Guest room makeovers
44 Best Guest Bedroom Ideas
DAVID TSAY
Guest bedrooms are a fantastic addition to any home—but gone are the days of air mattresses and futons. We've laid out how to outfit your space with the best guest bedroom ideas to make a comfortable, relaxing stay for your friends and family. While you may think that any bedroom decorating ideas are suitable, you might want to think again. There are some things you'll want to consider, such as how to make a room of four twin beds feel spacious, or what kind of storage will be required.
Of course, since this is a guest room after all, you'll probably want to stick to some decorating on a budget ideas since you don't use the room every day. You can implement many of these tips in a way that's easy on your wallet, whether by adding a fresh coat of paint or some DIY touches. There are also several small space decorating ideas, since many of these rooms tend to be converted attics or spaces that weren't previously bedrooms. Whether through cheery bedding or creating an all-white space, these ideas won't leave guests feeling cooped up.
DAVID TSAY
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Colorful Quilts
If you're trying to fit as many guests as you can, giving your twin beds a cheerful palette is a great way to prevent the room from feeling overcrowded.
SHOP QUILTS
ANNIE SCHLECHTER
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Painted Ceiling
For a guest bedroom with a sloped ceiling, paint the ceiling (instead of the walls) a soft color for some added dimension.
SHOP BEDDING
DAVID TSAY
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Add a Couch
Whether for man's best friend or just another sitting option, adding a couch to a guest bedroom will make for a homey touch.
SHOP QUILTS
KIM CORNELISON
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Bed Bench
Adding a bench or ottoman at the end of the guest bedroom bed is a great item for your company to use for their luggage or other belongings.
SHOP OTTOMAN
DAVID TSAY
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Wrought-Iron Bed Frame
Nothing says farmhouse like a beautiful wrought-iron bed frame to create a peaceful retreat for your guests.
SHOP BEDDING
John Gruen
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Farmhouse Bedroom
Farmhouse style goes au naturel with a white iron bed, distressed dresser, and neutral accessories.
Alec Hemer
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Summer Tones
Consider this guest bedroom a lesson in breezy decor. A bamboo headboard and antique quilt are complemented by turquoise furnitures and majolica plates.
Annie Schlechter
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Wild for Wallpaper
This guest bedroom's “hydrangea” wallpaper acts as a statement alongside floral bedding and a plaid blanket.
Christopher Dibble, styled by Liz Strong
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All-American Accents
A patriotic theme rings through this guest bedroom, from the flags on the wall to the various red-and-blue patterns below.
Brian Woodcock, styling by Alison Allsop
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Functional Storage
Consider extra-long bedside tables (also used as dressers) to offer visitors more storage and space for their belongings.
David Tsay, styling by Becki Griffin
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Sign-Inspired Decor
The owner of this Texas home drew inspiration for her bedroom from the vintage sign that hangs overhead.
Displayed against a custom-blue wall, the sign‘s black-and-white combo is reinforced by a stacked nightstand featuring a white trunk and black toolbox.
Troa Giovan
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Saltbox Style
Annie Schlechter
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Shiplap-Inspired Walls
As an alternative to shiplap, apply simple rows of plywood strips to bedroom walls for a similar look.
Lisa Romerein
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Antique-Styled Guest Bedroom
Into all things nautical? Scour antiques stores for vintage maps, charts, and other navigation-related art to help accessorize the guest bedroom.
Max Kim-Bee
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Transform a Tiny Space
Yes, the room is small (just 10 feet wide!), but what it lacks in square footage it more than makes up for in views. The nightstand is just big enough to accommodate a bud vase, cell phone, or coffee cup.
David A. Land
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Attic Bedroom
The third-story guest suite in this 1700s New York farmhouse offers a cozy home to items culled from local estate sales, including the spool bed and sweet framed needlepoint.
Tara Donne
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Milk Paint
Green was the last color that the homeowners of a New Hampshire farmhouse had in mind for room, but when they removed the wallpaper and discovered a verdant shade of milk paint, they knew it was meant to be. To keep the focus on the green, they added a simple pair of antique twin beds and one of the couple's many vintage wool rugs.
Annie Schlechter
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Overhead Decor
A starburst chandelier, extra-wide nightstand, and stacked glass table lamp add a modern edge to this guest room from Country Living's Makeover Takeover.
Stephen Kent Johnson
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Contrasting Elements
The guest room in this this elegant 1850s home boasts these unique lights and black lampshades, which add the perfect pop of contrast to this room.
Brian Woodcock
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A Neutral Palette
This Alabama couple, who remodeled their suburban cookie-cutter home, enlarged the guest room to accommodate two queen-size beds, complete with light linen headboards and crispy bedding.
Additional neutral touches include a sisal rug, small brass mirror, and a pair of antique horns.
Tim Street-Porter
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Canopy Beds
Can't fit two full-on canopy beds in your guest room? Take a page from designer Heather Chadduck Hillegas' book and use patterned fabric to make small-space friendly canopies.
