7 Inspiring Airbnb Interior Design Ideas to Boost Bookings in 2025

🡐 Back to Resources | Last Updated: August, 2025 | Written by Kurt Russell

Bright, modern short-term rental living room with layered textures, cozy furniture, and natural light designed to impress guests.

In today’s market, travelers are looking for more than a comfortable bed. They want a unique and memorable stay that feels both stylish and welcoming. Interior design plays a direct role in how many bookings you receive, the quality of your reviews, and the nightly rates you can charge. A thoughtfully designed Airbnb can help your listing stand out in search results and create an experience guests will want to return to.

Here are proven Airbnb interior design ideas that resonate with short-term rental guests and help hosts maximize revenue.

Bohemian Retreat

Bohemian design works beautifully in artsy neighborhoods and quirky towns where guests expect charm and creativity. This style embraces layers, textures, and an eclectic mix of pieces that feel collected rather than staged. It is especially appealing to travelers who want personality over formality.

• Layer rugs, cushions, and throws to create comfort and depth

• Use warm, natural materials such as rattan, wicker, and unfinished wood

• Add plenty of plants to bring freshness, life, and color into the space

Scandinavian Simplicity

Scandinavian interiors remain one of the most searched Airbnb design styles because they combine minimalism with warmth. This approach is perfect for urban apartments or modern cabins where travelers seek calm, functional, and uncluttered spaces. The simplicity feels both luxurious and relaxing.

• Stick to neutral color palettes with whites, beige, and light grays

• Select clean-lined furniture that also provides hidden storage

• Use soft lighting and cozy textiles to create a feeling of hygge

Rustic Cabin Charm

For mountain lodges, lake houses, or countryside rentals, rustic design continues to be a top performer. Guests are drawn to natural textures and earthy palettes that make them feel grounded and cozy. This look creates a strong sense of place, which is a key driver of positive reviews.

• Highlight exposed wood beams, stone accents, and leather furniture

• Work with neutral earth tones to complement natural surroundings

• Make fireplaces or wood stoves the centerpiece of living areas

Tip: For upkeep and longevity, explore our preventative maintenance plan for short-term rentals.

Nautical Nook

Coastal and beachside properties benefit from light, breezy designs that reflect the ocean lifestyle. A nautical theme not only sets the mood but also photographs beautifully for Airbnb listings, increasing click-through rates and bookings.

• Work with blue and white palettes, adding pops of coral or sandy beige

• Incorporate driftwood, seashells, or rope accents for authentic charm

• Create outdoor seating areas where guests can enjoy sea views

Industrial Chic

City lofts and downtown apartments shine when decorated with an industrial edge. This look highlights the raw character of a space and appeals to younger travelers or business guests who enjoy modern, urban energy. Bold accents and open layouts create an instant impression.

• Use Edison bulbs, black steel finishes, and exposed brick walls

• Pair leather seating with raw wood for balance

• Keep layouts open to maximize light and create a social atmosphere

Farmhouse Fresh

Suburban homes and countryside rentals are perfectly suited for farmhouse design, which blends rustic details with cozy comfort. Guests feel at home in these spaces because the style combines tradition with modern convenience. This approach works well for family-oriented vacation rentals.

• Add shiplap walls, barn doors, or distressed wood accents

• Mix vintage-style furniture with modern comfort pieces

• Use soft color palettes with floral or plaid details to make the home inviting

Japanese Zen

Zen-inspired interiors are a growing trend in short-term rental design. Guests increasingly look for calming spaces that encourage mindfulness and relaxation. A Japanese-inspired Airbnb creates a minimalist sanctuary that stands apart from busy city living.

• Choose low furniture and floor cushions for an authentic experience

• Highlight natural materials such as bamboo, stone, and pale wood

• Keep layouts simple and uncluttered to create a sense of serenity

Mediterranean Marvel

Inspired by the coastlines of Greece, Italy, and Spain, Mediterranean design gives guests a vacation feeling all year round. This style brings warmth, romance, and elegance, which resonates strongly with couples or long-term travelers seeking charm.

• Use whitewashed walls paired with terra cotta accents

• Incorporate blue-and-white tile work for authenticity

• Add arched furniture, breezy curtains, and soft lighting to complete the look

Final Thoughts

Interior design is one of the most powerful ways to increase Airbnb occupancy and create five-star guest experiences. Whether you choose rustic, modern, or eclectic styles, the key is to design with consistency and attention to detail. Every element — from lighting to textiles — should support the mood you want to create.

Want more ways to stand out? Read our guide on Airbnb essentials and learn how to increase occupancy rates through smart upgrades.

At Clear Stay Properties, we stage, design, and manage short-term rentals that impress guests and maximize revenue.

Want more ways to stand out?

Read our guide on Airbnb essentials and learn how to increase occupancy rates through smart upgrades.

At Clear Stay Properties, we partner with hosts to stage, design, and manage short-term rentals that impress guests and maximize revenue.