Decorating a home is one of the most fun DIY projects you could take on. Some may consider it tedious, but if you let it, decorating your rental home can really bring out your inner artist, and help bring in your best guests!

First Steps for Decorating Your Vacation Rental

The first thing you should do is consider the theme of the home; its atmosphere. For ideas and inspiration, look at the vacation rental homes we have listed on our website.

Guests want to feel and experience the lifestyle of the area where they’re visiting. In Galveston, that means a coastal or beachy theme: Ocean blues and greens, sailboats, and seashells. In Houston, a more modern vibe with clean lines. At Lake Livingston, a warmer, cozy feel, like pine trees and campfires.

Make sure to keep your theme consistent throughout all the rooms. Giving a vacation rental a distinct personality is fun and enjoyable, but you don’t want to go overboard. You still want guests to feel at home in the space, instead of like they’re in someone else’s home.

TIP: Start with making the front door as inviting as possible! Sometimes a fresh coat of paint on your door is enough to liven up your home from the start. Also consider adding a simple welcome sign or seasonal wreath!

Easy Winners When Decorating:

  • Use the windows to your advantage, especially if your windows have beachy views. The natural light can give your space warmth.
  • Neutral tones are the best bet for your walls. These colors match anything, and you can add pops of color in the decorations, like throw pillows or art.
  • Mirrors help provide depth to a room, and they are great for distributing light. Hang or stand your mirrors perpendicular to windows to transfer light in the room
  • Art can help liven a room up and give it texture and color. A key thing to remember is that the artwork’s center should be around eye level.
  • Comfortable furniture is crucial to making your rental home a place where people want to return. Arrange your furniture in a way where guests are “talking” to each other, in a U or H shape.
  • Faux plants add a splash of brightness and life that makes a home feel welcoming.

Design Traps to Avoid:

  • Clutter is a mood killer for any living space. Whether it’s too many nicknacks, books, or vases on shelves or taking up counter space, try to err on the side of subtlety.
  • Inconsistency is distracting for guests and can give the impression of lack of taste or carelessness. Choose one general theme and stick to the colors, textures, and fabrics that best go with that theme.
  • Too many patterns can create a claustrophobic environment. Patterns and prints should be delightful, not annoying. Stick to neutrals and solid colors around your house, and pick one or two prints to complement each of your rooms in small doses: A couple of throw pillows, a vase here and there, and you’re good to go!

Create a Welcoming Space

Home design not only takes practice, but it’s also continuously evolving. Don’t be surprised to find yourself adding, removing, or updating something in your space down the road.

Just remember that your rental home should feel warm, inviting, and conducive to be the background of your guests’ best memories.

If you have any questions or concerns about design choices, we’re happy to help! As property managers, our main goal is to elevate your success with our services.