The right amenities can help your short-term rental guests feel more at home and relaxed in your property. If you’ve been following along, you’ve already seen our general list of basic amenities for your vacation rental, an article on must-have bathroom amenities, and one on must-have kitchen amenities too.
For our final article in this series, let’s take a look at the best amenities for your STR’s living room!
Furniture Essentials
First things first, you need to make sure that your living room is both functional and comfy. Yes, you want the space to be stylish, but you also don’t want your guests to feel like they can’t touch anything or put their feet up.
Aim to have enough comfortable seating for the maximum number of guests your rental accommodates. A good rule of thumb is to have a mix of options, like a sofa and loveseat, or a sofa with armchairs. And don’t forget about additional seating too! Ottomans, accent chairs, or even a comfy beanbag or floor cushion can create a comfortable conversation area, especially in larger living rooms.
Next up, think of your coffee table as the centerpiece of your living room. It’s where your guests will place their drinks, snacks, and board games, or maybe even prop up their laptops to work. Choose a size that’s proportional to your space — a giant coffee table in a tiny living room will feel overwhelming. Material-wise, wood is always a classic, while glass will make the space feel more open. Choose whatever works best with the rest of your decor.
Entertainment Options
Now that your guests have a place to sit and relax, it’s time to talk entertainment and tech. Easy access to TV, streaming services, or games is a big plus.
Most guests will expect a way to unwind with their favorite shows or movies. Smart TVs are fantastic because they allow guests to easily log in to their own streaming service accounts. If you don’t have a smart TV, a simple streaming device like a Roku or Chromecast is a great option. Cable is expensive these days, so only invest in it if you think your guests will like it.
You might also consider adding some extra entertainment options like board games or a few packs of cards. A gaming console can also be a big hit, especially for younger guests — if you have an extra one lying around at home, it may be time to bring it over to your STR!
A well-stocked bookshelf with a variety of titles is a nice touch too. Try to include some guidebooks for your area for guests who are looking for something to do.
Decor Ideas
You have your furniture and entertainment covered, so all that’s left to do is round everything out with some decor.
The right lighting can completely transform a space. Your goal should be to provide a few different options, ranging from overhead lights to table lamps and floor lamps. Not everyone likes the big light! Dimmers are also a nice touch — your guests will be able to choose exactly what kind of lighting they want.
An area rug does wonders for defining the living space and adding warmth. Additionally, it helps protect your floors from wear and tear, a real concern for some hosts. Like your coffee table, make sure to choose a size that’s proportional to your furniture and the room itself — leave some of the floor visible too. When it comes to the material, it helps to consider your cleaning needs. Wool rugs are certainly luxe, but synthetic options are easier to maintain.
More Final Touches
We’re almost there! A few more small touches can go a really long way toward making your space homey and comfortable.
Throw pillows and blankets aren’t just for decoration! They add a pop of color, extra comfort for movie nights at home, and a cozy feel. Use them to pull together the color scheme and create a more cohesive look.
Coffee table books and magazines are a great way to spark conversation and add a touch of personality to your STR. If there are any local attractions to highlight in your area, pick up a few books on them so your guests can brush up on any need-to-know info before they visit. General travel guides and cookbooks are usually a hit too, or you can always opt for some beautiful photography books.
Fresh flowers and plants can brighten up the room and create a more welcoming atmosphere but don’t add them if you don’t have time to maintain them. If you know you won’t have time, some good quality faux flowers are another option.
When you provide these must-have living room amenities, you’ll create a space that feels comfortable and inviting. A well-equipped living room can go a long way in ensuring the best guest experience possible. And, happy guests lead to great reviews and repeat bookings!
This content originally appeared in our twice-monthly Guest Book newsletter.