Roger Davies
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Cozy Guest Retreat
To play up the snug dimensions of the guest room in this Victorian farmhouse, the homeowner covered the walls and trim with rich green paint. A four-poster spindle bed, outfitted with a striped wool blanket, creates a comfy room-within-a-room feel, while botanical curtains add softness and privacy.
Paul Costello
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Novel Accents
In the guest bedroom of Ronnie Dunn's Tennessee barn home, a rope bed anchors the space. Accented with a blue-and-white swiss cross blanket, a seagrass rug, and a hanging tobacco basket, the room is full-on country without feeling too theme-y.
Ample ivory curtains complete the look by framing the outdoor scenery and adding just the right amount of feminine flair.
Paul Costello
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Charming Guest Quarters
Singer-songwriter Holly Williams installed wood panel finishes to the guest bedroom of her 1908 Nashville cottage as a way to add some country charm.
Max Kim-Bee
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Non-Traditional Headboard
With not an inch to spare, the owner of this Florida cottage pushed the guest room's twin bed against the wall and hung a green chalkboard in place of a headboard. Bonus: The piece doubles as a memo board.
Max Kim-Bee
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Colorful Patterns
This California bungalow's guest bedroom looks extra cozy, thanks to colorful kilims' striking patterns and vibrant shades.
Annie Schlechter
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Bold Pillows
The Euro shams take center stage when paired with simple striped bedding and a streamlined Amish-made bed in this colorful Texas home.
Annie Schlechter
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Grown-Up Bunk Room
In order to sleep a crowd, this Texas home owner outfitted a sophisticated bunk room with iron twin frames, wired baskets that stand in for luggage racks, and made-in-Austin sconces that allow her guests to read without disturbing their roommates.
Country Living
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Playing With Patterns
Striped fabric on walls creates an even cozier vibe. A more-is-more approach to pattern (geometric pillows, herringbone rug) and texture (crewelwork sheets) makes the mélange in Country Living's 2014 House of the Year's guest bedroom a lot more interesting.
Alec Hemer
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Reclaimed Iron Headboards
The guest room's headboards are actually salvaged iron gates, attached to platforms from Simply Home. The owner of this South Carolina home captured the image—one of her favorites—in the Tuileries Garden in Paris. The walls are painted Buckhorn by Benjamin Moore.
36 ways to create a comfortable and welcoming space |
(Image credit: TR Studio)
The key to successful guest bedroom ideas is to strike the balance between style and comfort.
Whether you have a second bedroom ready-prepared for surprise drop-ins, or a multifunctional space that doubles as a guest room, having a warm and welcoming space to host friends and family is a wonderful addition if you love to entertain.
Sometimes bedroom ideas for guests can be an afterthought, especially if you are doing a complete home redesign, but it’s worth spending time on getting it right, say Staffan and Monique Tollgård, founders of Tollgård Design.
‘Finding a second wind is important, as this is the space where guests will take the measure of your home. Textured wallpaper, a great mattress, considered and flattering lighting, soft rugs, and a statement piece – whether lighting or a great headboard – will make a lasting Impression.'
If you’re in need of inspiration and advice on decorating a guest bedroom then you’re in the right place as we’ve rounded up an array of elegant guest bedroom ideas and tips from the experts.
Guest bedroom ideas
Designing guest bedroom ideas can be daunting, as there are so many things to consider, from bedroom color ideas to bedroom lighting and bedroom storage. Making sure your guests have the best possible night’s sleep should always be the priority, so investing in comfortable bed ideas and choosing the best mattress is a good place to begin.
‘Design a guest bedroom to have a great-looking, blissfully comfortable bed, with lighting that can be lowered and add softness. A soft rug underfoot, a voile blind that blows in the wind, textured throws and cushions,’ says Chrissie Rucker, founder of The White Company . ‘Invest in a high-quality bed and mattress that molds and supports your body correctly, plus great-quality linen, duvet, pillows, and a cloud-like mattress topper. It can feel like a big investment but, in the long term, it is worth it as great quality will feel better and last longer.'
1. Try an elongated headboard
(Image credit: TR Studio)
Guest bedrooms are often small spaces that require clever design solutions.
Adding an elongated headboard idea is a clever way to make bedrooms appear larger and feel more streamlined and contemporary. In this small guest room by TR Studio, an upholstered bespoke headboard brings color and luxurious texture but also creates a cozy backdrop for lounging on lazy mornings.
'Often headboards can be quite bulky and can add lots of visual clutter, so this idea allows for space saving whilst creating a contemporary look with complimentary green Guatemalan side tables, and build-it wardrobes as well,' says Tom Rutt, founder TR Studio . 'Wall lights were added above the bed for reading and again to keep the space clean and sleek.'
2. Add a cozy nook bed
(Image credit: Vanrenen GW Designs)
If you have a guest room which is narrow with low ceilings, why not make the most of the intimate space by creating a cozy nook bed? By fitting a double bed snuggly into the corner of this room Vanrenen GW Designs managed to free up valuable floor space making room for a large chest of drawers.
