Lighting plays a significant role in setting the mood and functionality of your short-term rental. The right lighting not only enhances your guests’ experience but also photographs beautifully—making your listing more appealing to potential visitors. If you’re unsure where to start, this guide will help you choose the perfect lighting for every room, taking into account geography, light sources, and practical tips.
Understand Your Geography
The natural light in your rental depends on where it's located, and will also impact the overall mood of your design.
Northern Locations:
Natural light in northern regions tends to have a cooler, bluish tone. To counterbalance this, you might want to use warmer artificial lighting (think yellow or amber tones) to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Photo of White Birch Cabin.
Southern Locations:
Natural light in southern areas often leans toward warmer, yellow tones. Here, cooler artificial lighting (soft white or daylight bulbs) can add a crisp, fresh feel to your space.
Photo of Palm Paradise.
Evaluate Your Light Sources
Windows and Natural Light
Maximize the natural light in your rental. Large windows or strategically placed mirrors can amplify daylight and make your space feel bigger and brighter. Consider using light, sheer curtains to maintain privacy without sacrificing natural light.
Photo of The Tulsa Manor.
Overhead Lighting
Overhead lighting is essential, but it shouldn’t be the sole source of light in your rooms. Avoid harsh, overly bright bulbs that can make a space feel sterile. Instead, opt for dimmable fixtures so your guests can adjust the lighting to suit their needs. For instance:
- Living Room: Install a statement pendant light or a chandelier with a warm glow.
- Bedrooms: Use ceiling fixtures sparingly and pair them with softer, bedside lighting.
- Kitchen: Choose bright but neutral lighting to enhance visibility while cooking.
Photo of The Boardwalk Hotel.
Bedside and Floor Lamps
Layering your lighting with bedside or floor lamps creates ambiance and functionality. Place bedside lamps with warm light for guests to wind down in the evenings. Floor lamps work well in corners to brighten darker areas or add a design statement.
Photo of The Boardwalk Hotel.
Choose the Right Bulbs
Understanding light bulb temperatures is key to achieving the right ambiance. Bulb color temperature is measured in Kelvins (K), and this can drastically change the feel of a room:
|
Kelvin Temperature |
Color |
Best For |
|
2700K–3000K |
Warm White/Soft White |
Bedrooms, living rooms, dining areas |
|
3000K–4000K |
Neutral White |
Kitchens, bathrooms, workspaces |
|
5000K–6500K |
Daylight |
Outdoor areas, laundry rooms, reading nooks |
Tip: A great default option for most rooms is a soft white bulb (2700K–3000K). This range provides enough warmth to feel welcoming while still being bright enough for daily use.
Lighting Tips for Key Spaces
Living Room:
Use a mix of overhead, floor, and table lamps to create a layered lighting effect. This versatility allows guests to adjust the atmosphere from cozy evenings to brighter social settings.Bedrooms:
Ensure bedside lamps have easy-to-access switches and provide warm, dimmable light for nighttime reading or relaxation.Bathroom:
Use neutral white lighting around mirrors to simulate natural light—perfect for makeup or grooming.Kitchen:
Combine overhead lighting with under-cabinet fixtures to eliminate shadows on countertops.Outdoor Spaces:
String lights or solar-powered lanterns can add charm and make patios or decks more functional at night.
Photo of Palm Paradise.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right lighting doesn’t have to be complicated. Start with your geography, layer light sources for functionality and style, and pay attention to bulb temperatures for the best ambiance. Thoughtful lighting design ensures that your rental looks its best in photos and provides an unforgettable experience for your guests.
Looking for more design tips for your short-term rental?
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