10 Ideas for Creating a Welcoming Guest Room
If you’re a homeowner who loves to entertain family and friends, it’s nice to have a guest room. A thoughtfully decorated, well-prepared room can make your guests feel relaxed during their stay.
But what features create an inviting guest room? It’s not just about adding a bed and a TV. Read about ten ideas for creating a welcoming guest room.
Start With a Comfortable Bed
A bed is a central fixture in any room, so it’s worth investing in a quality mattress and bed frame. Choose a medium-to-firm mattress that satisfies a variety of sleep preferences. Place it on a sturdy bed frame that also complements the room’s design.
Adorn the mattress with soft, breathable sheets. Layers are key; include blankets of different weights. Add an assortment of pillows—some soft and some firm— so guests can customize for their comfort during their stay.
A queen bed is ideal. If you’re working with limited room, a full-size bed or even a daybed with a pullout trundle can work well.
Set Aside Storage Space for Guests
Guests will appreciate having a space to unpack, even if their stay is short. Clear out a section of the closet and provide sturdy hangers. If the room lacks closet space, a freestanding wardrobe or a stylish clothing rack will suffice. Don’t forget a small dresser or set of drawers where guests can store folded items.
You may also want to provide an ottoman or a wooden bench where guests can place their suitcases. This not only keeps things organized but also avoids the inconvenience of using the bed as the default storage spot.
Keep the Decor Neutral yet Charming
The guest room should feel like a retreat—not too personal, but with enough warmth to be inviting. Go for neutral or soft tones like beige, light gray, or pale blue; these colors tend to create a calming atmosphere.
While a neutral atmosphere is ideal, you don’t have to shy away from adding personality to the decor. Incorporate subtle pops of color or small decorative items—like framed art, interesting vases, or a cozy area rug—to add character.
Provide Ample Lighting
Lighting determines a room’s ambience and functionality. This is one design component where you shouldn’t cut corners.
Make sure the guest room has a good mix of lighting options. Overhead lighting is a must, but it’s typically not enough when guests need soft illumination. Add bedside lamps for nighttime reading and a desk lamp if there’s a workspace.
If possible, install blackout curtains to accommodate guests who love to sleep in or are recovering from jet lag. For others who prefer waking up to natural light, sheer curtains can filter in soft sunlight.
Include a Cozy Sitting Area
If your space allows, adding a small sitting area can make a guest room feel extra luxurious. Guests will love an alternative to sitting on the bed. With a comfortable armchair, an accent table, and a floor lamp, you can transform an unused corner into a reading nook. For small rooms, select multifunctional furniture like an ottoman that doubles as storage or a folding chair that you can easily stow away when not in use.
Making this space comfortable for guests doesn’t have to be an expensive venture. Take advantage of sales or unique payment plans offered by furniture stores that prioritize customer satisfaction and help shoppers get the products they want at fair prices.
Homeowners in Virginia can browse the inventory of Grand Furniture. We’re a trusted retailer that provides stylish, well-made furniture at an honest value. Shop with us and explore our financing options to access accent pieces, decorative items, and large fixtures. Plus, customers can buy bedroom furniture on credit or pay later, whichever best suits each homeowner’s budget.
Stock Up on Basic Necessities
In addition to filling the room with durable, comfortable furniture and decor, creating a welcoming guest room involves anticipating your guests’ needs. Make sure the essentials are within reach in the room and the guest bathroom.
Provide fresh towels and washcloths and an assortment of toiletries, including shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothpaste, and even disposable razors. Place these items in a basket or tray so they’re easy to spot.
Pro Tip
Take the necessities a step further by including a hair dryer, a sewing kit for emergencies, and even a first-aid kit with bandages and medicine.
Offer a Few Entertainment Options
When visitors retreat to the guest room room, it’s nice to give them a way to unwind. Provide a small selection of books and magazines. A streaming device or smart TV can let them access movies and shows.
Board games or a deck of cards tucked into a corner drawer can also be a pleasant surprise. If you live in a vacation spot, include a guidebook to local attractions, along with your own personal recommendations for dining and activities.
Incorporate Fragrant Elements
A subtle scent can make a room feel fresh and inviting. Use a room diffuser with calming scents like lavender or eucalyptus. Avoid overpowering fragrances, as they could irritate sensitive noses.
Consider adding fresh flowers for enhanced fragrance and style. They make the space feel alive and intentional, and you don’t need to go overboard—a small vase with a few seasonal flowers is plenty.
Prioritize Practicality
Sometimes, it’s the practical details that make a room feel welcoming. A full-length mirror is a must for guest rooms so visitors can check their outfits before leaving the room. A small tray for jewelry and change or hooks for bags and coats can help keep the room tidy during their stay.
Keep the Room Clean and Fresh
Finally, prioritize cleanliness. Dust surfaces, vacuum the floors, and ensure every corner is spotless before guests arrive. Change the linens—even if no one used the room since the last wash—to keep them crisp and clean.
A wastebasket, preferably with a liner, is another helpful addition. Keep it tucked into a convenient corner, so it’s out of the way yet visible to guests.
A welcoming guest room isn’t necessarily about having fancy decor; it’s about thoughtful details that create a cozy yet functional atmosphere. By incorporating these ten ideas for creating a welcoming guest room, your guests look forward to visiting your home.