'The bedroom is on the ground floor and was a very dark and damp room so the challenge was to create a really warm, cozy, and comfortable place for guests to sleep, says Sarah Vanrenen. 'We built paneling and bookshelves around the stone walls and chose vibrant warm colors for paint and fabrics to transform this space.'
3. Decorate with neutrals
(Image credit: The White Company)
Decorating with neutrals is a safe choice for guest bedrooms, as they are not overly masculine or feminine plus they are restful and they make the space more versatile.
'A muted and gentle color palette is easy on the eyes and can create a relaxing and cozy space. It doesn't mean we need to limit ourselves to only creams and beige bedroom ideas,' says Justyna Korczynska, senior designer at Crown . 'You can choose colors from different families but it's best to keep to softer and muted shades rather than strong saturated colors.'
If you're thinking of neutral bedroom ideas, 'it’s good to choose pieces that will add character and gentle texture,' says Chrissie Rucker, founder of The White Company .
'I love a combination of natural materials and finishes. From timber, stone, sisal floors or rugs to touches of greenery that bring hints of the outside world in.'
4. Layer lighting
(Image credit: Sims Hilditch)
It's important to layer different types of bedroom lighting to ensure there is light for every task and mood, from general overhead lighting to ambient wall lighting. ‘A bedside table lamp is a must-have, but we also recommend an LED reading light too. These lights are great for couples sharing a bed as they allow one person to read while the other sleeps,’ says Louise Wicksteed, design director of Sims Hilditch .
5. Choose tranquil colors inspired by nature
(Image credit: Dan Duchars)
There are no strict rules on what bedroom paint ideas are best for guest rooms, it's very much a matter of debate among interior designers, but the color will have an instant impact on the mood, so consider your choice carefully. 'For a room to be appealing to different people is good to avoid very strong bright colors as they can be overpowering.
Also, very dark colors may not be the best choice if we want that room to feel welcoming and restful,' suggests Justyna Korczynska, senior designer at Crown.
If you're after a relaxing bedroom she suggests looking to nature for inspiration. 'Blue is the color of the sky and water and has calming and restorative properties for our minds. Green is the color of the living environment, it connects us with nature, the trees, and gardens, and promotes well-being. Both those colors, especially when softer shades are chosen, are restful and harmonious so perfect for creating a relaxing and welcoming space.'
6. Don't forget window treatments
(Image credit: Vanessa Arbuthnott)
Getting a good night’s sleep is paramount in a guest bedroom, so think about investing in window treatments with blackout linings to block out the light. If you have an old home with drafty single-glazed windows or a large bay window, try teaming bedroom curtain ideas with blinds for extra insulation.
As well as offering privacy and control of heat and light levels, curtain ideas and blind ideas are a great way to inject color and pattern as demonstrated in this scheme which features Vanessa Arbuthnott's joyful May Blossom (on the curtain) and Sepals and Petals (blinds) prints.
7. Express yourself
(Image credit: Cat Dal Interiors)
There are different approaches to take when decorating a guest bedroom. While a paired-back scheme layered with soft colors and textures is guaranteed to create a restful feel, guest bedrooms can also be great spaces to showcase unique personal style and decorate with art.
‘Guest rooms should be fun, delightful, and attractive. Always hang beautiful artwork, such as a large landscape photograph or a gallery wall of interesting pieces – this should be an opportunity to 'treat' your guests to your sense of individual style,' says Cat Dal, interior designer and founder of Cat Dal Interiors .
‘To have a bit of fun with texture and the unexpected,' here Cat has paired Gaston y Daniela bedroom wallpaper with a bespoke fringe trim headboard.
8. Choose fitted carpet for warmth underfoot
(Image credit: Kersaint Cobb)
When it comes to bedroom flooring ideas, fitted carpet is guaranteed to make guest bedrooms warm and welcoming. As well as offering a cozy surface for guests to sink their feet into, they help insulate heat and sound.
When thinking about material, wool is a natural insulator that helps rooms stay cool in summer and warm in winter, plus it is renewable, sustainable and hypoallergenic. Opting for a neutral color will keep spaces feeling bright and timeless.
'Going for pale wool carpet with an interesting texture to it, will provide your guest bedroom the versatility and simplicity of a single color carpet, while also allowing your guest to appreciate the warmth and comfort the wool texture provides,' says Jon Flannigan, product manager at Kersaint Cobb .
9. Add a cozy rug
(Image credit: TR Studio)
If you're thinking of wood floor ideas for a bedroom, then adding in a sumptuous deep-pile bedroom rug will instantly make the space feel more cozy.
In a large bedroom, placing a rug under the bed will help ground the space, bring essential texture and make a focal point of the bed, alternatively, in a small bedroom, try laying rugs either side of the bed.
