Your living room is the heart of your short-term rental, and the perfect opportunity to wow guests the moment they step through the front door.
At Minoan, we've seen thousands of vacation rental living spaces and know what makes the difference between "just another Airbnb" and a standout space that leaves guests eager to book again.
In this guide, we provide tons of actionable Airbnb living room ideas to help you transfer your space from “meh” to marvelous. We’ve also provided a handy buying guide of Airbnb living room essentials – use this as your shopping list to snag great pieces for your space. All recommended products are linked so you can buy them on Minoan, where you’ll get the best prices!
Vacation rental living room decorating ideas
The living room sets the tone for your entire rental property. But if you’re not an interior designer, don’t worry – you can still create a stunning space that will draw guests in.
Whether you're furnishing your first rental or refreshing an existing property, these practical living room ideas for Airbnbs will help you decorate your rental like a pro.
Use mirrors
Mirrors are the not-so-secret weapon of Airbnb interior design pros. Yes, they're functional, but they're also transformative elements for small or dim spaces. Not only do mirrors help reflect natural light to brighten up a room, they also create the illusion that your space is bigger than it is.
Quick mirror placement ideas:
- Across from windows to amplify natural light
- Leaning against walls for dramatic effect
- Above fireplace mantels as focal points
- In narrow hallways to create depth
- On closet doors to make rooms feel larger
Pro tip: Mirrors with interesting or unique frames can double as art pieces, adding character without the higher price tag of original artwork.
Decorate with local pieces
If guests wanted generic decor, they'd book a chain hotel. People choose short-term rentals specifically for the unique character and local flavor they offer.
When decorating your Airbnb living room, incorporate art and pieces from small businesses to bring the distinct local environment into your space. This helps give your property an authentic vibe that guests will appreciate.
Ways to incorporate local decor based on your design scheme:
Pro tip: Feature these local pieces in your Minoan Showroom so guests can purchase the items they fell in love with during their stay. You’ll be helping to support local businesses and in some cases, even earning an additional revenue stream for participating brands!
Add plants
Nothing breathes life into a space quite like plants. Even the most minimalist, neutral living room instantly feels more inviting with strategically placed greenery.
Best low-maintenance plants for vacation rentals:
- Snake plants
- ZZ plants
- Pothos
- Succulents
And don’t forget that faux plants are also an option! We recommend investing in high-quality faux plants so they don’t feel cheap or cheesy.
Plant placement ideas:
- Place large plants in corners to fill empty spaces
- Place small potted plants on coffee tables or shelves
- Hang plants from the ceiling to take advantage of vertical space
- Put long, trailing plants on top of bookcases
Pro tip: Before adding plants to your vacation rental, make sure you or your cleaning team will be able to water and care for them. No one wants to be surrounded by dying, brown plants!
Use color strategically
We can’t talk about Airbnb living room ideas without talking about color. The right color palette sets the mood, defines your property's unique identity, and can even make your space feel larger, cozier, or more luxurious.
Be intentional about the colors you choose for your STR living room. Select colors that enhance your specific location, property style, and target guest preferences rather than simply following trends or personal favorites.
Color psychology cheat sheet:
- Blues: Calming, peaceful, serene
- Greens: Refreshing, natural, balanced
- Yellows: Cheerful, energetic, welcoming
- Reds: Passionate, bold, stimulating
- Neutrals: Sophisticated, timeless, versatile
Quick color tips:
- Start with a 3-4 color palette (including 1-2 neutrals).
- Choose complementary colors (try picking colors that are opposite each other on a color wheel).
- Draw inspiration from your location's natural environment.
- If your STR is in the desert, consider using reds, oranges, and yellows. Similarly, blues work great in coastal spaces.
- Use the 60-30-10 rule.
- 60% dominant color (walls, large furniture)
- 30% secondary color (accent furniture, curtains)
- 10% accent color (accessories, artwork)
- Test colors in different lighting conditions before committing
- You’d be surprised how different a paint swatch looks in natural light versus fluorescent light.
Create a focal point
Every great living room has a centerpiece that anchors the space. Identify the focal point in your space and design around it to create visual harmony that feels intentional rather than haphazard.
