Words Orna O’Reilly
Preparing for the arrival of an important guest can be daunting. We all want to make our visitors feel welcome and ensure their stay is memorable, and your guest bedroom plays a crucial role in shaping a lasting impression. It should be a haven of tranquillity, a place where visitors feel comfortable and will happily go for a nap or to read a book.
So you might need to take a close look at the room’s existing decor. Has it turned into a repository for unwanted items of furniture and clothing? Are the furnishings outdated? Does it seem empty and cold? If so, it’s time for a rethink.
Sleep tight
First and foremost, let’s consider the bed, particularly the mattress. Mattresses vary widely in quality, typically featuring either pocket springs or memory foam. They are available in a range of firmness levels, from soft to hard, catering to various preferences. It’s worth noting that older people often prefer a firmer mattress. Regarding the headboard, it should be easy to clean, whether upholstered in fabric or crafted from wood or metal.
While many of us prefer a spacious bed, accommodating two guests who prefer separate sleeping arrangements poses a challenge. In such cases, homeowners often opt for twin beds, which can be conveniently pushed together if required.
For those with limited storage space for linens and towels, consider lift-up beds, which have space underneath to store a surprisingly large amount.
Bedding essentials
Of course, pillows must always be fresh and spotlessly clean. For a five-star boutique ambience, opt for crisp, white cotton bed linen with a high thread count, lending an extra touch of luxury. Adding a vibrant throw at the foot of the bed not only offers extra warmth, if needed, but also introduces a pop of colour that can be echoed throughout the room with cushions or accent pieces.
Functional furnishing
It’s essential to have bedside tables or simple wall-mounted shelves flanking the bed, ideally equipped with electrical outlets, including USB ports. These outlets are indispensable for bedside lamps and convenient mobile phone charging.
Another practical consideration is to install an electrical socket near a mirror, facilitating hairdryer or electric razor use. Ideally, the socket should be positioned beneath a shelf where make-up and toiletries can also be placed and applied in comfort. Adequate lighting in this area is paramount.
Depending on the room’s size, you may opt to include a small table and chair, or even an armchair, beside the window. These furnishings can significantly enhance your guests’ comfort and relaxation during their stay.
Make space
Ensure there is ample space for visitors to organise their belongings. Few things frustrate guests more than unpacking their clothes and toiletries only to discover there is no place to put them. It’s disheartening for a guest to open a cramped wardrobe with minimal hangers or to discover a bathroom cluttered with family bits and pieces, leaving no space for their own toiletries. Guest rooms with ensuite bathrooms are ideal because they offer the luxury of that private space, free from the worry of possible interruptions.
Window dressing
Whether you choose curtains or blinds, aim for a soothing colour scheme and ensure there’s no light leakage at the edges. Consider using black-out lining to help guests get a restful night’s sleep and to make sure they’re not woken at dawn.
Little extras
Adding some nicely framed pictures to design the walls can significantly enhance the welcoming feel of your guest bedroom.
To elevate the experience to a five-star level, consider including additional amenities such as plush towelling robes and slippers, a hairdryer, a small vase of flowers, a flask of water and glasses. Providing a selection of new magazines and books tailored to your guests’ interests is also a thoughtful touch.
For guests without access to an ensuite shower room, neatly rolled towels placed at the end of the bed can provide a luxurious touch. For those with an ensuite bathroom, ensure it’s stocked with essential toiletries such as shower gel, hand wash, body lotion, shampoo, conditioner and make-up remover wipes, along with a shower mat for added comfort and safety.
Versatile sleeping options
For those who don’t have the luxury of an extra bedroom or who are accommodating multiple guests simultaneously, a practical choice is a pull-out sofa bed. Alternatively, consider establishing a multi-purpose zone by incorporating
a sofa bed into, for example, a home office.
If you can transform your tired guest bedroom into a luxurious retreat, not only will your visitors feel special,
but there’s also the chance they won’t want to leave!
- ‘Interior design: Guest bedroom bliss’ is published in Anthology Volume 21. Read more features from this volume or buy it now.
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