10. Introduce a seating area
(Image credit: Kitesgrove)
Socialising can be full on, so if space allows, 'try to include a small table and chair so guests feel at home and have a place to retreat to while staying with you,' says Clara Ewart, head of design at Kitesgrove . Alternatively, add a single comfy armchair in the corner – this can also be handy for laying clothes if you're short on wardrobe space.
'A foldable luggage rack is always helpful and a full-length mirror is essential,' adds Clara.
11. Opt for a day bed in a multi-functional room
(Image credit: Joana Arnaha)
A pull-out daybed is the perfect space-saving solution for guest bedrooms that also serve multifunctional spaces such as home offices or craft rooms.
Offering a cozy seating space during the day, they can swiftly be pulled out into a bed at night and often contain handy concealed storage beneath.
For this space, Joana Aranha layered neutral tones for a calming feel and added a bespoke daybed covered in Romo fabric.
12. Ensure guests' comfort is a priority
(Image credit: Nate Sheets Photo)
We all want to sleep better, but as a guest, not getting enough good quality sleep is a worry, whether that be an unfamiliar mattress or an over-heated room. So, work to ensure that not only the bed is comfortable, but that the entire space is sleep-inducing.
'Whether it’s the spare room or a sofa in the living room, the area should be clean and cool, and guests should be able to make it as dark as possible,' informs Dr. Nerina Ramlakhan, Silentnight ’s sleep expert. 'If you don’t have blackout curtains, why not get them an eye mask ahead of their stay?'
13. Ensure the guest room is squeaky clean
(Image credit: Future / Chris Everard)
'Whether your door has stayed closed, the children have been den making, or it’s become a glorified laundry room, your guest room will need a good clean and sort out,' says Jo James, founder of Bedfolk .
Cleaning a bedroom before guests arrive might need to be thorough if the room isn't used much for sleeping. 'Give all soft furnishings a wash, dust surfaces and bookcases, clear up any clothes, vacuum the carpet, open a window and make the bed up with fresh bed linen,' continues Jo. Airing the room well is a must, too.
'Preparation is more important than ever post-pandemic – bedrooms and bathrooms can be hotbeds for germs, so making sure you are taking precautions and cleaning regularly and efficiently between guests is essential at this time,' says James Montgomery-Castle, Soak&Sleep ’s in-house Sleep Expert. 'There are some simple things you can do to make your life easier when hosting guests, like using mattress protectors, duvet protectors, and pillow protectors which means you can really deep clean your spare bed when your guests go home.'
14. Invest in new bedding
(Image credit: Olivine Design/photographer credit: Simon Brown)
'Reward your cleaning efforts with some luxurious bed sheets that will wrap visitors in comfort and calm,' explains Jo James.
'No one enjoys sleeping on scratchy or worn-out sheets that have been on the main bed for 10 years before being relegated to the guest room. An added bonus to perfect bedding is that your guests may feel so comfortable that they miss breakfast – extra sleep for you!
'A hotel-style percale cotton is ideal to extend a real feeling of hospitality. It has a crisp and cool quality that you find in boutique hotels, making it an absolute hit with guests.'
15. Layer up for coziness
(Image credit: Rachael Smith)
Knowing how to style a bed with beautiful cushions and covers isn't just about aesthetics, but practicalities, too. Not everyone sleeps at the same temperature during the night. Cater to everyone’s needs and make your guest bedroom extra comfortable and easily personalized by layering the bed with blankets, throws, and pillows. Guests can then tailor the bed to their liking and personal comfort.
Different bedding styles can also feel different in terms of warmth so it’s worth knowing what will suit your room or home.
Percale cotton is cooler to the touch and is suited to hot sleepers, whilst sateen cotton has a naturally heavier drape, making it ideal for those that feel cold at night. The addition of a natural linen sheet can satisfy both sides of the camp as it is a natural insulator to trap more heat under a duvet at the same time as being temperature regulating and comfortable to sleep under on its own.
16. Use the right lighting in a guest room
(Image credit: Future / Jake Curtis)
Good lighting is just as important in a guest bedroom as it is in a master bedroom.
When it comes to decorating a guest bedroom, smart bedroom lighting ideas should not be an afterthought.
‘Bedrooms are all about creating atmosphere and mood lighting plays a key role,’ says interior designer Nicky Dobree .
‘It’s important to have layers of lighting, with a good reading lamp by the bed a must – it’s so frustrating to climb into bed then find you’re not able to read.’
If your room lacks floor or table space, consider having one hung on the wall instead.
17. Make your guests feel welcome
(Image credit: Future / Dan Duchars)
To ensure your guests feel welcome on arrival, light a candle or use a diffuser, leave out clean towels and a few toiletries, or add a vase of fresh flowers, as shown in the Bohemian bedroom idea above.
‘You’re creating a hotel feel, which is always a lovely treat,’ says hotelier Julia Hands. ‘Make sure there’s a plug point for chargers and hairdryers too.’
