Top Interior Design Trends for Short-Term Rentals in 2024

When it comes to short-term rentals, interior design is more than just decor—it's key to creating a memorable guest experience. Each year, design trends evolve, influencing how guests feel the moment they step through the door. With the growing popularity of platforms like Airbnb, renters are becoming more discerning, and a stylish, well-designed space can be a real game-changer.

Keeping up with the latest trends ensures that your property stands out, attracts bookings, and delivers that "wow" factor guests will rave about. In this article, we’ll share a tip list of the top interior design trends to help you stay ahead of the curve.

1. Biophilic Design: Bringing Nature Indoors

Biophilic design is all about creating a connection to nature, which makes any space feel more serene and inviting. By using natural elements like plants, wood, and stone, you can turn your short-term rental into a calming retreat that guests will love. Not only does this design approach look beautiful, but it also promotes relaxation and boosts well-being—a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Why it Works: Guests are craving experiences that help them unwind, and a nature-inspired space provides exactly that. It can make your rental feel more spacious, fresh, and in tune with the environment.

Design Tip: Maximize natural light with large windows and bring the outdoors in with lush indoor plants. Wooden furniture, stone accents, and natural textures can also create that earthy, calming atmosphere guests are looking for.

2. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Design

Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword—it’s a priority for many travelers. By using sustainable materials like reclaimed wood, bamboo, and energy-efficient fixtures, you’re not only helping the planet but also appealing to eco-conscious guests who seek out environmentally responsible stays. These design choices create a space that feels natural, modern, and in line with today’s growing demand for green living.

Why it Works: Today’s travelers care about sustainability, and eco-friendly designs make them feel good about where they’re staying. Plus, using energy-efficient fixtures and eco-conscious materials can also help you save on utility costs in the long run, making it a win-win.

Design Tip: Opt for organic textiles like cotton or linen, low-VOC paint, and energy-efficient appliances. For an extra touch, consider solar-powered outdoor lighting or furniture made from recycled materials to further boost your property’s eco appeal. Simple, sustainable changes can make a big difference!

3. Bold and Vibrant Color Schemes

2024 is all about saying goodbye to the safe, neutral tones of minimalism and embracing bold, vibrant colors. This trend brings personality and energy to any space, helping your rental stand out in a sea of generic designs. From eye-catching accent walls to colorful furniture, bold color schemes create a lively atmosphere that guests will remember long after their stay.

Why it Works: Bold colors make a statement and give your rental a unique identity. Guests are drawn to spaces that pop in photos, making your rental more likely to be shared on social media. Plus, a vibrant design leaves a lasting impression, encouraging positive reviews and repeat bookings.

Design Tip: Start with a striking accent wall in a rich hue like emerald green or deep navy. Complement this with colorful furniture or artwork, but balance the look with neutral tones to keep the space from feeling overwhelming. This way, the room feels both dynamic and welcoming.

4. Functional and Flexible Furniture

In smaller short-term rentals, space is often at a premium, which is where multifunctional furniture becomes a lifesaver. The idea here is to maximize every inch while still keeping the space stylish and comfortable for guests. Think pieces that serve more than one purpose—like a sofa bed that turns the living room into an extra sleeping area, or a fold-out table that doubles as a workspace or dining area.

Why it Works: Rentals that adapt to a guest’s needs create a more convenient and versatile experience. Whether it's families needing extra sleeping space or digital nomads looking for a functional workspace, flexible furniture allows you to cater to a wider range of guests without cluttering the space.

Design Tip: Opt for sofa beds, fold-out dining tables, and ottomans with hidden storage. These pieces not only save space but also maintain a clean, clutter-free aesthetic, making even small areas feel more open and usable.

5. Local and Artisan Touches

Adding local and artisan decor is a fantastic way to give your short-term rental an authentic, one-of-a-kind vibe. By incorporating handcrafted items or region-specific pieces, you create a sense of place that guests won’t find in cookie-cutter hotels. Whether it’s local artwork, custom furniture, or unique textiles, these touches reflect the culture and character of your destination.

Why it Works: Guests love feeling connected to where they’re staying. Local decor not only enhances their experience but also gives them something memorable to talk about. It makes your space feel less generic and more like a true reflection of the area, adding a personal touch that travelers appreciate.

Design Tip: Try to source local artwork or artisan pieces that represent the area’s heritage or vibe. Handmade ceramics, woven textiles, or custom wooden furniture are great options. Even small touches, like locally crafted throw pillows or regionally inspired wall art, can make a big impact on the overall feel of the space.

6. Instagram-Worthy Spaces

In today's social media-driven world, creating an Instagram-worthy space is a smart way to boost your rental’s visibility. These spaces are designed to catch the eye with bold, unique decor that encourages guests to snap photos and share their stay online. From vibrant murals to chic bohemian textiles, having a photogenic rental can help generate buzz and attract more bookings.

Why it Works: Guests love staying in places that feel special and are perfect for sharing on social media. A well-designed, visually striking rental gives them a reason to post, which in turn promotes your property to their followers—essentially free marketing!

Design Tip: Focus on statement areas that stand out. Think bold accent walls with vibrant colors or murals, interesting textures like rattan or velvet, or eye-catching lighting fixtures. Even small touches like funky pillows or unique art can elevate the space and give guests that picture-perfect moment they’re looking for.

7. Cozy and Inviting Atmospheres

Creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere is key to making your short-term rental feel like a true home away from home. Soft textiles, ambient lighting, and comfortable furnishings work together to create a space where guests can relax and unwind. Whether it’s a plush rug underfoot or a snuggly throw blanket on the couch, these small touches make a big impact in helping your guests feel welcomed and comfortable.

Why it Works: Guests are often looking for more than just a place to sleep—they want a space that feels warm and inviting. A cozy environment encourages relaxation after a long day of exploring, helping them feel at ease and more likely to leave positive reviews.

Design Tip: Layer your space with plush throw blankets, soft cushions, and textured rugs to create that warm, inviting vibe. Add warm, ambient lighting with lamps and fairy lights to set the mood for relaxation. These simple yet effective touches will make your rental feel like a home guests won’t want to leave.

8. Statement Lighting: Let Your Lighting Steal the Show

In 2024, lighting is no longer just about function—it’s about making a statement. Whether it’s a striking chandelier, bold pendant lights, or an artistic floor lamp, statement lighting doubles as a design feature that instantly adds elegance and character to your space. The right lighting can create a mood, highlight key areas, and serve as a stylish focal point.

Why it Works: Statement lighting grabs attention and elevates the overall aesthetic of a room. It’s a simple yet impactful way to inject personality and sophistication into your rental, giving guests that "wow" moment as soon as they enter. Plus, it’s versatile—you can go sleek and modern or vintage and eclectic, depending on your property’s theme.

Design Tip: Choose lighting fixtures that complement the room's design but aren’t afraid to stand out. A grand chandelier in a neutral space, for example, can add a touch of drama, while modern pendant lights in a kitchen bring both style and function. Just be sure to match the lighting’s vibe with the overall feel of the room to keep things cohesive.

Wrapping Up

Incorporating these 2024 design trends into your short-term rental is a sure way to make your property stand out and create a memorable guest experience. From biophilic design to bold statement lighting, each trend adds style, comfort, and personality, helping your rental appeal to a wide range of guests.

However, it’s important to strike a balance between following the latest trends and incorporating timeless elements that won’t quickly go out of style. By mixing trendy accents with classic features, you can ensure your space stays fresh and appealing for years to come, without needing constant updates.