10 Trending Details for a Curated and Profitable Stay
Creating a profitable short-term rental (STR) today goes beyond just having a clean, well-located property. Guests increasingly seek an experience—something that feels intentional, stylish, and a step above the average listing. To help your Airbnb or vacation rental stand out and stay booked, we've rounded up 10 trending details that elevate your space and drive ROI. These touches not only reflect top interior design trends but also meet the evolving expectations of today’s discerning guests.
1. Moody, Layered Lighting
Lighting is no longer just about utility. Think layered, ambient lighting: dimmable sconces, vintage-style table lamps, pendant lights with warm-toned bulbs. Guests love the ability to adjust the mood and lighting for their experience. It's an affordable way to inject high-end design into your Airbnb and create cozy, Instagram-worthy moments.
2. Vintage and Antique Accents
The vintage revival is going strong. Integrate one-of-a-kind pieces like antique mirrors, clawfoot side tables, or ornate picture frames. These items bring character and soul to your STR, giving guests the feeling of staying somewhere unique and thoughtfully curated. Sourcing from local vintage shops also aligns with sustainable hosting—a rising value in today's travel culture.
3. Statement Art and Curated Wall Decor
Art tells a story. Replace generic prints with locally-inspired artwork or large-scale pieces that create a focal point in each room. Incorporate layered gallery walls, moody oil paintings, or minimalist line art depending on your STR’s aesthetic. This is one of the easiest ways to add visual depth and increase perceived value.
4. Sensory Additions
Appealing to all five senses makes a stay memorable. Think scented candles with rich, grounding notes (like sandalwood or cedar), plush throws, calming sound machines, and curated playlists. These low-cost, high-impact details encourage guests to linger—and leave glowing reviews.
5. Earthy and Natural Materials
Natural textures are a top interior design trend for 2025 and beyond. Incorporate raw wood, terracotta, linen, jute, and marble throughout your space. These elements not only photograph beautifully for your Airbnb listing but also ground the space in a sense of calm and authenticity.
6. Designer Coffee & Tea Stations
A styled, well-stocked coffee and tea nook is a small luxury with big appeal. Use open shelving to display artisan mugs, vintage canisters, and a variety of brews. Add a high-end kettle or espresso machine. Guests are increasingly seeking convenience and comfort—especially during slow mornings or remote work stays.
7. Signature Scent or Fragrance Identity
Create an emotional connection to your stay through scent. Consider diffusers or candles with a signature fragrance exclusive to your listing. This creates a sensory brand for your STR and can be a memorable touch that helps guests associate your space with luxury and comfort.
8. Flexible + Multi-Purpose Furniture
Today’s guests often mix business with pleasure. A chic dining table that doubles as a workspace, ottomans with hidden storage, or foldable accent chairs ensure your space adapts to guest needs. This is especially crucial for Airbnb hosts looking to attract longer stays and remote workers.
9. Luxe Bed Styling
Invest in elevated bedding: think crisp white sheets, layered duvets, textured pillows, and a moody or earthy headboard. This is where guests spend most of their time, and it’s often where comfort and visual appeal matter most. A beautiful bed is often the cover photo that sells the stay.
10. Host-Branded Touches
This is the year to start treating your STR like a boutique brand. Whether it's a printed welcome guide, branded matchboxes, or a signature "Stay Society" Spotify playlist—these small details build loyalty and recognition. Guests remember the feeling your space gave them, and branding reinforces that memory.
Final Thoughts:
A profitable Airbnb or vacation rental doesn’t require a massive renovation—just thoughtful design and elevated detail. As guest expectations continue to rise, especially in the luxury and boutique travel space, your ability to curate a stylish, sensory-rich environment will set your STR apart.
Start small: upgrade your lighting, add a signature scent, or source one standout vintage piece. These trending details not only align with current interior design trends but also tell a story that guests want to be part of. The result? More bookings, better reviews, and a stay that feels less like a rental and more like a destination.
Stay intentional, stay booked, stay curated.
Need help styling your stay? Explore our signature mood boards, curated shop, and host resources at The Stay Society.