You never get a second chance to make a first impression—and in the world of short-term rentals, that first impression starts the moment a guest walks through the front door. Just like a boutique hotel lobby sets the tone for an entire stay, your Airbnb’s entryway can spark excitement, build trust, and create instant emotional connection.

In this post, we’ll walk you through quick, high-impact tips to upgrade your rental’s entryway.

If you’re ready to go deeper and learn exactly how to design an unforgettable, hospitality-level space, check out our boutique hotel lobby guide– including specific ideas that will help your property go viral. 

 

Why Your Entryway Deserves Attention

Guests start forming opinions the moment they step inside your property. A thoughtfully designed entryway communicates that your home is cared for, professionally managed, and worth every penny. It also creates a moment of pause—a transition between travel and relaxation, when you can unload your belongings and start to settle in.

A great entry:

• Reinforces your brand or theme
• Eases guests into the space with comfort and clarity
• Elevates the perceived value of the entire rental

And if you’re hoping for those 5-star reviews and word-of-mouth referrals? It all starts at the front door.

Pictured: The George in Broken Bow

5 Quick Ways to Instantly Upgrade Your Entryway

1. Add a Statement Piece

Whether it’s a bold art print, a vintage mirror, or a sculptural light fixture, one standout element can add personality and polish to your space. Choose something that reflects your home’s vibe and makes guests want to snap a photo.

2. Prioritize Functional Furniture

Style matters, but functionality is key. A bench, console table, or wall hooks instantly makes the space more usable. Guests love having a designated spot to take off shoes, set down keys, or drop a bag.

For some functional furniture options, check out our smart storage shoppable PDF.

Pictured: The George in Broken Bow

3. Include Welcome Touches

Small gestures go a long way. A framed welcome sign, a signature scent, or a handwritten note adds warmth and care. These little details feel intentional—and guests will notice.

4. Upgrade the Lighting

Lighting sets the mood. If your entry feels dark or flat, consider a layered lighting approach: overhead + ambient (think sconces or a small lamp). Stick to warm tones to create an inviting glow.

5. Design a Photo-Worthy Moment

Create a vignette guests can’t resist photographing. We always design properties to include multiple photo-ops throughout the space, but including this from the jump is an effective way to quickly draw your guest in, and set the tone. 

This might look like a styled shelf, a bold wallpapered wall, or a quirky accessory that ties into your overall theme. 

Pictured: The ultimate entry way feature wall at The Rosé House

Common Entryway Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overlooking it entirely:

Design your entire space with intention, starting at the front door.

2. Cluttered layouts: 

Don’t overwhelm guests right away. Keep it clean and purposeful.

3. Lack of lighting: 

Dark entries can feel uninviting or even unsafe. 

4. Generic styling: 

Your entry should reflect your unique aesthetic, not look like a big-box showroom.

5. Poor flow: 

Think about how guests move through the space. Entryways are transition zones—make them seamless.

Want to Go Deeper? Grab our Boutique Hotel Lobby Design Blueprint

If you’re ready to truly transform your space, check out our guide:

The Hospitality Design Blueprint: Boutique Hotel Lobby Edition

This 15-page guide is applicable to any short-term rental property, though boutique hotel lobbies are the main focus. This thorough guide breaks down:

• The six essential lobby zones every hospitality space needs
• The most impactful design elements for emotional connection and virality
• How to craft a space that stands out, sells out, and stays unforgettable
  
  

Whether you’re designing a boutique hotel or upgrading your Airbnb, this guide delivers strategy-driven inspiration grounded in hospitality design principles.

Final Thoughts

Don’t underestimate the power of a well-designed entry. A few intentional upgrades can turn a forgettable first impression into a wow moment that sets the stage for the entire stay.

Want more design tips for short-term rentals? Subscribe to our YouTube channel, and follow us on Instagram for inspiration, insider strategies, and behind-the-scenes design magic.

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