay attention to basic amenities as well. Maybe the landscape needs some repairs, the paint is chipped off, or the kitchen taps are leaking. A faulty water heater is a turn-off for guests as it can ruin their experience. According to Doctor Drips, replacing it can cost you $1,000-$2,400, while repair costs are half of this budget.

Let us consider the same example. For someone with a vacation home in Nashville, comparing these costs is important. Experts specializing in water heater repair in Nashville can offer valuable insights regarding the right choice. You may have to spend a tad more on a specific size or model, but the investment is worthwhile. 

Optimize Natural Light

According to D5 Design Magazine, natural light is one of the key elements of interior design. Beyond merely brightening a space, natural light contributes to the ambiance and elevates the mood and overall well-being of occupants. Additionally, it can reduce energy costs, increasing the ROI your vacation rental fetches. 

A few strategic design updates can help you maximize natural light in your property. If you are willing to spend a bit, consider installing taller windows and wide glass doors where possible. Skylights or patio doors are also excellent design elements that amplify light and add designer appeal.

For those looking for minimal investment, using sheer or light-filtering curtains to let sunshine in is a cost-effective idea. You can place mirrors to reflect light throughout the space. Try to rearrange furniture to avoid blocking windows and light flow.

Invest in Comfortable Furniture

Furniture is another design element that deserves a fair share of attention. It can enhance aesthetics, ensure guest satisfaction, and support property durability. Choose sturdy, easy-to-clean materials like leather, microfiber, or treated fabrics for sofas and chairs. Prioritize plush mattresses with substantial thickness and ample lounging options.

Adding accent pillows, throws, and rugs can bring warmth and personality to the space. Opt for solid wood or metal for tables and outdoor furnishings, as these materials can withstand frequent use. Match furniture with your rental’s theme, such as coastal-inspired designs for beach properties or industrial chic for urban units.

Since the digital nomadism trend is big, you may have guests who work while holidaying. Providing them with ergonomic office setups can give your property an extra edge. You can even promote it as a unique selling point (USP) when listing your vacation rental on booking platforms. 

Avoid Going Overboard

Minimalism in interior design has been around for decades. Spruce notes that the core tenets of this approach will stay even as minimalism takes a backseat in 2025. The key is to opt for meaningful decor rather than buying tons of items for your space. While this applies to homes, vacation rental decor follows the same mindset. 

A fresh look doesn’t mean cluttered or overdone. To maintain balance, you must limit knick-knacks and fragile decor. This is a wise move as it also minimizes dust and reduces cleaning effort. Steer clear of matching everything from a single brand; rather, mix styles for a curated look.

When it comes to color palette, stick to a neutral base and add pops of color with artwork or textiles. Regularly replace worn-out items to keep everything in your vacation rental fresh and inviting. Remember that even a few quality accents can elevate the space more than excessive decorations. 

FAQs

What adds the most value to a vacation rental?

If you want to add value to your vacation rental, invest in high-quality, comfortable beds, durable sofas, and inviting lighting. These elements can increase guest satisfaction and reviews. Consider practical upgrades like storage solutions, fresh linens, and updated fixtures to enhance day-to-day usability. You can also embrace the local theme with authentic artwork to deliver a memorable experience. 

How to budget for vacation rental decor?

Start by using square footage as a benchmark. For example, basic setups start around $15/sq ft and luxury ones go up to $26/sq ft. Splurge on essentials like beds, sofas, and major appliances, but save on decorative accessories and side tables. Preparing checklists is a good idea as they help prioritize must-haves and avoid overspending on non-essentials. Consider DIY upgrades, upcycling, and second-hand finds for budget-friendly style. 

What is the best furniture for beach rental?

Furniture made of rattan, light wood, and linen is ideal for beach environments. Opt for stain-resistant, durable pieces to handle sand and humidity. Since guests love to lounge outdoors, provide outdoor seating, loungers, and patio sets for them to fully enjoy the beach lifestyle.

Refreshing your vacation rental with a thoughtful design strategy is a wise investment for owners. It can help boost property value and guest satisfaction for years to come. The best part is that you don’t have to spend a fortune on the project. Follow these simple tips, and give your vacation rental a winning makeover.