Top 10 Short-Term Rental Design Mistakes to Avoid in 2025 (And How to Fix Them!)

Top 10 Short-Term Rental Design Mistakes to Avoid in 2025 (And How to Fix Them!)

If you’ve been keeping up with our Level Up Your Listing series on Instagram and TikTok, you’ve seen us critique short-term rental (STR) properties nationwide, offering actionable tips to elevate designs with the Pink Wall Designs touch.

2024 showed us that even minor design mistakes can make or break a guest’s experience and your revenue. In fact, many of the most common errors we saw could be easily avoided with a few smart updates!

In this blog, we’ll count down the top 10 design faux-pas we encountered last year, leading up to the number one offender, and share solutions to help you create a space guests love.

PS: We’re launching our official YouTube channel in 2025. Expect more in-depth design critiques, tips for boosting your average daily rate (ADR), and walkthroughs of standout properties. Want personalized feedback? Submit Your Listing today.

10. Not Enough Seating for Guests

Your living spaces should comfortably accommodate the number of guests your property can host. A large listing with limited seating leaves potential guests wondering if the space is truly designed for them.

Fix: Upgrade to sectionals or large couches, and incorporate flexible options like ottomans or poufs to ensure everyone has a seat. Avoid using mismatched furniture you already have on hand to solve this problem. Investing in cohesive seating can lead to better reviews and higher bookings.

9. Furniture That’s the Wrong Size for the Room

Oversized rooms with tiny furniture feel unfinished, while small spaces with bulky furniture feel cramped and overwhelming.

Fix: Select furniture that matches the scale of your space. Maximize seating while keeping proportions balanced. Use large area rugs that fit under the entire furniture grouping to define the space and make the room feel larger.

Need help space planning your existing furniture? We offer that service! Learn more here and book a complimentary consultation with us today.

8. Curtains Hung Incorrectly

Poorly hung curtains can instantly drag down the look of your space.

Fix: Mount curtain rods as close to the ceiling line as possible to elongate the walls. Panels should just brush the floor, not hang awkwardly short or pool excessively. Choose curtains at least twice the width of the window, or triple for a luxurious look.

Pro Tip: Properly hung curtains instantly elevate the room’s appearance and make it feel larger.

For Example: Check out these before and afters from our most recent Bnb Boost project in San Antonio, TX!

7. Minimalism That Misses the Mark

Minimalism can be stunning, but poorly executed designs come across as cold, empty, and unfinished. Bare walls, sparse furniture, and a lack of personality leave guests feeling like they’re staying in an uninviting, incomplete space rather than a thoughtfully curated retreat.

Fix: Don’t leave walls bare. Add texture and depth with large-scale wallpaper patterns, subtle paint textures, or low-contrast feature walls. Incorporate warm finishes such as natural wood, soft upholstery, or woven accents to balance the clean aesthetic with a sense of comfort. These elements introduce visual interest while maintaining a minimalist vibe. Pair them with greenery, layered fabrics, and luxe curtains to create an inviting atmosphere. Thoughtfully selected furniture and décor are essential to making the space feel intentional and complete. Minimal doesn’t mean empty; it means simplicity with warmth and purpose.

Pro Tip: Lighting can be your best tool for adding dimension to a minimal space. Wall sconces, pendant lighting, or even carefully positioned lamps can create shadows and highlights that bring depth, warmth and personality to your interiors.

For Example: Watch PWD Reel on Instagram

6. Overdone Themes That Alienate Guests

While themed designs can make your property stand out, going overboard can backfire. Overly specific or niche themes might alienate potential guests, making the space feel kitschy rather than inviting.

Fix: Incorporate subtle nods to your theme instead of overwhelming the space. Use accessories, art, and color palettes that reference the theme while keeping the overall design versatile and appealing to a broader audience.

Pro Tip: Always prioritize comfort and functionality over strict adherence to a theme. A tasteful balance will appeal to more guests and lead to better reviews.

For Example: Watch PWD Reel on Instagram

5. No Clear Direction

A lack of a cohesive design direction can leave your property looking chaotic and uninviting. Mismatched furniture, clashing decor, and items that look like they came from a garage sale or were handed down can make the space feel cheap and unprofessional.

Fix: Establish a clear design direction before selecting furniture and decor. Stick to a cohesive color palette, materials, and style that align with your target market. If you’re working with existing pieces, prioritize larger furniture items that set the tone for the room, and build around them with complementary accessories. Avoid mismatched nightstands, random decor, and overly eclectic styles that don’t flow together.

Pro Tip: A cohesive design doesn’t mean everything has to match perfectly. Mix materials and styles thoughtfully to create a layered, curated look that feels intentional, not haphazard.

For Example: Watch PWD Reel on Instagram

4. Tiny Artwork on Large Walls

Small artwork on big walls highlights the emptiness of the space and makes it feel unfinished.

Fix: Use oversized art, large mirrors, or create a gallery wall to fill the space proportionately. Wall accents like neon signs or sculptural pieces are great ways to create visual interest and a bold, unique aesthetic.

Budget Tip: Peel-and-stick wall decals or affordable prints paired with stylish frames can achieve a high-end look.

3. Mounting TVs Too High

Watching TV with your neck craned upward is not a relaxing experience and can leave guests frustrated.

Fix: Mount TVs at eye level for a comfortable viewing experience. Position screens away from windows to reduce glare and ensure everyone can enjoy the space.

Bonus Tip: Use a cord cover or neatly organize cords for a polished, professional look.

For Example: Watch PWD Reel on Instagram

2. Cluttered, Unstaged Photos

Cluttered or poorly staged photos can be a deal-breaker for potential guests.

Fix: Remove everyday items like remotes, garbage bins, and shower mats from listing photos. Don’t forget to close toilet seat covers and arrange furniture and décor intentionally.

Pro Tip: Highlight amenities like coffee makers or toiletries with close-up shots separate from your main room photos.

1. Failing to Make a Memorable Impression

And the number one offender time and time again is a property that fails to leave a lasting impression. A space that lacks personality, charm, or thoughtful touches will leave guests underwhelmed and less likely to book again. Forgettable design is not just about mismatched furniture—it’s about missing the opportunity to create an emotional connection with your guests.

Fix: Focus on adding signature elements that set your property apart. Layer in textures, patterns, and materials to add depth and character. Create a standout feature wall or introduce décor that ties into your location or theme in a subtle, tasteful way. Guests remember spaces that make them feel comfortable, inspired, and special.

Pro Tip: The best designs are the ones guests talk about long after their stay. A thoughtfully curated property will boost guest satisfaction, encourage repeat bookings, and even lead to glowing reviews.

Ready to create a standout design for your short-term rental?

At Pink Wall Designs, we specialize in crafting inspiring, scroll-stopping interiors that guests rave about. Whether you need help with feature walls, space planning, or a complete design overhaul, we’re here to help. Book a complimentary consultation with us today!

 

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