The Ultimate Guide To Furnishing An Airbnb For Style And Success

Furnishing an Airbnb property can be rewarding yet challenging, pricey, and daunting. But, with the right tips, you can transform your apartment or house into a cozy and comfortable home-away-from-home. 

As an Airbnb host, your ultimate goal is to create a space that is both appealing and functional for Airbnb guests. It’s all about maximizing your investment while sticking to your budget. 

Here’s a detailed guide of everything you need to help you furnish your Airbnb effectively whether you are looking into short-term or long-term rental. This guide will help you make an Airbnb host checklist for yourself, set a budget, find the perfect balance of décor and budget, make your property more memorable, attract more bookings, and increase your overall value so that you can justify a higher nightly rate for your rental.

Choosing the Right Style for Your Airbnb Furniture

The first step in the furnishing process of Airbnb is to decide on a style that will be popular with the target market. There are a few different styles, such as modern, rustic, bohemian, or Scandinavian, and it is important to choose a consistent theme throughout the space, which will create a pleasant atmosphere that simply invites people to stay there. 

It is crucial to understand different styles to choose the best one, especially because sticking to one style will make the entire furnishing much easier because you will know exactly which pieces to look for.

The modern style focuses on clean lines, minimalistic furniture, and neutral colors with occasional pops of bright hues. Rustic incorporates natural materials like wood and stone, earthy colors, and vintage elements. Bohemian uses eclectic patterns, vibrant colors, and a mix of textures to create a relaxed and artistic vibe. Scandinavian emphasizes simplicity, functionality, and warmth with light colors, natural light, and cozy textiles.

Each of them is great in its way, and choosing one of them is never easy, but all you need to do is focus on the target market and check which of them can attract the most people to stay in your Airbnb. Once the style is chosen, furnishing is much easier.

Let’s understand your target market

There are many types of guests that you need to think about and consider their choices and preferences for your short-term rental. 

• Tourists: Choose comfortable and stylish interiors. They will be raving about these at the end of their trip and recommending your place to their friends and family. To them, it’s a vacation rental, but to you, it’s your business and your rental property.
• Business Travelers: Provide a high-speed internet connection and a comfortable workspace with professional aesthetics. Provide a small stylish desk with a comfortable chair and sufficient lighting. Use modern and practical furniture for your Airbnb.
• Families: Provide child-friendly furniture with furniture that’s easy to clean, extra storage beds and blankets, and safety features (outlet covers). Add a few children’s books and toys to keep the kids entertained. Casual and family-friendly design. Consider natural light, as it is the most welcoming.
• Couples/Newly married couples: Focus on creating a cozy, enticing, romantic atmosphere. Romance is in the air!

Setting your budget 

Spend your money wisely:

• High-Traffic Items: Invest in high-quality items like beds, mattresses, tables, and chairs that will endure heavy use. Your choice of Airbnb furniture can save you money or cost you money. Consider what items will have the most wear and tear and consider higher quality as a remedy.
• Décor, Design, and Accessories: These can be more budget-friendly but should still be attractive and durable.

Although at first glance, it seems that the cost of furnishing Airbnb in a certain way after choosing the right style can be pretty expensive, the truth is much different. With thoughtful planning and strategic purchases, you can create an attractive and functional space without spending a little fortune on that.

It is important to make priorities, know the key furniture pieces, and invest in them. For example, the sofa, bed, drawer, dining table, and chairs have the most impact on the comfort and functionality of the entire place, and, because of that, they should be comfortable and durable since these furniture pieces will be used frequently by guests. Saving money on key furniture pieces can result in spending more money due to regular breakages, and because of that, it is better to spend more money initially than to buy new pieces every few months.

Another way to save some money is by shopping at discount furniture stores, online marketplaces, and thrift shops. IKEA furniture, Wayfair, and Amazon offer affordable furniture options, while places like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and local thrift stores can help you find unique furniture for a small amount of money.

Creative people should embrace do-it-yourself (DIY) projects and upcycling to add a personal touch and save money. Simple projects like painting an old dresser, fixing old chairs, or creating a custom headboard can transform inexpensive items into standout pieces. 

