7 Vacation Rental Decor Tips

7 Vacation Rental Decor Tips to Impress Guests and Boost Bookings

If you own a vacation rental, you know the competition is fierce. With everyone and their grandma listing homes on Airbnb and Vrbo, standing out is no longer optional, it’s survival of the most stylish.

But don’t worry. You don’t need a design degree, a bottomless budget, or a team of HGTV stars to transform your space. You just need a few clever tweaks, a sprinkle of personality, and a dash of art.

Here are 7 decor tips that will make your rental a total scroll-stopper and have guests leaving five-star reviews. 

1. Pick a Theme (But Skip the Clichés)

Coastal? Modern cabin? Boho-chic? Great. Just avoid the overdone "Live, Laugh, Love" wall decals or seashells in every corner. Instead, anchor your space around a vibe that makes sense for your location and target guests.

💡 Pro Tip: If you are near the coast, skip the obvious and go minimalist with serene ocean photography, like this fine art surfer print below. It brings a sense of calm and connection without screaming tourist traps.

Shop this print on Etsy

2. Less Generic, More Genuine

Instead of filling your space with mass-produced pieces, aim for clean-lined, high-quality basics paired with a few standout elements that feel intentional. A sculptural lamp, a sleek side table, or even a perfectly placed plant can speak volumes.

And the real game-changer? Art. A bold landscape or serene coastal print can bring warmth, depth, and a sense of place, instantly transforming your rental into a space that feels thoughtfully designed, not just decorated. 

Shop this print on Etsy

3. The Power of a Gallery Wall

Let’s face it: white walls can feel sterile real quick. A well-curated gallery wall can add instant warmth and visual interest, especially in common spaces or above the bed.

Try mixing black-and-white prints with color pieces for depth, or go all-in on a calming oceanic palette.

4. Create Cozy Corners

This one’s big: design little “moments” in your space that make guests want to pull out their phones and snap away. Think cozy reading nooks, coffee corners, or that one hallway with the perfect lighting and art placement.

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5. Go Natural 

Natural textures like wood, linen, jute, and stone add warmth and timelessness. Plus, they photograph beautifully (yes, even in those dimly-lit iPhone photos your guests will post).

Pair earthy textures with calming artwork - like fine art nature photography, and you’ve got yourself a space that feels both luxe and lived-in.

Shop this print on Etsy

6. Functionality is the Unsung Hero

Sure, guests will admire your style, but what they will rave about is how effortlessly the space works. Think hooks right where they need them, outlets conveniently by the bed, and a full-length mirror so they’re not guessing if their vacation outfit is working.

And for bonus points? Hang a beautifully framed art print above the luggage rack or bench. It’s a simple touch that adds polish and makes even the practical moments feel elevated.

Shop this print on Etsy

7. Bring soul to your space

The bedroom is where your guests wind down and it should feel like a calm retreat not a furniture showroom. Bare walls can leave the space feeling unfinished, but the right art can completely shift the mood.

Think soft, nature-inspired prints that echo the tone of rest and reflection, like a peaceful wave, a quiet shoreline, or a minimalist seascape. A thoughtfully chosen piece above the bed or opposite a window doesn’t just decorate - it anchors the entire space, making your rental feel more boutique than basic.

Shop this print on Etsy

Ready to Elevate Your Space?

You don’t need to do a full renovation to create a rental that guests fall in love with. Small changes, thoughtful details, and a few well-placed art prints can make all the difference.

Browse the entire Fine Art Print Collection

 

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