If you’ve been looking for ways to take your short-term rental to the next level, don’t underestimate the power of an inviting outdoor space!
After a long day of exploring, your guests will want a place to relax, unwind, and soak up everything your property has to offer. A well-thought-out outdoor area can take your STR from a simple place to stay to a memorable vacation spot that guests will want to revisit every year.
You don’t need to have a huge budget — or space for that matter — to work with to stand out. Whether you have a charming balcony, a cozy patio, a spacious deck, or even a sprawling backyard, some smart and simple decorating tricks can go a really long way.
Start with a Plan
First, take a good look at your space. What’s its size and layout? Does it get a lot of sun or afternoon shade? Is there a nice breeze, or does it get a little too windy? You’ll want to consider privacy too — are there neighboring balconies or windows that overlook your space?
Knowing the answers to these questions will help you choose the right furniture and decor. The safety of your guests is also something to keep in mind. Make sure all of the railings are secure, there’s enough lighting for nighttime, and any electrical outlets are weatherproofed.
Next up, define your goals. Do you envision your space as a place to relax with comfy seating? Or, perhaps you’re hoping to create a dining area for meals to remember. Maybe you want to set up yard games like corn hole or badminton. Knowing exactly what you’re going for will help you as you come up with your plan.
Finally, set your budget. While creating a beautiful space is the underlying goal, you don’t have to break the bank to do it. Prioritize essential (and more expensive) items like seating and lighting, and don’t be afraid to get creative with the rest. If you’re into them, DIY projects can be really fun. Otherwise, Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and local yard sales are your friends!
Now, Get to Work
Here comes the fun part: creating a space that feels like an extension of your already cozy rental. Furniture is a great jumping-off point — make sure to choose weather-resistant items that are comfortable and fit the size of your outdoor area. A cute bistro set might be perfect for a small balcony, while a sectional sofa with a coffee table will create a nice conversation area on a spacious deck. Think about the number of guests your STR fits too…make sure everyone has a place to sit.
Lighting can go a really long way and completely transform your outdoor space. String lights add soft lighting and look almost magical strung up on a railing or rooftop. Lanterns or solar lights are also popular choices — especially if you rent out a cabin in the woods. If you own a beachside condo, consider some citronella candles too to keep bugs away. Your goal here should be to create a warm and inviting atmosphere that allows your guests to enjoy the outdoors well into the evening if they want to.
Some fun finishing touches include throw pillows and outdoor rugs. Just remember to choose weather-appropriate materials that are easy to clean and maintain — we’re decorating an outdoor area, after all!
Add Some Functionality to the Mix
Who says your outdoor space can’t be functional too? Including a small table and chairs creates a dedicated outdoor dining area for your guests. If you’re working with a smaller area, you may want to grab some folding tables and chairs that can be easily stored away when you don’t need them.
Potted plants, herbs, and flowers instantly add life, a touch of nature, and a pop of color to your space. You may want to incorporate native plants or flowers for a local flair. If you have a large back or front yard, you could also add a fire pit for nightly s’mores, or a hammock for lazy afternoons with a good book.
Choose Materials That Survive Your Climate
The fastest way to waste an outdoor decorating budget is to buy for the showroom instead of the weather. Match materials to what your region actually does to them:
Hot and Sunny (Phoenix, Austin, Florida)
UV-resistant fabrics like solution-dyed acrylic, powder-coated aluminum frames, and shade you can count on: an umbrella, a sail, or a pergola. Dark cushions fade and metal chairs in full sun become a liability waiver.
Humid and Rainy (the Southeast, the Gulf)
Quick-dry foam cushions, teak or all-weather wicker, and airflow under everything. Store fabric in a deck box between stays so it never greets guests damp.
Coastal
Salt air eats standard steel. Go stainless hardware, aluminum, or teak, and rinse everything down on a schedule.
Cold Winters (Denver, Minneapolis, Boston)
Furniture you can cover or store off-season, a propane heater or fire pit to stretch the shoulder seasons, and nothing with cushions that live outside year-round.
A simple rule that holds everywhere: if the label doesn’t say outdoor-rated, it’s indoor furniture on a field trip, and the trip ends badly.
Put Your Outdoor Space in the Listing Photos
An outdoor space nobody sees in the listing might as well not exist. Once yours is set up, photograph it like the amenity it is:
- Shoot at golden hour with the string lights on. Twilight patio photos stop the scroll.
- Stage the scene: two glasses on the table, a throw on the sofa, the fire pit lit. Guests book the evening they can picture.
- Add the space to your amenity list explicitly: “private patio with fire pit,” “balcony dining for four.” Filters and search on the booking platforms reward named amenities.
- Mention it in your first three listing photos’ captions if the platform allows. Outdoor space is a top filter for family and pet-traveling guests.
Set Up the Space, Hand Off the Upkeep
Now that you have your outdoor space set up the way you like it, it’s important to remember to maintain it. Add cleaning up outside to your cleaning checklist (or let us know about it!) so you don’t forget. Regularly clean furniture, remove any debris, and keep the space tidy. If you need professional cleaning help in Los Angeles and Downtown Los Angeles, just contact us or if you are outside of this areas check all of MaidThis locations across US.
By following these simple tips, you’ll be well on your way to transforming your STR’s outdoor space into an oasis your guests will love to hang out in. A well-decorated outdoor area will not only improve your guests’ experience, but can also lead to more bookings and 5-star reviews!
This content originally appeared in our twice-monthly Guest Book Newsletter.