Ideas for a focal point:
- Statement sofa in a bold color or unique silhouette
- Architectural feature like a fireplace or exposed brick wall
- Dramatic light fixture or chandelier
- Gallery wall of curated art
- Large-scale artwork or tapestry
- Picture window with a gorgeous view
Design around your focal point by:
- Arranging furniture to face or highlight it
- Using complementary colors that make it pop
- Adding lighting that draws attention to it
- Keeping surrounding decor simpler to avoid competition
Airbnb living room design scheme ideas
Decorating ideas are helpful, but how do you pull all that together? With a design scheme.
Thoughtful Airbnb decor starts with choosing a cohesive theme that guides all your design decisions. You’ll choose colors, furniture, and decor pieces that fit this theme.
Here are 10 distinctive design schemes that will inspire your Airbnb living room transformation.
Get inspired by fellow hosts’ beautiful spaces — check out the Minoan Showroom gallery!
1. Coastal 🌊
The coastal style brings relaxed beachside living indoors with a light, airy atmosphere that instantly puts guests in vacation mode. This timeless approach works beautifully in oceanfront properties but can create a retreat-like feel anywhere.
Key elements:
- Color palette: Sky blues, seafoam greens, sandy neutrals, crisp whites
- Materials: Light woods, rattan, jute, linen, cotton
- Furniture: Comfortable, casual seating with slipcovers or washable fabrics
- Accents: Driftwood pieces, glass vessels, subtle nautical touches
Avoid heavy tropical prints, kitschy seashell overload, or anything too themed – think sophisticated beach house, not souvenir shop.
Inspo
The Blue Skies in Oceanside, California encourages guests to linger and lounge by using cool blue tones, light wood furniture, and crisp white as a base.
2. Woodsy 🌲
The woodsy aesthetic brings the tranquility of forest retreats indoors, perfect for mountain cabins, lakeside cottages, or any space where you want to create a cozy connection to nature. This style emphasizes natural materials and comfort.
Key elements:
- Color palette: Deep greens, rich browns, charcoal, with amber or burgundy accents
- Materials: Reclaimed wood, stone, wool, leather, flannel
- Furniture: Substantial pieces with a handcrafted feel, comfortable seating
- Accents: Antler or branch decor, landscape photography, wool throws
Inspo
The Wild Pine in Central Lake, Michigan leans into cabin vibes with furniture made from natural materials like wood and leather, and a stone fireplace with a rustic wood mantel.
3. Desert 🏜️
Desert style combines earthy minimalism with rich textures and dramatic contrasts, inspired by arid landscapes. This look works particularly well in Southwest properties but can bring warmth and character to any space.
Key elements:
- Color palette: Terracotta, adobe, sand, with turquoise or sunset orange accents
- Materials: Clay, natural fibers, wrought iron, rough-hewn wood
- Furniture: Low-profile seating, organic shapes, handcrafted pieces
- Accents: Pottery, cacti, woven wall hangings, Southwestern textiles
Inspo
The Seventh Ray House in Yucca Valley, California draws inspiration from nearby Joshua Tree National Park to create a warm space using terracotta tiles, shades of tan and brown, leather furniture, and a decorative cattle sculpture.
4. Mid-century modern 🛋️
Mid-century modern style is all the rage right now. This design offers clean lines, organic curves, and timeless appeal that works especially well in urban or suburban settings. This retro-inspired style projects sophistication without trying too hard.
Key elements:
- Color palette: Warm neutrals with pops of mustard, olive, orange, or teal
- Materials: Walnut or teak wood, molded plastic, brass, glass
- Furniture: Iconic silhouettes, tapered legs, functional simplicity
- Accents: Abstract art, sculptural lighting, houseplants in simple planters
For this style, invest in 1-2 authentic or high-quality reproduction statement pieces (like an Eames chair or Noguchi coffee table) and surround them with more affordable complementary items.
Inspo
The Bourbon Bungalow in Shelbyville, Kentucky has a warm, vintage feel with 60s-inspired upholstery, mustard and olive tones, and walnut wood furniture.
5. Sleek contemporary 🏙️
Contemporary design embraces clean lines, uncluttered spaces, and a focus on form and function. It gives off a sense of sophistication that especially appeals to urban professionals and design-conscious travelers.
Key elements:
- Color palette: Monochromatic schemes – especially blacks, whites, and grays – with focused color accents
- Materials: Glass, metal, concrete, high-gloss finishes
- Furniture: Streamlined silhouettes, low-profile seating, geometric forms
- Accents: Statement lighting, large-scale art, minimal but impactful decorative objects
Pro tip: While sleek looks stunning in photos, ensure your contemporary space remains inviting by incorporating soft textiles, adequate lighting, and comfy furniture.
