11 Instagrammable Design Moments to Inspire Your STR or Vacation Home

In today’s short-term rental market, design isn’t just about looking good — it’s about stopping the scroll, sparking emotion, and creating moments your guests can’t wait to share. Whether you’re building your brand on Airbnb, VRBO, or Instagram, the most memorable stays are the ones filled with thoughtful, photogenic details. From dreamy bedrooms to bold powder rooms, these 11 Instagrammable moments are here to inspire your next refresh and help you transform your rental into a booking magnet.

1. Sunset Sips with a View

Why it Works:
A curated bar setup with warm tones, arched shelving, and plush seating instantly creates a luxe, intimate vibe—but pair that with floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing a stunning mountain view, and you’ve got pure Instagram gold. This kind of setup not only invites guests to sip and stay awhile, it also photographs beautifully at golden hour.

Style Tip:
Use bold, velvet stools for a pop of color, backlight your bar shelves for mood, and let the natural landscape do the heavy lifting. Bonus points for a signature cocktail or decanter on display.

Design by Rest & Revive Design Co.

2. The Boutique Bunk Room Moment

Why it Works:
Who said bunk rooms can’t be chic? This space feels more like a luxury hotel suite than a kids' sleepover spot. With built-in wood bunks, plush textiles, sculptural accent chairs, and warm, modern lighting, this room balances function with elevated style—making it a favorite for families and friend groups alike.

Style Tip:
Use uniform bedding for a polished look, add layered lighting (like sconces and a statement chandelier), and create a cozy seating nook for morning coffee or late-night chats. It’s playful meets posh—and endlessly photogenic.

Design by Rest & Revive Design Co.

3. The Outdoor Shower Escape

Why it Works:
An outdoor shower brings a touch of resort living right to your listing. There’s something effortlessly luxurious and grounding about rinsing off under the open sky, surrounded by natural textures and lush greenery. It’s an unexpected moment of calm that guests will remember—and post about.

Style Tip:
Pair warm wood slats with oversized stone pavers and tropical plants for a spa-like vibe. Use brass fixtures to add a hint of glam, and don’t forget a woven basket with plush towels for that final styling detail. It’s private, peaceful, and totally post-worthy.

Design by Rest & Revive Design Co.

4. Waking Up to a View Like This

Why it Works:
There’s nothing quite like drawing back the curtains and being greeted by nature’s masterpiece. This bold-yet-cozy bedroom makes the most of its stunning landscape by framing it through a dramatic arched window, instantly elevating the entire space. It’s peaceful, grounding, and an instant swipe-stopper.

Style Tip:
Choose rich, earthy tones like terracotta and forest green to echo the outdoor palette. Keep the bedding clean and inviting, and let the window take center stage. This kind of setup invites dreamy morning photos—and dreamy 5-star reviews.

Design by Rest & Revive Design Co.

5. The Cozy Nook Everyone Dreams About

Why it Works:
Every guest needs a moment of calm—and this nook delivers. With soft natural light, layered neutrals, and sculptural simplicity, this space invites quiet reflection, slow mornings, and that perfect coffee-and-a-book photo. It’s a sanctuary within the stay.

Style Tip:
Anchor your nook with a plush, curved accent chair and soft rug. Add floating shelves or built-ins styled with tone-on-tone books and ceramics for visual texture. Round it out with a pedestal side table, a bud vase, and just the right amount of sunlight.

Design by Rest & Revive Design Co.

6. The Elegant Vanity Glow-Up

Why it Works:
This dreamy vanity moment feels straight out of a luxury hotel suite. With a backlit round mirror, warm lighting, and a plush accent stool, it creates a soft, flattering glow that makes getting ready feel like an experience. Guests won’t resist snapping a selfie here—and tagging your property in the process.

Style Tip:
Keep the palette minimal and warm, and opt for sleek floating cabinetry to free up floor space. Add a petite lamp, a fresh floral stem, and thoughtfully arranged toiletries or perfumes to complete the look. This is elegance with intention—and major Instagram appeal.

Design by Rest & Revive Design Co.

7. Fireside Minimalism with Major Mood

Why it Works:
This space proves that less really is more. A sculpted fireplace framed by tonal textures, boucle chairs, and abstract art creates a serene, curated atmosphere that feels both high-end and deeply relaxing. It’s an instant mood board moment—designed to be photographed (and remembered).

Style Tip:
Stick to a neutral palette, and let the shape of your pieces do the talking. An arched firebox, rounded chairs, and soft lighting bring warmth without clutter. Want to level it up? Add a glass of wine, a good book, and a flickering fire to complete the scene.

Design by Rest & Revive Design Co.

8. The Luxe Bedroom Retreat

Why it Works:
This bedroom is the definition of quiet luxury. Natural textures, sculpted architectural details, and a serene palette of warm neutrals create an immersive, calming space that feels like a five-star suite. It’s effortlessly elevated—and exactly the kind of moment that makes guests linger longer (both in person and in their camera roll).

Style Tip:
Opt for a low platform bed, soft layered textiles, and a standout feature like a fluted arch or oversized pendant light. Keep decor minimal but meaningful—think sculptural ceramics, soft linen drapes, and curved furniture for a restful, designer-curated feel.

Design by Rest & Revive Design Co.

9. The Custom Pool That Steals the Show

Why it Works:
This space is pure vacation magic. With a glowing fire feature, sunken loungers, a cabana swing, and a built-in bar—all framed by swaying palms—this custom pool setup instantly transports guests to resort mode. It’s cinematic, unforgettable, and guaranteed to flood your listing with saves and shares.

Style Tip:
Blend luxe materials with ambient lighting to extend the pool's allure from day to night. Think under-lounger lights, soft draped cabanas, and tropical landscaping. Add a fire bowl and a bar for the full Instagrammable escape guests can’t wait to post about.

Design by Rest & Revive Design Co.

10. The Spa-Like Luxe Bathroom Moment

Why it Works:
This bathroom is a masterclass in elegance. From the sculptural soaking tub to the statement chandelier, every detail whispers relaxation and refinement. Natural light pours through the arched window, casting a glow over brass accents and soft, serene finishes. It’s the kind of bathroom guests dream of—and one they’ll absolutely share.

Style Tip:
Pair marble or porcelain tile with warm oak cabinetry for contrast. Use arched shapes and gold hardware to create cohesion, and don’t forget ambient touches like a glowing candle, greenery, or bath tray to style the perfect #morningroutine shot.

Design by Rest & Revive Design Co.

11. The Bold & Eclectic Powder Room Pop

Why it Works:
Powder rooms are the perfect place to have fun—and this one doesn’t hold back. Vibrant wallpaper, vintage-inspired fixtures, and a punchy color palette turn a tiny space into a major design statement. Guests love an unexpected moment, and this one guarantees they’ll pull out their phone.

Style Tip:
Go all in on a patterned wallpaper and contrast it with saturated paneling or trim. Keep the vanity playful and mid-century, and add quirky accessories or a pop-color towel. It’s a small space with big shareable energy.

Design by Rest & Revive Design Co.

Your space has the potential to be so much more than a place to sleep — it can be the reason guests choose your listing over the one next door. With the right design strategy, you can elevate your rental’s aesthetic, boost visibility, and turn every corner into a scroll-stopping moment. Ready to make it happen? Let’s schedule a strategy call!

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