Furnishing a holiday let is an exciting step – it’s where your investment really begins to take shape and feel like a welcoming space for guests.
But knowing where to begin can be overwhelming. From layout and style to durability and practicality, there’s a lot to consider. In this guide, we’ll break down how to furnish a holiday let with expert tips and tricks to make your space guest-ready, stylish, and functional.
Choosing the right furniture for your holiday let and where to begin…
Before you start shopping for sofas and dining sets, take a step back and consider the bigger picture. Ask yourself:
Who will be staying there?
When you start thinking about who will be staying in your accommodation, things will start to make sense, you’ll be able to adjust your property to cater for your guests needs. A family-friendly let will need different furniture to a romantic bolthole for two. Think about your target guests and what they’ll need.
For instance, when you have a family-friendly holiday home, you’ll want to make sure that you think about avoiding having breakables too low down, to too many sharp corners as well as washable fabrics soft furnishings.
It’s always a good idea to opt for furnishings that are sturdy, are wipeable and able to be fixed to the wall if they run the risk of toppling down. Another great tip is to make sure you consider things such as child-proof cutlery, plates, cups and even a highchair!
Dog-friendly holiday accommodation is extremely popular and see on average 18% more revenue per year, so accommodating pets is definitely something you might consider! But that may also affect your interior design when it comes to your holiday let.
Solid floors would be a better option over carpets, but if you’re still thinking of putting down carpets, consider darker colours or stain resistant materials. When purchasing a sofa, you’ll want one you can strip and wash.
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If you have a coastal cottage or a countryside retreat, you’ll want to emulate that in your interior design. For a coastal cottage, opt for a nautical theme with sandy neutrals, nautical blues, soft yellows, and easy-going whites. You’ll want somewhere for people to store their wet wellies and wetsuits, so hard floors and wipeable furniture are a must.
Furnishing a countryside holiday let is all about creating a warm, welcoming space that complements its natural surroundings. Embrace rustic charm with wooden furniture, soft neutral tones, and natural textures like linen, wool, and wicker. Opt for cosy features such as plush sofas, layered throws, and a log burner or wood-effect fire to create a snug atmosphere year-round.
Practicality is also key, think robust flooring for muddy boots, ample coat hooks, and easy-to-clean materials. Your countryside holiday let should feel like a relaxing rural retreat, offering guests comfort, simplicity, and a true sense of escape.
What is the layout of the property?
Make the most of every inch by measuring up carefully and choosing furniture that fits your space without crowding it.
Great design starts with smart layout planning. Measure every room and sketch out a floor plan. Think about how guests will move through the space, where natural light comes in, and how furniture can enhance flow and function.
Key layout tips:
- Avoid clutter. Less is more, open spaces feel bigger and more relaxing.
- Multifunctional furniture is your friend. A sofa bed in the living room or a storage bench in the hallway can maximise use of space.
- Allow for circulation. Make sure there’s room to walk comfortably around furniture, especially in high-traffic areas like the kitchen or hallway.
Holiday let styling and design
Holiday let interior design and style should strike the perfect balance between aesthetic appeal and practical function. A well-designed holiday let not only looks beautiful in photos but also feels comfortable and easy to live in.
Choose a cohesive style that reflects the property’s location, whether that’s coastal calm, countryside charm, or urban chic, and use a neutral base palette to keep the space timeless and versatile. Layer in texture with soft furnishings, rugs, and artwork, and add personality through local touches or themed accents.
The goal is to create an inviting atmosphere that appeals to a wide range of guests while being durable enough to withstand regular turnover.
Essential things to consider…
After you’ve determined what style you’re going for and the type of guests you’re targeting, you only have a few more things to consider when picking out your furnishings.
Comfort
Your holiday home being comfortable for your guests is key to your success in holiday letting; you want it to feel like a home from home.
Comfortable beds, sofas and chairs should be top priority, you want people to come back to your second home and be able to relax anywhere.
Making your holiday home cosy and peaceful will make all the difference to your guests. Provide soft blankets and cosy nooks for your guests to spend their time, whether they want to sit back and relax with a good book, or sit back and watch a movie.
Keep the decor simple and uncluttered; your guests want a clear and clean space to spend their time away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Don’t forget to add the extra touches that people look for when booking, for instance a deep bath, maybe a hot tub, a log burner for winter months, and outdoor furniture for those summer months.
When you’re investing in furniture for your holiday let, ensure you invest in good quality items. Your holiday home will see many types of guests throughout the year, and you want your furniture to hold up. Once you’ve got your hard-wearing pieces, you’ll not have to worry about replacing them very often.
How to furnish a holiday let
Let’s go over ways to furnish the rooms in your second home to ensure you make the most of the best features in your home…
Entrance hall and hallway
Furnishing the entrance hall or hallway of a holiday let is key to creating a great first impression. This space should be both practical and inviting, offering guests a warm welcome while helping them settle in with ease.
Use hardwearing, easy-to-clean flooring to handle foot traffic and include a quality doormat to catch dirt from shoes. Add functional touches like wall hooks or a coat rack, a bench or shoe storage, and a mirror to make the space feel larger and brighter. A small console table with a lamp or a welcome note can also add a homely feel. Keep the area clutter-free but thoughtfully styled to set the tone for the rest of the property.
Living room
The living room in a holiday let should be a comfortable and versatile space where guests can relax, unwind, and spend time together.
Choose a high-quality sofa with durable, washable covers, ideally big enough to seat your maximum number of guests. Add a couple of armchairs or a snug reading corner if space allows. A coffee table, side tables, and good lighting (a mix of floor lamps and table lamps) help create a cosy, functional layout.