Stylish décor ideas and budget-friendly accessories

Choose a Theme for your Airbnb

• Select a consistent theme or color palette that reflects the local vibe or a specific style (e.g., rustic, coastal, or contemporary). For example, a beach-themed Airbnb might use whites, blues, greens, and sandy tans. Paint walls in these colors, throw pillows that complement them and choose artwork that aligns with this palette. A consistent color scheme can make your space feel more relaxed and tranquil. For a beach house, you might want to include décors like sea glass, shells, or driftwood art. In a rustic lodge, think about adding woodsy artwork and plaid fabrics. But don’t overdo it, the theme should feel natural and your décor elements should be consistent. 
• Add a statement piece. A central vase or decorative bowl gives your guest a welcoming vibe to their new Airbnb.
• Find some cool inexpensive throw pillows for a pop of color. Vibrant pillows are an effective and easy way to add color; especially if you are using a lot of neutral. Pair neutrals with accents of trending colors like sunshine yellow, savannah green, or raspberry blush.

Never underestimate the power of paint. A vibrant front door can become a focal point, welcoming your guests with a splash of personality. Choose a color that complements your home’s exterior but stands out enough to make a statement. For those who love changing themes with seasons, consider using removable decals or temporary paint options for a fun and flexible approach.

Follow the 60-30-10 rule when it comes to colors.

This classic design principle can help homeowners achieve a balanced color scheme. Use one color (60%) as your dominant color, like painting your walls; introduce a secondary color (30%) through furniture or curtains; and finally, add vibrant accent colors (10%) with throw pillows or artwork.

Consider the room’s function – bedrooms naturally lend themselves to softer, sleep-inducing colors, while living rooms can handle bolder accents. Don’t be afraid to experiment. Play around with paint swatches to see what combinations resonate with you.

Think beyond paint. Add touches to cozy comfort and introduce pops of color with throw pillows, rugs, artwork, sofa beds, floor lamps, or furniture upholstery. 

Embrace texture as it adds depth to your space. Combine smooth surfaces with textured fabrics to add visual interest without sacrificing the calming mood. A woolen rug, a velvet couch, and metallic lamp fixtures can create a rich and warm environment. In a seaside Airbnb, mix weathered wood with linen curtains and light rugs. Mix knitted textures, fur, and leather to create a cozy atmosphere in a mountain cabin. 

 Functional Furniture Solutions

Arrange furniture to maximize space and flow. Choose furniture that is comfortable and visually appealing. Ensure there’s enough seating and sleeping space. Your place shouldn’t be bulky or crowded. Instead, help your guests experience a sense of freedom. Consider the layout of your home and choose high-quality furniture that will not overcrowd the area in its position and size. Where you shop for furniture says a lot about the décor of your Airbnb rental.

Practicality and Comfort:

Prioritize guest comfort with cozy seating, bedding, and functional kitchen supplies. These will make your guests feel at home. To prospective guests, an Airbnb may seem similar to the ad, but you’re furnishing an experience, not just a home.

Many rental owners make a mistake by focusing only on comfort or functionality. This can reduce the number of travelers interested in renting their place. So, to avoid this and to have as plenty of guests as possible, it’s important to provide them with both comfort and functionality. Yes, even though sometimes this sounds impossible, in reality, it is more than possible. The most important thing is how to arrange everything so that there is enough room for guests’ comfort yet to provide them with everything they might need.

The solution lies in simplicity, meaning that the guests are more likely to appreciate a space that is both beautiful and practical. Ensure there is ample seating, enough storage, and comfortable bedding. Once you cross this from your list, everything else will get much easier. For example, every living room should have a coffee table, TV or some kind of entertainment center, and a comfortable sofa. On the other hand, the kitchen needs to have all the necessary appliances, utensils, and cookware. As for the bathroom, it simply needs to be clean and have proper lighting, and something most folks overlook – to have enough towel holders and cloth hangers.

The bedroom is something where you can get creative and add something that will be unique, but it all depends on the space of the room. So, make sure to have essential furniture you need to have like a table and reading light, but don’t forget the mattress as it is of vast importance for it to be made out of the best possible material. High-quality mattresses can define the reviews of the guests because everyone wants to have a good quality sleep, and the only way to get that is by investing in high-quality mattresses.

