Journal · 2026-01-21
Interior design for holiday rentals: what actually increases revenue
Rental revenue moves on three things: how the property reads in the first three images, whether guests can tell what the stay will feel like, and whether the interior holds up over a season. Design and photography together move all three — which is why one of our Lucca villas rents at twice the revenue of comparable local properties.
Guests book an image, not a floor plan
On every platform the decision is made in the first three photographs. That means one space has to carry the property: usually the living area or the terrace, styled and lit to be understood in a single glance.
That is a design decision, not a photography trick — but it only pays off if the photography is professional.
Specific beats neutral
Anonymous rentals compete on price. A property with character competes on desire. One memorable material, one strong colour, one unexpected piece will do more for your nightly rate than another set of grey sofas.
Design for turnovers
Choose finishes that improve with use: solid wood, linen, stone, lime paint. Avoid anything that shows every mark after two weeks. Fewer, better pieces cost less over three seasons than replacing cheap ones twice.
Frequently asked questions
- What is a realistic budget for a rental interior?
- It depends on size and condition. After the first visit I give a range instead of a guess — from a soft upgrade of what is already there to a full renovation including contractors.
- Is photography included?
- Yes. Every styling project closes with a professional photo shoot. Photography alone is also available as a fixed package at € 1,200 per property.