Inspo
Elmsgate in Birmingham, Alabama has an aura of poise with simple, uncluttered decor, a metal statement light fixture, and neutral tones of black, white, brown, and cream throughout.
6. Modern farmhouse 🧺
Modern farmhouse style blends rustic charm with contemporary comfort, creating spaces that feel simultaneously timeless and current. This approachable aesthetic has broad appeal across demographic groups.
Key elements:
- Color palette: Whites, creams, and grays with black accents and natural wood tones
- Materials: Reclaimed wood, shiplap, wrought iron, cotton, linen
- Furniture: Comfortable, practical pieces with simple lines and visible craftsmanship
- Accents: Vintage finds, galvanized metal, simple botanical elements, woven baskets
The most successful farmhouse spaces incorporate genuine vintage or antique elements rather than mass-produced "farmhouse-style" decorations. One truly weathered piece feels more authentic than a dozen manufactured "vintage" signs.
Inspo
The Farmhouse on Angel's Ridge in Bardstown, Kentucky creates a farmhouse feel without looking outdated by combining grey and white walls, a plush sectional sofa, and a reclaimed wood mantel.
7. Boho ✌️
Bohemian style celebrates free spirits with rich layers of pattern, texture, and global influences. This eclectic approach works well for properties marketed to younger travelers or creative types.
Key elements:
- Color palette: Warm neutrals with rich jewel tones or earthy hues
- Materials: Natural fibers, mixed woods, rattan, macramé, global textiles
- Furniture: Low-slung seating, floor cushions, vintage pieces, mixing of styles
- Accents: Plants, hanging chairs, Moroccan poufs, layered rugs, global artifacts
Remember that with boho, curation is key. Bohemian style embraces the "collected over time" aesthetic, but thoughtful curation will prevent the space from feeling chaotic.
Inspo
Boho Bungalow in San Diego, California embraces the quirky boho style with a bright but coordinated color palette, plenty of plants, and funky footstools.
8. Bold and bright 🎨
Hosts who want to create truly Instagram-worthy spaces and aren’t afraid of unique Airbnb living room ideas can take a bold and bright approach, using vibrant colors and playful elements to create memorable spaces that stand out in listings. Just be careful not to overwhelm the entire space – you can pack a punch with 1-2 bold walls or furniture pieces against more neutral backgrounds.
Key elements:
- Color palette: Saturated hues, unexpected color combinations, strategic color blocking
- Materials: Velvet, painted furniture, colorful tiles, statement wallpaper
- Furniture: Statement pieces in unexpected colors, playful silhouettes
- Accents: Graphic art, colorful glassware, bold patterns, unexpected details
Inspo
The Colorful Cove in Kissimmee, Florida unabashedly embraces boldness with bright, patterned curtains, a funky wall decal, colorful accent chairs, and unique decor, like the flower lamp and cherry tables.
9. Scandinavian minimalist ☕
Scandinavian minimalism prioritizes simplicity, functionality, and connection to nature. This clean, bright aesthetic creates calm, ordered spaces that promote relaxation and well-being. To implement this style well, prioritize excellent lighting (natural and artificial), comfortable seating, and a thoughtful layout over purely decorative elements.
Key elements:
- Color palette: Whites, soft grays, pale woods, with black accents and subtle pops of color
- Materials: Pale woods, wool, linen, sheepskin, simple natural elements
- Furniture: Clean lines, functional design, light wood tones, purposeful pieces
- Accents: Candles, simple greenery, natural textures, minimal art
Inspo
The Koselig Korner in Nashville, Tennessee embraces the simple coziness of Scandinavian design with plenty of light wood, neutral tones (with a pop of color here and there), and clean, polished lines.
10. Japandi 🎋
Japandi blends Japanese minimalism with Scandinavian functionality for a serene, sophisticated aesthetic that balances warmth and restraint. This harmonious hybrid style appeals particularly to design-conscious travelers seeking tranquil accommodations.
Key elements:
- Color palette: Neutral earth tones with blacks, charcoals, and subtle greens
- Materials: Natural woods, bamboo, stone, paper, linen, ceramic
- Furniture: Low-profile pieces, clean lines, visible craftsmanship, functional design
- Accents: Bonsai or simple greenery, ceramic vessels, rice paper lamps, minimal art
Japandi embraces the concept of negative space – areas intentionally left empty. This mindful approach to "less is more" requires quality over quantity in every element you choose.
