How to Design a Guest Room That Feels Like Home

You know that feeling when you check into a 5-star hotel, drop off your bags, and instantly feel at ease? That’s exactly what your guest room should capture — only with a personal touch that makes it even better.

Creating a guest room that feels both inviting and luxurious is essential when hosting visitors in your Beverly Hills home. Whether you’re hosting friends, loved ones, business associates, or other out-of-town guests, you want them to feel comfortable, relaxed, and well-cared for. A thoughtfully designed guest space goes beyond simply providing a place to sleep — it should feel like a personal retreat, offering a seamless blend of warmth, style, and convenience.

When designing a guest room, every element contributes to the experience. From high-quality bedding to storage solutions and personalized touches, the right choices can make your guests feel truly at home. Here’s how to create a guest room that’s both welcoming and functional, ensuring your visitors enjoy every moment of their stay.

The bedding is the most important element in your guest room, as a high-quality mattress, plush pillows, and soft linens set the tone for a restful stay. After all, no one wants to sleep on a rock-solid mattress with pillows that feel like pancakes. If your guests wake up feeling refreshed, they’ll remember their visit for all the right reasons.

Bedding should be as dreamy as it is stylish. Go for soft, high-thread-count sheets, a fluffy duvet, and an assortment of pillows — some firm, some plush — to give your guests options.

Opt for neutral, calming colors for your bedding, such as soft whites, grays, or muted blues. Layering is key — add a cozy duvet, a lightweight blanket, and extra pillows to suit different sleeping preferences. If space allows, consider a queen- or king-sized bed to maximize comfort. A high-end mattress topper can also enhance the sleeping experience without requiring a new mattress.

No one likes living out of a suitcase, especially when they’re staying for more than a night or two. So, make sure that your guest room has plenty of storage so visitors can unpack and feel right at home.

If you have a closet, clear out a section with hangers so that your guests can hang up their clothes. A dresser with empty drawers provides a perfect place for folded items, while a stylish luggage rack gives guests an easy spot to unpack. If closet space is limited, a standing wardrobe or even a sleek storage bench at the foot of the bed can do the trick.

Think about smaller storage needs as well. A nightstand with drawers or an open shelf allows guests to keep their personal items organized. Small baskets or decorative boxes can be used to store essentials like chargers, keys, and travel accessories. These simple additions make it easier for guests to settle in and enjoy their stay.

A well-thought-out guest room isn’t just a place to sleep — it’s a place to unwind. A cozy seating area gives visitors a quiet spot to relax, sip coffee, or read a book.

If the room allows, set up a comfortable armchair with a small side table to create a quiet corner where guests can relax, read, or enjoy breakfast. For a touch of luxury, consider adding a chaise lounge or a window seat. These options provide an elegant, practical space for guests to unwind. If you’re working with a smaller room, a compact accent chair or a cushioned bench at the end of the bed can serve as a versatile seating solution.

To make the space feel even more inviting, add a soft throw blanket and a small decorative pillow. If the seating area is near a window, sheer curtains allow natural light to filter in while maintaining privacy.

Speaking of lighting, it can make or break a room’s ambiance. You want the space to feel warm and inviting, not too bright like an over-lit office. A mix of lighting sources ensures that guests have the right ambiance for every moment of the day.

Start with an overhead fixture that provides general lighting. A chandelier or stylish pendant light can serve as a beautiful focal point, while recessed lighting offers a modern, understated option. For bedside lighting, opt for matching table lamps, sconces, or adjustable reading lights. These additions provide a soft glow for winding down in the evening. A dimmable switch or smart lighting option allows guests to control brightness based on their preferences.

A warm-toned bulb makes the room feel cozy and relaxing, while LED reading lights add a functional touch. Bonus points if you include a stylish candle or soft-glow nightlight for extra ambiance.

It’s the little things that turn a guest room into a truly memorable space. Thoughtful touches make your guests feel valued and appreciated.

Consider placing a handwritten welcome note on the nightstand, along with a guide to nearby restaurants, shopping, and attractions. A few bottles of water, a small dish of chocolates, or a basket of snacks provide an extra level of hospitality.

For added convenience, stock the room with the essentials guests might forget — travel-size toiletries, an extra toothbrush, and a universal phone charger can be lifesavers. A framed Wi-Fi password displayed on the desk or nightstand ensures guests can easily connect to the internet without having to ask.

A few bottles of water, a light snack (think gourmet chocolates or a granola bar), and a fresh flower arrangement instantly elevate the space. If you want to go all out, leave a cozy robe and slippers on the bed. They’ll feel like they’ve checked into a five-star retreat.

Color has a major impact on the ambiance of a guest room. To create a relaxing environment, stick with neutral, calming shades, such as soft whites, warm beiges, muted grays, or light pastels. These tones make the space feel airy, sophisticated, and serene.

If you want to introduce color, do so through small accents. A textured throw, decorative pillows, or artwork can bring warmth without overwhelming the space. Avoid overly bright or bold colors, as they can feel too stimulating for a restful retreat.

Natural materials like linen, cotton, and wood can add warmth and texture to the space. A woven rug, upholstered headboard, or simple fabric curtains help create a soft and inviting aesthetic. The goal is to create an environment that feels effortlessly tranquil.

Give your guests the option to relax in the evening with entertainment choices. A small bookshelf stocked with novels, magazines, and travel guides can be a great touch. If you have a television, set it up with streaming services so that your guests can easily watch their favorite shows or movies. If the room doesn’t have a TV, consider leaving a tablet with a streaming app for their convenience.

If you really want to impress, set up a mini coffee station with an electric kettle, a few tea bags, and a selection of gourmet coffee. Your guests will appreciate having the option to enjoy a quiet morning in their own space.

In the end, a guest room isn’t just a place to sleep — it’s a space that makes people feel welcomed, comfortable, and appreciated. The details matter, from a perfectly made bed to thoughtful amenities.

If you’re seeking the perfect home to host guests and make memories, you’ve come to the right place. As a renowned name in Beverly Hills real estate, Forster Jones International is the team you need by your side when you’re ready to find a stunning home in this incredible community.