Top 5 Decor Trends for Short-Term Rentals 2024

Source: TheJournal.ie

With winter around the corner and summer over, many STR owners are seeing a dip. And as a property owner who often rents to short-term tenants, you likely dread the off-peak season when there’s a huge chance your listing sits empty for weeks, even months.

This worry doesn’t stop when travel picks up again because this time—you have to deal with competition that’s increasingly becoming fiercer as each year passes.

In 2024 alone, Airbnb reported that it now had 2.9 million hosts worldwide, with 14,000 new ones joining the platform each month. This competitive landscape, combined with the realities of the off-peak season, means that you’re constantly stressing out about your listing.

It shouldn’t be this much of a hassle, though. After all, you probably didn’t sign up for around-the-clock stress when you thought of renting out your property to short-term tenants as a passive source of income.

Now, here’s what Airbnb doesn’t tell you…

If you want to attract tenants year-round without breaking your bank account, you have to ensure that your property’s decor will appeal to them. But this can be quite tricky since you want to enhance the listing’s appearance without sacrificing its comfort and functionality—not to mention your budget.

Before you hit the shops, here are a few decor trends to consider. Incorporating any of these into your short-term rental property will undoubtedly keep your reservation book filled—protecting your cash flow through the ebb and flow of the local market.

Top 6 Decor Trends for Short-Term Rentals

From subdued neutrals to bold statements, these are the top decor trends for 2024 that will help your property stand out from the rest. Whether you are looking to overhaul your entire space or just give it a little refresh, use this handy guide to get inspired and create a rental that’ll stand out from the competition.

1. Uniqueness

Have you ever seen those mushroom houses on Airbnb? That’s what we’re talking about.

In a world where everyone is trying to stand out, going for uniqueness should be a no-brainer. But what does this mean for your short-term rental property? You might not have a unique structure like the mushroom one we mentioned. But it means that you should find ways to make your listing different from the rest—something that will prompt guests to choose your property over others.

One way of doing this is by offering amenities and services that are not commonly found in other listings. If you have a knack for DIY, you can also add personal touches to your space to give it more character, which can include anything from custom-made furniture to one-of-a-kind art pieces.

2. Over-the-Top Textured Accents

This year, some landlords may want to make huge investments in their rental properties by going for bigger and more noticeable textured accents.

Apart from exuding fun and playful vibes, textured accents bring a welcoming surprise to any area they’re in. Moreover, you don’t have to invest in big statement pieces—a tufted rug or simple ribbed vase is enough to give an exciting twist to a generic-looking space.

“Textures are going to be utilized this year,” says interior designer . “Tongue and groove boards on the ceiling add to architectural interest while injecting an earthy texture. Curtains can be used to filter light beautifully and add a softness to the room. Even lighting can provide texture to rooms, depending on the material used.”

3. The Modern Artisan Aesthetic

Homeowners and landlords used to love Classic Farmhouse—a style known for its rustic elements and earthy color palette. This year, however, the Modern Artisan aesthetic is taking over. It emphasizes raw materials, such as wood and rattan, as well as natural patterns and hues.

If you want your property to attract families and tenants who are way out of their party years, then decorating it in the Modern Artisan style will be your best option.

“2021 paved the way for interior trends, with an abundance of rattan and cane furniture, ceramics, and linen elements dotted across the home. All sitting against a backdrop of texture wall techniques, such as limewash or micro-cement.” Jen and Mar of explained.

“We see this trend continuing… for a look that adds a sense of stripped-back ease whilst making a strong yet understated design trend.”

4. Attention-Grabbing Wall Art

Paintings and prints will never go out of style, but if you want your property to follow this year’s trends, opt for attention-grabbing wall art instead. They can be functional like propagation planters that people with green thumbs will love, or simply serve as aesthetic pieces like 3D pieces to add visual impact.

It is easy to write off wall art as an unnecessary design element, but in reality, it makes or breaks the appeal of your unit. Consider this—would you want to be surrounded by blank walls all the time? Nope!

“We will see a in 2024,” says Manhattan-based interior designer . “People are looking to add whimsy, intrigue, and life to flat walls as we continue to spend more time in our homes. Any art that pops right off the wall, and can be configured in different ways, is going to be very popular this year.”

5. Nostalgic Design Elements

If the pandemic gave you a hankering for the good old days, then you are in luck because the 1980s are back! Design elements that were popular during that decade are making a comeback this year, including disco-inspired and psychedelic decor. Millennials and members of Gen Z are embracing this trend, even showing off their whimsical pieces on social media.

“The 80s are calling: they want their back in fashion!” explains renowned interior designer . “That layer of decades found in the vintage store wants to be able to have a coordinating fabric rug or wall covering.”

While you likely will not want your rental unit to be an ode to the 1980s, it would not hurt to incorporate a few of its renowned design elements. You’ll be surprised how many people find bold colors and patterns “modern” and appealing nowadays.

6. Curved Furniture Pieces

This year, expect to see a lot of rounded furniture—chairs with curved backs, ottomans, and sofas with sloped arms. According to interior design experts, this unique design element creates a soft and feminine vibe, making it a go-to option if you want your space to exude a homey atmosphere.

“Furnishings of white oak with curves bring a fresh and soft wavy feeling,” recommends boutique lifestyle design firm Michelle Harrison Design. “From curved corners within walls and cabinets to curved backs of sofas, dining chairs, and arched cabinets, the angular line of furnishing is softening.”

Now, following this design trend does not mean investing in big pieces of furniture, too. Rather, you can opt for curved accent pieces, such as figurines and flower vases.

Increase Your Property’s Appeal with Decor

Most landlords are tempted to save money by doing the bare minimum when it comes to decorating their rental properties. But doing so will not attract renters or stand out from the competition—you’ll only lose out on your potential investment gains in the long run.

Remember, you shouldn’t break your back by saving a few dollars, as you’ll miss out on the lucrative opportunity to save thousands more. And if you need more help, don’t hesitate to join as a member of REIA today and attend our upcoming meeting.

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