Design Basics of a Guest Bedroom
A guest bedroom should feel welcoming and intentional, offering comfort, privacy, and a sense of ease. Here, we outline the essential elements for designing a guest room that’s not only beautiful but perfectly equipped to make every visitor feel at home.
Dream-like bedding
The importance of a comfortable bed cannot be overstated. Start with a quality mattress, then layer breathable cotton or linen sheets, a plush duvet, and a few down or hypoallergenic pillows. Medium-firm pillows tend to offer the most universal comfort, accommodating guests who prefer either soft or firm support. An extra blanket or quilt folded neatly at the foot of the bed allows visitors to easily adjust for their personal comfort.
In our East End Avenue apartment, the bedroom features an inviting upholstered bed with a headboard that extends along the length of the wall, framing night tables on either side. Supportive Euro square pillows are paired with two sets of down pillows for sleeping. A crisp white palette gives the room a clean, hotel-like feel.
Versatile Sleeping Arrangements
Incorporating two twin or full-size beds is an excellent way to make your guest room more versatile. It gives flexibility for shared sleeping arrangements and offers a sense of hospitality to every guest. From a design perspective, a pair of beds adds a symmetrical grounding element, bringing balance and structure. With the right styling, like elegant bedding, fine finishes, and tailored upholstery, twin beds can feel polished and mature.
For many of our clients, maximizing accommodations is a priority, so it is a common request to design guest rooms with two or more beds. In our Lost Tree Way project, a pair of double beds are set against an upholstered wall with a recessed niche. At our Upper West Side project, two twin beds are framed by a custom headboard with a floating nightstand in between for a clean, tailored finish. The guest room in our Cycladic Villa features two beds opening onto a private patio with sweeping views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Storage
Even a short-term guest appreciates a tidy place to unpack. A wardrobe bar for hanging garments and a few drawers for folded clothing allow visitors to settle in without living out of a suitcase. Since guest bedrooms are often on the smaller side, built-in storage can maximize space while lending a clean, custom look.
In our Crab Creek guest room, a compact built-in wardrobe offers both hanging space and three storage drawers. Painted in a soft green to match the shiplap walls, the built-in blends seamlessly into the room, adding a sophisticated, intentional touch.
Sitting Area
Guest rooms can benefit from a dedicated place to sit and relax. A comfortable armchair or a pair of side chairs with a small table provides a spot to read, enjoy a morning coffee, or unwind at the end of the day. Layer in a floor lamp or reading light, a soft throw, and perhaps a few books or magazines for an added touch of hospitality.
In our Madison Square Park project, the space includes a comfortable sitting area where two lounge chairs face one another beside a modern fireplace. Beyond providing a place to sit, the chairs offer guests an additional surface to rest their belongings.
Guest Cottage
For many vacation homes, a separate guest house or cottage is the ultimate luxury. It allows visitors to enjoy privacy, come and go on their own schedule, and truly settle in without feeling like they’re intruding. Whether it’s a converted carriage house or a freestanding structure on the property, a guest cottage makes every stay feel like a boutique getaway.
The Rye Poolhouse is fully furnished to welcome guests, complete with a private bedroom and bathroom. The poolhouse design is light and airy, with large windows that flood the interior with natural light, while tailored curtains offer privacy and comfort. The bedroom opens directly onto the garden patio and pool, granting guests easy access to the outdoor amenities.