Boost your short-term rental’s appeal with these designer curated Airbnb themes and decor collections that create unforgettable stays and rave reviews! Perfect for every Airbnb, short-term rental, VRBO host or in your OWN HOME.
RELATED: 15 Rookie Home Decorating Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Tastefully decorated themed vacation rental spaces will help you stand out among the vast sea of Airbnb listings. As an Interior Designer and multiple vacation rental owner Superhost and Premiere Host, I know how to create unique stays and memorable spaces that will make your guests want to return again and again.
In this post, I’m sharing my collection of curated spaces in a variety of themes for both Airbnb owners AND to use in your own home! Each design features carefully curated pre-sourced furniture, fixtures, accessories, wall décor, and more to make it easy for you to click and get decorating!
Whether you’re new to the short-term rental business or a seasoned investor with several properties, it’s a good idea to have an understanding the ins and outs of platforms like Airbnb and VRBO to succeed. Let’s create unique and beautiful spaces that will stand out, and are easy on the budget!
For the sake of this article, I’ll be using the term “Airbnb” vs. “Short-term Rental” in referring to your properties – even though it makes me a little crazy that “short-term rentals” are most commonly referred to as “Airbnbs.” After all, there are many other platforms and ways to market your vacation rental!
Think about your potential guests first! Create a place that is for the guests you want to attract – that’ll make them feel right at home. If families are your main crowd, consider bright and playful decorations with lots of room for kids to roam. For lovebirds looking for a romantic escape, opt for cozy vibes with soft lighting and elegant touches.
Let the charm of your short-term rental’s location be your guide when choosing between these Airbnb themes and decor mood boards. Your place is more than just a place to stay—it’s a chance for guests to soak up the culture of your area and for you to mirror the spirit of your surroundings. By infusing your decor with the essence of your location’s rental market, you’ll craft an authentic experience for your guests.
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The beach theme brings coastal vibes and a relaxed atmosphere to your Airbnb. Think about incorporating ocean-inspired elements, such as driftwood, vintage surfboards, and wall art featuring beach scenes. Use coastal colors like blue, white, and sandy beige to create a soothing ambiance. Nautical accents like ropes, anchors, and striped patterns can also add a touch of seaside charm. This popular theme works well in properties near the coast or those aiming to evoke a tropical retreat.
A tropical villa theme creates an oasis-like experience for your guests. Fill your Airbnb with lush greenery, tropical plants, and palm leaves to bring the outdoors in. Incorporate exotic prints and patterns, bright colors, and natural materials like bamboo and rattan for an authentic island paradise feel.
Consider adding hammocks, a comfortable outdoor seating area, and resort-style amenities (hot tub anyone?) to enhance the tropical ambiance.
The coastal California theme design captures the laid-back elegance and bohemian spirit of beach towns like Malibu and Santa Barbara. Create a sun-drenched and breezy atmosphere with light-colored furniture, natural materials, and bohemian touches with woven textiles.
Incorporate surfing and beach elements through artwork, and coastal-inspired decor. The beach-themed Airbnb is perfect for properties near the California coast or those aiming to evoke the relaxed vibes of a beach town with sea air and tons of natural light.
The coastal grandma theme combines vintage beach decor with a beach cottage aesthetic. Embrace retro beach style with pastel hues, floral prints, and coastal antiques. Incorporate vintage finds, such as old maps, seashell collections, and weathered wood furniture, to create a nostalgic charm.
This theme is perfect for properties with a cozy and intimate vibe, aiming to provide guests with a unique and granny chic experience.
The boho themed design brings an eclectic and free-spirited style to your Airbnb. It embraces earthy colors, layered textiles, and a mix of global influences, creating a laid-back ambiance that resonates with free-spirited guests. Incorporate bohemian decor elements such as Moroccan rugs, Indian prints, and African-inspired artwork to add a touch of cultural vibrancy to your space. Use macrame, indoor plants, and rattan furniture to introduce natural elements and create a boho-inspired oasis.
The eclectic style allows for playful combinations of colors, patterns, and textures, inviting guests to embrace their creative side and immerse themselves in a unique and artistic experience.
The coastal New England theme captures the timeless charm of the region. Embrace nautical accents, classic coastal style, and Cape Cod-inspired decor to transport your guests to the picturesque coastal towns of New England. Incorporate vintage boating and fishing motifs as unique decor pieces that pay homage to the area’s rich maritime history.
Use a color palette of blue, white, or add red to create a patriotic and coastal ambiance that reflects the colors of the American flag. Whether your property is located in the heart of New England or you simply want to bring the coastal vibes to your space, the coastal New England theme is perfect for properties aiming to evoke the region’s coastal charm and create a memorable experience for guests.
