9 guest bedroom ideas for a space that works for both you and your guests

Researching different guest bedroom ideas and styles is a good starting point when it comes to working out how you want this room to look and function in your home.

While doing this, it is important to consider the room’s floor plan and where key items such as the bed, wardrobes and perhaps even a desk might sit in it. In a small room, perhaps placing the bed along the longest wall will make the most out of the space whereas in a larger room, giving access to both sides of a double or even king size bed can be a more practical option.

You should also consider the lighting, colour scheme and pay attention to smaller details in your bedroom design to create a well thought out space will make guests feel welcome.

1. Focus on the lighting in your guest bedroom idea 

Mix bright ceiling lights with softer bedside lamps for your bedroom lighting idea to ensure your guests can benefit from both functional and ambient lighting.

If you are working with a small guest bedroom, you can opt for wired-in lights that save on space as you don’t need a bedside table to place them on. 

"To create an inviting guest bedroom, I like to start by making the bed in sublimely soft linens, layer with cosy quilts to invite warmth, and dot the room with lamps that cast a gentle, welcoming glow," says Lucy Uren, Creative Director at Rowen & Wren.

2. Turn your guest bedroom into a multipurpose space 

A guest bedroom often has to function as a home office, and never more so than since 2020. By dividing up the room, you can create a multifunctional area that works for you as an office spare bedroom idea as well as a room for guests when they visit.

"Your choice of desk should fit the style of the room but not be the focal point of the space. Blend it in by using a folding desk in a small room, a bureau or console in a traditionally decorated space or a built-in version which can double as a dressing table. Invest in a luxury desk chair that can double as a comfortable reading chair for guests," explains interior designer Jade Jones at HomeAdviceGuide.com.

Easy-to-install room dividers or a sliding door can work well in larger rooms, allowing you to zone off working and sleep spaces. Meanwhile, if your guests tend to be children then incorporate single beds (or bunk beds), built-in storage for toys and fit large windows with blackout blinds. 

3. Use clever design tricks to make a small guest bedroom feel bigger 

There’s no denying that most spare bedrooms are the smallest room in the house, so consider how it functions and utilise as much floor space as possible. 

• Storage is vital in a small guest bedroom so add layered shelves and wall storage to keep the floor clear, creating the illusion of space 
• Consider installing electric underfloor heating in a small room to free up floor space that would have been taken up by radiators. If you are installing underfloor heating in an existing room, you'll need to opt for low-profile option
• Paint cupboards, shelves and even radiators the same colour as the walls to help them blend in so the room feels less cluttered
• Add multiple mirrors to help bounce light around the room, making it feel bigger

4. Provide essential storage in your guest bedroom

It’s easy for spare rooms to become a dumping ground for clothes and seldom-used items, so when designing your guest bedroom, incorporate as much bedroom storage as possible. as well as bedroom shelving ideas.

• Built-in wardrobes - floor-to-ceiling wardrobes offer endless configuration possibilities as well as the chance to use contrasting colours and materials 
• Single-door wardrobes - these are a great idea if space is limited, but you still want to have some hanging space. They are ideal for narrow spaces too
• Under-bed storage - drawers on wheels, boxes, and built-in bed storage will provide a handy place to keep items tucked away out of sight 
• Wall cupboards - use available wall space and hang storage units that will give you the chance to free up space for furniture 

5. Add an en suite for your guests

If you are designing your guest bedroom in a self build or extension, it may be worth considering a small ensuite bathroom idea if you have space. 

A guest bedroom en suite will provide bathroom space for guests, especially handy if you have family or friends who regularly stay, as well as keeping your bathroom private.

"While it’s not necessary to add an ensuite to a guest room, it is a nice touch and will give your visitors an extra level of privacy, making them feel even more at home. If you have the space, for example if you’re considering a loft or garage conversion, adding an extra bathroom will make your guests more comfortable while also adding to the value of your property," says Jade Jones.

6. Use bold colours for a striking finish

A guest bedroom is the ideal room to experiment with colours, patterns and textures as it’s not used full time. Bold colours on the walls will instantly create a wow-factor finish. 

Rich greens, navy and teal work well when creating a peaceful space your guests can relax in as they will absorb the light and make the room appear cosy.

7. Turn an empty loft space into a cosy spare room 

A loft conversion is a great way to add an extra bedroom and can often be added under Permitted Development.

When designing a bedroom loft conversion, sloping ceilings will usually need to be factored into the room plan. Placing beds and seats under, or near, the sloping areas will allow you to keep the taller, more spacious, parts of the room free so people can stand up and move around. 

If the loft space is small, keep furniture to a minimum and the décor simple - add textures and colours with bedspreads and cushions.

"The seclusion of a loft offers guests a sense of independence, allowing them to relax and unwind without disturbing the main living areas of your home," explains property and construction expert Thomas Goodman at MyJobQuote.co.uk.

Thomas Goodman

Thomas Goodman has worked as a property and construction expert for MyJobQuote for six years and has worked in the construction industry for more than 20 years. Thomas continues to work on building projects, while also providing expert construction and property advice to industry professionals and DIY enthusiasts.

8. Mix original features with modern luxury

Does your guest bedroom have exposed beams or a fireplace? Then show off these features as they add character and charm, and use them to your advantage.  

Incorporating clever lighting and creating a feature wall can make original features stand out or, in the case of odd alcoves or sloping ceilings, you can incorporate bespoke built-in storage to make effective use of the space.

"Giving your guest room a lived-in feeling rather than a sterile hotel-room ambience is more conducive to a restful and pleasant stay in your home. This means adding personal touches that reflect your home, family and style," adds Jade Jones.

9. Make a style statement with your window furniture

French-inspired wooden shutters create instant wow-factor as well as the ambience of a top hotel. They are great for a small space as they fit into the window recess.

Shutters work well in a bedroom as they will keep the room cool and help block out noise - ideal for giving guests a peaceful nights sleep if you live near a busy road. 

Guest bedrooms can often double up as gyms, yoga workout areas or even art studios. When the room needs to work as a multipurpose space, clever bedroom decor ideas can help zone the space.

"Use different wall coverings to distinguish between the sleeping area and the office, hobby or exercise area. Plain, painted walls around your desk and wallpaper or wood paneling around the bed works really well and zones the room beautifully," explains Jade Jones.