The holidays are a time of togetherness, and for many of us, that means hosting overnight guests in our homes. If you're looking to create a welcoming and comfortable space for your visitors, you're in the right place. I'm Sarah Bowman of Sarah Bowman Spaces, and as an interior design professional, I'm happy to share my insights on what elements make for the perfect guest room. Whether you're hosting family, friends, or even renting out your space, these expert tips will help you design a guest room that leaves a lasting impression.
A guest room should be an extension of your personal style while incorporating functional elements that allow your guests to unwind. I emphasize that principles of balance, function, and flow are crucial in designing the perfect guest room, just as in any other room of your home.
Selecting the right color palette is essential for creating a serene and inviting atmosphere. I recommend choosing colors that complement the rest of your home's decor. Warm, darker colors create a sense of coziness, while light, organic tones can help your guests start their day in a fresh and cheerful mood.
The bed is the focal point of any guest room, and I advise investing in a comfortable mattress and quality bedding to ensure your guests sleep well. Nightstands should have enough space for a lamp and chargers, and a bench at the foot of the bed allows guests to unpack their suitcases. Additional essential furniture includes a side chair, desk, console, and table lamp for a private work area. Don't forget to provide fluffy pillows, blackout curtains, a full-length mirror, extra blankets, a fan, fresh flowers, an essential oil diffuser, and a carafe of water to enhance the guest's experience.
Lighting is crucial for setting the right mood in a guest room. I recommend layered lighting, including ambient, task, and accent lighting. Bedside table lamps with switches near the door can eliminate the need for overhead lighting, while sconces on both sides of the bed free up space on the nightstands.
Balancing functionality with aesthetics is key when incorporating storage into the guest room. I suggest providing a few dresser drawers and hanging space in the closet for short stays. Utilizing under bed storage for your personal items can free up closet space for your guests.
I suggest saving premium bedding brands for the primary bedroom and opting for quality bedding from brands like Frontgate, Parachute, Annie Selke, and Brooklinen for the guest room. These brands offer a range of colors, patterns, and materials to create a luxurious bed.
Adding personal touches to the guest room can make your visitors feel special. Art is a personal accessory that communicates who you are. Frame meaningful items like children's drawings, favorite photographs, or art book pages to resonate with your guests.
For smaller guest rooms, I suggest a daybed with a trundle to save space. Floating nightstands and vertical storage options like hooks and shelves can help maximize the room's layout.
Incorporate charging stations or power strips on both sides of the bed to accommodate guests' electronic devices and make their stay more convenient.
Adding plants or greenery to the guest room can create a natural and soothing atmosphere. Not only do plants bring visual interest, but they also help improve air quality.
Connected guest bathrooms should be well-equipped. I recommend placing guest towels on the bed for convenience. Ensure there are hooks or bars for towels, a clean bath mat, a lidded trash can, and essential toiletries.
For those on a budget, I advise checking resources like Facebook Marketplace for foundational furniture items. Thrift stores and antique malls are also good resources for unique, quality pieces.
To accommodate different types of guests, such as elderly relatives or families with children, consider adjusting the room layout. For seniors, ensure accessibility, good lighting, and reduced tripping hazards. Families with children may require additional sleeping options like twin blow-up beds or a pack and play, and childproofing measures.
I encourage experimenting and having fun with your guest room design. I suggest trends like wainscoting to the ceiling, color drenching (painting walls, trim, and ceilings the same color), and even wallpapering the ceiling to create a fresh and modern guest room.
Incorporating these expert tips and ideas will help you design a perfect guest room that offers comfort, style, and a warm welcome to your guests. Create a space where everyone feels at home during the holiday season and beyond.
Sarah Bowman, driven by her passion for creating inviting homes, began her journey in 2019, staging homes and assisting Atlanta realtors. She expanded her services to personalized interior design, and in 2021, added services for vacation rental investors. SB Spaces collaborates with builders, investors, and property managers, using her marketing and brand strategy expertise to craft distinctive and profitable interiors.
sarah@spacesbysb.com
678.403.2925
spacesbysb.com
Designing the perfect guest room means balancing personal style with functionality, according to expert Sarah Bowman. From color palettes that create serenity to luxurious bedding, layered lighting, and personal touches, every detail matters. Make your guests feel at home during the holidays and beyond with these expert tips.