By OCH Interiors – Interior Design for Vacation Homes in the Smoky Mountains
Short-term rentals in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville are booming — and with more listings than ever, standing out takes more than a pretty listing photo. It takes thoughtful interior design that’s both stylish and built to last.
At OCH Interiors, we help East Tennessee property owners transform their cabins, cottages, and vacation homes into guest-ready spaces that wow visitors and deliver 5-star reviews. In this guide, we’ll share how to design short-term rentals that maximize durability, comfort, and visual impact — while keeping maintenance low and bookings high.
1. Why Interior Design Matters for Vacation Rentals
Great design does more than just look good — it improves:
- Guest experience
- Daily functionality
- Listing performance on Airbnb and VRBO
- Property value and resale potential
Design is a strategic investment — not an afterthought.
2. Start with Durable, Cleanable Materials
Short-term rentals see heavy use and minimal oversight. Your materials need to withstand wear-and-tear without sacrificing style.
Our go-to durable design materials include:
- Quartz countertops (non-porous and stain-resistant)
- Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring (scratch- and water-resistant)
- Performance fabrics like Crypton or Sunbrella
- Matte black or brushed brass fixtures that hide smudges
- Wipeable paints in eggshell or satin finishes
These selections are guest-proof and reduce your long-term maintenance.
3. Design for Function and Flow
We design rental properties to support fast guest turnover and intuitive living. That means:
- Open-concept layouts that are easy to navigate
- Labeled storage and open shelving in kitchens
- Accessible lighting controls and smart home devices
- Entryway benches and hooks for luggage and coats
Think of design like hospitality — how can you make things easier, clearer, and more enjoyable?
4. Add Style That Pops in Photos
Your listing photos are your first impression. We help rental owners create interiors that stand out in the scroll without feeling too trendy or overdone.
Design strategies that boost bookings:
- Feature walls with shiplap, reclaimed wood, or wallpaper
- Bold but tasteful accent colors (forest green, navy, terracotta)
- Layered bedding with texture and contrast
- Statement light fixtures or rustic chandeliers
- Artwork that reflects the Smoky Mountain location
You want guests to feel wowed the moment they walk in — and the moment they click.
5. Choose Furniture That Balances Comfort + Cleanability
Avoid soft or ornate pieces that stain, sag, or collect dust. Instead, we recommend:
- Sectionals or sofas with performance upholstery
- Wipeable wood or faux-leather dining chairs
- Platform beds with solid wood or metal frames
- Durable area rugs that hide dirt and vacuum well
Pro tip: Stay away from glass-top furniture, high-pile rugs, or overly delicate decor.
6. Maximize Sleep and Seating Capacity Without Overcrowding
Designing for short-term rentals often means adding beds without adding bedrooms — but that has to be done with care.
How we help clients:
- Add twin-over-full bunk beds or sleeper sofas
- Create nook-style beds with curtains and lighting
- Include pull-out ottomans or storage benches in common areas
We balance guest count, comfort, and space efficiency to optimize your ROI.
7. Add Thoughtful Touches That Get 5-Star Reviews
Design can impact how guests feel — and those feelings translate into reviews. Some of the highest-rated rentals we’ve designed include:
- A welcome station with coffee, brochures, and branded mugs
- Locally inspired decor or artwork
- Smart TVs + labeled remotes + cable/wifi clearly displayed
- Quality linens, black-out curtains, and bedside charging
- Board games, throw blankets, and book stacks
Design is in the details — and we make sure those details feel unforgettable.
Let’s Design a Vacation Rental Guests Will Love — and Book Again
Whether you’re launching your first Airbnb in Gatlinburg or upgrading a luxury retreat in Pigeon Forge, OCH Interiors will help you create a rental that works hard and photographs beautifully.
👉 Contact us today to start your short-term rental design project with confidence and clarity.
