If you love to entertain—and tend to drop hints to out-of-town friends that you have a spare room—you're going to need a space that actually makes people want to be your guest.
We asked the experts at Tuft & Needle how to upgrade your guest room before having loved ones put your service to the test.
Start with the basics: A minimalist bed frame in a never-goes-out-of-style design—Tuft & