Have you noticed that around 70% of people who book vacation apartments are drawn to the interior design? It’s clear they’re looking for something special, something different from what they have at home. And it’s no wonder: we live in an age where deciding between booking or moving on to the next accommodation is a matter of seconds. That’s why decor can be what determines whether your apartment is always full or sits empty, gathering dust.
Because let’s face it, who wants to book something that looks like an ordinary apartment when right next door is one that screams, “Look at me, I’m irresistible!”?
But it’s not just about looking pretty on Instagram. A well-decorated apartment will not only attract more clicks and bookings, it will also make guests feel truly comfortable. And you know, a happy guest means good reviews, recommendations, and the possibility of charging a little more per night. Sounds good, right?
By now you’re probably thinking, “Okay, but how do you do that?” Don’t worry, here comes the fun part.
Why is decoration so important in tourist apartments?
If you rent your apartment to tourists, you’ve probably noticed that first impressions are crucial. Imagine walking into a place and instead of saying “nice,” you think “meh, it’s passable.” Would you book there again? We highly doubt it.
The secret to good decor is creating more than just a place to sleep. It’s about offering an experience, making the guest want to come back or at least tell their friends. Plus, with so many options out there, standing out is essential.
Define the style of the tourism department
Before you go crazy buying furniture and decor, stop and think for a moment. Who usually books your accommodations? Young couples, families with children, business travelers? Plus, location matters a lot: decorating an urban apartment isn’t the same as decorating a rural house in the mountains.
Here are some styles that never fail:
- Modern and minimalist: Spacious spaces, clean lines, and minimal embellishments. Ideal for young people or business travelers.
- Rustic: Wood, stone, warm textures, and plenty of comfort. Perfect for rural or mountainous areas.
- Scandinavian: Bright, simple, and with lots of light wood. Very cozy and relaxing.
- Industrial: Brick walls, metal, and urban details that say, “We’re cool here.”
Choosing one and sticking with it will save you a lot of headaches and help your guests connect with the space.
How to decorate your tourist apartment
Three essential things: it must be beautiful, practical, and comfortable. Remember that it must look amazing in photos, but also work well in real life.
Choosing functional and comfortable furniture
- Opt for quality mattresses; no one will forgive you for sleeping poorly.
- Sofa beds and folding tables are your allies for making the most of your space.
- Durable materials that can withstand the pace of constant travelers.
The importance of lighting
- If you have natural light, use it. Light curtains will do the trick.
- Combine decorative lamps with functional lights.
- Think about photos; good lighting is the difference between a click and a miss.
Color palette and color psychology
- Neutrals for spaciousness and calm.
- Cheerful touches in accessories to bring life.
- Warm colors for cozy environments and fresh colors for relaxing places like the bathroom.
Decorative elements that make the difference
Let’s be clear: the details are what make your apartment go from “okay” to “amazing.” But be careful not to turn it into a bazaar.
- Simple paintings, strategic mirrors, and washable textiles that add style.
- Artificial plants that don’t need watering (we don’t want frustrated gardeners).
- Useful and beautiful accessories that add value without getting in the way.
Outdoor spaces: terraces and balconies
The terrace or balcony can be your best bet. Who can say no to breakfast in the sun or a drink at sunset? Use sturdy, practical furniture that can withstand any weather without deteriorating. You can also add a special atmosphere by illuminating the space with decorative garlands or solar lamps; a simple yet effective touch. You can also easily add life with plants like cacti or succulents, which practically take care of themselves and provide freshness without complications.
Coherent decoration throughout the apartment
No “every room has its own thing.” Visual coherence is key to making the apartment feel harmonious and welcoming. Too many contrasts can make the space seem cluttered or even uncomfortable. The idea is for everything to flow, for there to be a common thread in the decor that makes the space feel unified.
How to achieve this? Here are some tips:
- Consistent color palette: Use complementary colors or a similar color scheme throughout all rooms. This creates continuity and makes the space appear larger and more organized.
- Consistent decorative style: Choose a style (modern, rustic, Scandinavian, industrial, etc.) and maintain it throughout. Don’t mix an industrial living room with a rustic bedroom, as it will look like a meaningless collage.
- Similar materials and finishes: Use woods of similar shades or metals with the same finish (matte, glossy, or antique) to unify the look of furniture and accessories.
- Harmonious decorative elements: Less is more. Choose pieces that share a common theme or style instead of cluttering the space with unrelated decorations.
- Coordinated textiles: Make sure curtains, pillows, rugs, and bedding follow a similar design theme to create visual cohesion.
Maintaining this consistency not only improves aesthetics, it also makes purchasing furniture and accessories easier. And, if that weren’t enough, the photos look much more attractive and professional.
Comfort details that build guest loyalty
If you want your guests to return or recommend you, give them reasons. Sometimes, the small details make the biggest difference. Making them feel at home doesn’t require a huge investment; it does require thinking about their comfort.
Here are some gestures that really add points:
- Quality bedding and towels: No one wants to sleep on rough sheets or dry off with a thin, worn towel. Opt for soft sheets and fluffy towels. The quality of linens greatly influences the perception of cleanliness and comfort.
- Cozy accessories: Extra blankets, decorative pillows, and soft rugs add that homey touch that invites you to linger.
- Amenities and welcome details: Small bathroom items (gel, shampoo, soap), a coffee and tea kit, or a welcome bottle of wine can make a big impression.
- Technology and connectivity: Fast Wi-Fi, accessible power outlets near beds and sofas, and universal chargers or adapters are a must these days.
- Functional workspaces: With the rise of remote working, a comfortable, well-lit desk can be a great added value.
- Helpful, personalized information: Includes a guide with local recommendations (restaurants, activities, transportation) and clear, concise house rules.
These details enhance the guest experience and increase the chances of receiving positive reviews. Ultimately, it’s all about creating a comfortable and memorable place.
CEO de Vika Interior Design. Diseñador de interiores con 10 años de experiencia en proyectos de interiorismo y dirección de obra y amueblamiento. Con estudio de diseño interior desde 2014 dedicados a realizar proyectos en viviendas locales y oficinas.
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