Being a great host starts with creating a homey, welcoming retreat for your guests during their stay. Thankfully, a guest room can be maximized through the smallest details, from ensuring the space is organized to adding a personalized touch. Here are five fundamentals for designing a beautiful and functional guest room in your home.
Be Our Guest
1. Quality bedding
Nothing says “comfort” like a good night’s sleep. One of the best investments you can make in the guest room is a good quality mattress and set of pillows. In a pinch, a memory foam topper can spruce up an old mattress. Textiles are heavy lifters when it comes to adding coziness to a room, so set out extra blankets and be sure the bedsheets are in top condition.
2. Curated furnishings
When furnishing a guest room, think first of practicality. Extra storage, like a dresser, closet, or luggage rack, will help guests as they settle in and unpack. If room allows, a small desk or vanity is an excellent addition, especially if guests need to do any work from the room. The same goes for a cozy seating vignette, where guests can relax during the day without messing up the bed.
3. Straightforward tech
Be sure to include a clock in the guest room, as well as a lighted alarm clock or radio. Leave written instructions on how to program the alarm, as well as the Wi-Fi password, security instructions, contact numbers, or any other information guests will need to get connected. Guests will also make great use out of a charging station, including adapters for multiples devices.
4. Supplementary lighting
Bedside lamps or wall sconces will help set the mood of the guest room, and these can be elevated with light dimmers. Consider adding a nightlight in the bathroom or hallway to make the unfamiliar walkways more accessible. Don’t forget to complete the room with a set of curtains or drapes, adding both decorative flair and a sense of privacy for your guests.
Meet the Author
Tory Irmeger, BA, English
Tory Irmeger graduated from Lee University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English with an emphasis on creative writing. While at Lee, Tory served as head of copy for the school’s biannual publication Vindagua. Since joining CMC Publications as editor, Tory has led ideation, conceptualization, and development of numerous health, wellness, and lifestyle articles published in print and online for HealthScope, CityScope, and Choose Chattanooga magazines – premier publications serving S.E. Tennessee and North Georgia.
