Essentials To Set Up The Ultimate Guest Bedroom 

Designing a guest bedroom is about creating a space that feels like a home away from home. Whether your guests are staying for the weekend or a bit longer, it's important to give them a place to relax and unwind at the end of each day.  

With a few guest bedroom essentials, such as the right bed, luxurious bedding, and multifunctional furniture, you can create a welcoming space that they’ll look forward to staying in.  

Keen to find out more? Let’s take a look at some guest room ideas that will help transform your spare bedroom into a sanctuary for guests.  

What should be in a guest bedroom? 

When deciding what to put in a guest bedroom, think about some of the things that make your sleep haven a place for rest and relaxation. From a bed itself, to the linen and furniture, here are the essentials to put on your shopping list: 

The right bed

The bed is the centrepiece of every bedroom, providing a comfortable place to rest and recharge. However, you may not have a dedicated guest bedroom, but instead a space that needs to serve different functions.  

First, consider the type of guests that are staying. If it’s a room for singles and couples, a queen or double bed can be a great choice. Or, if you have younger guests such as grandchildren or nieces and nephews, a bunk bed may be a better fit. You may also find that a sofa bed that you can fold away when it’s not in use is a better option for your space.   

Once you’ve settled on a size, it’s time to choose a style. An upholstered bed can help add comfort and a touch of luxury to the space. Meanwhile, a light wooden bed can be a great way to make your space feel airy, while darker tones can help create a warm and cosy vibe.  

Spare bedroom bedding

The right bedding can help take your guest bedroom styling to the next level. You’ll need all the basics, like bed sheets, pillows, pillowcases and a breathable quilt. You may also want to invest in a mattress protector to help protect the guest bed from spills and stains.   

You can also add layers to their bed with things like a throw and decorative pillows. Plus, a throw can be perfect for some added warmth if they need it. It’s those small details that can make a space feel like home. 

Get creative with colours, creating a scheme that's both relaxing and welcoming. Neutrals can be ideal for a guest space, creating a crisp and clean-looking space. You can also go for calming colours like blue or pink to help make drifting off a breeze.  

Smart guest bedroom storage  

Storage is a must-have in any guest room design - whether your guests are staying a night, a week, or longer.  

If you have existing storage options like a built-in wardrobe, free up some hanging space and drawers. Otherwise, a dresser or free-standing wardrobe is the next best thing. If space is limited, a few small touches will be enough. Hangers for their clothes, a shoe rack or baskets can be handy for short-term storage. 

Bedside tables are another great addition, giving your guests a place to charge their phone or put a glass of water. Add a bedside lamp to give the room ambience. 

Set the scene with bedroom lighting  

Bedroom lighting can have a big impact on the overall feel of your guest’s space. Plus, it’s also about practicality, making sure they can see everything in the room.  

 Start with layered lighting options like a ceiling fixture to provide general lighting to the entire space. Then consider task lighting like a bedside lamp, providing a practical solution for reading a book or journalling to unwind before bed.  

If the guest room has windows, don't overlook the importance of natural light during the day; light, airy curtains that can be drawn for privacy while still letting in sunlight are a nice touch. By thoughtfully arranging different lighting sources, you can set the perfect tone for your guest bedroom, ensuring it’s both functional and inviting. If you don’t have space for a table and lamps, consider bed frames with built-in LED lights.  

The final touches

Last but not least, you can’t forget about the finishing touches. It’s those personal touches that will transform a plain room into an oasis for your guests. 

Here’s how to decorate a guest bedroom: 

• Hang unique artwork on the wall inspired by your town.  
• Add a mirror to help the space feel bigger, while also giving them a place to get ready in the morning. 
• Place soft towels at the end of the bed. 
• Put a vase of fresh flowers on the bedside table - especially during spring.   
• Add warmth with a round floor rug.  

 Remember, your guests are there to enjoy your company. However, a cosy place to sleep and recharge will go a long way in making their stay comfortable. Looking for more bedroom inspiration? Head over to the Snooze blog for ideas of bedroom colour schemes and creating cosiness in your space.