Mastering vacation rental decor starts with thoughtful themes, restful sleep spaces, sleek furniture, and kitchens guests love.
From cozy cabins in Pigeon Forge to breezy beach rentals along the Gulf Coast, there's one thing every rental owner should know: thoughtful decor isn't just for show—it's your secret weapon. A well-designed space helps your listing stand out, brings in more bookings, and keeps guests coming back for more.
In this blog, I'm sharing 10 easy decor tips to help put your vacation rental at the top of the game.
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At Navarre Beach Properties, we've spent years managing properties right here in Navarre Beach—and we know exactly what it takes to help them thrive. And we're not shy about sharing what we've learned along the way!
I suggest you check our blog which is packed with expert tips on professional property management—from smart strategies to make your rental stand out in a competitive market, to practical ways to boost your income and even a crash course on everything you need to know about managing a vacation home in Navarre Beach.
Why Interior Decor Matters
Decorating your vacation rental is your chance to make it pop—and make guests feel right at home. Sure, location and amenities matter, but let's be honest—plenty of people book based on photos alone. If your place looks tired or outdated, it could mean fewer bookings. The good news? You don't need to blow your budget to make it shine. With a few smart (and simple) decorating moves, you can turn your space into one guests can't wait to stay in—and show off.
Main Advantages of Investing in Good Decor
- Better Listing Photos: Beautifully decorated spaces photograph better, helping your listing stand out on crowded booking platforms.
- Higher Booking Rates: Eye-catching interiors increase perceived value, making guests more likely to choose your property—even at a higher price point.
- Better Reviews: Guests love (and remember) well-designed spaces. Great decor often translates to rave reviews and repeat bookings.
- Increased Repeat Stays: A stylish, cozy rental creates emotional attachment. Guests are more likely to return or recommend it to friends.
- Competitive Edge: In markets like Navarre Beach and the Gulf Coast, decor can be the difference-maker in a sea of similar listings.
- Flexible Theming for Target Audiences: Good decor lets you target specific guest types—families, couples, remote workers—by creating spaces that fit their vibe.
- Stronger Brand Identity: A cohesive style across your rental(s) helps you build a memorable brand, especially if you plan to scale.
- More Social Shares: Guests love posting from stylish spaces. Good decor increases your chances of free exposure on social media.
1. Embrace the local theme
Capture the essence of your environment by incorporating décor that ties together a theme. For example, if your vacation rental is a beach house in Florida, light pastels, shells, and nautical décor can create a coastal chic theme. If your rental is a log cabin in Tennessee, a rustic feel with a cozy fireplace will make the guest experience much more authentic.
Key Take Aways
- Use local color palettes—light blues and sandy tones for beach homes, and warm woods for cabins.
- Add themed accents like nautical touches or vintage maps.
- Avoid overdoing it; keep it tasteful and cohesive.
2. Showcase Local Artwork
Support local artists and infuse your vacation rental with a sense of local charm by displaying artwork that reflects the beauty and culture of your destination. Look for pieces that feature landscapes, natural elements, or anything that makes the stay more authentic.
If you own a condo in Navarre Beach, Florida, consider finding paintings of the pier, handmade shell artwork, and other local art that can bring local character to the space.
Key Take Aways
- Look for artwork featuring local landmarks or nature scenes.
- Incorporate handmade pieces like shell art or wood carvings.
- Rotate pieces to keep things fresh and interesting.
3. Optimize natural light
Make the most of the abundant natural light your destination offers. Choose sheer or light-filtering curtains that allow sunlight to illuminate the space while maintaining privacy. Position mirrors strategically to reflect light and create an illusion of spaciousness.
Key Take Aways
- Use sheer curtains to let in natural light.
- Add mirrors to reflect light and create openness.
- Keep window areas clutter-free.
4. incorporate modern furniture
Infuse your vacation rental with a contemporary vibe by selecting modern furniture pieces. Choose clean lines, sleek silhouettes, and minimalist designs.
While this is your home, it's best not to have personal items out for guest use or family photos. Choose comfortable yet stylish seating options and invest in quality materials that can withstand the demands of rental use.
Key Take Aways
- Go for minimal, durable furniture that's easy to clean.
- Ditch personal photos and clutter.
- Invest in stylish, comfy seating for lounging.
5. Create an inviting dining area
Make mealtimes special by setting up a welcoming dining area. Choose a dining table that can accommodate the maximum number of guests your rental can accommodate. Consider comfortable seating options such as cushioned chairs or benches. Add thoughtful touches like placemats, tableware, and fresh flowers to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. If your dining space has a scenic view near a window, position the table so guests can see the view while dining.
Key Take Aways
- Match seating to your guest's capacity.
- Add placemats, simple tableware, and a centerpiece.
- Position tables near windows for views and natural light
6. OFFer a functional and fully-equipped kitchen
A well-equipped kitchen is a key factor in guest satisfaction. Stock your kitchen with essential cookware, utensils, and appliances. Consider providing extras like a coffee maker, blender, and toaster to enhance the convenience and comfort of your guests.
Here's a little secret: A large number of guests who choose vacation rentals over hotels do so for one big reason—they want the freedom to cook. That's why having a well-equipped kitchen isn't just nice to have—it's a must.
Key Take Aways
- Stock basics: pots, pans, utensils, dishes.
- Add extras like a coffee maker, blender, and toaster.
- Leave a welcome note with local grocery tips or recipes.
7. Create comfortable sleeping spaces
Ensure your guests have a restful sleep by investing in high-quality mattresses and bedding. Opt for neutral tones and high thread count sheets for a luxurious feel. Add layers with decorative pillows and throws that tie into the color scheme and provide a cozy ambiance.
At Navarre Beach Properties, for example, we operate with a white-linen program so homeowners don't have to use personal sheets and bedding for rental use.
Key Take Aways
- Invest in quality mattresses and high-thread-count sheets.
- Use neutral tones and cozy textiles.
- Add bedside tables with lamps and outlets for charging.
8. Incorporate smart technology
To elevate the modern appeal of your vacation rental, integrate smart technology features. Consider installing a smart thermostat, keyless entry system, or smart home assistant to enhance convenience and provide a seamless experience for your guests.
Key Take Aways
- Add a smart thermostat and keyless entry.
- Provide how-to cards for tech-savvy devices.
- Consider a smart speaker for music and info.
9. add thoughtful touches
Go the extra mile by adding thoughtful touches that enhance your guests' experience. If your home is near the beach, provide beach essentials like umbrellas, chairs, and beach towels. You can also provide guests with paddle boards and kayaks for extra fun and convenience. or if your rental is near the mountains, provide some hiking gear for guests. Create a welcome basket with local snacks, information about the area, and a personalized note to make your guests feel at home.
Key Take Aways
- Leave beach gear, hiking kits, or local guides.
- Add a welcome basket with snacks or souvenirs.
- Personalize with handwritten notes.
10. Regularly update and refresh
To maintain a modern and inviting ambiance, regularly assess your vacation rental's decor and make updates as needed. When guests look at rental photos on booking sites, they can be turned off by old and outdated furniture. Stay updated with design trends and consider refreshing elements like artwork, accent pieces, or linens to ensure your space continues attracting guests.
Key Take Aways
- Replace worn-out items promptly.
- Refresh with new linens, art, or accent pieces seasonally.
- Monitor trends to stay competitive.
Vacation Rental Management Made Simple
Managing a Navarre Beach vacation rental can feel overwhelming—but it doesn't have to. At Navarre Beach Properties, we've been doing this for years, with proven systems to keep your property booked and profitable.
Get a free rental estimate on our website and see how partnering with a local pro can make all the difference.