For Julia, it is all about the welcome: ‘As a hotelier, it’s the only chance you have to make sure guests feel instantly relaxed and at home. A hand-written note on the bed always goes a long way, alongside fresh flowers, scented candles, and magazines.’
Interior designer Nicky agrees: ‘It’s the small details that count. As a guest, you want to feel welcome, so arriving in a room that’s been specially prepared for you is wonderful.’
'It’s the little touches that really make the difference. Calming bedside lights rather than a glaring bright overhead light,' says Jo James.
'A carafe of water with glasses on the bedside and a towel on the end of the bed. Storage if guests are staying for longer than one night will help them live in organized harmony. Bathroom spares for forgotten essentials. A flickering candle on a nightstand to relax and aid good sleep, books and magazines to help them wind down well, and a universal phone charger to avoid the dreaded dead battery – these touches will make guests feel welcome as soon as they arrive.'
18. Give your guest bedroom a dual-purpose
(Image credit: Future / Carolyn Barber)
‘Spare rooms can often become a dumping ground,’ says Nicky. ‘Try not to let that happen by having good storage.’
Look to clever bedroom storage ideas and solutions, such as under-bed boxes, wall-hung cabinets, baskets, and even hooks. These are all great ways of containing clutter.
If designing the room from scratch, go for a bed with drawers and a traditional blanket box if space allows. Why not look to daybed ideas for small spaces, and choose a design that creates a sleep space for your guests and a comforting seating area for you to enjoy?
19.
Choose a mattress to suit different people(Image credit: Future / Brent Darby)
Finding the best mattress to suit all comers is vital to ensuring your guest bedroom is comfortable.
‘The bed is the most important item,’ says Nicky, ‘so it needs to have a good mattress. Choose one that is medium-firm, enabling guests to sleep comfortably in most positions. There is nothing worse than sleeping on a mattress that feels as if it has been slept on by many others.’
20. Establish the bathroom sharing etiquette
(Image credit: Future / Brent Darby)
Not all guest bedrooms have ensuites, but you can make your guests feel comfortable by putting clean towels in their rooms and making it clear when they are welcome to use the bathroom.
‘Establish a schedule of who likes to shower in the morning or have a bath at night,’ explains Nicky, ‘and everyone should leave the bathroom clean when they’re finished.’
21. Give a guest room a luxe look
(Image credit: Future / Damian Russell)
If you're wondering if you can give your guest bedroom ideas a boost and it’s the sophistication you’re after, headboard ideas are the way to go; a headboard covered in a bold patterned fabric is a great starting point.
Introducing vibrantly colored walls and tactile fabrics to the mix is a good way to intensify the luxurious feel of the scheme.
22. Turn a guest room into a home office when not in use
(Image credit: Future / Mark Bolton)
It’s practical for an infrequently used guest room to double as a home office.
If you're wondering how to arrange a small bedroom that doubles as an office, the key is to look at bedroom layout ideas with a desk or even bedroom office ideas. Hidden desk ideas or a well-proportioned sofa bed that will sit back against a wall when not in use are all clever ways to create a double-up space. For a restful feel, ensure the room isn’t overwhelmed by technology.
23. Merge the practical with the beautiful
(Image credit: Future / Emma Lee)
Where space is tight, consider pieces such as swing-arm wall lights at either side of the bed to help keep the look streamlined.
Limiting the color palette to similar hues on walls, furniture, and bedding is a visual trick that can be used if you're wondering how to make a small bedroom look bigger.
24. Give a plain guest room a colorful update
(Image credit: Future / Alexander James)
Use color to separate the guest room from the rest of the home. It is the perfect space to experiment, so do step out of your comfort zone when decorating this room.
Decorating with confident, bold colors offset by flashes of pattern will create a sophisticated look that reflects the feel of a weekend away.
25. Conceal a mattress with layers of bedlinen
(Image credit: Future / Carolyn Barber)
Have an unsightly bed frame on show? Hide it. Layering a sofa bed with luxurious oversized throws is one of those smart bed ideas that will not only provide a comfortable night’s sleep but is also a good way to conceal the mattress frame.
26. Factor in multifunctional furniture in a small guest bedroom
(Image credit: Future / Jan Baldwin)
Being the smallest bedroom, or having to do double duty, shouldn’t stop a guest room from being a well-functioning and comfortable space.
Smart small bedroom ideas, such as investing in multifunctional furniture, are essential if your guest bedroom is on the smaller side.
A sofa bed or desk that doubles as a dressing table allow the space to be easily transformed for overnight or weekend visitors.
27. Create a five-star look in your guest room
(Image credit: Future / Richard Powers)
For the ultimate luxury bedroom for your guests, put together a scheme that resembles a first-class hotel suite.
Keep the hospitality element front of mind, and don't be tempted to create a space that's personal or idiosyncratic. Leave surfaces clutter-free, as guests will bring their own possessions.
28. Set up a space for dressing
(Image credit: Future / Emma Lewis)
When considering guest bedroom ideas, remember that no one enjoys living out of a suitcase, so guests will welcome somewhere convenient to hang clothes alongside plenty of shelf space.
