Bedroom

Small Guest Bedroom Ideas

Even a small guest bedroom should feel comfortable, welcoming, and functional to friends and family coming to stay at your home.

For guest bedrooms that don't have a lot of extra space, it's a good idea to choose multi-functional furniture like a daybed with storage underneath or even a sleeper sofa to make the space feel versatile. Items such as mirrors and window treatments hung high on the wall allow for the room to feel larger than it actually is. To make your guests feel at home, you could incorporate plants and area rugs to create little zones within the room such as a reading nook.

Allow our design experts to take you through all of the important details of small guest bedroom ideas, including how to turn a smaller room into a cozy guest bedroom and how to fully maximize the space.

Maximize Vertical Space

Maximize Vertical Space
Credits: That's so Gemma

To create a clutter-free and visually spacious guest bedroom, utilize wall-mounted shelves and hooks such as those in the pictured eclectic-beige bedroom. Ideal for small rooms with simple decor, adding items like a hanging planter, rattan table, and wicker basket provides storage while maintaining an aesthetic appeal. Prioritize functionality and minimalism in your design choices.

Choose Multi-functional Furniture

Choose Multi-functional Furniture
Credits: Emily C. Butler

Introduce multi-functional furniture like daybeds or sleeper chairs for conserving space and offering versatile seating/sleeping options in your guest bedroom. This blue-accented living room showcases how an inviting couch setup can provide both comfort and style. Focus on cozy furnishings and thoughtfully placed decor to create a multi-purpose space.

Incorporate Mirrors

Incorporate Mirrors
Credits: life at number

Expand your guest bedroom visually with strategically placed mirrors, like the full-length mirror shown in this plush, white bedroom. By reflecting light, mirrors can create an illusion of a larger space. Experiment with statement mirrors or a collection of smaller ones to enhance your room's aesthetic and sense of openness.

Utilize Under-bed Storage

Utilize Under-bed Storage
Credits: Ikea

Opt for a bed with built-in storage, such as drawers or open shelves, as seen in this attic bedroom with a rustic horse-themed rug. This solution will help store extra bedding, pillows, or guest belongings without taking up additional floor space. Aim for functionality and charm by creating a cozy atmosphere with a balance of practical storage and decor.

Install a Floating Desk

Install a Floating Desk
Credits: Marriott

Incorporate a floating desk or shelf in your guest bedroom for a space-saving workspace option. As shown in this inviting queen-sized bedroom with a flat-screen TV and distinct leather headboard, a floating desk in a corner or near a window helps maintain a comfortable yet functional environment without consuming much floor space.

Opt for Light Colors

Opt for Light Colors
Credits: House becomes home interiors

Create an open and airy atmosphere in small guest bedrooms by using light paint colors and bedding. The luxurious bedroom in the image, featuring decor elements such as throw pillows, wooden furniture, and fully illuminated spaces, effectively utilizes a serene color palette of creams, grays, and whites to make the room inviting and harmonious.

Hang Wall Sconces

Hang Wall Sconces
Credits: Rebecca Driggs Interiors

Replace bedside table lamps with wall sconces, like the green-shaded one in this spacious and tastefully decorated black-metal framed bedroom, to free up valuable surface space on side tables or nightstands. This practical solution will ensure both style and accessibility while keeping the room uncluttered.

Consider a Fold-out Bed

Consider a Fold-out Bed
Credits: SmartBett

Enhance your guest bedroom's functionality by installing a wall-mounted fold-out bed that can be tucked away when not in use. Similar to this cozy pink-accented bedroom, utilizing a fold-out bed can provide more space for other activities and offer a minimalistic approach to organization without compromising comfort.

Create Zones with Rugs

Create Zones with Rugs
Credits: Rashida Banks

Define separate zones within your guest bedroom, such as sleeping and sitting areas, using area rugs. Inspired by the eclectic zebra-themed bedroom and living room in the image, utilizing rugs can make the space feel more organized and visually appealing. Experiment with various patterns and textures to achieve your desired aesthetic.

