Airbnb Interior Design for Five-Star Reviews

Design influences how guests feel the moment they walk in. A well-planned Airbnb stands out in search results, earns glowing reviews, and increases return stays.

Guests notice what works and remember how they felt in the space. Small choices make big impressions. The goal is to design an interior that looks good, feels better, and works without confusion.

1- Entrance Design Tips

A clutter-free entrance builds trust. Hard floors like polished concrete or matte ceramic tiles suit this area. Neutral flat-weave runners hold up to use and hide dirt. Hang a round mirror above a console. Choose one with a small drawer for spare keys or guides.

Hooks must be strong. Metal hooks in brushed brass or matte black work well on vertical panels. Add a wall-mounted umbrella stand if space allows. A slim bench improves comfort for guests with luggage.

Smart locks speed up check-in. Avoid complex instructions. Use one printed sheet in the entry that shows codes, Wi-Fi, and emergency contacts.

2- Living Room Styling That Works

Sofas and Chairs

Choose compact sofas in neutral tones. Linen and performance velvet fabrics hold up well. Avoid sectional sofas unless hosting larger groups. Add two lighter chairs—boucle or leather pairs work best for texture variety.

Flooring and Rugs

Wood-look vinyl plank or engineered hardwoods suit most regions. Use low-pile rugs with borders that help define the coffee area. Round rugs open up tight layouts, while rectangular rugs elongate long rooms.

Curtains and Lighting

Use dual layers—white sheer panels plus blackout curtains. Rods should extend past the window frame and hang to the floor. Light must be flexible. Use a central pendant, one dimmable floor lamp, and one side lamp.

Art and Decor

Avoid random objects. One oversized canvas or a symmetrical set of two prints works better than clusters. Highlight local culture or natural elements. Avoid words or cliché quotes. Decorate with texture—use travertine bowls, sculptural candle holders, and matte ceramics.

Real Example: Copenhagen Loft

A beige boucle chair, jute rug, oak coffee table, and a monochrome cityscape framed in black. Guests consistently mention how relaxing and balanced the space felt.

3- Bedroom Setup That Feels Restful

Bed and Layout

Center the bed against the longest wall. Use a padded headboard in taupe, cream, or olive. Choose a mattress that suits multiple sleepers—a medium-firm hybrid works well. Place a full-length mirror opposite the window.

Bedding and Curtains

Use white cotton sheets, one accent throw, and four pillows—two soft, two firm. Blackout curtains must match the tone of the bed. Sheers in white or beige filter light during the day.

Lighting and Surfaces

Install plug-in sconces or use matching lamps on both sides. Nightstands should offer drawers or shelf space. Avoid glass tops—they scratch easily. Add a natural wood or marble-look table lamp.

Art and Color

Use two pieces of soft-toned art above the bed. Avoid bold abstract styles. Use calming colors—dove grey, muted blue, and sand.

Storage and Ease

Where closets are absent, install an open rack or wardrobe. Include matching wooden hangers, baskets, and space for folded items. A luggage rack at the foot of the bed shows thoughtfulness.

Real Example: Tokyo City Stay

Wooden blinds, wool throw in charcoal, two canvas art pieces of Mt. Fuji, and a floating sideboard. Reviews focus on the peaceful layout.

4- Kitchen Setup Guests Understand

Layout Logic

Divide zones—cooking, prep, and storage. Place utensils and cookware near the stove. Store plates and glasses near the sink or dishwasher.

Materials

Use matte cabinet doors, soft-close drawers, and quartz-look laminate counters. Avoid shiny finishes that show fingerprints. Install under-cabinet lighting for prep areas.

Styling Tips

Display mugs, bowls, or jars on open shelves. Hide lesser-used items. Add a dark wood cutting board, brushed metal faucet, and a natural stone or subway backsplash.

Real Example: Lisbon Apartment

Terracotta backsplash, oak shelves with matte black mugs, pendant lights above the island. Guests often praise both style and ease of use.

5- Dining Room Setup

Table and Seating

Use a round table in compact apartments. A drop-leaf model increases flexibility. Choose armless chairs with wipeable upholstery.

Lighting and Art

Hang one pendant light 28–32 inches above the table. Use soft bulbs. One oversized framed print or a mirror works well on the main wall.

Seasonal Styling

Use linen placemats in spring. Add ceramic pumpkins in autumn. A bowl of citrus or eucalyptus stems works in any season. Rotate napkin colors per season.

6- Bathroom Details That Impress

Tiles and Fixtures

Use terrazzo or matte-finish porcelain on floors. Walls can stay simple—white or stone-toned tile. Floating vanities help keep floors open.

Mirrors and Lighting

Install a frameless backlit mirror or a minimal design with dual sconces. Soft light is critical—never use cold white bulbs.

Storage

Use a basket under the vanity for hairdryer, toilet paper, and wipes. Add a soap dispenser, pump bottles for shower products, and a waterproof plant in the corner.

Real Example: Stockholm Washroom

Hex tile floors, oak vanity, single orchid in a stone pot. Guests often note hotel-level cleanliness and modern touches.

7- Outdoor Areas that Feel Intentional

Balcony or Garden

Use two metal chairs, washable cushions, and a bistro table. Add a woven outdoor rug to section the space. Provide citronella candles in summer. Include a wool throw during cold months.

Lighting and Plants

Solar-powered lanterns or warm string lights create ambiance. Use hardy plants in local containers. Aloe, rosemary, and succulents work well in warm regions. Potted pine or lavender works in cooler climates.

Example: Greek Island Terrace

Stone walls, two white woven chairs, lemon tree in a pot, and sea view. Guests often mention spending more time outside than planned.

8- Seasonal Styling Concepts

Summer

Use linen textiles, citrus scents, white and sand color palette. Provide chilled water, fans, and lighter bedding.

Winter

Use wool, fleece, and richer colors like pine green or brick red. Offer tea, extra throws, and diffusers with cedar or cinnamon oils.

Spring

Use cotton, floral cushions, light wood, and soft green. Add seasonal plants like tulips or lilies.

Autumn

Use burnt orange, brown, rust tones, and matte black accents. Swap cushions and rugs to reflect deeper shades.

9- Regional Styling Tips

Coastal

Use driftwood tones, soft blue, and sand-colored fabrics. Add sheer curtains and jute rugs.

Desert

Use light woods, terracotta, white walls, and layered natural fibers. Avoid dark heavy fabrics.

Mountain

Use warm textures, plaid patterns, leather armchairs, and thick curtains. Add a faux fireplace where possible.

Urban

Use exposed brick, concrete tones, and modular layouts. Keep decor sharp and minimal.

10- Details That Get Noticed

Place the Wi-Fi name and password in a visible frame. Offer two pillows per person. Add regional snacks, reusable shopping bags, and a printed local guide. Use universal plugs or charging stations. Provide a lint roller, iron, and first aid kit.

A good Airbnb feels complete without being cluttered. Everything has a place. Every surface feels inviting. Thoughtful interiors drive reviews. Not trends. Not labels. Not price.

Want higher ratings and more bookings? Start your Airbnb redesign now. A space that feels clear, complete, and beautiful always wins.

Check our interior design gallery to find out more!