Rental property owners frequently ask us what they can do to differentiate their properties from others so that they stand out from an ever-increasing competition. A generic, bland design might have worked a few years ago, back when guests where flocking to AirBnB holiday homes for the very first time, as they discovered that it was possible to find alternatives to grim and tiny hotel rooms. However, the market is now mature, and guests expect more than just a bed and a sofa. They seek an experience that will complement and improve their holiday. To stand out, the property needs to have local roots and a distinctive, cohesive character. It means choosing patterns and colours that resonate with both the local setting and the overall theme of your property. It’s a tall order, I know, and the challenge is to achieve all this within a limited budget. Let me guide you on how to create a consistent theme, focusing on the importance of coordinating improvements with existing décor. Our goal is to make a place feel new by repurposing as many elements of the existing décor as possible without breaking the bank.
How wallpaper can help create a consistent theme throughout a property
Infusing your rental property with a unique identity can be a financial challenge. Interesting pieces of furniture, artwork and decoration pieces tend to be far more expensive than off-the-shelf IKEA stuff. This is where wallpaper can play a significant role as it is a powerful tool in interior design which helps to create distinctive spaces through intricate patterns, rich textures, and attractive colour schemes. Unlike paint, wallpaper serves as a versatile canvas for storytelling, with themes ranging from the tranquillity of nature to opulent luxury.
The importance of coordinating with existing décor
Let’s face it: like most rental properties, yours is probably already furnished, and you would prefer to keep most of what is there. You’re not wrong! One of the smartest strategies to achieve a cohesive look while staying within budget is to carefully select wallpapers that complement your existing furnishings and décor. This is how to do it:
- Evaluate what is already in place
Start by taking a close look at the furniture, fixtures, and decorative elements you already have in each room. Pay attention to the existing colour palette, patterns, and overall style. Identifying these features is essential when it comes to choosing a wallpaper that can both complement and elevate what’s already there. - Choose the base colour wisely
With a focus on the theme you would like to achieve, select a wallpaper model that either matches or harmonises with the dominant hues in your décor. This approach ensures that it will enhance the existing colour scheme rather than clashing with it. - Maintain style-consistency
Work withing the boundaries of your existing décor. If your furnishings have a classic, traditional look, choose a model that reflects that timeless elegance. On the other hand, if your décor leans towards a modern aesthetic, opt for contemporary wallpaper designs with clean lines and minimalist motifs. - Accessorise thoughtfully
A few accessories which match the wallpaper design will expand the theme you picked throughout the room, seamlessly tying it all together. Even simple, unexpensive decorative items, for instance cushions, throws, artwork, or curtains can do wonders to emphasise the design scheme.
Accent wall vs. full room wallpapering
A common dilemma for AirBnB owners is whether to create a single feature wall or go all in and decorate all four walls of a room. Accent walls are the most common choice as they are a powerful design tool that draws attention to a particular area, e.g. like the headboard in a bedroom, allowing you to make a statement without overwhelming the space. However, wallpapering the entire room can be a great option for places with basic, bland furnishing, as the wall décor will provide the necessary visual interest.
Add at least one design piece
While I have stressed the importance of re-using as much of the existing furnishing as possible, I recommend investing in at least one standout design piece that complements the wallpaper theme. This could be a bespoke piece of furniture, an eye-catching light fixture, or a striking artwork. For example, if you go for a romantic floral wallpaper, a vintage chandelier with delicate floral motifs can add a touch of opulence and tie the entire design together, creating a cohesive aesthetic that projects the wall décor theme into the room.
Don’t let the theme completely take over
One important point that should be mentioned: while a consistent theme is essential, it's equally vital to exercise discretion when implementing wallpaper designs. Avoid saturating every surface with bold patterns or vibrant colours. Instead, opt for strategic placement, focusing on key areas that can benefit from a touch of flair. You want your guests to feel at home, not like they are in a theme park.
Having set up the basics, let’s now look at some concepts that can inspire you to find a theme for your rental:
Beach theme - tropical designs for bedrooms and bathroom
if you're fortunate to own a coastal holiday rental or a beachfront property, you cannot go wrong if you introduce a stylish beach theme. A bright feature wall with a tropical-inspired wallpaper in the bedroom or bathroom can be a strategic move that infuses your space with a serene seaside ambiance aligning with the surrounding landscape.
