Alright, fellow Airbnb hosts, let’s talk about creating an Airbnb living room that’ll make guests go, “Damn, this is sweet. I’m booking this.”
As an Airbnb host, you understand that the living room is the heart of your listing—it’s where guests unwind, relax, socialize, and maybe even plot their next adventure. I’m Lewin, and I host a profitable Airbnb. I’ll show you how to design a living room that not only impresses but also makes your guests feel right at home. No professional design background required.
Step 1: Set the Scene with Style and Theme
First things first, consider your Airbnb’s vibe and location. Is it a mountain hideaway, a beachside paradise, or an urban oasis? Choose a design style or theme that reflects the surroundings and sets the tone for your guests’ stay. Double down on your theme- An Airbnb can be more playful than a regular house, so have fun with it! With that said, don’t make it cheesy or kitschy.
Whether you go for rustic charm, modern sophistication, or bohemian chic, make sure it screams, “This is YOUR vacation spot!” There’s only one design style I don’t recommend -“maximalism.” When done wrong, it can get cluttered, and guests hate that. It doesn’t work well in the hospitality industry.
*Superhost tip – When setting up your living room (or any room for that matter), ALWAYS keep in mind how it will look in listing photos.
Arrange furniture and decor in a way that looks inviting and appealing for pictures, and you’ll also find that it looks great in real life. A well-styled living room can attract more guests and lead to more bookings.
Now that you’ve nailed down your design style, these steps will take your living room to the next level, regardless of your chosen aesthetic. From comfort to functionality, these tips are universally applicable and will ensure your Airbnb living room stands out in all the right ways.
Step 2: Comfort, Meet Style
Now, let’s talk comfort. Your sofa should be as inviting as a warm hug but as durable as your resolve to become a Superhost. I recommend investing in a durable sofa, side chair, and coffee table. These pieces will see a lot of use, so it’s worth spending a bit more to ensure they last. When it comes to accent pieces like throw pillows and blankets, you can save money by opting for budget-friendly options. These items are more likely to need replacing over time, so it’s best not to break the bank on them.
*Superhost Tip: Leather sofas are more durable and easier to clean than upholstered sofas.
Between guests, clean your upholstered furniture effortlessly with this best-selling carpet and upholstery cleaner from Amazon! Reviewers love its budget-friendly price and effective cleaning power!
Step 3: Create an Atmosphere That Says, “Stay a While”
This is where your unique personality as a host shines through. Bring in touches that reflect your personality and style. Hang some art that speaks to you (bonus points if its made by a local artist or pictures of a local landmark). Local touches enhance your guests’ experience. You could also display books that you love, and add plants to bring life into the space.
Lighting is key here—think soft, warm lighting that creates a cozy ambiance. I like using bulbs with a wattage of around 2700K to 3000K for a warm, inviting glow. This will help guests feel like they are in a soft and cozy environment, rather than under stark fluorescent lights in a hospital. And don’t forget to consider the view from your living room—it should be a sight to behold, whether it’s a mountain vista or a bustling cityscape.
*Superhost tip- If your living room has a great view, make sure to show it off! Design your space to highlight the view, whether it’s by arranging furniture to face the windows or using sheer curtains to frame the scenery. Be sure to capture the view in your listing photos. A stunning view can be a major selling point for your Airbnb and can help you stand out from the competition.
Step 4: Functionality, Without Compromise
Your living room should be as functional as it is stylish. Provide plenty of seating options for guests to relax and socialize, and make sure there’s a sturdy coffee table for drinks and snacks. Keep it sleek and clutter-free. For entertainment, add a smart TV with access to streaming services for entertainment. In my own Airbnb, I use smart TVs because they save money on cable bills, since most guests will have their own streaming accounts. Plus, it saves you the hassle (and money) of wiring up each room for cable.
*Superhost tips: When styling your living room for your Airbnb listing photos, hide the wires, plugs, and cables. Nothing ruins the vibe of a beautifully designed living room like a tangle of cords.
Step 5: Keep It Clean, Keep It Organized
Last but definitely not least, your living room should be cleaner than a germaphobe’s paradise. Offer ample storage for your guests’ stuff, and keep the place clean and clutter-free. Cleanliness isn’t just important, it’s non-negotiable. It’s the highest consideration for a 5 star review. Guests will judge you harder than a Karen at a subpar restaurant if your place isn’t spick and span.
So keep those those throw blankets laundered between guests to avoid any cringe-worthy discoveries. Trust me, nothing grosses out guests more than finding a dirty throw blanket. Remember that a clean and well-maintained living room is the hallmark of a true Airbnb superhost.
Between guests, clean your upholstered furniture (including throw pillows) effortlessly with this best-selling carpet and upholstery cleaner from Amazon! See for yourself why reviewers love its budget-friendly price and effective cleaning power! This is the second time I’m posting this b/c it’s THAT good.
Conclusion:
By following these steps and infusing your personal style and flair into your living room design, you can create a space that not only wows your guests but also makes them feel right at home. So, go ahead, host like a boss, and show the world what it means to be a kickass Airbnb host!
Click here to follow my ‘Airbnb Living Room’ board on Pinterest for more design ideas and tips!
This post was all about designing the perfect Airbnb living room that will impress guests!
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