Designing the perfect guest bedroom is all about making your visitors feel cosy and welcome. It’s more than just having a bed and a few basics; it’s about creating a space where guests can truly relax. In this article, you’ll find simple tips to turn any room into a comfortable and inviting place, ensuring your guests feel right at home.
Colour palette
Picking the right colours for your guest bedroom is key to making it feel cosy and peaceful. Here’s why soft blues, greens, and neutral shades work best:
Soft blues
- Blue shades remind us of the sky and nature, bringing a sense of peace.
- They look great with many other colours like white, grey, or yellow.
- Whether you prefer light blues or darker navy tones, there’s a shade for every style.
Source: Pinterest
Greens
- Green tones can make the room feel fresh and relaxing.
- Greens help to even out other colours in the room.
- From light sage to rich olive, there’s a green for every preference.
Neutrals
- Neutral colours offer a simple and classic background.
- They create a calm space that pairs well with other colours or patterns.
- You can choose from a range of neutrals, like soft creams to warm beige tones.
Tips for choosing the perfect colour
When picking the right colour, keep a few things in mind. First, notice how much natural light the room gets. Dark colours can make a space feel smaller, while light colours can make it seem bigger. Also, think about the vibe you want—whether you’re aiming for a cosy and snug room or one that’s bright and open. Lastly, try out different shades by painting small patches on the walls to see how they look throughout the day with different lighting.
Bedding
Comfortable and good-quality bedding is key to a great night’s sleep. Here’s how you can create a cosy and luxurious bed:
Pick the right mattress: The mattress is the most important part of a good sleep setup. Look for one that has the right firmness, support, and stays cool.
Get quality sheets: Choose sheets with a high thread count, made from soft and breathable materials like cotton or linen.
Add layers for warmth: Use a duvet, comforter, or blanket to keep warm and make the bed extra cosy.
Have a mix of pillows: Use pillows in different sizes and types to add comfort and support.
Match the details: Select pillowcases and duvet covers that go well with the room’s colours.
Read also: Modern bed designs to transform your bedroom
Lighting
Good lighting can really change the feel of a guest bedroom, making it cosy and inviting. Here’s a simple guide to the key lighting elements:
Bedside lamps
- Bedside lamps are great for reading, giving guests enough light to unwind without bothering anyone else in the room.
- Pick lamps that match the room’s look. Whether it’s sleek modern lamps or classic table lamps, make sure they fit the decor.
- Go for warm-toned bulbs that create a calm and relaxing mood. Dimmable bulbs are even better, letting guests adjust the light to their liking.
Overhead lighting
- This light is for brightening up the whole room.
- A central light fixture like a pendant or a flush mount can work well here.
- A dimmer switch is a good idea, so the light can be softer when needed. You might also add recessed lighting or wall sconces for extra layers of light, making the room feel more versatile and cosier.
Extra tips for great lighting
Layer lighting: Use different lights—like a mix of bedside lamps, overhead lights, and maybe even some wall lights—to make the room adaptable for different activities.
Ease of use: Make sure guests can easily find and use the light switches, and consider adding dimmers for more control.
Energy efficiency: LED bulbs are a smart choice, saving energy and lasting longer, which is good for both the environment and your wallet.
Read also: How to choose home lighting ?
Noise reduction
Creating a peaceful environment is key to helping your guests relax and sleep well. Here’s how you can make the room quieter:
Blackout curtains
- Blackout curtains help keep out sunlight and outside noise, making the room darker and quieter.
- They can improve sleep by creating a cosy, dark atmosphere that helps guests sleep better.
- Choose curtains that are thick and lined to block out as much light and sound as possible.
Earplugs
- Earplugs are great for blocking out any noise that might disturb light sleepers.
- You can find different kinds, like foam, silicone, or wax earplugs.
- Place a pack of earplugs on the bedside table, so guests have easy access to them if needed.
Additional tips
White noise machines: Think about adding a white noise machine to help drown out any background noise and make the room more peaceful.
Soundproofing: If outside noise is a big problem, you might want to look into soundproofing the room to keep it quiet.
Storage
Giving your guests plenty of storage options helps them feel comfortable and at ease during their stay. Here’s how to make sure they have enough space:
Dressers
- Dressers provide drawers for guests to store their clothes, accessories, and personal items, keeping the room tidy.
- Pick a dresser that matches the room’s decor, whether it’s modern, classic, or something in between, to enhance the overall look.
- Make sure the dresser fits the room size. In smaller rooms, a compact chest of drawers can save space while still offering storage.
- A dresser with a built-in mirror adds convenience and style, giving guests a place to check their appearance or get ready.
Closets
- Keep the closet clean and organised, with enough hangers so guests can neatly hang up their clothes. It’s a nice touch to add a few extra hangers, just in case.
- Ensure there’s enough space in the closet for guests to store their clothes without feeling cramped. If possible, clear out some space specifically for their use.
- Shelves in the closet can be super handy for guests to store folded clothes, shoes, or even their luggage. It keeps everything within easy reach.
