Wallpaper is one of our favorite tools for adding depth, personality, and instant visual interest to a space. But what happens when wallpaper isn’t an option?

Although you can still wallpaper textured walls, when they’re overly textured it can make wallpaper difficult to apply. That was exactly the challenge we faced when designing Amber Sol Retreat in San Antonio, TX.

Instead of viewing this as a limitation, our team saw it as an opportunity to think outside the box. The result? A vibrant, sun-kissed short-term rental that radiates warmth, personality, and Instagram-worthy moments, all without a single roll of wallpaper.

 

Meet Amber Sol Retreat

Amber Sol Retreat is a 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath retreat designed to welcome families, large groups, and basic military graduation guests alike in San Antonio. With space for up to 17 people, it’s more than just a stay, it’s an experience.

Our design vision drew inspiration from terracotta tones, golden light, and the vibrant spirit of Texas. We wanted the property to feel both modern and inviting, with thoughtful touches that create a sense of place and keep guests coming back.

What makes this transformation especially exciting is that it was achieved with virtually no major renovations (aside from a few updates like flooring in some areas and updated kitchen counters). The rest came to life through paint, furniture, and carefully chosen accessories, proving just how powerful design alone can be. The textured walls also challenged us to rethink our approach to feature walls and accents. Instead of relying on wallpaper, we layered in other strategies to create the same high-impact look.

 

How to Create Impact Without Wallpaper

Here are the design decisions we made at Amber Sol Retreat, which can be applied to your own short-term rental if wallpaper isn’t an option:

1. Bold Accent Paint

Paint became our hero tool. We leaned into saturated terracotta tones and warm neutrals to set the tone of the home. Strategic accent walls brought contrast and depth, while keeping the space cohesive and easy to maintain for turnover.

2. Boxwood Panels for Texture

For a playful, photo-worthy feature, we installed boxwood greenery panels in the entryway of the home. These instantly transformed a plain wall with a cut-out into a lush, eye-catching backdrop, perfect for group photos or a social-media-ready moment. It not only makes an instant impression when guests walk in, but also helps the property stand out on Airbnb as travelers scroll through nearby listings!

Pro tip: Greenery panels are renter-friendly and durable, making them ideal for high-traffic properties.

Looking for more? Read this next: Your First 5 Seconds Matter—Here’s How to Nail Your Entryway

Shop the space: Boxwood panels + Custom sign from Neon Grand

3. Neon Signs for Personality

We layered in custom neon signage to double down on the experiential vibe. Whether it’s a fun saying or a playful shape, neon instantly injects energy and gives guests a share-worthy moment.

Inside Amber Sol Retreat, we used two more neon signs in key areas to add visual interest in key spaces such as the garage games room and upstairs loft + bonus room.

Tip for STR Hosts: Choose phrases or designs that tie back to your property’s theme or local vibe to make the experience more memorable.

Shop the space: Custom sign from Neon Grand, bookcase, rug + chairs.

4. Layered Decor and Furnishings

To replace the “pattern play” that wallpaper usually brings, we leaned into decor elements, from textiles to statement art, to deliver personality. Woven textures, bold throw pillows, and curated accessories ensured every room felt polished and intentional. In addition to this, we used lots of mirrors throughout the property to reflect the vibrant colors and bring more life into the rooms.

Pro tip: Mix textures (linen, wood, wicker, velvet) to add dimension without overwhelming the space.

Shop the space: Wall paneling, light fixture, rug + sectional.

The Result: A Cohesive Guest Experience

By reimagining our approach, we transformed Amber Sol Retreat’s textured walls into a strength rather than a weakness. Guests don’t notice the absence of wallpaper, but instead notice the warmth, energy, and thoughtful details throughout the home.

Every room now feels like a backdrop for connection, whether it’s families gathering in the communal spaces or friends snapping a photo under the neon sign. And that’s the heart of experiential hospitality design: creating moments that feel unforgettable.

Takeaway for STR Owners

Wallpaper isn’t the only way to create impact. With the right mix of paint, texture, greenery, and lighting, you can achieve an elevated, design-forward look that excites guests and keeps your property competitive.

At Pink Wall Designs, we specialize in finding creative solutions that work with your property’s unique challenges, whether it’s textured walls, a tight budget, the need for durability in a high-turnover space, or all of the above.

Shop Some of our go-to Feature Wall Wallpaper Alternatives 

Want to create high-impact feature walls without wallpaper? We've put together this shoppable PDF with some of our favorites to accomplish this: STR Wallpaper Alternatives

 

Want to transform your short-term rental into an unforgettable guest experience? 

Book a complimentary consultation with us today to make your short-term rental the next top 1% property in our portfolio!

 

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