Maximalist decor allows you to create a fun space that reflects your unique taste and style. Incorporate textured accents like velvet to create depth and warmth in your space. Include unique art pieces or sculptures that contribute to the overall dramatic impact of the room.
The vibrant colors, patterns, and eclectic mix of decor elements will leave your guests with a lasting impression. Let your creativity run wild and transform your space into an artistic and visually stimulating haven, but stay away from small tchotchkes and clutter (as in any short-term rental).
The mid-century theme takes guests on a journey back to the retro vibes of the Mad Men era. With its clean lines, iconic furniture pieces like Eames chairs, and pops of color, this theme exudes timeless appeal.
Embrace vintage-inspired decor, geometric patterns, and retro artwork to complete the mid-century look. Perfect for properties aiming to provide guests with a stylish and nostalgic experience, the mid-century theme captures the essence of the atomic age with its iconic design elements and bold aesthetics.
The minimalistic theme is all about embracing a clean and clutter-free aesthetic to create a serene and zen-like atmosphere in your Airbnb. With minimalistic decor, you can create a sense of calm and tranquility for your guests. One of the key elements of minimalistic decor is a neutral color palette. Stick to shades like white, beige, and gray to create a soothing and understated ambiance. These colors not only create a sense of peace but also make the space appear larger and more open.
Opt for furniture and accessories with clean, simple lines, avoiding ornate or intricate details. This simplistic approach to design creates a sense of elegance and sophistication. Incorporating functional design is also essential in a minimalistic theme. Choose furniture and thoughtful touches that serve a purpose and have a practical use. This ensures that your space remains clutter-free and allows for easy movement and functionality.
The rustic cabin theme adds a touch of woodsy charm to your Airbnb, creating a cozy, rustic retreat for your guests. Embrace natural materials and wood textures to capture the essence of a cabin retreat. Incorporate log accents and wilderness-inspired artwork to enhance the rustic decor.
A color palette of earth tones will complement the cozy atmosphere. Whether your property is located in a wooded area or you simply want to provide your guests with a nature-inspired experience, the rustic cabin theme is perfect for creating a memorable and relaxing stay.
The modern cabin theme combines rustic elements with a contemporary twist. Embrace sleek lines, industrial accents, and a warm color palette to create a modern and cozy ambiance. Incorporate cabin-inspired design elements such as exposed wood beams, stone accents, and cozy textiles.
Take a minimalist approach to decor to enhance the clean and contemporary feel. This theme is perfect for properties aiming to provide guests with a blend of rustic charm and modern amenities.
The modern farmhouse theme offers a perfect blend of rustic elegance and contemporary style. It embraces the charm of a traditional farmhouse while incorporating modern touches for a stylish and inviting ambiance. Neutral colors, such as whites and grays, and even shiplap walls create a charming farmhouse vibe.
The overall goal of modern farmhouse decor is to create a cozy and stylish country chic environment. It’s about combining natural materials, comfortable furnishings, and vintage accents to achieve a space that feels welcoming and lived-in.
The mountain home theme creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere inspired by ski chalets and alpine retreats. This theme incorporates elements of nature and rustic refinement to provide guests with a warm and soothing experience. Wood textures and warm color palettes dominate the decor, evoking a sense of comfort and tranquility.
The decor in a mountain home often features alpine-inspired elements, such as cozy textiles and nature-inspired accents. Think plush blankets, faux fur rugs, and pillows adorned with wildlife motifs. These elements create a sense of coziness and connection to the natural surroundings.
The lake house theme is the perfect choice for creating a serene lakeside retreat in your Airbnb. With its waterfront decor and dockside charm, this theme captures the essence of relaxed lake living. By incorporating nautical accents, such as oars, driftwood, and antique fishing gear, you can bring a touch of rustic elegance to your space. When designing your lake house-themed Airbnb, opt for a color palette of blues, whites, and natural tones to reflect the tranquility of the water. Consider using light and airy fabrics for curtains and linens to create a breezy and fresh atmosphere.
Guests who choose a lake house retreat are often seeking outdoor activities and a connection with nature. Highlight this aspect by creating outdoor seating areas where guests can relax and enjoy the view. Consider amenities such as fishing gear, kayaks, or a boat rental to enhance their experience of the lake.
Think about including cozy seating arrangements, plush pillows, and blankets to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere for guests to unwind after a day of outdoor adventures.
The art-deco theme captures the glamorous and luxurious style of the Gatsby era. Embrace geometric patterns, luxurious materials, and metallic accents to create a lavish and elegant ambiance. Incorporate vintage-inspired decor, mirrored furniture, and bold colors to bring out the essence of the roaring twenties.