Essential Furniture and Items

Bedroom:

• Comfortable mattress and pillows. It’s a good idea to keep extra pillows for those who cherish their sleep.
• King-sized or Queen-sized bed with high-quality linen with memory foam
• Avoid white bedding as it’s harder to remove stains (some people love that cup of coffee or a glass of wine in bed). Try to opt for colors like navy, burgundy, or black. 
• Cozy blankets and throws
• Reading lamps
• Bedside table
• Foot rug
• Storage solutions: closet, dresser, or shelves

 Living Room:

• A stylish plush sofa. Comfortable armchairs
• Coffee table
• Smart TV with a subscription
• Board games and cards
• Books, magazines, and travel guides
• Pens and Pencils

Make it feel like your Airbnb was created just for them.

 Kitchen:

• Basic appliances: microwave, electric kettle, stove, coffee maker, toaster, fridge
• Basic but essential cookware and utensils: pots and pans, plates and bowls, cups, wine glasses, cutlery (forks, knives, and spoons)
• Ice tray
• Coasters
• Tea and coffee
• Sugar and sweetener
• Spices
• Salt and Pepper
• Dishwashing liquid
• Sponges
• Kitchen towels
• Trash bags
• Dining table and chairs

Don’t forget to provide a roll of cookie dough so they can bake fresh cookies on their first night.

Regardless of your kitchen size, you most likely have a pantry. This might be just a shelf in a cupboard or a walk-in cupboard. As kitchens have evolved, the humble kitchen pantry has become an almost indispensable addition to many kitchens. Whatever the size of your kitchen space, you will always need a convenient place for your guests to store their groceries. This will be especially useful for families. Some people prefer to cook at home instead of eating out.

Bathroom:

• Fluffy towels and bathrobes (organic cotton bath towels, hand towels, and washcloths)
• Toiletries like luxury hand soap, shampoo, and lotion dispensers can make guests feel pampered.
• Basic amenities: toilet paper, sanitary care products, deodorants, toothpaste and disposable toothbrushes, dental floss.

Get the lighting right indoors

Lighting greatly impacts our well-being. Warm tones create a calming atmosphere for evening relaxation. Lighting goes beyond ambiance. It’s a spotlight for your well-being. To make the most of lighting indoors, consider using a combination of different types of lighting such as ambient, task, and accent lighting. Before venturing into a project, it is essential to understand the different roles of lighting indoors. 

1.  Ambient lighting provides overall illumination and sets the tone for the room.
2. Task lighting is focused on specific areas where activities are performed, such as reading or cooking.
3. Accent lighting, on the other hand, highlights particular features like artwork or architectural details. 

By strategically layering these various types of lighting, you can create a dynamic and visually appealing space that looks great and functions well. Dimmer switches are a great tool that lets you quickly adjust the light intensity from bright to warm glow. Dimmer switches are like a magic wand, letting you adjust the mood from energizing to intimate. The power of lighting extends beyond functionality. It adds depth, drama, and an element of the unexpected. Lighting can illuminate artwork, accentuate architectural details, or make decorative elements stand out. Lighting can even be a work of art. Statement chandeliers or stylish lamps add a touch of elegance to a room’s design. 

Add Some Wall art to add to Your Airbnb Design

Art can add vibrant color and unique character to your Airbnb space, making it more pleasant and memorable, which will attract more people to spend their vacation there. It is always a good idea to incorporate local art, photography, or even DIY pieces in every room to give your property a personal touch. Besides the fact that guests will be provided with an authentic experience, featuring local artists will support the community and help them be recognized by a wider audience.

The artwork should complement the overall theme and design aesthetic of Airbnb furniture and enhance the space without overpowering it. Make sure to avoid pieces that are too personal or controversial to maintain a broad appeal. Thoughtfully chosen art can create a cohesive, welcoming atmosphere that can attract a wide range of guests, make them wish to come back whenever they can, recommend your Airbnb to people they know, or share 5-star reviews online.