Include a Smart TV, books, and board games for entertainment, and use soft furnishings like cushions, throws, and a rug to add warmth and style. Aim for a clean, uncluttered look with a few well-chosen decorative touches that reflect the property’s location or character.
Dining room
The dining area in a holiday let should be both stylish and practical, offering a comfortable space for guests to enjoy meals together.
Choose a sturdy, easy-to-clean dining table that can accommodate the maximum number of guests the property sleeps, extendable tables are a great option for flexibility. Pair it with durable, comfortable chairs, and consider adding a bench for a more relaxed, family-friendly feel. Good lighting is essential, so position the table near a window if possible and install a statement pendant light overhead to create atmosphere.
Keep the space clutter-free but inviting, with a simple centrepiece like fresh flowers or a bowl of fruit. The dining area should feel like a natural extension of the kitchen and living space, encouraging guests to gather, eat, and socialise in comfort.
Kitchen
The kitchen in a holiday let should be well-equipped, easy to use, and designed for functionality. Whether guests plan to cook full meals or just prepare breakfast and snacks, the space should be clean, uncluttered, and stocked with all the essentials. Choose durable, wipeable surfaces and cabinetry that can withstand frequent use. Good lighting, clear worktops, and practical layout are key—make sure there’s enough space for guests to prepare food comfortably.
Essential items for a holiday let kitchen:
Appliances:
- Oven and hob
- Fridge/freezer
- Microwave
- Kettle and toaster
- Coffee machine (a welcome extra)
- Washing machine or dishwasher (ideally both in larger properties)
- Cookware & Utensils:
- Saucepans and frying pans
- Roasting/baking trays
- Chopping boards
- Kitchen knives and utensils (spatula, tongs, whisk, ladle, etc.)
- Can opener, peeler, grater, colander
- Mixing bowls and measuring jugs
Tableware:
- Plates, side plates, and bowls (at least double the number of guests)
- Cutlery (again, enough for at least double occupancy)
- Glasses (tumblers and wine glasses)
- Mugs and cups
Other Essentials:
- Tea towels and oven gloves
- Bin and bin bags
- Washing-up liquid or dishwasher tablets
- Cloths and cleaning spray
- Salt, pepper, and basic cooking oil (optional but appreciated)
- Corkscrew/bottle opener
- Storage containers or cling film/foil
A well-stocked kitchen shows guests you’ve thought of everything, making their stay more comfortable and hassle-free.
Bedroom
The bedroom in a holiday let should be a calm, comfortable retreat where guests can rest and recharge. Start with a good-quality bed and a supportive mattress; this is one of the most important investments you can make, as a great night’s sleep often leads to glowing reviews. Dress the bed with fresh, hotel-quality linens, plump pillows, and an extra blanket or throw for added comfort. Bedside tables with lamps on each side are essential, along with accessible plug sockets or USB charging points.
Include a wardrobe or chest of drawers with plenty of hanging space and hangers, plus a full-length mirror if space allows. Blackout curtains or blinds help ensure a good night’s sleep, especially in the summer months. Keep the décor soft and neutral with just a few thoughtful touches, artwork, cushions, or a rug, to create a welcoming, clutter-free space that appeals to all guests.
Bathroom
The bathroom in a holiday let should feel clean, fresh, and well-equipped, much like a boutique hotel. Focus on functionality and ease of cleaning by choosing simple, durable finishes and keeping the design minimal and clutter-free. Ensure good lighting and ventilation and consider adding a mirror with built-in lighting or anti-fog features for extra convenience.
Essentials for a holiday let bathroom include:
- Soft, fluffy towels (bath, hand, and face for each guest, plus spares)
- Non-slip bathmat
- Toilet brush and bin
- Mirror
- Storage space for toiletries
- Hook or rail for hanging towels or robes
- Spare toilet rolls
- Optional extras that guests appreciate:
- Hairdryer
- Hand soap and shower gel
- Shampoo and conditioner
- First aid kit
Keep the colour palette neutral and spa-like and add a few soft touches such as a plant or decorative jar of cotton pads to create a warm, cared-for feel. Cleanliness is key; sparkling surfaces and a fresh scent make all the difference.
Outdoor space
The outdoor space of a holiday let is often a major selling point, so furnishing it thoughtfully can greatly enhance the guest experience.
Start with comfortable, weather-resistant seating such as a dining table and chairs or a cosy bistro set where guests can enjoy meals or relax outdoors. Add cushions and throws made from outdoor fabrics to boost comfort and style. If space allows, consider a BBQ or fire pit to encourage socialising and create memorable evenings. Good outdoor lighting, like solar-powered lanterns or string lights, can add atmosphere after dark.
Don’t forget practical touches such as storage for garden equipment or cushions, a sturdy doormat, and easy-to-maintain landscaping. A well-appointed outdoor area transforms your holiday let into a true retreat, giving guests the chance to unwind and soak up the surroundings.
Top tips to remember when furnishing a holiday let
When furnishing a holiday let, it’s important to strike the right balance between style, comfort, and durability. Start by thinking like a guest, prioritise comfort with quality beds, cosy seating, and thoughtful touches that enhance the overall experience. Choose neutral colour schemes for broad appeal, then layer in personality with local artwork, textiles, and accessories.
Always invest in robust, easy-to-clean furniture and finishes that can withstand frequent use. Avoid overcrowding rooms, guests need space for their belongings and to move around comfortably. Double up on essential items like crockery, cutlery, and towels to ensure smooth turnovers.
And don’t forget functionality, good lighting, ample storage, blackout blinds, and accessible plug sockets all make a big difference. Finally, keep a detailed holiday let inventory list and update it regularly to stay on top of wear and tear and ensure nothing important goes missing between bookings.
Whether you are considering letting out your holiday home or you already have a holiday letting business, the following owner guides may be useful to you:
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