With its emphasis on lavish elegance, art-deco decor is perfect for properties aiming to provide guests with a visually striking and opulent experience.
When designing an eclectic space, don’t be afraid to step outside of the boundaries of traditional design. Embrace unexpected combinations, such as pairing modern furniture with vintage accessories or mixing bold patterns and textures. The key is to create a harmonious balance between the different elements.
Curated collections are an essential part of the eclectic theme. Display quirky pieces, whether it’s antique finds, artwork, or funky souvenirs. The beauty of eclectic decor lies in its ability to blend diverse styles seamlessly. It’s about creating unexpected combinations that feel cohesive and visually appealing.
The Glam theme is all about creating an indulgent experience for your guests. By incorporating high-end materials (or a good dupe!), luxurious textiles, and opulent touches, you can create a sophisticated ambiance that exudes glamour and elegance. Consider incorporating crystal chandeliers, plush velvet furniture, and richly textured fabrics to add a touch of extravagance to the space. Opt for jewel tones like deep purples, and emerald greens, or go for classic neutrals like ivory, silver, and gold. These colors can create a sense of luxury and sophistication in your Airbnb.
By incorporating the Glam theme into your Airbnb, you can provide your guests with an unforgettable and indulgent experience, even on a budget. Whether they are seeking a weekend getaway or a special occasion, your guests will be immersed in the sumptuous details and sophisticated ambiance of your glamorous short-term rental!
The Masculine theme isn’t the a “man cave” you are probably thinking of, it’s all about sleek design, a dark color palette, and sophisticated elegance. It’s the perfect choice for creating a refined and stylish atmosphere for a business traveler (guys or gals), in your Airbnb.
Embrace masculine decor by incorporating luxurious leather accents, industrial details, and minimalist elements throughout your space.
Start by choosing a dark color palette, with shades like charcoal gray, deep navy, and rich espresso. These colors will set the tone for a sophisticated ambiance. Combine them with lighter neutrals like white or cream to create contrast and balance.
When it comes to furniture, opt for sleek and modern designs that exude elegance. Choose statement pieces like a bold sofa or a minimalist dining table to create a focal point in the room. Balance the sleek design with the use of warm and rich textures like velvet, suede, or faux fur to add depth and visual interest. Choose bold artwork with strong lines and shapes that reflect a modern and contemporary aesthetic.
The feminine theme is all about creating a romantic and girly retreat ambiance in your Airbnb. With soft color palettes, floral patterns, and delicate accents, you can transform your space into a charming and elegant space. Incorporate pretty touches like curvy feminine furnishings, and graceful accents.
By using a mix of pastels and neutrals, you can enhance the femininity of your space and create a serene and romantic ambiance. Whether it’s a cozy bedroom or a chic living room, the feminine theme is perfect for properties aiming to provide a girly experience for bachelorette weekends, wedding parties, or a ladies get-away.
The Industrial theme is perfect for Airbnb properties aiming to provide guests with a modern edgy experience. This theme embraces raw materials, such as exposed brick and metal accents, to create an urban chic ambiance. Drawing inspiration from warehouse aesthetics, the industrial decor style features rustic aesthetics and loft-like elements.
To enhance the industrial vibe, incorporate a color palette of grays, blacks, mixed with warm and cool tones of blue and green. The use of raw materials, such as exposed brick walls and metal accents, adds texture and visual interest to the space. The industrial theme is characterized by its combination of rough and refined elements.
The neutral theme offers a calming and versatile style for your Airbnb. With a focus on clean and timeless design, this decor choice creates a soothing ambiance that appeals to a wide range of guests. Incorporate calming tones and natural materials to enhance the elegant simplicity of this theme.
When decorating in a neutral style, choose a neutral color palette consisting of soft and muted shades. Colors like beige, ivory, or light gray create a serene and peaceful atmosphere in your rental property. Pair these colors with natural materials like wood, stone, and linen to add texture and warmth to your space.
A minimalist design approach fits seamlessly with the neutral theme. Simple lines and uncluttered spaces contribute to a clean and timeless aesthetic. Avoid excessive ornamentation and instead focus on creating a sense of airiness and tranquility.
The Southwest theme embraces the rich culture and natural beauty of the desert. This decor style is inspired by the colors of the desert landscape. Rustic charm, and western outdoor living are key components of Southwest decor.
To create a Southwest-inspired ambiance, incorporate desert colors such as warm earth tones like terracotta, sandy beige, and deep reds. Use natural materials like wood, stone, and leather to add a rustic touch. Incorporate woven textiles, such as rugs and blankets, with tribal patterns to capture the essence of Native American art.
