10 Design Tips to Make Your Airbnb Stand Out in 2025

In the ever-evolving world of vacation rentals, standing out is no longer optional—it’s essential. With travelers becoming more design-savvy (and review-happy), your Airbnb needs to be more than just a place to sleep; it needs to be an experience. And in 2025, that experience better be Insta-worthy, guest-friendly, and a step ahead of the competition.

If you want guests to book, rave, and return, here are 10 design tips to transform your Airbnb into the showstopper it was always meant to be.

1. Ditch the Bland, Embrace the Brand

A generic rental is so… 2019. Guests want personality! Pick a theme or aesthetic and fully commit—whether it’s “Scandinavian Minimalist,” “Coastal Boho,” or “Industrial Chic with a Dash of Speakeasy.” Your Airbnb should feel curated, not cobbled together from clearance sales.

Pro Tip: A well-branded space makes marketing easier. Guests love sharing eye-catching spaces, and social media shoutouts mean more bookings for you!

2. Elevate the Shower Game

Sad little plastic bottles of off-brand shampoo? Not in your five-star kingdom. Upgrade to beautifully labeled, refillable dispensers that scream “luxury spa” Thoughtful details like Artanis Home’s Modern Apothecary collection elevate even the most basic bathroom into a guest-worthy retreat. Not your style? Invest in our custom dispensers and include color or other design elements from your property for a cohesive look! Or let us put something together for you that suits all of your properties, like our white squat bottles for VacayAZ below.

Bonus points for: A rainfall showerhead, fluffy white towels, interesting tilework, and bath products that smell like a dream vacation. See our Paya refills!

3. The Power of the Statement Piece

Give guests something to talk about. A bold, wallpapered accent wall, a vintage chandelier, or a funky, oversized mirror adds instant personality. It’s the difference between a space that’s “nice” and one that makes guests whip out their phones to snap a pic.

Remember: If it’s Instagrammable, it’s bookable.

4. Smart Tech = Smart Hosting

It’s 2025—guests expect keyless entry, smart thermostats, and voice-controlled lighting. The fewer things they have to fumble with (like keys, remotes, or outdated thermostats), the smoother their stay.

Host Hack: A digital welcome guide with Wi-Fi info, local recommendations, and check-out instructions makes life easier for everyone.

5. A Coffee Station That Means Business

Caffeine is not optional. A basic coffee maker isn’t enough—create a dedicated coffee and tea station with a variety of brew options, quality beans, and mugs that don’t feel like an afterthought. Include travel cups so your guests can take their coffee as they head out in the morning to explore the city, local attractions, or attend the event they're in town for.

Extra Love: A few syrups, hot chocolate for the kiddos, a french press, or even a cute little chalkboard sign that says "Espresso Yourself" (yes, the puns help).

6. Multifunctional Spaces for the Win

Today’s guests work remotely, binge-watch, and do yoga—all in the same space. Flexible, well-designed areas keep everyone happy. A cozy reading nook, a workspace with plenty of outlets, or a stylish little bar cart setup? That’s the kind of thoughtfulness that earns 5-star reviews.

Bonus: A fold-down desk or extendable dining table can transform a space for work, dining, or game night—because versatility is the real MVP in vacation rentals.

7. Lighting: More Than Just a Necessity

Good lighting makes all the difference. Guests don’t want to feel like they’re in a fluorescent-lit office or a medieval dungeon. Layer warm ambient lighting, chic table lamps, and soft bedside sconces to create an inviting atmosphere.

Hot Tip: Dimmers change everything. A little mood lighting goes a long way.

8. Luxe Bedding = Rave Reviews

Your guests will forgive a lot, but a bad night’s sleep isn’t one of them. Invest in high-thread-count sheets, a supportive mattress, and an unreasonable number of pillows. When they sink into bed and whisper, “Oh wow,” you’ve won the game.

Hosting Upgrade: A weighted blanket, an extra throw, and a white noise machine = chef’s kiss.

9. Storage That Makes Sense

Nothing ruins a stylish space like guests' belongings exploding everywhere. Thoughtful luggage racks, closet space, and clever storage solutions make the stay feel effortless.

Small Touch, Big Impact: A designated area for shoes, hooks for coats and bags, and labeled baskets for small items. Clutter-free = stress-free.

10. The Personal Touch

What makes your Airbnb special? Maybe it’s a hand-picked selection of books, a playlist curated for your city’s vibe, or a handwritten welcome note with a snack from a local bakery. Those little moments of thoughtfulness are what guests remember (and what they mention in their glowing reviews).

Best Move: A personalized touch that makes them feel at home, that they are appreciated, and have a connection with you, the host.

Final Thoughts

In 2025, a standout Airbnb is more than just a place to sleep—it’s a curated experience. By mixing function with style, technology with comfort, and personality with practicality, you’ll create a space guests won’t just stay in, but fall in love with.

And if you’re looking for that final je ne sais quoi—something subtle yet sophisticated, useful yet beautiful—Artanis Home is here to help. Check out our selection of custom-labeled dispensers and storage solutions that add that perfect, polished touch to your Airbnb.

Because when it comes to hosting, the details make the difference.