When planning your short-term rental, it’s easy to focus all your energy on the interior. But here’s the truth: the exterior of your Airbnb matters just as much — if not more — when it comes to curb appeal, first impressions, and guest experience.

In this post, we’ll cover how to maximize both the front and back exterior of your Airbnb, how to zone your yard, and what outdoor amenities help boost bookings and reviews.

Pictured: Peaks and Pines on Elni, MI

 

First Impressions: Why Airbnb Curb Appeal Counts

Guests form opinions before they even step inside. A clean, well-designed front exterior builds trust, creates excitement, and helps your listing stand out in search results.

Easy ways to improve curb appeal for your Airbnb:

• Repaint or power wash the exterior
• Add modern house numbers
• Install pathway lighting
• Use potted plants or flower beds
• Include a branded Airbnb name sign

Bonus: Don’t underestimate signage. A small branded sign or name plaque can reinforce your identity and make the property easy to find while subtly advertising your listing to foot traffic or even neighbors who may become future guests.

Pictured: The Rosé House in Niagara On The Lake, ON, Canada

 

Backyard Airbnb Design: Zoning for Guest Comfort

Designing a backyard isn’t just about beauty — it’s about function. Zoning your outdoor space helps guests feel like every square foot was planned for them.

Top Airbnb backyard ideas for zoning:

• Dining Area: Table, chairs, grill, and overhead lighting
• Lounge Area: Sofas or hammocks near a fire pit
• Game Area: Cornhole, bocce, or oversized Jenga
• Relaxation Zone: Hot tub, yoga mat, or outdoor shower
• Kids area: Jungle gym, zip line, or trampoline

Bonus: If your property has the space, and your budget allows, go all out with a dedicated sports zone! Think pickle ball courts, badminton courts, putting greens, etc. These added amenities will boost ROI and bring in higher paying guests!

Pictured: The Tulsa Manor, OK

 

Outdoor Amenities That Increase Airbnb Bookings

Today’s travelers want more than a place to sleep — they’re looking for an experience. Well-chosen Airbnb outdoor amenities increase value and make your property more Instagram-worthy.

Popular amenities guests love:

• Fire pits or chimineas
• String lights or solar lanterns
• Hot tubs or plunge pools
• Covered pergolas or daybeds
• Outdoor bar setups

 

Pictured: AIRBNB RE-DESIGN | Basic Backyard to Short-Term Rental
Showstopper in Mesquite, Nevada

 

Your Airbnb’s Exterior is a Marketing Tool

Think of your exterior not just as a space for guests, but as a way to advertise. A beautiful front and backyard boost your photos, make your listing more shareable, and even attract walk-by interest. If your home has a name or branding (which we highly recommend!), placing a tasteful sign outside reinforces your identity and builds recognition. It also turns your home into a landmark that’s easier for guests to find and remember.

Better yet: If you have the right space for it, invest in a branded, custom mural! 

Final Takeaway

From curb appeal to a properly zoned backyard packed with guests' favorite amenities, your Airbnb’s exterior design plays a huge role in guest satisfaction, social shares, and overall profitability. Don’t let your outdoor space be an afterthought — treat it like the strategic marketing tool that it is and watch your profits skyrocket.

 

Shop Our Free, Pre-Designed Outdoor Moodboards!

If you’ve been following our YouTube channel, you’ve already seen our Bnb Boost series where we re-design rooms in existing Airbnb properties to maximize their potential, and ultimately the owners ROI. But, did you know that we’ve made all of these looks shoppable by compiling all of the products in our PWD Showrooms? 

 

Check out all of the showrooms, and grab your favorite pieces from these spaces here: Shop Our Complimentary Showrooms.

Bonus: Shop more of our favorite outdoor furniture finds here. 

 

Need help designing an outdoor space that gets results?

If you’re looking for design tips tailored to your space, we can help! We specialize in creating unforgettable hospitality spaces that guests can’t stop talking about, and we’re always ready to take on new projects.

Book a complimentary call with us here.

 

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