The Secret to Creating an Instagrammable Airbnb

Instagram and social media have completely changed the way people travel.

Guests don't just book a stay anymore—they book an experience, a vibe. A space they want to photograph and share.

That’s great news for hosts. Because when your Airbnb is styled to encourage guests to snap and share, you’re building a free marketing engine. That could be a powerful launchpad for your Airbnb’s direct booking business.

Every tagged post is a personal recommendation. Every story is a mini-tour of your space. And every new follower is a potential future guest.

So, how do you turn your Airbnb into a scroll-stopping, camera-ready space that’s ready for the ‘gram? Keep reading.

Why Instagram for Your Airbnb Still Matters

Like every investment portfolio, it’s important to diversify wherever you can. If Airbnb is your only source of bookings, your business dies if anything happens to it. That’s why you diversify with booking platforms like Booking.com or VRBO.

Using Instagram is a way to diversify how you reach people. You can communicate with followers and build your own audience without a middleman.

Here are 10 tips for creating an Instagrammable Airbnb.

1. Design Around your Hero Shots

Every Insta-worthy space needs that one photo. The kind of shot that stops someone mid-scroll.

Start by identifying the hero shot in each space in your property. Maybe it’s a cozy reading nook or an outdoor hot tub deck.

Once you’ve found it, design around it. Add texture, lighting, color, and personality to elevate the space. You want guests to walk in and immediately say, “Take a photo of me right here.”

2. Set the Stage with Good Lighting

Lighting makes or breaks a photo.

Swap cool white bulbs for warm LED lights. Use lamps and sconces to create soft lighting that feels flattering.

Natural light is your best friend. Open the blinds. Turn off overheads. Shoot your content and listing pictures during golden hour. That dreamy glow is exactly what makes your space look editorial.

String lights over a hot tub, patio, or hammock instantly add atmosphere and make nighttime shots magical.

Good lighting doesn’t just change the mood; it changes how your space is perceived online.

3. Embrace Artificial Plants (Yes, Really)

You know which plants always look good in photos? Fake ones.

Plants make a room feel alive. But real ones need upkeep.

High-quality faux plants add colour, texture and balance without the commitment.

Style them on bookshelves, by the bed, or in corners that need an extra spruce.

4. Design a Photo-Worthy Outdoor Space

Your patio or balcony shouldn’t only be functional—it should be unforgettable.

Upgrade it with string lights, lush plants, colorful cushions, or a backyard mural. Add a hammock, a fire pit, or a whimsical bistro set. Invest in exciting outdoor amenities.

Even a kid’s play area can be styled to look fun and fresh in photos.

Your outdoor space is a huge photo opportunity—make sure it’s dressed for the part.

5. Choose Statement Pieces That Steal the Show

Sometimes one jaw-dropping piece is all it takes. Like a bold velvet sofa, a large antique mirror, or one wild sculptural chair.

Statement pieces grab attention, anchor your design and elevate photos.

Choose something unique, timeless and photogenic from every angle.

6. Design Walls That Stand Out

A blank wall is wasted space. Add a bold mural, textured or pattern wallpaper, or a curated gallery wall (seen above) to turn any wall into a photo backdrop.

Or try a custom neon sign or mirror featuring your city or Airbnb name.

7. Less Clutter, More Texture

Guests don’t want chaos or clutter. But a clinical space without warmth and texture is just as bad.

Use baskets and cord covers to keep clutter under control. Add cozy throws, layered rugs, patterned pillows and woven baskets. Use contrasting materials and fabrics like velvet, leather and wood. This is how you make your space feel lived in and inviting.

8. Don't be (Too) Scared of an Airbnb Theme

Themes aren’t cheesy when done with intention (and moderation). They add charm and tell a story.

Themed decor makes your space memorable. Keep it light, fun, and photo-friendly. Add elements and small details in each space, but try not to go overboard.

Create an Airbnb moodboard and plan your furniture first.

9. Use Local and Handmade Decor

Want a stay that looks unique enough to post? Then you need to part ways with mass-produced prints.

Instead, source from local markets, Etsy creators, or regional artists. Add handmade furniture or one-of-a-kind pieces that will add soul to your space.

Guests love discovering unique items, and they’ll show them off in photos.

10. Comfort Still Comes First

Being Instagrammable isn’t just about looks. When guests share their experience, they're selling your stay. And you want to market a space that feels comfortable and functional, not just pretty. That's how you get booked.

Make sure your space is and looks comfortable. Provide soft, lush bedding and pillows, and a great couch. Practical amenities matter as much as visuals. A good combination is what gets you five-star reviews and reposts.

BONUS: Don’t Forget the Ceiling

Want to elevate a space and wow your guests? Here’s the secret: Upgrade your ceiling.

Paint it. Wallpaper it with a subtle pattern. Hang a bold chandelier or light fixture. A styled ceiling turns a basic space into a high-design, high-impact space. And your guests will notice.

How to Use Instagram to Market Your Airbnb

Once your Airbnb is Instagram-ready, it’s time to leverage that.

Here’s how:

• Create a dedicated Instagram profile with your direct booking link in the bio.
• Encourage guests to tag and follow you by adding your @handle to signs, the welcome book, or a small spot on any murals.
• In your checkout messages, remind guests to follow you for future deals and discounts.
• Share guest photos (with permission) and tag them to start building your community.
• Use location and event hashtags to increase discoverability.
• Create your own content and post consistently with highlights, reels, and behind-the-scenes content.
• Share discounts and promotions with your followers as your account grows.

Stay consistent, and you’ll soon discover your own brand voice and personality.

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Invest in Great Design & Stand Out on Airbnb

Your Airbnb looks incredible. It feels comfortable and inspires guests to take and share photos. You’re not just creating a #1 stay—you’re building a brand.

And at the end of it all, you’ve created an Airbnb listing that guests fall in love with before they even arrive.

Design with intention. Get creative. Turn every corner into a moment worth sharing.

Need help designing your Airbnb?

Funkit Interiors specializes in bold, one-of-a-kind Airbnb transformations. Our redesigns have helped hosts boost their revenue by 30–50%. Book your free discovery call to learn more.