STR Design & Furnishing: How to Maximize Bookings
At a Glance
- Design drives revenue—travelers often book with their eyes first.
- Pick a cohesive theme that matches your property type and market.
- Invest in key pieces like quality beds, durable seating, and bold accents.
- Stage for photos—professional photography can make or break your listing.
- Balance beauty with function—guest experience and easy turnovers are critical.
Why STR Design Matters
When it comes to short-term rentals (STRs), design isn’t just about looking good—it’s about driving revenue. Travelers often book with their eyes first, and a well-staged, thoughtfully furnished STR can be the difference between sitting empty or being fully booked.
Think of design as your property’s “silent salesperson.” Guests scrolling Airbnb or Vrbo may not know your property yet, but the images you present will either build trust or lose it instantly.
1. Start With a Cohesive Theme
Match Your Market to Your Style
- Mountain cabin? Cozy textures, warm woods, and layered lighting.
- Beach house? Airy, bright, and minimal, with coastal accents.
- Urban loft? Sleek lines, bold art, and functional workspace.
Consistency matters. A mismatched, cluttered space feels less professional—and less trustworthy.
“The best-performing STRs don’t just offer a place to stay—they deliver an experience guests want to photograph and share.”
2. Invest in Key Pieces
Not everything needs to be expensive. Instead, focus on the essentials that impact reviews most:
- High-quality beds & linens – Comfort is the #1 thing guests notice. Skimp here, and you’ll pay in reviews.
- Durable sofas & dining tables – Guests need functional, long-lasting furniture.
- Eye-catching accents – Rugs, lighting, and art transform spaces without breaking budgets.
💡 Pro Tip: STR Insights notes that listings with upgraded beds consistently see better ratings and repeat bookings.
3. Stage for the Camera
Your photos are your storefront. To win bookings:
- Arrange furniture with balance and flow in mind.
- Maximize natural light; use mirrors to expand brightness.
- Add pops of color to make photos stand out in crowded search results.
📸 Hire a professional photographer. According to AirDNA, listings with professional photos can earn up to 40% more revenue than those with DIY shots.
4. Think About Guest Experience
Design isn’t just aesthetic—it should make stays smoother and more enjoyable. Consider adding:
- Work-friendly nooks for remote workers.
- Family amenities like cribs, high chairs, and board games.
- Outdoor staging with dining setups, string lights, and firepits to extend usable space.
Each thoughtful touch adds perceived value—and justifies a higher nightly rate.
5. Optimize for Easy Turnover
Design with cleaning and durability in mind:
- Washable slipcovers on sofas.
- Stain-resistant rugs in high-traffic areas.
- Simple décor to minimize dust and clutter.
“Your STR is only as strong as its turnover process—design choices should help, not hurt.”
This approach reduces wear-and-tear costs and helps cleaners keep the space consistently guest-ready.
Building STR Design That Pays for Itself
Great STR design is part art, part science. The best investors create spaces that:
- Photograph beautifully.
- Deliver comfort and function.
- Withstand quick turnovers.
Design isn’t just about looks—it’s about creating an experience that convinces guests to book—and rebook.
👉 Want to make sure your STR is investment-grade before you even furnish it? Read our guide: How to Analyze STR Deals Like a Pro.
Next Steps
- Previous Post: How to Treat Your STR Like a Business
- Next Post: Scaling Beyond Your First STR: Portfolio Growth Strategies
See Also
- The 6-Phase Journey: How W2 Earners Build Wealth with STRs
- Financing Your First STR: Loan Options for W2 Earners
- Negotiating STR Offers Like a Pro