Built-in wardrobes and dressing table ideas can neatly make use of space under a pitched roof, and mirrored doors have the effect of extending the space.
(Image credit: Future / Jan Baldwin)
Simple bedroom ideas and design decisions can make a guest room work hard when two people are sharing.
In the picture above, the bedside table has two drawers, one for each guest, and the lamp divides the table top to mark a space for each person's bedtime reading, while the checks and stripes suit most tastes.
30. Opt for a well dressed guest room
(Image credit: Trove by Studio Duggan)
'A guest bedroom provides the perfect opportunity to step a little outside of your comfort zone,' says Tiffany Duggan, director, Studio Duggan .
'Guests are likely to only be visiting for a relatively short time, and so we like to approach a space just as we would an eccentric boutique hotel; a patterned wallpaper with a feature headboard in a bold color always works particularly well.'
31. Decorate with a theme in mind
(Image credit: Future / Paul Raeside)
Twin bedroom ideas are useful if you regularly host guests that don't want to share a room.
Shared bedrooms can feel disunited, so follow our tips above about symmetry, but also look at giving the room a decor theme, and add personal touches to make it feel welcoming – if you're hosting guests for the holidays, for example, be sure to add a festive touch to the room.
Keep decorations more subtle and sophisticated than elsewhere in the house – it is, after all, a place to sleep – by maintaining a tight color scheme, such as green and silver.
32 Focus on the small details
(Image credit: Future)
Make sure your guest room doesn’t have a neglected ambiance, remember to hang pictures and mirrors, and add fresh or faux flowers to the room. Leaving reading material, like magazines or books, is also a lovely cozy gesture.
33. Enhance a small guest bedroom
(Image credit: Future / Carolyn Barber)
A daybed is a good way to make rooms of limited dimensions seem bigger and ensure that they are working harder. Use a welcoming bright color, and finish with ambient accessories, like throws, books, flowers, and art.
34. Put the focus on comfort
In your zeal to be creative in every other area of your home, don’t forget the guest bedroom, says Irene Gunter, founder of Gunter & Co .
‘To make it inviting, think about texture. Fabric walling doesn’t have to cost a fortune and will transform the space, making it look sophisticated while feeling cosy and warm.’ By the same token, use proper Roman blinds or curtains. Also, be a bit punchier with pattern or color. ‘You can risk it here,’ says Irene.
Make sure the guest room doesn’t have a neglected ambiance, by hanging as many pictures as you’d have in your own bedroom. Details such as fresh flowers – or even superior quality faux flowers – will make the spare room look ready for action if any last-minute guests arrive. Thoughtful furniture additions will make all the difference, too.
Above, Emily Todhunter of Todhunter Earle has placed a vintage daybed in the window alcove, while a sofa stands at the foot of the bed.
‘When staying with someone, it’s a bonus if there is a comfortable armchair or sofa,’ says Emily. ‘It creates a lovely place to read, nap, or take in a beautiful view.’
35. Invest in plenty of storage
(Image credit: Barlow and Barlow)
No one enjoys living out of a suitcase, so guests will welcome somewhere convenient to hang clothes alongside plenty of shelf space. Here, a built-in wardrobe and dressing table neatly make use of the space under a pitched roof, and mirrored doors have the effect of extending the space.
Bear in mind that not everyone will want to share a double bed, so consider who stays regularly, and browse twin bedroom ideas or shared bedrooms for other options.
36. Leave shoes at the door
(Image credit: Future / James Balston)
Encourage your guests to kick back and leave their shoes and the door, ideally swapping to slippers or bed socks. There is some evidence that germs can spread on the soles of shoes so you don’t want them being padded through your home.
Instead, have simple shoe storage ideas, such as a basket at the front door or outside the room, where shoes can be left and welcome your guests with their indoor footwear.
How do I make my guest bedroom comfortable?
The key to making a guest bedroom comfortable and inviting is investing in a good quality bed and mattress.
'Opting for a mattress that is comfortable and supportive is essential for providing guests with a peaceful sleeping environment that will leave them feeling well-rested the next day,' says Alison Jones, a sleep expert at leading mattress brand, Sealy UK .
'There’s not a one size fits all approach to buying a mattress as everyone’s individual needs are different, so when buying for a guest bedroom it is advised to opt for medium firmness. Keep a look out for mattresses with deep down support, specifically in the center third, as this will prevent the mattress from sagging as guests sleep on it over time.'
What should you have in a guest bedroom?
‘Apart from the bed and a bedside table, a guest room also requires somewhere to store – or at least hang – clothes, especially if guests are visiting for a party and need to hang a dress or suit before the event,’ says Hotelier Julia Hands.
‘If there isn’t space for a wardrobe, hooks with good-quality hangers serve well. More than two nights and I would say a wardrobe – even a small one – is a must, along with a comfy chair.’
