decorating a guest room

let's talk guest rooms... when it comes to designing a second bedroom sometimes we get stumped on what type of decor or color scheme the space should have, what needs must be met and what accessories should be added to make the room more inviting and home-y. guests should feel comfortable, in an inviting space, that feels like a little like a getaway.

bedding

opt for sheets with a high thread count, i'd stick to white since it's clean. you can add your aesthetic (beachy, rustic, farmhouse) with a throw pillow or blanket. wayfair, home goods, even target have amazing sheet sets that are extremely comfortable. make sure theres four down alternative pillows... this will diminish any allergy conflicts. depending on the time of year a comforter or quilt will suffice but always keep extra blankets at the end of the bed in a small basket or atop a bench. i'd suggest a throw blanket across the bottom as well, it's a nice touch and makes the bed more inviting and less like a hotel.

the extras:

the room should smell fresh, we like to use the laundress spray on sheets and blankets. for guests staying longer than one night, place an oil diffuser on the nightstand; i absolutely love the sandalwood rose scent from P.F. candle co as well as the wifi password. we leave an extra phone charger on the stand as well.

place a carafe of fresh water and some sliced lemons on a tray on the dresser. leave some glasses with the tray and some fresh flowers. greenery goes a long way so try to put a little something in there even if flowers aren't your thing; maybe some dried pompus, or eucalyptus.

taking the extra step makes all the difference, the experience they will remember has a lot to do with the small details. so add your touch, maybe a nice robe and sleep mask folded on the bed for them to use or a book of poetry.. it should be something that you would want if you were away from home. Athena Calderone of EyeSwoon leaves a meditation kit and pillow for her guests. a little lavender oil and aromatherapy lotion (i like 'sleep' from bath and body works), is always a safe bet and perfect for aiding in a deeper, better nights sleep.

bathroom

if the guest room has it's own bathroom, put some fresh folded towels, a new loofa, and a little eucalyptus. on a small tray be sure to have a travel toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, and bath time essentials atop the counter and in the shower as well. this will make your guests feel pampered, and fresh after a day of travel.

temperature

you want the room to be a good temperature, i'd say around 70F.

laundry bin

to keep the room tidy and to help guests keep their clean clothes separate, keep a laundry basket somewhere in the room or in the guest bathroom for them to use during their stay. be sure to add some fresh dryer sheets to the bottom.

decor

unless your home is minimalistic, put some pictures up on the wall; ones that speak to you. for instance, if your aesthetic is beach house, maybe a pictures of waves crashing in a light wood frame. if prefer bali vibes and natural textures try oversized meditation beads strung above the bed... whatever decor you prefer in your home add it to the guest room. it should be something you really love and would want in your own bedroom.