This Boise Airbnb Swaps Screens for Chessboards and Wooden Puzzles
A condo in Boise, Idaho, has swapped traditional decor for games and puzzles. Owned by the founders of Art of Play, a curiosity shop, the space is now listed on Airbnb. Every corner invites guests to unplug and engage with hands-on entertainment.
The design reflects a growing trend: game-filled spaces are returning as people seek real-world connections in an increasingly digital age.
The condo's living room features a tile coffee table with a built-in chessboard. Nearby, a console holds mechanical wooden puzzles, blending function with style. Instead of spirits, a bar cart displays board games, jigsaw puzzles, and toys.
A dedicated cabinet stores even more games, many of which are sold at Art of Play's Brooklyn shop and online. The decor stems from a partnership between lifestyle brand Society Social and photographer Nick Mele. Their eight-piece Pause Life, Play Games collection includes a game table, stool, and chairs—each designed to balance playability with modern aesthetics.
The owners, who run Art of Play, wanted a space that celebrates analog fun. Their Airbnb listing offers guests a break from screens, replacing them with tactile, interactive experiences.
The Boise condo joins a wider shift toward game-centred interiors. Collections like Pause Life, Play Games cater to those craving offline interaction. For now, the rental stands as a playful alternative to typical holiday stays—where the focus is on puzzles, strategy, and face-to-face fun.
