5 Themed Airbnb Designs That Attract More Guests: and command Higher Rates!

Why Themed Airbnbs Are Taking Over

Ever scrolled through Airbnb and found a listing so unique you instantly wanted to book it? That’s the power of themed design.

The demand for immersive, one-of-a-kind stays is on the rise. Travelers no longer just want a place to sleep—they want an experience. According to Airbnb’s 2023 Travel Trends Report, themed rentals consistently outperform generic listings in occupancy rates and guest engagement. These unique spaces not only attract more guests, but they also allow hosts to charge premium prices and secure repeat bookings.

If you’re an Airbnb host looking to make your listing stand out, here are five high-ROI themed Airbnb designs that are proven to drive bookings and create unforgettable guest experiences.

1. Movie & TV-Inspired Airbnbs 

Why It Works:

People love stepping into their favorite fictional worlds, making pop-culture-inspired rentals a major draw. Nostalgia and fandom are powerful motivators for bookings!

Examples: 

• Harry Potter Themed Cottages

• Star Wars-Inspired Retreats 

• Friends Themed Condo Apartment

Design Tips:

✔ Use authentic props and a color palette that reflects the world you’re recreating.

✔ Keep it immersive but livable—functional furniture and high-quality decor are key.

✔ Add custom lighting to enhance the ambiance (think twinkling lights in a wizard-inspired room).

Case Study: 

The Stranger Things-themed Airbnb in Georgia went viral for its detailed, show-accurate design, resulting in fully booked months and social media buzz.

2. Nature-Inspired Escapes

Why It Works:

Travelers are craving biophilic design and immersive, nature-driven experiences. Many guests seek Airbnbs that feel like a retreat from city life, where they can connect with the outdoors.

Examples:

• Treehouses 

• Jungle Bungalows 

• Desert Adobe Retreats 

  
  

Design Tips:

✔ Incorporate organic materials like wood, stone, and linen.

✔ Use earth-tone palettes for a grounding feel.

✔ Offer outdoor spaces (hammocks, fire pits, or panoramic windows to highlight natural views).

📌 SEO Boost: Best Airbnb design for relaxation, nature-inspired short-term rentals, close to hikes

3. Vintage & Retro-Themed Stays 

Why It Works:

Nostalgia-driven travel is booming, with Airbnb reporting an uptick in ‘80s & ‘90s pop culture stays. Guests love spaces that transport them back in time.

Examples:

• Mid-Century Modern Palm Springs Retreat 

• 1920s Speakeasy Apartment 

• ‘80s Arcade-Inspired Loft 

  
  

Design Tips:

✔ Source authentic vintage furniture to set the tone.

✔ Mix modern amenities with retro aesthetics (record players, neon signs, vintage posters).

✔ Balance nostalgia with function—keep it Instagrammable yet practical.

4. Luxury Spa & Wellness Retreats

Why It Works:

Wellness tourism is a $4.5 trillion industry, and travelers are actively seeking stays that promote relaxation and self-care.

Examples:

• Minimalist Zen-Inspired Lofts 

• Moroccan Spa-Inspired Villas 

• Scandinavian Hygge Retreats 

  
  

Design Tips:

✔ Use calming colors like soft neutrals, beiges, and pastels.

✔ Focus on spa-like amenities—rainfall showers, saunas, aromatherapy diffusers.

✔ Incorporate soft lighting, plush textures, and cozy seating areas.

💡 Bonus Tip: Provide wellness extras like meditation playlists, in-room yoga mats, or herbal tea stations to elevate the guest experience.

5. Whimsical & Fantasy-Inspired Rentals 

Why It Works:

Guests are drawn to storybook escapes that feel like stepping into another world. These unique rentals are highly Instagrammable, making them perfect for social media buzz and viral bookings.

Examples:

• Enchanted Cottage with Fairy Lights & Hidden Doors 

• Alice in Wonderland Tea Room Airbnb 

• Gothic Castle-Inspired Rental 

  
  

Design Tips:

✔ Focus on immersive storytelling—every detail should align with the theme.

✔ Use layered lighting to create ambiance (warm glows, candlelit effects).

✔ Create photo-worthy moments like a secret bookshelf door or whimsical furniture.

📌 SEO Boost: Fantasy Airbnb rentals, best Instagrammable Airbnbs.

Final Thoughts: Why Themed Airbnbs Stand Out

Themed Airbnbs aren’t just trendy—they’re a strategic business move. With more travelers looking for immersive stays, a well-designed themed rental can:

✅ Attract higher booking rates.

✅ Stand out in a crowded market.

✅ Deliver a memorable experience guests will rave about.

How to Get Started with Themed Design

Want to take your Airbnb from forgettable to fully booked? Work with an expert in themed interior design to ensure a cohesive, high-quality result. Book a Discovery Call today and let’s create a space that stands out, wows your guests, and boosts your profits!