My favorite room in the house, second only to the kitchen, is the guest room. A place where guests who come to stay can be spoiled and made to feel special. After a yummy and satisfying meal, family and friends get to retreat to a relaxing haven where they can unwind, rejuvenate, and feel welcomed. Valencia Marierose, a realtor with a passion and gift for interior design, shares her guest room and personal touches to inspire us. Whether you're an avid host or just occasionally welcoming guests, here's how to design and furnish a guest room that will leave a lasting impression.
-
Comfortable Bedding: The cornerstone of any guest room is, undoubtedly, the bed. Invest in a high-quality mattress that provides adequate support and comfort. Layer it with soft, clean linens, and an assortment of pillows. "I like a nice queen-sized bed and a plush comforter or duvet. My guest room is large enough for two queen beds. A well-made bed not only ensures a good night's sleep but also adds a touch of luxury and thoughtfulness to your guest's experience."
-
Space Utilization: Consider the available space in the guest room and arrange furniture to optimize functionality and comfort. "I would consider the biggest size bed that can fit comfortably in the room." A small seating area with a comfortable chair provides a spot for reading or relaxation. A small side table is useful for a lamp or alarm clock. A dresser or wardrobe is ideal for guests to keep their belongings organized and out of sight.
-
Personal Touches: Adding personal touches to the guest room helps create a welcoming atmosphere. Consider placing fresh flowers, a handwritten welcome note, or a small basket of snacks and water to greet your guests. "A journal is a nice touch. I also love a nice blanket and nice thick socks. I'm talking about the socks that have the rubber on the bottom. You can drape them on the chair or at the foot of the bed." Reading materials and recommendations for nearby restaurants and attractions can enhance your guest's stay.
-
Neutral and Inviting Decor: A neutral color scheme exudes a sense of calm and appeals to a broad range of tastes. Soft, muted tones like whites, creams, grays, or pastels create a soothing environment. Incorporate tasteful artwork or framed photographs to add a personal touch without overwhelming the space. "I like different shades of one color - a monochromatic look in my guest room. It's relaxing and inviting. I also love abstract art on the wall."
-
Quality Lighting: A well-lit guest room is a welcoming space. Ensure a variety of lighting options, including bedside lamps, overhead lighting, and natural light during the day. Dimmer switches can help customize lighting to each guest's preference. "I have lighting for different moods. My recessed lights are bright lights, my lamps provide warm lighting, and my ceiling fan light can be adjusted."
-
Essential Amenities: Incorporate amenities to enhance the guest experience. Provide a small mirror, an alarm clock, a charging station for electronics, and a set of fresh towels. "If you can do a monogrammed towel, that is a really nice personal touch." Provide extra bedding and blankets to accommodate different temperature preferences. Consider adding a television, a mini-fridge, or a kettle with tea and coffee to give guests the option for added comfort and convenience.
-
Privacy and Security: Ensure the guest room has adequate privacy with curtains or blinds and a lockable door. "A guest room with its own bathroom adds ultimate privacy." Installing a full-length mirror and a well-lit bathroom will contribute to a sense of security and convenience.
-
Cleanliness and Freshness: Above all, maintain impeccable cleanliness throughout the guest room and en suite bathroom. "A basket in the bathroom with hand mitts and goat milk soaps is nice, and having shower gel and other items in the bathroom. If you have those things available, it creates convenience for your guests." A clean and well-maintained space conveys respect for your guests and their comfort. "I like to top off the details with a fragrance or scent. I do this by way of a candle. Eucalyptus is my favorite. It's not too strong, and it's mellow and calming. It smells clean." Aromatherapy sprays for room and bedding boost feelings of relaxation.
Valencia concludes, "First impressions are everything, and whether or not you have the gift of hospitality, you can create something special with your own style and taste. If you're going to be hosting people often, I would keep things neutral." Designing the perfect guest room involves a thoughtful blend of comfort, style, and functionality. Whether for family, friends, or acquaintances, a well-designed guest room ensures your guests will have cherished memories of their stay.
Detail One: Textured pillows enhance bed aesthetics, providing visual interest, dimension, and a touch of coziness for a well-designed and inviting bed.
Detail Two: Soft, layered bedding elevates comfort, visual appeal, and the overall inviting ambiance, making the bed a luxurious retreat for restful sleep and relaxation.
Detail Three: Tasteful artwork elevates a guest room's ambiance, adding personality, style, and a welcoming touch, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal.
Detail Four: Amenities enhance guest comfort and satisfaction, offering conveniences like toiletries, refreshments, technology, and other thoughtful touches that elevate the overall guest experience and ensure a memorable stay.
"First impressions are everything, and whether or not you have the gift of hospitality, you can create something special with your own style and taste."