Furnishing and Greenery for Airbnb or Vrbo

The goal is to breathe life into the room and overall rental space, and the best way to do so is by adding greenery. Now, the tricky part is to pick the right type of greenery, as you don’t want fallen leaves everywhere. Greenery adds a touch of nature to your space, making it feel more inviting and vibrant, regardless of the area and location of your rental place. Plants can transform a boring and unattractive environment into a warm and welcoming one, creating a homely atmosphere. This natural touch is particularly attractive for urban settings where guests may be looking for an escape from concrete surroundings.

Air quality is also important, and besides having air conditioning and great ventilation, adding plants will also improve air quality. Certain plants, like peace lilies, are known for their ability to filter toxins from the air. Besides all that, plants also add to the overall ambiance of the rental, making it more homely. Plants add color, texture, and depth to your decor. They can be used to complement the design theme of your space.

Make the Airbnb Furnishing Cozy for a Good Night’s Sleep

Making Airbnb cozy and inviting can easily be done by using textiles that will add warmth and texture and make people feel at home while staying there. Blankets, decorative pillows, and curtains can soften the space and enhance its comfort by introducing various patterns and colors and adding visual interest and character. Keep in mind that when selecting textiles, it is important to choose fabrics that are easy to clean and durable because it will make maintaining their appearance over time much easier, and pieces of furniture will withstand frequent use, which will save you a lot of money. Some of the best choices are materials like washable cotton or stain-resistant synthetics since they are practical for a vacation rental setting. Thoughtfully chosen textiles can transform a simple room into a welcoming and stylish retreat for your guests and make their stay a positive experience full of positive impressions.

What’s HOT in 2024 according to interior designers and decorators? 

Minimalism

2024 is the year to banish sterile environments and embrace styles that reflect you and your passions. Layer up with textures, textiles, and fresh styles. 

All-White Kitchens

The all-white cabinetry is giving way to color – every shade of green is in vogue, along with pastel shades and bold blues. 2024 will see more color, more adventurous choices, and bolder kitchens that feel more like living rooms than kitchens. 

Fast Furniture

Homeowners are growing weary of mass-produced furniture that quickly falls apart or looks generic and dated. Invest in high-quality furniture that is going to last. Originality is the way to go! If you need to go low-budget, consider Ikea furniture for some items that may be more decorative than functional.

Consider premium furniture for highly utilized items. Go to a local furniture store where you can see, touch, and experience the furniture quality. Selecting furniture and the cost of furnishing are your most essential decisions for the entire home.

Instagram Design Concepts

Design ideas copied from Instagram and Pinterest are regarded as the equivalent of stage set design in a year where innovation is the watchword.

There will be an emphasis on unique finds and curated spaces rather than replicating what you see from others online. 

Prioritize Cleanliness and Maintenance

Easy-to-Clean Materials: 

• Choose fabrics and finishes that are durable and easy to clean.
• Go for washable rugs, slipcovers, and curtains.
• Make sure your place smells clean and fresh. Some scents that can attract guests are lavender, coffee, vetiver, citrus, and sandalwood.
• Consider hiring a professional cleaning service for guests.
• A clean and tidy place will help guests feel relaxed and comfortable.

 Regular Upkeep:

• Schedule regular maintenance checks for all appliances and furniture.
• Keep a stock of spare light bulbs, batteries, and basic repair tools.

When it comes to cleanliness, the experience you want is likely the experience your guest will want.

Enhance Guest Experience

Thoughtful Extras that will elevate the guest experience:

• Provide a small welcome basket with snacks or local treats (chocolates, crackers, mints, dried fruits, nuts, granola bars, etc.). A bottle of wine on the table will be a pleasant surprise for the guests, along with a Thank You note as a memento of their stay and a reminder to visit again. Take their whole experience up a notch.

Information and Guides:

• It is very important to provide clear instructions for your guests. Create a welcome with house rules, Wi-Fi details, and local recommendations. Make sure they know how to operate any appliances and provide clear directions for check-in and check-out.
• Include brochures, maps, and guides to nearby attractions (museums, galleries, shops, restaurants, and coffee shops).

Safety first:

• Ensure all safety devices are functioning (smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and carbon monoxide alarms).
• Provide a first-aid kit and emergency contact numbers.
• Provide anti-slip mats.
• Electrical outlet plugs in the event there are children in your home. Every Airbnb should have this by default.

