Setting up your guest bedroom at home may sometimes be challenging, especially if you don’t use it as a bedroom that often. It may have been used as a storage space for some time and you’ve recently needed to convert it to an actual guestroom for visitors. Where to start?
Having to create a stylish guest bedroom may leave you feeling like you need to invest in an activity similar to a hotel refurbishment, but the good news is that it’s actually not that complicated! If you need to redo your guest bedroom, this article is for you—keep reading for some fun and practical tips.
Setting Up Your Guest Bedroom, Minus the Hassle
Creating your own bedroom is one thing. After all, you know what you want in that space. You have a clear idea of your style and the types of functionality you’re looking for in your furniture.
You may however not want to invest the same amount of money on décor in a space that won’t be used often. Fortunately, you can create a guest bedroom that’s both stylish and functional without breaking the budget. Here are some of our tips to get you started.
1. Rule # 1—The Comfy Bed
The golden rule in decorating any bedroom setting, whether it’s for your kids or your mother-in-law who visits once a year, is to add a comfortable bed. A comfortable bed doesn’t have to break the bank. As long as it’s comfortable, you’re good to go—usually not too firm and not too soft.
Be sure to:
- Add plush pillows and soft throws for added comfort.
- Include at least four comfortable but firm pillows.
- Keep extra comfy blankets on hand for those guests who visit during the cooler months.
2. Functional Furniture
When you’re setting up furniture for your guest room, the emphasis should be on items that are practical and functional. A good idea would be to browse through a few hotel furniture packages as these are tailored to be versatile and stylish. They are also likely to fit into smaller spaces, if necessary.
Ideally, you want space for guests to hang clothes, a desk to write or work at and of course bedside tables with lamps. Drawer space will also be excellent for guests who are staying for a while as many people don’t find living out of a suitcase quite as appealing as it sounds!
3. Choose Neutral Colours
Ideally, you don’t want your guest room’s colour combination to be too overwhelming. A good idea is to opt for neutral colours with bold accessories.
For instance, try neutral bedding and curtains with bright cushions and throws of curtain tie-backs. Doing that will ensure that the room’s aesthetics don’t feel too overwhelming.
Remember to wash curtains, bedding and carpets at least two days before the guests arrive.
4. Include Mirrors
If your guests are getting dressed in their bedroom, adding a full-length mirror should be a must. If you don’t have wall space for a long mirror, consider having one attached to the centre of the cupboard. You should be able to do this by glueing a mirror using a specialised adhesive strong enough to hold it up.
Consider including a smaller mirror if the dressing table doesn’t already have one. This will make it easier for more than one guest to get ready if the bedroom doesn’t have an en-suite bathroom.
5. The Right Lighting
In addition to the usual roof lighting, you should also include two bedside lamps. If you’re not using lamps where the light glare can be adjusted, consider using soft, warm LED lights that aren’t too bright. This will make reading more comfortable on the eyes. Use lamps that aren’t too big and overwhelming and won’t make the room feel cramped.
6. Add a TV
If your budget allows, consider adding a TV to the room. Opting for a flatscreen TV that can be mounted on the wall reduces the need for another cupboard.
Adding this feature will ensure that your guests can relax in the room, not only in your lounge. They won’t feel as if they are “taking over the house” if they prefer to watch TV at odd times of the day.
7. Add a Few Extras
Since your guests know they’re staying over with friends or family, they may not always pack too many toiletries. They may assume they can use the ones at your house. Add a basket on the dressing table with a few necessary toiletries such as soap, shampoo, conditioner and toothpaste. Providing several freshly washed, fluffy towels adds a welcoming touch.
More handy tips:
- Include at least two bottles of drinking water
- Add a small dustbin in the room.
- While most people travel with their own cell phone chargers, some forget to take an additional plug or adaptor. Place one in the drawer, just in case.
Final Thoughts
By using our simple and practical tips, you’ll be able to set up your guest bedroom in no time. The emphasis should be on comfort and practicality.
Last tip: make a list of the things you’d most likely need to use when you’re visiting and start adding them to your guest room.
Before you know it, you’ll have a comfortable and cosy space for the next person who stays over!