Interior Design Tips for Rental Properties That Photograph Well and Delight Guests
Creating a rental property that photographs beautifully and delights guests in person requires thoughtful interior design. The right design choices can transform an ordinary space into a memorable experience that generates five-star reviews and repeat bookings.
In this guide, we'll explore practical interior design strategies specifically for rental properties—balancing aesthetic appeal with durability, photogenic qualities with practical comfort.
Design Principles for Rental Properties
1. Create a Cohesive Concept
Every successful rental property has a clear design concept: - Choose a style that complements your property's architecture and location - Maintain consistency throughout the space - Develop a cohesive color palette (3-5 colors) - Consider your target audience's preferences
Popular styles for rentals include: - Modern Coastal - Urban Industrial - Scandinavian Minimalist - Rustic Modern - Boutique Hotel
2. Focus on Photogenic Features
Certain design elements photograph particularly well: - Statement lighting fixtures - Distinctive architectural features - Eye-catching headboards - Styled bookshelves - Indoor plants - Textured throws and pillows - Interesting artwork
Incorporate these elements strategically to create "Instagram moments" throughout your property.
3. Balance Form and Function
Beautiful design must also be practical for guests: - Choose durable, stain-resistant fabrics - Provide ample, accessible storage - Ensure comfortable seating and beds - Include side tables near seating areas - Provide good lighting for all activities - Create multiple functional zones in larger spaces
Room-by-Room Design Strategies
Living Room
The living room often features prominently in listing photos: - Anchor the space with an appropriately-sized area rug - Provide seating for your maximum guest count - Include a mix of lighting (overhead, task, and ambient) - Create a focal point (fireplace, view, art installation) - Add layers of texture through textiles - Include thoughtful touches like books, games, or local guides
Bedroom
Bedrooms should feel like a sanctuary: - Invest in quality mattresses and linens - Create a statement headboard or wall treatment - Provide bedside tables and reading lights on both sides - Include blackout window treatments - Add a seating area in larger bedrooms - Ensure adequate storage for guests' belongings
Kitchen
Even if guests don't cook often, kitchens are important: - Ensure spotless, modern appliances - Provide high-quality cookware and sharp knives - Include basic cooking essentials (oil, salt, pepper, coffee) - Add distinctive elements like a colorful backsplash or statement lighting - Ensure ample counter space for food preparation - Consider open shelving to display attractive dishes
Bathroom
Bathrooms should feel spa-like: - Use high-quality, matching towels in abundance - Provide adequate storage for toiletries - Ensure excellent lighting around mirrors - Consider a rainfall showerhead or soaking tub - Add luxury touches like bath products or plush robes - Ensure impeccable cleanliness in all corners and crevices
Color and Material Selection
1. Color Strategy
Color significantly impacts both photos and guest experience: - Neutral walls provide flexibility and timelessness - Add color through easily changeable elements (pillows, art, accessories) - Consider the psychological effects of color (blues for calm, yellows for energy) - Use color to define different areas in open-concept spaces - Ensure good contrast for photography
2. Material Considerations
Choose materials that photograph well and withstand guest use: - Natural materials like wood, stone, and linen photograph beautifully - Performance fabrics resist stains and wear - Quartz countertops offer durability with aesthetic appeal - Porcelain tile provides the look of natural stone with greater durability - Mixed metals add visual interest and depth
Styling for Photography and Guest Experience
1. Layering Technique
Create depth and interest through layering: - Layer rugs for texture and definition - Add throw pillows in varying sizes, textures, and patterns - Include throws for both aesthetics and comfort - Layer window treatments for light control and style - Create vignettes with objects of varying heights
2. Accessorizing Thoughtfully
Accessories should enhance, not overwhelm: - Follow the rule of three (group objects in odd numbers) - Vary heights and textures - Include items that tell a story or reflect the location - Avoid personal items or photos - Select a few statement pieces rather than many small items
Budget-Friendly Design Tips
Creating a photogenic rental doesn't require a massive budget: - Invest in key pieces (beds, sofas, dining table) and save on accessories - Repurpose and refinish existing furniture - Shop secondhand for unique, character-filled pieces - Use paint for high-impact, low-cost transformations - Focus spending on spaces that photograph prominently
By implementing these design strategies, you'll create a rental property that not only photographs beautifully for your listing but also provides a delightful, comfortable experience for your guests. Remember, the goal is to create a space that feels special and thoughtfully curated—somewhere guests will remember, recommend, and return to.
Jessica is a professional photographer and interior designer who helps hosts showcase their properties. Her expertise in visual storytelling has helped property owners increase bookings by up to 40%.
