Discover the common pitfalls in guest room design and learn how to avoid them. This guide will help you create a welcoming and functional space for your guests.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
Getting the guest room just right is not a simple task. You want to create a space that’s welcoming, comfortable, and functional, but it’s easy to overlook key details.
In this guide, I’ll cover common guest room mistakes and how you can avoid them to make your guests feel at home. Swipe through for some easy, practical fixes.
Mistake #1: Cluttered or Overdecorated Space
A guest room filled with over-the-top decor and clutter can feel chaotic and too much. Keep it simple by opting for a clean, minimalist design.
Stick to neutral décor and furniture to avoid overwhelming your guests. A tidy, clutter-free space allows more room for their belongings and creates a calm, inviting atmosphere.
Mistake #2: Uncomfortable Bedding
Don’t compromise on the quality of the bedding. Scratchy sheets or an uncomfortable mattress can ruin a guest’s stay. Invest in a soft and supportive mattress topper to ensure a cozy night’s sleep.
Layer these with plush pillows and a comfy comforter for added comfort. Your guests will appreciate the effort, and you won’t break the bank doing it.
Mistake #3: Forgetting Extra Blankets and Pillows
Not only uncomfortable bedding but forgetting to provide extra blankets or pillows can also leave guests uncomfortable during the night. Some people prefer sleeping with more pillows or may feel cold with just one blanket.
Keep an extra throw blanket in the closet or a basket nearby, along with additional pillows. It ensures your guests can sleep comfortably and enjoy their stay.
Mistake #4: Ignoring Temperature Control
Nothing’s worse than a freezing or overly hot guest room. Make sure your guests have control over the temperature by providing a small fan, portable heater, or extra blankets.
Easy-to-adjust window coverings can also help guests feel comfortable. Keeping the room at a pleasant temperature ensures a restful stay.
Mistake #5: Poor Lighting Options
Don’t just add one overhead light to your guest room as it won’t be enough. Guests might want to read, work, or relax with softer lighting.
Avoid this mistake by adding multiple lighting sources, like a bedside lamp, a floor lamp, or even a dimmable ceiling light. This gives your guests the option to adjust lighting according to their liking.
Mistake #6: Skipping the Nightstand
It’s an easily overlooked detail, but your guests will appreciate having a place to put their phone, water, or glasses at night. Even a small table will work just fine.
A nightstand with a drawer or shelf adds functionality and helps keep essentials within reach. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference in a guest’s comfort.
Mistake #7: Forgetting Wi-Fi Information
One of the biggest frustrations for guests? Not knowing the Wi-Fi password.
Avoid this by providing the network name and password in an easy-to-spot place, like a cute frame or a card on the nightstand. This small touch makes your guests feel welcome and saves them the trouble of asking awkwardly for the details later.
Mistake #8: Overlooking Personal Touches
Don’t skip on adding some personal touches to the space if you don’t want your guest room to feel impersonal. Add items like a small vase of fresh flowers, a stack of magazines, or a welcome note.
These simple additions show you’ve gone the extra mile to make your guests feel at home and cared for during their stay.
Mistake #9: No Window Coverings
Privacy is key for any guest room, and bare windows are a big mistake. Make sure to provide curtains or blinds so your guests can control the light and enjoy privacy.
Blackout curtains are an even better choice as they allow the guests to sleep in without being disturbed by the morning sun. It’s an easy fix that enhances comfort.
Mistake #10: No Convenient Outlets
Avoid the common mistake of having outlets tucked behind furniture or too far from the bed. Guests often bring their devices, so make sure there are accessible outlets near the bed or nightstand.
If your room lacks outlets, provide a power strip on the nightstand or under the bed. It’s a simple fix that ensures guests can charge their devices easily.
Mistake #11: Ignoring Basic Amenities
Your guest room doesn’t have to feel like a hotel, but it should have basic amenities. Provide essentials like extra towels, tissues, and bottled water.
A small basket with travel-size toiletries can be a thoughtful touch, especially if guests forget something. Having these basics on hand shows your guests that you were ready to make their stay comfortable.
Mistake #12: Not Considering Allergies
Neglecting potential allergies is a mistake you don’t want to make. Avoid using strong cleaning products, and consider hypoallergenic bedding if possible.
If you’re a pet owner, give the room an extra cleaning to remove any fallen furs or hairs. Making the room allergy-friendly shows care and ensures that the guests can enjoy their stay.
Mistake #13: Overpowering Scents
While scented candles or air fresheners are a thoughtful touch, strong scents can be overwhelming for guests. Some people have allergies or sensitivities to fragrances, so it’s better to keep the room neutral.
Opt for fresh air by keeping the window open a crack or using a subtle linen spray. A clean, scent-free room creates a more comfortable environment for all guests.
Mistake #14: Skipping Mirrors
A mirror is essential in any guest room, yet it’s the most forgotten item. Whether it’s for checking outfits or applying makeup, your guests will appreciate having a full-length or wall-mounted mirror.
If your guest room is small, consider a door-hanging mirror. This simple addition saves your guests trips to the bathroom and adds convenience to their stay.
Mistake #15: Lack of Seating Options
Don’t make the mistake of offering a bed only for seating purposes. A small armchair, bench, or even a cushioned stool gives guests a place to sit and relax beside the bed.
Guests will appreciate having options to lounge without feeling confined to the bed. Plus, it will also make your room feel more inviting and comfortable.
If you’re confused about what seating options to add, check out why curvilinear furniture is a new hit in 2024 and can make your guest room even more inviting.
Mistake #16: Lack of Storage Space
A common mistake is not providing enough closet or drawer space for your guests to unpack and settle in. Consider clearing out a few drawers or adding an empty closet rod with hangers.
Or add a small rack to provide guests with a designated spot for their suitcases. It will provide guests with ample storage space for their belongings.
Need more ideas for creating extra space for your other rooms? Check out these bedroom storage hacks for a clutter-free and organized space.