Less is often more when it comes to guest bedrooms. Avoid furniture that looks intriguing, but is not practical. ‘I am not a fan of ticking clocks either,’ says Julia.
How do you style a guest bedroom?
‘When styling a guest bedroom, it is best to keep the decor simple and tasteful,’ explains designer Nicky Dobree .
It’s your home and you should feel happy and comfortable, but don’t forget it is you that they’ve come to see. The room should reflect you and your home but don’t over-personalize it with too many pictures and ornaments.
Irene Gunter, founder of Gunter & Co , suggests ensuring you use proper curtains or Roman blinds, and also to be punchier with pattern or color, adding: 'You can risk it in here.'
In small guest rooms, decorative options include choosing a neutral backdrop and then adding pattern and color, or taking a bolder step.
Interior designer Penny Morrison says: 'Dark lacquered walls are smart in a study and pictures to stand out well against them. When the room turns into a guest bedroom, bright lampshades can be introduced to add color accents, alongside boldly patterned cushions and throws for extra coziness.'
What is the best color for a guest bedroom?
The best color for your guest bedroom is the one that makes you happy, and chimes in nicely with the rest of your home.
To recreate the individuality that a boutique hotel offers, don’t be afraid to push boundaries by mixing the bold and the bright in terms of color. For ultimate comfort, invest in sumptuous yet colorful bedlinen and choose accessories with character for depth of interest.
If you are after a calming color palette, a green bedroom is a great choice for your guests. Used to evoke a semblance of peace, serenity, and tranquility, green is having something of a moment this year.
How do you make a guest room cozy?
A trick often missed when revamping a spare room is to make it feel as comfortable as other rooms in the house.
Add cushions and layer fabrics, or carve out a snug sleeping area and decorate with dark, cosseting tones. If the room layout is narrow and you need to learn how to arrange a small bedroom, a single bed might slide in horizontally under a window. Then one option is to hang a curtain at each end of the bed, creating an alcove.
Jennifer is the Digital Editor at Homes & Gardens. Having worked in the interiors industry for a number of years, spanning many publications, she now hones her digital prowess on the 'best interiors website' in the world. Multi-skilled, Jennifer has worked in PR and marketing, and the occasional dabble in the social media, commercial and e-commerce space. Over the years, she has written about every area of the home, from compiling design houses from some of the best interior designers in the world to sourcing celebrity homes, reviewing appliances and even the odd news story or two.
Guest room design: 13 secrets of comfort Will he feel at home? Will it be happy to return to the room every evening? Will he feel refreshed and rested in the morning? What memories will be retained of the time spent in your home? It all depends on how thoughtful and functional the guest bedroom will be.
For the perfect result, choose the services of an interior designer. A professional will determine how to use the space to the maximum, and offer a competent layout. He will find a way to include all the necessary functions in the room and tell you how to create an atmosphere of relaxation.
Decided to design a guest room yourself? Then you need to understand the basic rules of comfort. Check out 13 ideas to help you get the perfect bedroom!
#1. Neutral tones
Neutral colors are ideal for designing a guest room. This is a popular choice, so picking up materials will be easy. In addition, this tonality will appeal to everyone - unlike bright experimental solutions. For example, your favorite turquoise may not please guests. But soft neutral colors on a subconscious level are read as warm and homely.
When choosing a shade, make sure that it fits into the overall color scheme of the apartment. At the same time, you do not have to limit yourself to just beige, the Pantone palette has more than 300 neutral tones.
#2. High-quality natural materials
Good design of the guest room involves the use of expensive natural materials. And it's not just about aesthetics. Cheap materials will quickly become worthless. You will again have to buy new furniture, finishing materials, and even start repairs again.
For flooring, you can choose natural wood, such as oak parquet. It is durable, environmentally friendly, and it is pleasant to walk on it barefoot. Furniture is recommended to choose from beech or mahogany. This material is wear-resistant, environmentally friendly and has a unique wood pattern.
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It is also important to choose high-quality natural textiles for upholstery and decor. Synthetic materials may lose their presentable appearance after the first wash or cleaning. Therefore, we recommend using natural fabrics such as cotton, linen, velvet, natural and eco-leather.
#3. Sleeping Comfort
Selecting bedroom furniture is a critical task. Every detail matters, from the size and material of the bed to the number of decorative pillows.
Wooden framed furniture is ideal. Flexible slats and a good orthopedic mattress of medium hardness will ensure a comfortable rest and sound sleep.
#4. Workspace
In order for guests to work or participate in online conferences, the design of the guest room must include a work area.
This does not require much space. The room should have a comfortable table on which a lamp and a laptop can fit, a comfortable ergonomic chair, and sockets.
#5. Storage areas
Practical storage helps guests stay comfortable. For important little things that you always need to keep at hand, bedside tables or shelves at the head of the bed are suitable.
The built-in closet is well suited for storing clothes in the guest room. It will significantly save space by providing guests with shelves and hangers.
A small chest of drawers in tandem with an open railing for things will also look good.