Inspo
Japandi Dome in Durham, North Carolina embraces quiet minimalism using jute rugs, greenery, light wood tones, and plenty of natural light.
Airbnb living room buying guide
Once you’ve got your design scheme planned out, it’s time to go furniture shopping! (We may be biased but we think that’s the most fun part.)
Hand-selected by our team, the furnishings listed below are some of our favorite pieces. Be sure to shop them on Minoan for the best prices!
Couches
The Hamilton Sofa by Castlery features clean lines and a timeless silhouette that works with virtually any design scheme. Its low profile and deep seats invite guests to sink in and get comfy.
Joybird’s Wilder Sleeper Sectional is the best of both worlds: spacious seating to accommodate a group and an extra bed for guests to use as needed. Its modern, simple design will work with tons of different design schemes.
View Minoan’s complete sofa buying guide
Arm chairs
The Margie Swivel Chair by Lulu and Georgia is a sculptural statement piece that instantly adds character to any living room. Its curved silhouette and swivel functionality make it both a design focal point and a practical addition that lets guests turn toward conversation or the TV.
Looking for something a little more rustic? The Troubadour Lounge Chair by Industry West is just what you need. With a wood frame arranged in clean, straight lines and plush leather cushions, it evokes mid-century modern meets woodsy cabin.
Coffee tables
TOV Furniture’s Amora Faux Travertine Indoor/Outdoor Nesting Accent Tables deliver the luxurious look of travertine without the maintenance concerns of natural stone. Their neutral tone will match any color palette.
The Payton Rectangular Coffee Table by Joss and Main is a versatile piece with clean lines and sturdy construction. Whether you’re trying to evoke a farmhouse, Scandinavian, or mid-century look, this table fits the bill.
Lamps
The Gira Floor Lamp by Article is a cool, funky piece that would work just as well in an eclectic urban penthouse as it would in a minimalist modern space.
The Mayte Table Lamp by Lumens adds organic texture and warm ambient lighting to side tables or console surfaces. The fun base adds interest to your space while the linen shade diffuses light beautifully.
Rugs
The Uptown Hand Tufted Wool Rug by AllModern offers the perfect combination of durability and softness underfoot. The geometric pattern is universally appealing while the low pile allows for easy cleaning.
The Angela Rose x Loloi Colton Area Rug by Wayfair offers the look of a vintage piece with modern practicality. The cotton-jute blend adds texture with a touch of softness.
Entertainment
The 50" Class Crystal UHD CU7000 by Samsung is a mid-range smart TV that delivers excellent picture quality and user-friendly features without unnecessary premium costs.
Crosley’s Stanza Portable Bluetooth Speaker is a great addition that your guests will love, enabling them to play music in any room they please. This speaker is particularly aesthetic, so it’ll add to your living room’s ambiance.
Extra touches
Quince’s Ultra-Fine Recycled Faux Fur Throw adds instant coziness to any seating arrangement. The faux fur texture adds a luxurious touch, while the washable construction ensures easy cleaning between guests.
Filia Linen Throw Pillows by Joss and Main are the epitome of stylish simplicity with a subtle fringed border. Plus, the pillow cases are removable for easy washing.
The Leather Hosting Book by Serena and Lily serves as both a beautiful coffee table accessory and a sweet touch for guests to sign.
Vacation rental living room layout ideas
Let's talk about how to arrange your Airbnb living room furniture – because trust us, it matters more than you think! The way you set up your space doesn't just affect how good your listing photos look, but completely shapes how your guests will experience their stay.
A smart layout makes your space feel larger, creates natural pathways for moving around, and subtly tells guests whether this is a place to Netflix-and-chill or gather around for game night with friends.
Twin sofas
This classic, symmetrical arrangement creates a perfectly balanced conversation area that photographs beautifully from multiple angles.
How it works:
- Place two identical (or complementary) sofas facing each other
- Position a coffee table in the center as an anchor
- Add 1-2 accent chairs on one side of the couches to create a U-shape if space allows
- Consider placing the arrangement in the center of the room rather than pushing everything against walls
Best for:
- Properties that cater to groups who value conversation over TV time
- Spaces with a beautiful focal point like a fireplace or view that both sofas can face
- Listings that highlight social gatherings or "group getaway" experiences
Layout tip: Leave at least 30" between the coffee table and sofas to allow for comfortable movement. This arrangement works in both large and medium-sized spaces but requires enough room to walk completely around the furniture grouping.
