How to Design a Welcoming Guest Room

Coastal elegant bedroom

Whether you are hosting guests frequently, or just a few special times a year, having a beautifully designed guest room will make your visitors feel right at home. Entertaining friends and family can be stressful, which is why it helps to have a room set up with all the essentials in advance. From the number of beds to the small details, like linens and flowers, here are some expert tips from our team of Charleston interior designers on how to make their quarters comfortable for their stay.

Preppy coastal bedroom

One or Two Beds?

Depending on the size of your guest bedroom, you can decide on either one larger bed or two twin beds. Twin beds are ideal if you frequently host kids or friends. Alternatively, a queen or king bed can be used for a couple or solo travelers.

Luxurious Bed Linens

Whichever type of bed you choose, pay attention to the finer details of the bedding. Start with a comfortable mattress and pillows and layer crisp, white linens in a high thread count. Add a beautiful and colorful duvet, like our Ines Linen Duvet as well as luxurious bedding accent pillows. Either drape extra blankets at the end of the bed or place them in the closet to be used as needed. Your overnight guests will appreciate having a cozy bed that feels like one you’d find in a five-star hotel room.

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Linen throw pillows
Traditional sitting area

Sitting/Desk Area

If space allows, adding a seating area to your guest room is a nice touch. This way, your guests can retreat into their own private space to relax in the morning and evenings. Two cozy armchairs paired with a small side table create a welcoming spot for guests to relax, read a book, or unwind after traveling. You can also consider adding a small desk if you think they might do work during their stay. 

Blackout Window Treatments

While some guests aren’t sensitive to the light, installing blackout curtains or shutters will provide a better night’s sleep for those who are. This thoughtful addition also provides your guests with total privacy. They can always open the curtains as needed during the day.

Preppy coastal bedroom
Traditional bedroom design

Wardrobe Storage

No matter how long your guests are staying for, we recommend providing a specific space for them to unpack and settle in during their stay. If possible, clear out some closet space so that they can hang their clothes. Or, clear out some empty drawers in your dresser for them to put in foldable clothing. At the very least, add a luggage rack or bench for your guests to place their suitcases.

Final Thoughtful Touches

Finally, add some of these special touches to create a truly memorable stay.

  • Basket of toiletries
  • Fresh flowers
  • Wifi password
  • ​Extra towels
  • Variety of pillows
  • Full-length mirror
  • Water carafe and glasses
  • Tissues
  • Candle

White chair with yellow accent

Setting Up an Inviting Guest Bedroom

To create a guest room design that leaves a lasting impression, treat the space like you would your own bedroom. The best guest rooms flow with the rest of the home, while including special touches for guests. From cozy bedding to a thoughtful welcome basket, there are plenty of little things that will make a big difference for your house guests. Stop by any of our three Charleston home stores to discover our collection of furniture and accessories to set up the perfect guest room.


Shop the Look


Ines Linen Duvet

The rhythmic and lyrical paisleys, florals and foliage dance together on a rustic laundered linen ground. Washed and tumbled for sublime softness and drape.

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Provence Rattan Circle Tray

Infinitely useful and naturally beautiful, pile delicious things onto Juliska’s handwoven rattan tray and serve up style, structure, and an effortlessly tidy look.

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Saint Clair Chest

Perfectly symmetrical and with a touch of geometric inspiration, the Saint Clair Chest instantly brings a calming essence to any living space.

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Aneta Mirror

Showcasing a feminine scalloped edge, this shaped wood mirror adds whimsical flair to any design. The mirror is finished in aged gold and has a 1″ bevel.

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