By Kim Armstrong
The holidays are just around the corner, and if you have been dreading having visitors because you don’t feel like you have a guest room worthy of family and friends, this article is for you. Creating a stellar guest room doesn’t mean you have to pour a ton of money into the room, it just means thinking of what will make your guests comfortable and the room inviting.
Start With the Bed: Comfort Is Queen
No matter how chic the decor, an uncomfortable bed is a deal-breaker. Splurge where it counts: a good mattress with a cushy topper, buttery-soft sheets (think 100% cotton or linen), and a pile of pillows in varying firmness. Add a cozy duvet or quilt and finish it off with a throw blanket for texture and snuggle appeal. Keep an extra blanket nearby in a woven basket or draped at the foot of the bed — some like it warm, others chilly.
In terms of furniture, if your budget is tight, consider looking at Facebook Marketplace or purchasing a bed that you can upgrade with new fabric. Also, keep an eye out for side tables and decor while browsing for the bed.
Light It Right
Layer your lighting with bedside lamps on both sides. Soft, warm-toned bulbs are your best friend here — they create ambiance and flatter everyone.
Go for Boutique Hotel Vibes
Add small luxuries: a sign with the wifi password on it, a stack of good books or design mags, and bottled water by the bed when they arrive. Also, a nice touch is to provide a universal phone charger where you can also set your watch and AirPods for charging. If I am feeling really ambitious,
I will iron the sheets with a linen spray to make them smell amazing.
Storage Smarts
Give guests space to unpack and settle in. Even if you don’t have a full closet, offer a few hangers, a luggage rack, and a clear drawer or shelf.
Make It Multi-Functional (Without Compromising Style)
If your guest room moonlights as an office, yoga space, or storage area, keep it stylish and streamlined. Murphy beds, fold-down desks, or daybeds with trundles can be total lifesavers. Keep the vibe guest-friendly by tucking away work gear when company comes.
A stellar guest room is a mix of comfort, style, and that extra sparkle of thoughtfulness. It’s not about size — it’s about the feeling. Whether you’re working with a dedicated room or a multi-use nook, create a space that says, “I’m glad you are here.”
Photos: Michael Hunter and Adobe Stock
Kim Armstrong is an award-winning, nationally-published designer known for her signature eclectic style and colorful, layered interiors. A master of space planning, material selection, and mixing traditional and modern, Kim has a unique ability to create functional spaces that feel both timeless and fresh. By approaching every project with professionalism, creativity, and kindness, Kim knows her job is done when a space sparks joy for her clients—because joy never goes out of style or off-trend!
