Having enough space in your home is more than just a luxury, it’s a necessity. Whether it’s extra storage, a game room, or simply spacious closets, having room to move and live comfortably is always at the top of a homeowner’s wishlist. However, one area that is often overlooked when thinking about space is the guest bedroom. Whether you’re hosting someone for a quick overnight stay or welcoming a visitor for a longer visit, having a cozy, functional, and well-appointed guest room can make all the difference.
Your guest room should be more than just an empty room with a bed. This room should feel like a home away from home for your guests. A place where they can relax, recharge, and feel cared for. Whether you’re designing a guest room from scratch in a new home or looking to update an existing one, here are some thoughtful ideas and design tips from our Houston interior design team to make your guest room warm, welcoming, and effortlessly comfortable.
Comfort First: The Bed is the Star!
Let’s start with the centerpiece of any guest bedroom: the bed. Above all, your guests need a restful night’s sleep, so finding a comfortable mattress is key. If space allows, a king-size bed is a wonderful luxury, but a queen-size bed is often the perfect balance of comfort and practicality. Invest in quality bedding, including soft cotton sheets, a plush duvet or comforter, and a few layers like blankets or a cozy throw for added warmth.
We always recommend selecting bedding fabrics that are soft, breathable, and inviting. Don’t forget to add a few accent pillows to infuse personality and tie into the overall design of the home. These small touches go a long way in making your guests feel pampered.
Storage Solutions That Feel Thoughtful
Even if your guests are only staying for a short time, giving them a place to unpack and get organized is incredibly thoughtful. A dresser with a few empty drawers, a small closet with extra hangers, or even some under-bed storage containers can help them feel more settled.
A storage bench or an upholstered ottoman at the foot of the bed is another great addition. It gives your guests a place to sit while putting on shoes and can double as a spot to stow extra blankets or pillows. If you’re short on space, even a few hooks on the wall or behind a door can make a difference. Don’t forget a full-length mirror if possible. It’s both functional and appreciated!
Light Control: Drapery is Key
We always recommend installing drapery panels with blackout lining in any bedroom, but especially the guest room. Not only do curtains add softness, texture, and visual warmth to the space, but they also offer privacy and allow guests to control the natural light. It’s those little touches, like being able to sleep in without sunlight pouring through the window, that help your guests feel at home.
Add Warmth with Rugs
Rugs are more than just a design feature, and we love incorporating them into the homes of our Houston clients. Rugs add warmth, color, and comfort underfoot. A plush area rug that extends out from under the bed (ideally starting in front of the nightstands) creates a cozy foundation and offers a soft landing for bare feet in the morning. If you’ve added a sitting area or reading nook in the room, another small rug there will help define the space and soften the look while aiding in sound absorption.
A Little Desk Goes a Long Way
If space allows, consider incorporating a small desk or writing table. Many guests appreciate having a spot to work on their laptops, write a note, or charge their devices. Add a comfortable chair, a desk lamp, and perhaps a charging station with multiple ports or outlets for convenience. A small gesture like this shows your guests that you’ve thought of everything.
Adding a few personal touches to the desk or tabletop, like a vase of fresh flowers or a small potted plant, can instantly make the space feel warm and lived-in. One of our favorite ideas came from a client who places a framed photo of her guest on the desk before they arrive. It’s such a clever and sweet way to make someone feel right at home! A handwritten welcome note or a little gift (think: a travel-size candle or a small box of chocolates) is always a lovely final touch as well.
Make Sure the Guest Room is Well Lit
Lighting is such an important element of any room, and your guest bedroom is no exception. A well-lit space that’s also relaxing is all about layered lighting. Start with overhead ambient lighting, ideally on a dimmer switch so guests can adjust to their preference. Then add bedside lamps for reading or winding down in the evening.
Task lighting can also come in the form of a desk lamp or floor lamp, especially if the room includes a seating or work area. Warm-toned bulbs (nothing too harsh or too cool) help set a calming mood, making the space feel more like a boutique hotel suite than a spare bedroom.
Personality and Practicality
Don’t be afraid to inject a little style and personality into the guest room! A piece of art, a curated stack of books, or even a decorative bowl to hold keys or jewelry can add charm without feeling cluttered. Choose pieces that reflect your home’s design.
Also, don’t forget the essentials: an alarm clock, extra towels, a water carafe or bottled water, and maybe even a small basket of toiletries in case your guests forgot something. These practical touches are the kind of thoughtful details that elevate a guest room from functional to fantastic.
Refresh Your Guest Room
Creating a warm and welcoming guest bedroom doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little planning, attention to detail, and a mix of comfort and functionality, you can design a space where your guests feel truly cared for. It’s all about striking that balance—plush bedding and cozy lighting paired with practical storage and a few thoughtful extras. When your guest room feels like an extension of your home’s personality, your guests will notice and appreciate the effort. Warning! You might have family and friends finding excuses to come visit you once they realize how fantastic your guest room is.
Designing or refreshing your guest bedroom can be such a fun and rewarding project. And if you need help creating the perfect space, we’re always here to bring your vision to life.
Until next time, let your creative juices flow!
-Danna
Meet Danna, A Luxury Interior Designer in Houston
Danna Smith has more than 30 years of experience in the design industry. She has been a buyer and merchandiser for four luxury showrooms in Houston and Dallas. Smith teaches an evening course at Houston Community College to nurture her passion for developing future design stars. Since joining Pamela Hope Designs in 2015, she has worked on some of her most beautiful and innovative projects yet.