Corner sectional
An L-shaped sectional maximizes seating capacity while creating a cozy, inclusive atmosphere perfect for movie nights and game-playing groups.
How it works:
- Position a large L-shaped sectional in a corner
- Add a rectangular or square coffee table that everyone can reach
- Include 1-2 accent chairs to create a closed square arrangement if desired
- Orient the setup toward a TV or fireplace if that's a key feature
Best for:
- Family-friendly rentals expecting children and larger groups
- Properties marketed for extended stays where comfort is paramount
- Spaces where watching TV or movies is a highlighted amenity
- Rentals with smaller square footage needing to maximize seating
Space-saving hack: Choose a sectional with a chaise component rather than a full L-shape if your square footage is limited. This provides the lounging comfort guests want without the bulk of a full corner piece.
Triangle arrangement
This dynamic, flexible layout uses three different seating types arranged in a triangular configuration, offering variety and visual interest.
This arrangement allows you to incorporate that statement piece you love – like a bold swivel chair or cozy lounger – without overwhelming the space, as it's balanced by more conventional pieces in the triangle.
How it works:
- Position a sofa along one wall as your anchor piece
- Add a distinctive accent chair at a 45° angle
- Complete the triangle with a secondary seating option (loveseat, bench, pouf, etc.)
- Center a coffee table in the middle of the arrangement
Best for:
- Distinctive properties with unique character pieces to showcase
- Spaces with mixed-use needs (some guests lounging, others reading)
- Rentals targeting design-conscious travelers who appreciate visual interest
- Living rooms with architectural features worth highlighting from different angles
TV-focused layout
This practical arrangement prioritizes screen viewing without sacrificing style, perfect for rentals where entertainment is a key feature.
How it works:
- Position a comfortable sofa or sectional directly facing the TV wall
- Add an accent chair at a slight angle, also oriented toward the screen
- Include a coffee table that can double as a footrest for movie nights
- Keep side tables within reach for drinks and snacks
Best for:
- Urban properties where guests might want to unwind after sightseeing
- Rentals in locations with inclement weather seasons
- Spaces marketed to solo travelers or couples seeking relaxation
- Properties highlighting premium streaming services or entertainment systems
Tips for choosing a layout
Traffic flow:
- Maintain at least 30" of walking space between major furniture pieces
- Create obvious pathways to doorways, windows, and other rooms
- Avoid arrangements that force guests to walk around obstacles to reach common areas
Photography:
- Consider how your layout will photograph for listings.
- Create depth with pieces at varying distances from the camera to make your space appear larger
Flexibility:
- Include at least one lightweight piece (pouf, ottoman, or side chair) that guests can easily reposition based on their needs.
- If you want to accommodate more guests, choose a sleeper sofa.
Room size considerations:
FAQs
Can you Airbnb a living room?
Yes, you can rent out your living room on Airbnb.
To do so, you'll need to:
- List it as a "Room” rather than “Entire Home”
- Provide details about privacy solutions (room dividers, curtains, etc.)
- Detail exactly which amenities and spaces are shared
- Ensure your home insurance policy covers this type of rental
Check your local regulations, as some cities have restrictions on renting non-bedroom spaces.
How to style a room for an Airbnb?
Creating an inviting Airbnb living room requires balancing style with practicality.
- Choose a cohesive design scheme that reflects your location
- Invest in durable, comfortable seating that’s easy to clean
- Layer lighting (overhead, floor lamps, and table lamps)
- Add texture with machine washable pillows and throw blankets
- Include side tables within reach of each seating area
- Create a focal point (fireplace, statement art, or view) to anchor the space
- Incorporate plants for life and color
- Minimize clutter and personal items
What color should I paint my Airbnb living room?
The ideal paint color for your Airbnb living room depends on several factors including your property's location, natural light conditions, and target guest preferences. While there's no one-size-fits-all answer, many hosts opt for neutral wall paint colors so they can add color through furniture, art, and decor (and change things out if they want to switch to a new color palette!)
Best neutral paint options:
- Warm whites (like Benjamin Moore's "White Dove" or Sherwin-Williams "Alabaster") – Create a bright, versatile backdrop that works with any design scheme
- Soft greiges (like Behr's "Silver Drop" or Sherwin-Williams "Agreeable Gray") – Provide subtle warmth while hiding minor marks better than pure white
- Pale taupes (like Benjamin Moore's "Pale Oak" or PPG's "Whiskers") – Add dimension without committing to a specific color direction