A focus on outdoor living is important in Southwest decor. Create comfortable outdoor seating areas where guests can relax and take in the desert surroundings. Consider adding desert landscaping elements like cacti and succulents to enhance the outdoor area.
The Western theme captures the charm of cowboy culture and country living. Embrace rustic accents and decorate your Airbnb with western decor, invoking the spirit of the Wild West. Incorporate elements like cowboy gear, horse-themed decor, and vintage western decor to bring the rodeo vibes and frontier charm to your space.
Use a color palette of earth tones to create an authentic western atmosphere. This theme is perfect for properties located in rural areas or anyone aiming to provide guests with an authentic western experience and a touch of cowboy chic.
The cottage/vintage theme creates a cozy and charming atmosphere reminiscent of a countryside retreat. Special touches of antiques, floral patterns, and cottage-inspired decor to bring vintage charm into your space. Incorporate vintage furniture, such as weathered wood dressers and ornate mirrors, to add character and warmth.
Country-inspired color schemes of pastels and muted tones, like soft blush, pale blues, and light greens, will enhance the vintage charm and create a serene and inviting ambiance. Whether you’re hosting a romantic getaway for couples or a family vacation, the cottage/vintage theme will provide a cozy and nostalgic experience for your guests.
The contemporary theme focuses on sleek and clean lines, modern design, and sophisticated style. Embrace a minimalist approach with a focus on functionality and simplicity. Incorporate cutting-edge aesthetics and statement pieces. Use a neutral color palette to enhance the contemporary vibes. This theme is perfect for properties aiming to provide guests with a stylish and urban living experience.
This Mediterranean theme is perfect for Airbnb hosts who want to create a modern, serene, Mediterranean-inspired getaway for their guests. With its coastal elegance, this theme brings the beauty of the Mediterranean coast to your rental property. Embrace the vibrant Mediterranean colors like green, blue, white, and natural textures to create a warm and inviting ambiance.
Incorporate rustic elements and Tuscan-inspired textures to capture the essence of the Mediterranean. Think about using natural materials like stone and wood to bring a touch of authenticity to your decor. Consider adding terracotta pottery, wrought iron accents, and weathered furniture to enhance the rustic charm. Consider adding faux olive trees and other Mediterranean plants to create a lush and inviting space.
Absolutely! Adding a theme to your Airbnb can help create a unique and memorable experience for your guests. Decide on a theme that will suit your property, target audience, and personal preferences.
When choosing a theme for your Airbnb, consider factors such as the location of your property, the type of guests you want to attract, and the overall ambiance you want to create. Think about your target audience’s (guest) preferences and the style that best complements your property’s features and surroundings.
By Airbnb themes and decor can attract more guests because it offers a unique and memorable experience. Many travelers are looking for accommodations that stand out from the crowd and provide a special touch. By choosing the right theme and incorporating creative decor and styling, you can make your listing more appealing and increase its appeal to potential guests.
With my curated designs listed here you can achieve a cohesive and visually appealing look on your own. However, if you feel overwhelmed or want to ensure a professional touch, reach out HERE for some additional help with your Airbnb’s theme and decor.
While some business travelers may prefer more neutral and minimalist accommodations, others may appreciate the unique and memorable experience provided by a themed Airbnb. To attract business travelers, consider choosing a theme (like the masculine or neutral theme), that aligns with their preferences and incorporates modern touches, comfortable workspaces, and convenient amenities.
While the popularity of themes may vary depending on the location and target audience, some Airbnb themes and decor styles like beach house, boho, rustic cabin, modern farmhouse, and contemporary are generally in high demand. However, it’s essential to research the rental market in your area and understand the preferences of your potential guests to choose the best theme that suits your property and stands out from the competition.
Yes, you can combine Airbnb themes and decor to create a unique edge and cater to different preferences. However, it’s important to ensure that the combination of themes complements each other and maintains a cohesive design style throughout your rental space.
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Wrapping up, we’ve explored a plethora of unique Airbnb themes and decor that go beyond mere accommodation to offer a truly unique lodging experience that garners those coveted 5-star reviews. Whether you’re inspired by one of our 26 mood boards or you blend several to craft your best Airbnb theme idea, it’s often the small details that leave the most lasting impressions. We hope these ideas spark your creativity and help transform your space into a memorable retreat.
RELATED: 15 Rookie Home Decorating Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Did any theme particularly catch your eye? Share your thoughts on these Airbnb themes and decor ideas or let me know any unique theme ideas you’d like to see added to this post in the comments below—I love hearing from you!
Hi, I’m Carla
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