Get Your Spare Room Guest Room Ready: Transforming Your Spare Room into a Welcoming Retreat
The spare room often ends up as a catch-all space for storage and household overflow but with a few thoughtful accessories, and some light touches, you can turn it into a warm, welcoming guest room where friends and family will feel right at home. Whether you’re preparing for seasonal guests or just want a space ready for whenever they might pop by, here are some tips to make your guest room inviting, stylish, and functional.
1. Comfort Comes First: Choosing the Right Bed & Bedding
Quality Mattress & Pillows: Start with a really good mattress and comfortable pillows that cater to all sleep styles. Adding a mattress topper can also really enhance comfort. After all, happy guests are those well rested!
Layered Bedding: For that luxury, opulent and welcoming look, opt for layered bedding and by this we mean mixing over sized blankets, with smaller throws, and extra pillows for dressing the bed (with an all important bedding basket nearby), so guests can adjust their comfort level. Neutral colours, like soft taupes, creams, muted greys and gentle whites or light blues, create a clean and serene look.
Bedside Extras: Place little extra touches – for example, soft beautiful folded blankets, an eye mask, perhaps some nice hand cream, a small pot of cotton pads a room scent or diffuser on a tray, nearby for those who might need them.
2. Create Space for Storage and Luggage
Clear Out Clutter: Make sure the guest room isn’t crowded with your personal items which can create an unwelcome burdensome feel. Guests appreciate having space to store their belongings and being able to move around the room and they most likely don’t want to see images of your relatives adorning every wall either. Keep the walls minimal and use art if you can or at least limit the person photographs and paintings where possible.
Hangers & Hooks: Include plenty of hangers and hooks to make unpacking easy. Even for an overnight stay, having somewhere to place delicate clothing and items are invaluable. Adding a table, a small luggage rack or ottoman or bench can also be a thoughtful touch. Particularly for guests who are staying longer than a single night.
Bedside Table: A small bedside table with drawers or shelves provides a convenient spot for essentials like glasses, phone chargers, and books and really helps to finish a look.
3. Light it Right
Ambient and Task Lighting: Combine bedside lamps for reading and if you don’t have a two level ceiling light feature (eg dimmable central pendant and downlights) a floor lamp for soft evening light is invaluable. Wall lights can also be a great option if this is a practical solution for you and your home.
Natural Light: If possible, have high hung roman blinds, and floor length curtains for that touch of luxury, but pushed right back away from the window, allowing in as much natural light as possible. Also consider blackout linings on these soft furnishings for added privacy and evening comfort for your guests.
A corridor Night Light: A small, discreet night light in the hallway can be a helpful addition, especially for guests unfamiliar with your space.
4. Add Practical Amenities
Charging Station: A charging hub with universal adapters or USB outlets is essential for modern travellers. Guests will appreciate easy access to charge their devices.
Wi-Fi Details: Include a small framed card with Wi-Fi details, making it easy for guests to connect.
Water & Snacks: Consider adding a carafe of water, glasses, and a small snack basket on the dresser. This is an elegant personal touch which always makes a guest smile
5. Design for Relaxation and Style
Calming Colour Scheme: Opt for neutral tones or pastels to keep the room feeling light and peaceful. Earthy accents can add warmth without overwhelming the space.
Artwork and Plants: Hang a simple piece of artwork and add a small indoor plant to bring the room to life. A plant like a snake plant or succulent is low-maintenance and adds a touch of greenery. Dragon plants or yukkas are also easy to keep and add height and interest whilst also being low maintenance.
Area Rug: Add texture and comfort underfoot with a large soft area rug complimenting your room décor and adding an extra layer of warmth and comfort for cooler evenings.
6. Bathroom Essentials
Towels and Toiletries: Lay out fresh towels on the end of the bed and add a basket of toiletries—shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, etc.—to make guests feel pampered on a nearby desk, dresser or table.
Hair Dryer & Mirrors: A small mirror and hair dryer can make a world of difference, especially for guests staying over multiple days.
Transforming your spare room into a cosy guest retreat doesn’t have to be a costly or overwhelming project. By incorporating elements like plush bedding, soft lighting, and practical amenities, you can create a warm, welcoming space that’s ready for guests at any time.
If you’d like professional guidance in designing the perfect guest room—or any other space in your home—we are here to help.
With our expertise in crafting stylish, functional interiors, we can work with you to create a room that blends comfort, practicality, and unique style. Let us help you turn your spare room into a memorable sanctuary for your visitors.
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