Setting: Ideal for coastal holiday rentals, beachfront cottages, or seaside properties.
Accessories: Add some seashells or beach-inspired textiles, for instance blue and white striped cushions or sand-coloured curtains.
Matching Décor: I suggest picking light furniture in whitewashed or weathered wood finishes to enhance that sought-after coastal feel.
Oriental oasis - intricate patterns and exotic motifs
Always a very memorable theme, the allure of the Orient style can be easily achieved with wallpapers with intricate patterns like mandalas and paisley. Rich colours, extravagant ornaments and exotic motifs create an atmosphere of oriental mystique and serenity throughout your property.
Setting: well-suited for boutique AirBnBs, wellness retreats, or any properties with a focus on relaxation.
Accessories: Silk or velvet throws and pillows as well as Moroccan lanterns and Oriental rugs are an easy way to add a dash of colour and exoticism.
Matching Décor: I suggest going for wooden furniture with ornate details and luxurious upholstery in rich colours such as deep reds or jewel tones.
Urban industrial loft
If your property is in a modern city or in a downtown industrial area, why not capture the essence of urban living with a wallpaper mimicking rough, weathered surfaces? An exposed brick wallpaper can serve as the basis for an Industrial Chic theme, creating a trendy, loft-style atmosphere.
Setting: Suitable for urban apartments, converted industrial spaces, or loft-style holiday rentals in trendy city neighbourhoods.
Accessories: You can enhance the look by incorporating metal-framed mirrors, industrial-style lighting fixtures and leather seating for an edgy urban touch.
Matching Décor: Furniture with clean lines and metal accents like steel-framed coffee tables or barstools always work well with the loft theme.
Scandinavian retreat - Nordic patterns and minimalism
Embrace Scandinavian minimalism by adding a serene wallpaper that harkens back to the timeless beauty of Nordic design. A low-key colour scheme with neutral hues creates a sense of hygge.
Setting: while it can work in almost any environment, this look is obviously very suited for cosy cabins, chalets, or any property aiming for a serene Nordic ambiance.
Accessories: Soften the atmosphere further with cosy knitted blankets, sheepskin rugs, warm indirect lighting and minimalist artwork to maximise that "hygge" feel.
Matching Décor: Perfect for light-coloured wooden furniture and storage solutions with clean designs.
Botanical paradise – calming natural vibes
It doesn’t really matter whether your AirBnB is located in a beautiful natural setting or in a city centre; with the right tropical botanical wallpapers you can welcome your guests to an exotic paradise filled with lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and palm fronds. The right accessories and lightings can make this theme truly memorable.
Setting: While it’s ideal for Airbnb villas in warm, sunny destinations, tropical-themed rental homes, or holiday properties set in mediterranean landscapes, it can also work exceedingly well as a contrast to a very urban setting.
Accessories: Bamboo or rattan furniture, leafy potted plants, and tropical-themed wall art are a must here.
Matching Décor: Choose furniture with natural textures and earthy tones to complement the botanical wallpaper.
Exclusive luxury – dark wallpapers
If your property is already in the high-end category, why not emphasise its prestige character with a rich, dark designer wallpaper? You can pick any Versace design or other models with dark shades and intricate patterns exuding luxury to create a lavish, high-end ambiance that will appeal to guests seeking exclusivity.
Setting: Suited for high-end Airbnb listings, luxury apartments, or upscale rentals aiming to provide an exclusive experience.
Accessories: A good way to emphasise a dark wallpaper is by introducing luxurious features like crystal chandeliers, ornate mirrors, and plush velvet cushions.
Matching Décor: High-end furnishings with gilded details and sumptuous upholstery are a great way to add a lavish touch.
Rustic country house energy
If your property is located in a quaint village, an old house or if it’s furnished with lots of antiques and heirlooms, you can emphasise its cosy rural feel with a classical wallpaper that brings a sense of cohesiveness, evoking the warmth and charm of a country house.