Marketing

Marketing your Airbnb is essential to generating customer volume and building your reputation as a great Airbnb host.

Consider platforms such as Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist, LinkedIn, A custom Telegram channel, and even a YouTube channel with high-quality video.

Make your future guests feel like they are entering a relationship of professionalism and quality. This builds trust.

Platforms like Airbnb are competitive and need excellent marketing. It does not have to be expensive, but rather strategic and creative.

Technology

Smart Home Devices: 

• Provide charging stations and adapters.

Wi-Fi:

• Ensure fast and reliable internet access (this is especially important for business travelers).

Entertainment:

• Subscription services like Netflix or local streaming options.

Personalize Without Overcrowding

You can make your Airbnb a luxurious retreat for your guests without breaking the bank account. 

Customization and personalization

Express your individuality when decorating your home. From custom-built cabinetry, drawers, and millwork to bespoke furniture and accessories, and artwork, every aspect of the home and every piece of furniture needs to be carefully selected. Your furniture decisions do not need to be expensive, but rather strategic. Customers are smart and can identify cheap. They can also identify what is high quality without being expensive.

Creating a Cozy Atmosphere

No one wants to feel like they are living out of their suitcase when traveling. You want guests to enjoy their stay by creating for your guests the same experience you would want.

Traditional and Timeless Elegance

2024 also revives timeless and traditional designs beyond modern trends and fads: antique décor, intricate moldings, statement heirloom pieces, rustic accents, and symmetrical facades blended within stylish spaces to create harmony between old and new. These elegant and sophisticated designs honor traditional architectural techniques and aesthetics that transcend time and ensure lasting value. 

Quiet Luxury

This trend emphasizes classic investment pieces that you can build a room around. Timeless pieces in classic shapes and silhouettes can have many lives and evolve through reupholstering furniture. Luxurious, soft, textured fabrics, warm, rich woods, and quieter patterns for large furniture will reign supreme. 

Bespoke Artistry as the Focal Point

Nowadays, rental homes also serve as a canvas for artistic expression, originality, and creativity. Aesthetic pieces like custom-made furniture, handcrafted décors, colorful murals, unique sculptures, and striking paintings can breathe new life into a luxury residence’s design to transform it into an immersive environment that goes beyond a mere living space – one that reflects the distinctive tastes and characteristics of the homeowners. Embracing the artisan – there’s been a movement to celebrate handmade and unique pieces. 

Unique Touches and Budget-Friendly Accessories

• Add personal touches like books and unique decorations.
• Add something green. Indoor potted plants are a wonderful way to bring natural elements into your space and will add a touch of nature to the décor. Opt for low-maintenance plants like succulents. Fresh flowers can be a lovely touch, especially from your garden.
• Use mirrors which can make a space appear larger and brighter.
• Mix and match different textures, such as cotton and linen, to add depth and interest to your décor.
• Avoid clutter; keep décor tasteful and functional.
• Consider rearranging furniture to ensure the best use of space.
• Provide outdoor furniture if you have a patio or garden.

Remember that you don’t need to buy things brand new – they can be easily found at thrift stores, yard sales, or furniture stores! Make a checklist. That will save you time and money.

 Getting Customer Feedback

It is a good idea to get feedback from your customers after their stay. Not only about their experience but also what needs improvement and what they would change. Ask about the interior design, design choices, theme, color scheme, and ample storage space in every room. Inquire about their preference for the memory foam mattress and its durability compared to the spring mattress. Essentially ask the guests to give you tips for furnishing and the breakdown of their experience. Then, you can make adjustments to bring the next guest’s whole experience up a notch. The last thing you want is to assume if you like it, they’ll like it. It may not be the case.

Conclusion

Furnishing an Airbnb with the right furniture effectively requires a balance of style, comfort, and practicality. By understanding your target market, planning your budget, and focusing on essential items and guest experience, you can create a welcoming and memorable space that attracts positive reviews and repeat customers. Don’t forget, your goal is to make your guests feel at home while providing them with an exceptional stay.

By following this complete guide, you’ll be well on your way to addressing the needs of your guests and becoming a successful Airbnb host for your Airbnb rental, offering a space that guests will love and recommend to their friends and family.