Finding Home Design Inspiration in AirBnB Stays: The Rise of ‘Real’ Interiors
When it comes to finding fresh inspiration for home decor, traditional sources can feel limiting. Retailers and brands tend to promote a single aesthetic, making it hard to blend different styles to create something truly unique. AirBnB, however, has become an unexpected design muse, offering a peek into the personal tastes of homeowners worldwide. With over 5 million unique stays, the platform has quickly become a go-to for those craving a balance of style, function, and authenticity in their own spaces.
Global Inspiration through Real Homes. Photo credit: AirBnB.
Breaking the Mold: Beyond One-Size-Fits-All Design
Brands and staged interiors are often polished to perfection but don’t always reflect the messiness of real life. Showrooms and catalogs may look appealing, but for homeowners, these can feel detached from the “lived-in” aesthetic many of us crave. AirBnB, however, reflects true diversity in style, offering everything from cozy cottages to high-style city lofts, each with unique touches.
In AirBnB properties, you’ll find a mix of the trendy and the personal—a rare blend in today’s design world. This diversity lets people explore different styles, avoiding the one-size-fits-all approach. In turn, this flexibility makes the platform ideal for homeowners seeking ideas that resonate with their personality.
Beyond the Showroom. Photo credit: AirBnB.
AirBnB: The New ‘Design Inspiration Destination’
AirBnB has cleverly positioned itself as a global design source, reflecting the values of today’s consumers who prioritize “real” over “perfect.” Many of the most popular listings on AirBnB combine stylish interiors with warmth and authenticity, showcasing spaces that can be as simple as a beach cottage with rustic touches or as luxurious as a mansion with all the latest amenities. In these spaces, functionality meets fun, and the emphasis is on living beautifully and meaningfully.
“Scrolling through the @airbnb Instagram feed is pure design inspiration,” says Udi Regev, head of Architecture at BetterSpace. “Today’s homeowners and renters want personality in their spaces. With AirBnB, people can experience designs that are unique yet grounded in function and fun.”
AirBnB as a Design Trendsetter. Photo credit: AirBnB.
Navigating AirBnB for Design Inspiration
If you’re looking to bring an AirBnB-inspired feel into your home, the platform offers several ways to search by feature, theme, or even region. AirBnB’s categories make it easy to focus on what speaks to you, whether it’s “OMG!” for quirky stays or “Chef’s Kitchens” for the culinary-inclined. These categories let you explore design ideas specific to different lifestyles and needs, making it a valuable tool for finding inspiration that’s unique and livable.
To explore by style or feature, you can use Google to refine your search. For example, typing “AirBnB hot tub” or “AirBnB minimalist design” in a search engine will show highly relevant options for each style and highlight how hosts bring unique ideas to life.
Finding Your Design Match on AirBnB. Photo credit: AirBnB.
Making the Most of AirBnB Design Inspiration in Your Own Home
You don’t have to book a stay to make use of AirBnB’s design inspirations. Many AirBnB properties have become trendsetters for their clever layouts and character-filled interiors. Here’s how to bring the AirBnB aesthetic into your own home:
- Mix & Match: Don’t stick to one style; experiment with different elements to create a look that feels collected over time.
- Add Personality: Personal decor touches bring warmth, like a gallery wall with your favorite art or a curated display of travel souvenirs.
- Create Cozy Corners: Make every corner inviting, from reading nooks with soft blankets to stylishly functional kitchen spaces.
AirBnB’s value lies in the livability of its designs, which makes it an accessible trend. For those looking to refresh their homes without losing personal touch, it’s an ideal resource.
Bringing AirBnB Style Home. Photo credit: AirBnB.