Setting: perfect for countryside bed and breakfasts, rural cottages, or any property situated in picturesque natural surroundings.
Accessories: Underline the vintage charm with vintage farmhouse décor, cosy blankets, and woven baskets from second-hand shops or flea markets.
Matching Décor: Distressed wood furniture and earthy colour schemes work particularly well with this theme.
Velvety Art Deco glamour
Rental properties located in historical turn- of-the-century buildings should use the stylish glamour of the setting by channelling the elegance of the Roaring Twenties by using an Art Deco-inspired wallpaper with the classic motifs of the era. Once you have such a feature wall as the foundation of your theme, you can add mirrored accents and sumptuous velvet furnishings to recreate a glamorous setting reminiscent of that bygone time.
Setting: Upscale Airbnb apartments, historic rental homes, or listings with a focus on elegance and sophistication are all good fits for this look.
Accessories: Try to incorporate mirrored trays, geometric art deco prints, and plush velvet drapes for an extra touch of luxury.
Matching Décor: Art Deco is characterised by its clean lines and geometric shapes. Choose furniture with angular and streamlined designs, tables with mirrored or chrome accents, and details with geometric silhouettes.
Nautical seaside port
If your AirBnB is in a harbour town, a good theme would be to embrace the irresistible allure of the sea and choose a maritime-themed wallpaper. Blue and white are the typical colours for this look, along with seashell, anchor, compass and ropes motifs. The key is in the details: from framed vintage nautical maps as wall art to rope elements in the light fixtures, curtain tiebacks, or as decorative knots - they all contribute to create a cosy maritime feel.
Setting: Suitable for coastal retreats, seaside inns, or properties located near the ocean, lakes, or even large rivers.
Accessories: You could add maritime-themed décor like ship wheels, navy blue cushions, or small personal touches like vintage coastal postcards, seashell collections and beach-themed books, to make the space feel welcoming and homely.
Matching Décor: Use striped patterns in rugs, curtains, and upholstery and incorporate weathered wood furniture like coffee tables and shelving units to capture the essence of seaside living.
Ecological Zen retreat
As society becomes increasingly conscious of the importance of ecological living, creating a Zen-inspired retreat that is based on eco-friendly décor choices and a minimalist approach to foster a sense of harmony is likely to resonate well with your rental guests. A serene, nature-inspired feature wall, perhaps behind the bed or in the living room, will send all the right signals, evoking a connection to the natural world. Choose a wallpaper made from eco-friendly materials and make sure you pick organic cotton bedding for a sustainable sleeping environment. Stay clear of plastics and provide your guests with eco-friendly amenities like reusable water bottles and recycling bins to encourage responsible living during their stay.
Setting: This is a great fit for eco-friendly Airbnb listings, wellness retreats, or rental properties seeking to emphasise sustainability.
Accessories: Integrate handmade décor elements like reclaimed wood wall art, handwoven baskets, or artisan ceramics as well as indoor plants and natural textures like jute rugs, bamboo blinds, or linen curtains.
Matching Décor: Consider using upcycled furniture, i.e. second-hand pieces that have been restored or repurposed. Stay minimalist.
Retro suite full of vintage energy
A fantastic way to give your holiday home a unique and distinctive look is to transport your guests back in time, focusing on the aesthetics of the 70s or 80s. A wallpaper featuring bold geometric patterns in a retro colour palette is a look popularised in many TV series, and one that guests of all age groups seem to respond to extremely well. By curating period-appropriate accessories and furnishings, you can immerse them in the charm and nostalgia of a bygone era, making their stay a truly memorable experience.
Setting: An excellent option for Airbnb properties with a retro or vintage theme, mid-century modern apartments, or listings aiming to capture the nostalgia of past decades.
Accessories: Enhance the nostalgic ambiance with retro accessories such as lava lamps, vinyl record players, vintage telephones and retro-themed wall art, or dust off that old Atari console to let your guests fully enjoy their trip down memory lane!
Matching Décor: Mid-century modern furniture with clean lines and modular sofas in vibrant retro shades are a good match, as are old bar carts to display retro glassware and decanters and of course, a shaggy rug on the floor!