How to Design Your STR for Maximum Appeal and Higher Rates

The short-term rental market is crowded — and generic listings don’t stand a chance. If your property looks like every other beige box on Airbnb, you’re competing on price alone. But when your STR is thoughtfully designed to stand out, you unlock pricing power, higher occupancy, and better reviews.

In this guide, we’ll show you how great design drives revenue, what today’s guests actually care about, and how to create a short-term rental that dominates in your market — whether you’re designing from scratch or upgrading an existing listing.

💰 Why Design Matters in STRs

Let’s be real: most guests pick properties with their eyes first. If the photos don’t pop, they scroll past — no matter how close you are to the beach or how great your reviews are.

Great design increases:

• Click-through rates (from search to listing view)

• Conversion rates (from views to bookings)

• Average daily rate (ADR)

• 5-star reviews and repeat bookings

In a recent AirDNA report, the top 10% of listings in any market almost always shared two things:

1. A visually distinctive brand

2. Thoughtful guest-focused design

🖼️ 1. Establish a Visual Identity

Think of your STR like a boutique hotel — it needs an intentional look, not just “nice furniture.”

Choose a theme or vibe that matches the location:

• Coastal modern for beach towns

• Mid-century desert for Palm Springs-style homes

• Historic boho for vintage cottages

• Modern farmhouse for rural retreats

Then:

• Pick a cohesive color palette (3–5 tones)

• Choose a few standout furniture pieces (avoid full sets)

• Use texture and layers (wood, linen, leather, woven items)

• Repeat key design elements (brass hardware, matte black accents)

📌 Pro tip: Use Canva or Pinterest to create a mood board before shopping.

🛋️ 2. Invest Where It Counts

Not every room needs a designer touch — but some spaces make or break guest experiences.

Non-negotiables to splurge on:

• A great mattress (guests remember bad beds)

• Hotel-grade pillows, sheets, and towels

• Quality sofa (not a $199 special)

• Dimmable lighting or smart bulbs

• Art or wall decor that isn’t generic canvas prints

📸 3. Design for the Scroll

Remember — guests are scrolling hundreds of listings. The way your property photographs matters just as much as how it feels in person.

Before-and-after difference makers:

• Add contrast (dark + light elements photograph better)

• Use pops of color in otherwise neutral rooms

• Stage with accessories (books, plants, throws, trays)

• Open all blinds, turn on all lights, shoot at golden hour

📌 Hire a pro photographer who specializes in real estate or STRs. It’s worth every penny.

🛎️ 4. Think Like a Guest

Good STR design isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s about experience.

Design with convenience in mind:

• Labels for light switches and remotes

• Hooks near the door for beach towels or keys

• Drop zone for shoes and bags at entry

• Nightstands with lamps and outlets

• Mirrors in every bedroom (group travelers appreciate it)

Add thoughtful extras:

• Board games, books, or local art

• Coffee station with syrups and travel mugs

• Welcome guidebook with QR code

• Extra toiletries, lint rollers, and umbrella

These little touches turn a “nice stay” into a “wow, I’m coming back!”

🔄 5. Design for Turnover, Too

Your home isn’t just being lived in — it’s being flipped frequently. Design choices should make life easier for your cleaners and reduce wear-and-tear.

Smart choices:

• Washable slipcovers or performance fabrics

• Closed storage to reduce visual clutter

• Vinyl plank or tile flooring over carpet

• Minimalist decor (but not sterile!)

• Open shelving that’s easy to inspect and restock

Avoid:

• White shag rugs

• Over-decorated open shelving

• Furniture with sharp edges or easily scratched finishes

🧮 6. Design That Pays You Back

Want to justify a 15–25% higher nightly rate? Your space has to look premium and feel turnkey.

Before investing in upgrades, ask:

• Will this change increase my revenue or reviews?

• Will it photograph better?

• Will it improve guest experience?

Sometimes, one upgrade changes everything. Examples:

• Adding a hot tub = +$30–$50/night in many markets

• Firepit or string-lit patio = Increased weekend bookings

• Bunk room with a TV = Appeals to family groups

🎯 Quick-Start Design Toolkit

🔁 Bonus Tip: Copy the Boutique Hotel Playbook

Boutique hotels spend a lot on branding, but you can borrow their playbook:

• Custom logo or name for your STR

• Welcome note or branded welcome gift

• Matching dishware, color-coordinated rooms

• Merch or local gift shop tie-ins

This creates a memorable stay — and boosts your chance of direct bookings or repeat guests.

💬 Final Thoughts

In today’s STR market, design isn’t just about style — it’s about strategy. A well-designed short-term rental gets more attention, commands higher rates, and delivers better experiences.

So whether you’re rehabbing an old beach house or furnishing your first vacation rental from scratch, remember this: the money you put into design is rarely an expense. It’s an investment — and one that pays dividends in occupancy, pricing power, and 5-star reviews.