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Designing a Guest Room with an Eye towards Comfort and Utility
Having a guest room in one’s home, however large or small, can be a wonderful asset. Not everyone is able to drop everything to stay elsewhere when visiting a family member or friend. Giving a person a place to stay, a space of their own can be extremely inviting and delightful. However, if you are short on space, you may want to achieve a feeling of hospitality while making sure that the space is both functional and accommodating. Here are some tips to designing a guest room with an eye towards both comfort and utility.
Pick the Right Bed
A great guest room design begins with the bed. Choose a size that is both comfortable and prudent when it comes to the size of the space. Opt for a full- or queen-size bed; even with a larger room, a king-size bed can make a space feel too crowded. If you’re really strapped for space, consider an inflatable mattress that can be pulled out when needed.
Include the Essentials
In addition to the bed, you’ll need to make sure that your guest room has all the necessary amenities. This includes such basics as:
- a nightstand with a flat surface and a place to plug in electronics
- at least one easy chair
- adequate storage (such as a closet, dresser, or other storage pieces)
- lighting (both natural and artificial)
- window treatments
- linens and bedding
While these items may seem obvious, it’s easy to make the mistake of not including them when designing the room.
Add Thoughtful Touches
Once you’re sure that your guest room has all the essentials, you can start to explore ways to make the room special. Think of creative and thoughtful touches that will make your visitors feel welcomed. This could include providing fresh linens, snacks and drinks, magazines, or art pieces. Installing a small refrigerator or microwave can also add a nice touch. It is also important to strive for a sense of privacy; this can be accomplished by including elements such as a bookcase headboard, a standing privacy screen, or other items that can act as a buffer between the room and the rest of the house.
Remember that Adaptability Matters
Finally, make sure that your guest room is an adaptable space. This means that it should be able to serve multiple purposes; it should be suitable for both sleeping and lounging. You should also think of ways that you can hide multiple functions in plain sight. For instance, a trunk can be used as both seating and storage, or a bedside table can also be used as a spot for studying.
Designing a guest room that is both welcoming and functional doesn’t have to be an overwhelming task. Combining essential features with thoughtful touches and a sense of adaptability can help you create a space that is sure to be appreciated by visitors. Taking the time to plan the design thoughtfully can create a guest room that is stylish and inviting. With just a few simple steps, you can make your guest room a favorite spot for immediate family as well as out of town guests.
