In an increasingly competitive rental market, every little detail of your chalet can make a difference. When it comes to choosing seating (including lounge chairs, footstools or deck chairs), your furniture isn’t just about the look: it’s also a great way to boost the guest experience, increase your property’s visibility and generate more bookings. Find out how to make your seating a real asset to your rental home.
We asked Nina, a designer at Maison Tergus (a leading name in leather furnishings), to share her top tips.
Why is seating such an important factor in rental performance?
Seating plays a more important role than you might think. It adds structure to the space, creates areas for relaxation and helps to set the tone for your chalet. But most importantly, it directly influences:
- the guest experience: a cosy reading corner or some well-designed bench seating makes people want to stay… and come back;
- the visual appeal of your photos: attractive seating helps to capture attention on booking platforms;
- the high-end feel of your property: style and comfort work together to create a memorable experience.
Three types of seating that can help you attract guests
The BKF chair: an iconic design that guarantees that “wow” factor
The BKF, or butterfly chair, is a classic of modern design. Its airy look, clean lines and natural leather or stretched canvas structure fit just as well in contemporary chalets as they do in more rustic interiors.
Today, some French craftsmen offer customised versions with high-end finishes and bespoke colour options. Placed near a full-height window or in a corner by the fire, it can prove an eye-catching feature in photographs.
🪑 OVO tip: Arrange a pair of BKF chairs in front of a mountain view to create the perfect photo backdrop to share on Instagram.
The sheepskin deckchair: the secret to après-ski relaxation
Lightweight, reclining and snug … the sheepskin deckchair is a great way to create a cosy atmosphere. It immediately conveys a sense of relaxation, comfort and perfectly fits in a mountain décor.
The natural variations in the fleece mean that each chair is unique, allowing you to transform a quiet corner into a haven for the senses.
📷 Place your deckchair next to a woodburning stove with a blanket and a side table: it’s sure to be a highlight of your photoshoot!
Modular seating and benches: flexibility and style
In a chalet, the use of space can often change from season to season, depending on group size or the needs of your guests. Modular seating and benches offer a convenient and stylish solution, providing:
- extra seats at a large dining table;
- cosy footrests for evenings in front of the fire;
- a window seat where you can curl up with a book.
Look for sturdy designs made from natural fabrics (felted wool, linen, recycled leather) and choose deep colours to create a cosy feel.
How to choose the right seating for your holiday property
Choose natural materials
Wool and leather are hard-wearing, stylish materials that work well in a mountain environment. As well as adding warmth and character, they appeal to guests looking for quality.
Adding a personal touch
A unique interior is a powerful selling point. Consider customisable seating: colours that match your décor, sizes that suit the space, and handcrafted finishes. This helps to create a strong visual identity.
Create “Instagrammable” spaces
Guests love to share pictures of their stay on social media. A cosy, well-designed corner quickly becomes a selling point on Airbnb or Booking.com. Don’t be afraid to create several relaxation areas: a chaise longue with a view of the mountains, beanbags around a boardgame table, a hanging chair on the terrace…
A better layout for more bookings
A well-decorated chalet doesn’t just look good: it will also perform better on booking platforms. Why is this?
- Guests recommend the property (and are more likely to return).
- The pictures are more striking;
- A distinctive style is more likely to be remembered;
- A great guest experience generates better reviews;
Conclusion
Seating is not just a matter of décor. It creates atmosphere, makes your photos look better, influences your guests’ feelings… and their decision to book (or return).
OVO Network has more than 17 years of experience in mountain chalet rentals. We work with more than 200 owners, helping them with bookings, marketing, online payments and customer communication. We also help them find the best management solutions for their individual properties.
Are you a property owner or are you thinking about investing in a rental chalet?
Do you want to ensure that every detail of your property contributes to the success of your business?
💡 Get in touch with OVO Network for help with choosing the right décor, boosting your visibility and maximising your profit.
FAQ : Choosing the right seating for your chalet
Why is seating so important in a holiday property?
Seating plays a key role in the guest experience. It’s more than just a place to sit – it helps to define spaces, creates relaxation areas and influences how guests see the quality of your accommodation. Well-chosen furniture makes your photos look better, adds to the atmosphere of your property and helps to keep your guests happy (and coming back).
What types of seating are the most popular with guests?
Designer classics (such as the BKF), sheepskin deckchairs and modular seating are very popular. As well as being comfortable, they look good and are versatile, meeting the expectations of customers looking for style and comfort.
What materials should you look for when choosing seating for your chalet?
Opt for natural, sustainable materials such as full-grain leather, wool, linen or repurposed leather. Not only do they add character to your decor, but they are also more durable and sit well with a premium mountain style.
How can you incorporate seating without making your space look overcrowded?
Go for modular and well-proportioned pieces. Bespoke benches, multifunctional footstools and lightweight armchairs can define the space while remaining practical. The aim is to create cosy corners without obstructing movement.
What impact does seating have on rental performance?
A well-decorated chalet really stands out on booking platforms. Attractive seating catches the eye, makes people want to stay there, and encourages them to book. It also makes the chalet more comfortable, which directly influences reviews, overall ratings, and recommendation rates.