Incorporate Built-in Storage

Incorporate Built-in Storage
Credits: Topology Interiors

Maximize storage in your guest bedroom by adding built-in storage options like shelves or cabinets, as showcased in the serene double bed image featuring tasteful green accents. This efficient approach allows for unobstructed floor space and creates a peaceful atmosphere with simple, functional decor and lush greenery.

Use Transparent Furniture

Use Transparent Furniture
Credits: Nuray Birtane

To make a small guest bedroom feel more open, incorporate transparent furniture such as acrylic chairs or side tables. Ideal for minimalist or modern spaces, this design reduces visual clutter. Consider using a glass-top wooden nightstand and adding elegant touches like a table lamp. Soft lighting and warm tones will complete the room and create an inviting atmosphere.

Add Vertical Lines

Add Vertical Lines
Credits: Yellow Brick Home

Draw the eye upward and create the illusion of higher ceilings with vertical lines on wallpaper or paint. This technique works well in cozy bedrooms with nature-inspired accents like bird prints or plants. Combine beige and green tones on bedding, walls, and small decor pieces for a harmonious look. Use wooden furniture, a small nightstand, and a pendant light to complete the space.

Opt for Minimalist Decor

Opt for Minimalist Decor
Credits: Lucy Harris

Create a clean, organized look in a small guest bedroom by embracing minimalist decor. Simple, uncluttered design elements make the space feel inviting and open. Combine black and white bedding with a wooden frame bed and marble stools to create an elegant environment. Add a comfy sofa for reading and ensure ample lighting with a table lamp and a floor lamp.

Install a Ceiling Fan

Install a Ceiling Fan
Credits: Erin Gates Design

Add functionality and style to a small guest room with a ceiling fan equipped with lighting. This space-saving solution is perfect for rooms with wooden floors and a relaxed, casual aesthetic. Decorate in calming blue and white shades, using decorative pillows and a white dresser for storage. A round wooden mirror and floor plant can complement the overall ambiance.

Use a Sliding Door

Use a Sliding Door
Credits: Heidi Caillier Design

Save space and add a stylish touch in a small guest bedroom by swapping a traditional door with a sliding barn door or pocket door. Ideal for cozy bedrooms with red and blue color schemes and chandelier lighting. Arrange a bed in front of curtains, and include a blue and white rug in front of the bed for maximum comfort. Use a bedside table for added convenience.

Create a Gallery Wall

Create a Gallery Wall
Credits: Bria Hammel

Add personality to small guest bedrooms with a curated gallery wall, showcasing artwork or family photos without occupying valuable floor space. Create a harmonious aesthetic with a white and blue color scheme, wooden furniture, and a white dresser topped with tasteful decorations. Ensure warm, ambient lighting with a table lamp and vase of fresh flowers.

Incorporate Plants

Incorporate Plants
Credits: Pinestreethouse

Bring life and color to a small guest room with indoor plants or succulents. These elements add a touch of freshness without taking up much space. Place plants near a rattan chair or window for a natural, inviting look. Tie the room together with a neutral-toned wooden bed, a cozy couch, and a bookshelf filled with interesting reads.

Use a Foldable Luggage Rack

Use a Foldable Luggage Rack
Credits: Driven by décor

Offer a foldable luggage rack in your guest room for a practical and versatile addition. These racks are easy to store when not in use and complement minimalist, monochrome decor themes. Accentuate the room with a black and white color palette on bedding and decorative elements. Finish with a small bedside table and a delicate table lamp for a cozy atmosphere.

Hang Curtains High

Hang Curtains High
Credits: Nadine Stay

Create the illusion of a larger space in a guest bedroom by installing curtain rods close to the ceiling. This design trick works well with sophisticated and classic decor, utilizing polished wood furniture and elegant accents. Complement a creamy white bed with neutral-toned artwork and a decorative pink armchair for a calming environment.

Add a Personal Touch

Add a Personal Touch
Credits: Create/Enjoy

Make guests feel at home with a welcome basket, guest book, or local guidebook as personal touches in a guest bedroom. A comfortable bed adorned with green pillows and black vases with yellow flowers creates a soothing atmosphere. Wooden nightstands, a ceiling fan, and framed art complete the space, providing guests with a cozy, relaxing retreat.

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