- Adding a light inside the closet can make it easier for guests to find what they need, especially at night or in low light.
Essentials
Having the right essentials ready for your guests shows you care about their comfort and well-being. Here’s how to make sure they have everything they need:
Bedding
- Keep a couple of extra blankets available in case the nights get chilly. It’s a small touch that can make a big difference in your guests’ comfort.
- Offer a variety of pillows with different levels of firmness, so guests can pick what suits them best for a good night’s sleep. This can be particularly thoughtful for those with specific sleep preferences.
- Use pillow protectors to keep the pillows clean and free from stains and allergens. It also helps in maintaining the pillows’ freshness and longevity.
Hangers
- Provide a mix of both wooden and plastic hangers. Wooden hangers are great for heavier clothes like coats, while plastic ones are perfect for lighter items like shirts and dresses.
- Make sure there are plenty of hangers in the closet, so guests don’t have to cram their clothes together. It’s a simple way to make their stay more convenient.
Toiletries
- Supply travel-sized toiletries like shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and lotion. These essentials ensure guests have what they need, even if they forget something at home.
- Include both hand soap and bar soap in the bathroom. It’s a small but thoughtful addition that helps guests feel taken care of.
- Consider adding extras like dental kits, shower caps, and cotton swabs. These little items can be a lifesaver for guests and show that you’ve thought of everything to make their stay as comfortable as possible.
Workspace
Including a small workspace in a guest bedroom can be really thoughtful and useful for your visitors. Here’s how to set it up:
Desk or table
- Even a compact writing desk or a fold-down table can work well as a functional workspace. It doesn’t need to be big to be effective.
- Try to place the desk near a window to let in natural light, which can make the space more inviting and pleasant to work in. If there’s no window, ensure the area is well-lit with a lamp.
- Make sure the desk has enough room for essentials like a laptop, notebook, and some pens. The goal is to provide a comfortable spot where guests can easily get some work done.
- Pick a desk that matches the room’s decor, whether it’s modern, rustic, or something else, so it blends seamlessly with the rest of the room.
Essential supplies
- Provide some basic stationery, like pens and notepaper, so guests can jot down notes, make lists, or even write a quick letter.
- For guests who prefer to work from bed or another part of the room, a portable laptop desk can be a handy addition. It offers flexibility and comfort.
- Set up a charging station near the desk or bedside with easy access to outlets or a multi-port charger. This allows guests to conveniently charge their phones, laptops, and other devices without hassle.
Seating
Adding a cosy chair or armchair in the guest bedroom makes it a perfect spot for relaxing. Here’s how to pick the right one:
Chair or armchair
- Choose a chair that has good support for the back and is nicely cushioned. This will help guests feel comfortable while they unwind or read.
- Pick a chair that matches the room’s design. Whether it’s modern, classic, or another style, it should blend well with the rest of the room.
- Consider placing a reading lamp near the chair. This makes it a great spot for guests to read or relax in comfort.
- Adding an ottoman can make the chair even more inviting. It serves as a footrest and can also be used for extra storage or as a small table.
Other additional touches
Welcome gift
- A small welcome gift can make your guests feel special right from the start. Consider putting together a basket with a few thoughtful items:
- Pack some chocolates, cookies, or trail mix for a quick treat.
- Include bottled water, juice, or coffee pods to keep them refreshed.
- Add something local like a jar of honey, a bag of coffee beans from a nearby roaster, or chocolates from a local shop.
- You might also add a small guidebook about local attractions, a map, or a list of good restaurants nearby.
Artwork
Hanging artwork can make the room feel more inviting and cosier. Choose pieces that are calming and match the room’s style. This can also give the room a bit of character and personality.
Plants
Adding some plants can brighten up the room and make it feel fresh. Go for low-maintenance plants that are easy to care for. They can also add a touch of colour and nature to the space without needing a lot of attention.
Mirrors
A full-length mirror is both practical and stylish. It helps guests check their appearance before heading out and can also make the room seem larger and more open.
FAQs
Provide ample storage with a dresser or closet for guests to unpack their belongings. Additional storage options like nightstands and underbed storage can be helpful.
Stock the room with extra blankets, pillows, hangers, toiletries, and a welcome basket with treats or local goodies.
While not essential, a small desk or table can be a convenient addition for guests who need to work.
Add personal touches like artwork, plants, and a welcome note. Ensure the room is clean, tidy, and well-lit.
Incorporate luxury elements like plush bedding, spa-like toiletries, and a seating area.
Consider a statement wall, an accent pattern, or a wallpapered headboard.
Use mirrors, light colours, and minimal clutter to maximise the space. How much storage space is needed in a guest bedroom?
What essentials should I provide in a guest bedroom?
Is it necessary to have a workspace in a guest bedroom?
How can I make a guest bedroom feel more welcoming?
How can I create a guest bedroom that feels like a hotel suite?
What are some creative ways to use wallpaper in a guest bedroom?
How can I make a small guest bedroom feel more spacious with decor?
| Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com |