#6. Lounge area
The ideal guest room design should include a place where you can talk on the phone, read, have coffee with a magazine or enjoy the view outside the window.
In the recreation area you can place an armchair with an ottoman, a TV, and a small library. On the shelves you can put the so-called "books for the coffee table." These are beautifully designed publications, the structure of which is something between an encyclopedia and a fashion magazine. They will not only delight with their content, but also become an excellent element of decor.
#7. Multifunctional furniture
To accommodate everything you need, the room does not have to be spacious. The main thing is to use the space wisely. For example, transforming furniture will help you get more functions and save space. So, in the evening, the sofa bed can serve as a spacious sleeping place, and during the day turn into a comfortable sofa for relaxing.
A small table can be easily used for reading, and for work, and for applying makeup.
#8. Separate bathroom
Providing a separate bathroom, you will provide guests with a truly comfortable space. Depending on the amount of free space, it can be equipped with either a shower or a full bath. The second option will also serve for relaxation: who does not like to soak in hot water for a longer time!
#9. Sufficient number of outlets
Poor placement of outlets can spoil the impression of even the most comfortable guest room. Guests will need to charge phones and laptops, use a hairdryer, and possibly an iron. Therefore, it is important to provide sockets near the bed, as well as in the work area and near the dressing table.
#10. Minimum decoration
Decoration must be competent, it is important not to overdo it with figurines and other decorative elements. This visually clutters up the space and rarely looks beautiful. We recommend staying on the principle of “less is more”.
You can limit yourself, for example, to one discreet picture or a plant in a pot.
#11. The presence of a mirror
If the interior has a dressing table, a mirror is a must. Try to place it next to a window or take care of additional lighting. Another good option for a guest room design is a wardrobe with mirrored doors. It will help visually expand the space and serve as a spectacular decor.
#12. Competent lighting design
The design of a guest room should include several types of lighting. In addition to the main light, bedside lamps or small sconces should be provided for soft evening lighting.
Each zone in the room also needs a separate light source. For example, a table lamp is needed for a desktop, and an atmospheric floor lamp will decorate the recreation area.
#13. Green plants
Green plants will help to freshen up the space and add a bright accent to it. We do not recommend putting cut bouquets in vases, they are more difficult to maintain in a presentable form.
Also, flowering plants are quite common allergens, so it's not worth the risk. Dried flowers can be a good alternative.
With these 13 steps you can create a practical and stylish design for your guest room. For a professional result, contact the interior design studio Home Interiors. We will develop a design project for a space in which your guests will feel at home!
We design housing that provides for every detail. Our designers analyze the features of the premises, requirements, lifestyle and tastes of customers, determine their needs and create the perfect design. It will have everything you need for a comfortable stay. If you like to meet the dawn with coffee on the balcony, then there will be a coffee zone in the kitchen. Do you have a luxurious collection of clothes and shoes? We will create a functional dressing room. And for working at home, we will design an office in which you will forever forget about the office! Please contact us and we will send you an offer tailored specifically for your project.
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Video of the Day: Kim Kardashian's Quarantine Makeover
Social media content at home has pretty much covered all of us. Now that everyone is in quarantine, filming a lot of stories, streaming, taking photos at home, celebrities are capitalizing on this trend by sharing their makeup tutorials with the world. The latest star to do so is Kim Kardashian, who showed followers how she does her makeup.
Filming from her guest bathroom, Kardashian begins the video by saying she's hiding from her kids, who won't leave her alone.
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Posted by KKW BEAUTY (@kkwbeauty)
She starts applying Joe Blasco foundation in Olive Beige 3, which is lighter than her tanned complexion, using the MAC Kabuki 180 Small Buffer Brush.
To hide the signs of fatigue, Kardashian wears KKW Beauty Liquid Concealer in shade #7 and finishes off with KKW Beauty Baking Powder in shade #2.
Kardashian uses a Spooley MAC to style and clean her brows and a brow pencil to fill them in. Then it's time for contouring. The star uses the KKW Beauty Crème Contour & Highlight Set. The medium refill applies to the cheekbones, jaw, forehead and nose, and the lighter one to emphasize the nose, forehead and cheekbones.
Next, Kim curls her lashes with her favorite Surratt Relevee Lash Curler.
If we know anything about Kim Kardashian, it's that she loves strong contouring.
Although she's already used her contouring product, she decides to do it again with her other KKW Beauty Powder Contour & Highlight Palette in a medium shade.
Kardashian takes a lighter shade using the Shu Uemura #14 brush and applies pigment to the bridge of her nose, nose tip and cupid's bow for a soft glow. She also prefers contouring shades in the palette to add definition to her eyes by applying powder to her lids and lower lash line. Kardashian then moves on to her KKW Beauty Classic Shimmers blush palette, dipping the brush in pink, noting that she feels the blush makes her look more "younger and fresher."
Hyung, the reality TV star, reveals that KKW's new product, a mini version of her brand's mascara, is coming soon.
