Hosting is a big deal in our Indian households, no matter how long or short our guest's visit is. We take immense pride in our hosting skills because let's be honest, no one does it better than us. Now being a hands-on host doesn't mean you have to make your guest's stay ultra luxurious (read: concierge service and 5-star facilities), it's the little things with stuff you already have at home that can take their stay comfortable, making them feel most welcomed. So we compiled a list of little tips and tricks you can use in your guest room design that don't necessitate a full-on remodel or a shopping spree.
8 Guest Room Design Ideas That'll Make You Everyone's Favourite Host
Curate A Theme For Your Home
By curate we don't mean that you have to hop on interior shopping websites and order everything matching. All it needs is to put together a cohesive look for your guest room with extra stuff (because aren't we all hoarders?) you have lying around in your home. For example, bring your spare vases to use by placing them in your guest room and opting for green shades for soft furnishings and walls for a nature-inspired vibe. Similarly, you can give a Scandinavian look to the room by keeping everything white (or neutral) and decorating it smartly with cosy furnishings. The idea is to make your guest room feel put together and not cluttered or mismatched for your guests' comfortable stay.
Pay Attention To The Washroom
The washroom shouldn't go unnoticed when you have guests staying over at your place. Easy access to the washroom is one of the few non-negotiable things that make anyone's stay comfortable and hassle-free. Admit it, hotel stays are always better if the washroom's lovely (not to forget those complimentary shower kits). So, stock up on the essentials like toiletries, towels, bathroom slippers and a scented candle or two if you are feeling bougie. You can even DIY a self-care basket with a few skincare minis (or testers) which will be much appreciated.
Consider Putting A Study Table
Don't half the guests we have crashing at our place come for work trips or is it only us? Nevertheless, a study table would be a convenient touch for the guests if they wish to work or catch up on their reading. A study table in the guest room never hurts as the room can double as your working (or studying) space when not occupied by anyone. Consider getting a smaller one with a chair that doesn't occupy much space so you don't have to worry about the room feeling crowded.
Pro-tip: Don't miss our study table design ideas here.
Provide The Basics
Be sure to leave your guest room with a few essentials like a bottle or carafe with drinking water, a few glasses, an extra blanket and pillows, extra fresh towels and toilet paper, a pair or two of comfy slippers, an iron or steamer to press their clothes, and a laundry basket for them to keep their dirty clothes in. All of these essentials would prevent guests from having to hunt, open and close cupboards, or disturb you for the smallest of things, leaving you both undisturbed.
A Dressing Table Or Mirror Is A Must
Technically, guests will be living out of their suitcases at times, reviewing their fits in the mirror before heading out will be the need of the hour. However, getting a dressing table for the guest room is an extra expense, so instead we'd suggest getting a full-size mirror instead. Not only will this save you money but will also save you space, which is a clear win-win.
Pro-tip: Check out our curation of wardrobe with dressing table designs here.
A Snack Drawer For The Win!
The heading says it all but keep reading in case you need some convincing. Who doesn't love snacking? And when you are somebody's houseguest, it might feel a little much to ask your host for snacks (especially if it's a midnight hunger pang) so why not spare each other the awkwardness and assemble a snack drawer for your guests to enjoy? Fill it up with stuff you either know they like or popular favourites.
Provide Reading Material
Provide some reading material in your guest room in case your guests forget to bring their own. Adding books to floating shelves or arranging a few magazines on the coffee table or side table will also make the guest room feel cosier and more personal. If you are feeling creative, consider turning a window pane into window seating with a few cushions. A window seating won't only look nice but also give the guests somewhere to cosy up in that isn't the communal living room.
Pro-tip: Check out our curation of window seating designs here.
Extra Points For Fresh Flowers
Fresh flowers in the guest bedroom are a small but significant touch. They convey that you are overjoyed to have your guests staying over and tried putting in an effort to welcome them. Also, they are the best way to make a space welcoming. Just be careful to place them somewhere they will be out of the way and not tippable to avoid unnecessary messes.
