When guests feel they have been taken care of, it sets the tone for a harmonious visit. Whether you have the luxury of a guest room or a space that feels more like a home office, there are plenty of simple and thoughtful ways to give your guests a warm welcome.
The arrangement of the guest room must follow certain rules. Archive photo
When friends and family are staying for just one night, it's all about making their room comfortable and practical – think comfortable bedding, bedside chargers, space for a travel bag, etc. But if it's a few days or more, it's worth putting in more effort, writes The Guardian. Organize a space where they can be happy, relax and everyone will be able to enjoy some time to relax. Take the expert advice of these interior designers – just a few thoughtful gestures will go a long way in creating a happy stay for guests and hosts alike.
Test the camera
Do as the best hoteliers do and analyze any issues by spending a night in the spare room using only your carry-on luggage. This is the best way to identify what needs to be added or changed before guests arrive.
If you're lucky enough to have a spare room, there's a good chance it's become storage, so make time for a deep clean before your guests arrive.
“We often hang on to things that no longer serve us, so empty the drawers next to the nightstand and keep surfaces clear to make intentional space for guests”, say the interior designers.
Cleanse
Many of us are disgusted by the dirt in someone else's house, which we would turn a blind eye to at home. So it's time to get the whole family together and take care of the areas that the guests will be using, especially the bedroom and the bathroom.
Create a character
A vase, a jug or even a jar of jam, flowers or berries will liven up the room – but let it be a small object so that it doesn't get in the way. Interior designer Tanya Selway recommends treating “the guest room as a little escape: less guest room, more boutique retreat. Give it personality with layered textures, some unexpected vintage pieces and something that suggests travel or relaxation”.
If you must buy bedding, look for shades that are already present in the room, or play it safe and stick to white. When washing guest bedding, it's a good idea to be generous with the fabric softener, even if you don't normally use it, so everything smells soothingly clean.
Make sure your comforter and pillows live up to expectations by adding a cozy blanket.
Peace and quiet
To give your guests a restful sleep, you can add blackout liners to your bedroom curtains. If it's too much work, give them a sleep mask.
Good lighting
Bedside lamps are essential. These can be taken from another part of the house or you can look for a good deal on new purchases.
“Light the room with intention. Dim lighting makes a huge difference, so always turn on at least one lamp before guests arrive. It makes the room feel welcoming,” say the designers.
Chargers handy
Another bedside essential is access to a power outlet, while a generously long phone charging cable shows you've thought of everything. If there is not an outlet on each side of the bed, make sure there is an extension cord.
Carafe and glasses
Make sure guests have a glass of water at bedtime, or if you're staying home on a festive night, put water in the room in advance. A carafe and glasses are also a lovely touch.
Make sure you have a make-up mirror, ideally placed in a place with good natural light. If you can also buy a hair dryer, guests will appreciate it and stop knocking on your door when you're getting dressed.
Provide the guest with a container for cosmetics and a bowl for makeup brushes.
