How to Make a Small Short-Term Rental Look Spacious

When managing a short-term rental, one of the biggest challenges hosts face is making a small space feel open, airy, and inviting.

A cramped and cluttered rental can leave guests feeling uncomfortable, reducing the chances of repeat bookings and positive reviews.

On the other hand, a thoughtfully designed small space can create an illusion of spaciousness, making guests feel relaxed and at home.

If your rental is limited in square footage, don’t worry, you don’t need to knock down walls to create a spacious feel. B

y using smart furniture arrangements, strategic lighting, clever storage solutions, and other design tricks, you can maximize every inch of space and enhance your rental’s appeal.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through practical and effective strategies to make a small short-term rental look and feel much larger than it is.

1. Optimize Furniture Arrangement

One of the most effective ways to make a small rental feel more spacious is through thoughtful furniture arrangement. The way you position furniture can create an illusion of openness and improve traffic flow.

– Choose Multi-Functional Furniture

Opt for furniture that serves multiple purposes to save space. Some great examples include:

Sofa beds: A stylish couch by day and a comfortable bed by night.
Foldable tables and chairs: Can be stowed away when not in use.
Ottomans with storage: Provide seating while hiding clutter.
Murphy beds: Fold up into the wall, freeing up valuable floor space.

– Avoid Bulky and Oversized Furniture

Large, heavy furniture can overwhelm a small room. Instead, opt for sleek, space-saving designs with exposed legs to create an airy feel. Low-profile furniture also helps maintain an open atmosphere.

– Create an Open Layout

Arrange furniture in a way that encourages movement and flow. Some key tips:

Avoid pushing all furniture against the walls—this can make a room feel smaller.
Use rugs to define spaces instead of walls or partitions.
Keep furniture at a slight angle to create depth and dimension.

2. Use Light Colors and Mirrors

Color and reflection play a huge role in making a space feel more open and airy. Lighter tones and mirrors can help amplify natural light and create the illusion of a larger room.

– Stick to a Light and Neutral Color Palette

Dark colors absorb light, making a room feel closed in, whereas light colors reflect light, creating an open feel. Consider using:

White or off-white walls
Soft pastels like light blue, beige, or pale gray
Neutral furniture and bedding

– Use Mirrors Strategically

Mirrors reflect light and create an illusion of depth. Some ways to use mirrors effectively include:

Placing a large mirror opposite a window to reflect natural light.
Using mirrored furniture like glass coffee tables to enhance brightness.
Creating a mirrored accent wall to visually expand the space.

3. Maximize Natural and Artificial Lighting

Lighting is a game-changer when it comes to making small spaces feel bigger. A well-lit room appears more open and inviting.

– Maximize Natural Light

Keep windows unobstructed: Avoid heavy drapes and opt for sheer curtains or blinds.
Use light-colored window treatments: This allows for maximum sunlight penetration.
Trim outdoor foliage: If trees or bushes block sunlight, trim them to let in more light.

– Layer Your Lighting

A mix of lighting sources helps brighten dark corners and add depth. Consider:

Ceiling lights: Flush mount or recessed lights to avoid cluttering the ceiling.
Floor and table lamps: Add warmth and balance.
LED strip lights: Placed under cabinets or shelves for a modern touch.

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4. Smart Storage Solutions

Clutter can make any space feel cramped, so smart storage is essential for maximizing space in a short-term rental.

– Utilize Vertical Storage

When floor space is limited, go vertical:

Floating shelves: Perfect for storing essentials without taking up floor space.
Wall-mounted organizers: Hooks and pegboards for kitchen utensils, bags, or coats.
Tall bookcases: Slim yet high shelves provide ample storage without overwhelming the space.

– Choose Hidden Storage Options

Multi-purpose storage solutions help reduce visible clutter:

Beds with built-in drawers: Great for storing linens and extra towels.
Storage benches: Ideal for entryways or dining areas.
Hollow ottomans: Provide seating while hiding personal items.

– Keep Clutter to a Minimum

A minimalistic approach creates a sense of spaciousness. Provide designated storage areas for guests, like:

Labeled storage bins in closets.
Small trays for keys and accessories.
Foldable luggage racks to keep suitcases off the floor.

5. Use Smart Decor Techniques

The right decor can enhance the perception of space without making the room feel cluttered.

– Stick to a Consistent Color Scheme

Too many contrasting colors can make a space feel chaotic. Stick to a harmonious palette by using:

Neutral tones for walls and large furniture.
Pops of color through accent pillows and artwork.
Similar tones for flooring and rugs to create a cohesive flow.

– Use Large Statement Pieces

Instead of multiple small decor items, opt for a few large statement pieces:

A single oversized artwork rather than multiple small frames.
A large floor vase instead of several tiny decorations.

– Incorporate Lightweight Materials

Transparent and lightweight materials create an illusion of space:

Glass tables instead of solid wood.
Acrylic chairs for a modern and airy feel.
Light fabrics like linen or cotton for curtains and upholstery.

6. Create the Illusion of Height

If your rental has low ceilings, there are several ways to make it appear taller.

– Use Floor-to-Ceiling Curtains

Hanging curtains from ceiling height elongates the walls, making the room feel taller.

– Vertical Patterns and Elements

Vertical designs help draw the eye upward:

Striped wallpaper or rugs.
Tall bookshelves or plants.
Vertical paneling or decorative moldings.

Hang Artwork Higher

Position artwork slightly higher on the wall to create a sense of height.

7. Open Up the Space with Smart Layouts

Creating an open feel is key to making a small space feel larger.

– Remove Unnecessary Barriers

Avoid bulky partitions, use open shelving or glass dividers instead.
Keep furniture low to maintain an open sightline.

– Define Spaces with Rugs

Instead of walls, use area rugs to distinguish spaces, such as:

A separate rug for the living area vs. the dining area.
A runner rug to elongate hallways.

– Use Open Shelving in the Kitchen

Closed cabinets can make a kitchen feel boxy. Open shelving creates a light and airy feel while allowing guests to see where essentials are stored.

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Conclusion

A small short-term rental doesn’t have to feel confined.

By using smart design techniques such as strategic furniture placement, light colour palettes, smart lighting, and creative storage solutions, you can make any small rental feel more spacious and inviting.

Remember, an open and uncluttered space enhances guest satisfaction, leading to better reviews, more bookings, and higher profitability.

Start implementing these simple changes today, and watch your rental transform into a bright, welcoming haven!

Have you tried any of these space-saving tricks? Share your experience in the comments.