In today’s travel landscape, more guests are opting for short-term rentals that offer comfort, character, and a sense of home over traditional hotels. If you own an Airbnb or other vacation rental, you’ve probably realized that location alone isn’t enough to keep your calendar full and your reviews glowing. What really sets a standout rental apart is how it looks, feels, and functions - and that starts with thoughtful, well-designed furnishings. Creating a space that’s both cut-above stylish and functional encourages guests to relax, recharge, and write five-star reviews to attract new visitors.

That’s where Star Furniture comes in. With a wide range of pieces designed for real-life comfort and lasting durability, the Star Furniture design team can help you turn any spare space into a high-end retreat your guests will remember long after check-out. Ready to elevate your short-term rental? Here’s how to decorate like a pro.

1. Define Your Vision and Guest Experiences

Before choosing a single piece of furniture, it’s essential to define your vision for the space. Ask yourself: Who are your ideal guests? Are you hoping to host families on vacation, couples looking for a romantic escape, or business travelers in need of a convenient home base?

Understanding your target audience helps guide your design choices. For example, families might appreciate bunk beds or extra seating, while remote workers will be grateful for a designated desk or workspace. Once you’ve identified your primary guests and their functional needs, focus on the overall mood and style of the space. Do you want it to feel cozy and rustic, sleek and modern, or eclectic and artsy?

To make your Airbnb stand out, consider tying your design to the local flavor. A desert-themed interior in Arizona or a coastal vibe in Florida can create a more immersive experience. No matter your style, consistency is key—cohesive colors, patterns, and decorative elements help create a memorable stay that guests are more likely to rave about online, driving bookings and revenue. 

2. Invest in High-Impact Furniture

Furnishings do more than serve a function—they shape your guest’s first impression. The items you choose should photograph beautifully for your listing while holding up to daily use. Start by identifying a few key anchor pieces in each room that can set the tone and make a visual impact.

In the living room, this could be a plush sectional or eye-catching armchair. In the dining room, a well-scaled table set with comfortable chairs. And in the bedroom, a statement headboard or unique nightstands can enhance the space while adding personality.

When selecting furniture, look for pieces that balance design and durability. Neutral tones for large furniture pieces help attract a broader audience and make staging easier. Then, use accessories—like rugs, throw pillows, and wall art—to inject pops of color and personality. This layered approach ensures your space feels inviting while staying practical for future styling updates.

3. Curate a Boutique Hotel-Level Bedroom Experience

The bedroom is where your guests will spend the most time, and it’s often where reviews are won or lost. Investing in quality bedroom furnishings helps create a restful atmosphere your guests will appreciate—and remember.

Start with a supportive, stylish bed frame and pair it with a high-quality mattress. Star Furniture offers a wide selection of mattresses to match your comfort and budget needs, making it easier than ever to provide a great night’s sleep.

Add cozy bedding with layers of comfort: think crisp sheets, a plush duvet, and accent pillows for visual interest. Don’t forget functional elements like matching nightstands, reading lamps, and blackout curtains. These details add symmetry, improve convenience, and elevate the space from basic to boutique.

Guests are more likely to leave glowing reviews when they’ve had a restful sleep, so don’t skimp on the bedroom experience—it’s the heart of your short-term rental.

4. Design a Functional, Welcoming Living Area

Whether it’s a separate room or part of an open floor plan, your living area sets the stage for connection and relaxation. It should feel welcoming, flexible, and thoughtfully arranged.

Choose comfortable seating that suits the size of the room and the type of guest you’re hosting. A sleek sofa with a couple of accent chairs can create a cozy conversation zone, while a sectional might be better for larger groups or family stays. Make sure the layout allows for easy movement and encourages gathering.

Add essential pieces like a media stand, coffee table, or bookshelves to make the room feel complete. Finish the space with soft lighting, rugs, and artwork that complements your theme without overwhelming it.

Consider multi-functional furniture in your vacation rental property like sleeper sofas, nesting tables, or storage ottomans—perfect for maximizing smaller rentals or offering flexibility during longer guest stays.

5. Create a Dining Experience that Invites Connection

Even in a small apartment or studio, carving out a dedicated dining space can elevate the feel of your short-term rental. Guests appreciate a designated area to enjoy meals, work remotely, or gather over coffee.

Choose a table that fits the scale of your space and reflects your overall aesthetic. A round table can soften a space, while a rectangular table might work best in narrow rooms. Pair it with sturdy, comfortable chairs that can withstand frequent use.

Add practical yet polished touches—placemats, wipeable surfaces, or dimmable lighting—to round out the space. Local accents, like a centerpiece with regional flair or a handmade dishware set, can subtly reinforce your branding and create a deeper sense of place. You’ll be rewarded with more bookings and an impressive return on your investment. 

And when it comes to listing photos, a beautifully set dining table can help guests imagine themselves enjoying their stay before they even book.

6. Add Amenities that Feel Thoughtful

While beds, sofas, and tables are the building blocks of a rental, it’s the thoughtful extras that turn a nice stay into a five-star experience. These added touches show that you’ve thought about your guests' needs—and they often make the difference in whether guests leave glowing reviews or not.

For remote workers or business travelers, a short term rental property with a small desk or writing area can be a huge perk. Hooks and benches in the entryway provide convenience and encourage organization. Stylish storage solutions—such as dressers, wardrobes, or woven baskets—help guests feel like they can settle in, especially during longer stays.

Even small upgrades like reading lamps, tech charging stations, or cozy reading nooks can increase your guests' comfort level and make them feel truly at home. Remember: the more seamless and intuitive the experience, the better your chances of earning five-star reviews and repeat bookings.

7. Balance Style with Durability

A vacation rental property isn’t just for show—it needs to withstand real-life use. That’s why durability should be a top priority when selecting furniture for your Airbnb.

Opt for solid materials like performance fabrics, metal legs, and hardwood frames. Avoid delicate pieces that can easily break, stain, or scuff. The furniture should be easy to clean and maintain between guests without sacrificing comfort or aesthetics.

At Star Furniture, you’ll find collections that blend timeless style with practical features—perfect for keeping your rental looking sharp, even with high guest turnover. These pieces aren’t just attractive—they’re made to last.

8. Stage for Success: Tips for Photos and First Impressions

Once your furniture is in place in your short-term rental property, the final step is staging your space to make a lasting impression—both in person and online. Well-staged rooms feel clean, cohesive, and welcoming, with just enough detail to spark interest without feeling overly lived-in.

Use lighting to your advantage. Natural light photographs beautifully, but if that’s not available, make sure to include plenty of warm, ambient lighting in each room. Add personality with artwork, mirrors, or carefully chosen decorative accents.

When taking listing photos, focus on angles that show off the layout and flow of the space. Highlight design features that make your property unique, such as a gallery wall, custom headboard, or vibrant accent chair.

Don’t forget: your photos are your first impression. A beautifully staged rental is more likely to be clicked, booked, and remembered.

Decorate Your Short-Term Rental Property with Star Furniture

Creating a successful Airbnb isn’t just about providing a place to sleep—it’s about creating an experience that your guests won’t forget. With the right mix of comfort, style, and functionality, your space can stand out in a crowded marketplace, earn glowing reviews, and keep guests coming back for more.

Star Furniture is here to help every step of the way. Whether you need a new sofa, a better mattress, or a full-room redesign, our extensive collection of high-quality furnishings makes it easy to transform any space into a welcoming, stylish retreat.

Visit your nearest Star Furniture showroom or browse online to explore our curated selection. And if you're unsure where to start, book a consultation with one of our talented design professionals. We'll help you bring your vision to life—beautifully, affordably, and with your guests in mind.