As the short-term rental industry grows and becomes increasingly competitive, ensuring your property stands out from the crowd on online platforms all comes down to one key factor. Interior design. So before you commission professional photos of your property and post them to the Airbnb website, here are some tips on choosing the best furniture for an Airbnb rental to ensure a wonderful guest experience and more importantly … repeat reservations!
Trends for 2022 include sustainability (think natural fabrics and organic materials) and curves and textures (from curved doorways to organic shapes in sofas). However a go-to for an Airbnb rental should always be minimalist. Just as you style a property to sell, a short-term rental needs to have universal appeal. Feel free to add features and art that tie in with the surrounding environment, but don’t go overboard. If you’re seeking colour inspiration, check out our 2022 colour trends.
The Living Room
The living room is often described as the heart of the home, particularly for those who are holidaying with family or friends. Furniture should be comfortable and inviting but also functional. A sink-into-me lounge and some textured cushions will enhance the relaxation factor, and additional seating — like a statement armchair — can be added depending on your property’s occupancy limit.
A coffee table adorned with candles, magazines, books and flowers will add a homely touch, and adding a practical side table is a seamless way of adding surface area to a room.
Finally, the entertainment unit. Depending on the style of your property, you may want electronic devices to either recede or be a focal point. Options to consider include wall mounting the TV, choosing a media console that complements other furniture or concealing items in a TV cabinet with doors. If the living room is small, go for the wall mounted option.
Whilst appearance is key for professional photos, you also have to consider the useful life of all your furniture. Guests expect furniture to appear as it does in the photos, so carefully select a fabric and colour that will wear well.
You can’t reasonably ask guests not to eat on the lounge. Even if you do, most will do as they please. Spills and stains will happen. It’s best if you’re prepared for it. Greys, charcoals and subtle patterns are best for concealing wear and staining over time. Most colour treated leathers are also fantastic at repelling stains. Give the lounge a thorough clean and apply a fabric/leather protector at least once a year, and you will add years to its life.
Bedrooms
There is nothing better than enjoying a peaceful night’s sleep on a bed with a quality mattress and crisp linens after a day of energised work or play. But the bed frame’s suitability is another factor to consider. It should be well proportioned to the size of the room and blend in with, rather than overpower, other décor. Ensembles are always a safe choice, and often the amongst the cheapest options.
Other important bedroom furniture includes storage spaces like wardrobes and shelves, a bedside table (add a bedside lamp for a cosy feel), a comfy chair and, if space permits a desk.
If you can fit a King size bed comfortably, spend the extra money. It’s worth it. A King size bed is a luxury that won’t be overlooked by prospective guests. It’ll pay itself off with just one extra booking.
Our Bedroom Styling Tips will guide your linen, pillow and cushion choices for luxurious presentation.
Dining Room
Dining areas typically focus on practicality rather than comfort, however they should still be inviting. Space is an important factor as a large room with a small table will look somewhat cold, whereas a small room with a large table can seem unpleasantly crowded. There should be enough space for your guest/s to move around the table and chairs, and if you have dining chairs with arms, the arms should fit easily under the dining table when the chairs are pushed in.
If you have a larger room, you may want to consider other pieces of furniture like screens or sideboards for storage.
Ideally there the dining setting will fit two times the number of bedrooms. For example, in a three bedroom house there should be at least a six seat dining setting. In climates such as South East Queensland, this can be an outdoor setting. Undercover of course. Coastal holiday makers frequently eat meals on a balcony or deck.
Outdoor Furniture
If your Airbnb rental has an entertainment area, it’s worth investing in outdoor furniture which will increase your property’s value. Whether it’s a compact setting for couples or those travelling for work, or a larger outdoor table that will comfortably accommodate larger gatherings with friends or family.
Outdoor furniture requires the same consideration as the lounge, durability. It should be built to withstand the elements. When the property is vacant, or even when guests are present, the furniture will be left in rain and wind. Aluminium is a safe choice, as are plastics. Whatever the choice, try to avoid having them positioned in direct sunlight for the entirety of the day. It can fade paint and degrade cheaper plastics. Also consider their positioning and safety in high winds, particularly for balcony furniture.
Need to furnish or update your Airbnb rental property? Want to trust the experts to select the best furniture for an Airbnb rental? We offer turn-key furniture packages that are affordable, stress-free and suit a variety of tastes and budgets. Find out more here.
Emma Tobin, Director and Lead Stylist at The Urbane Property Stylist, holds a B.D. (Interior Design). With over ten years of experience in Interior Design, Landscape Architecture and Property Styling, Emma has earned a reputation for her attention to detail and ability to deliver.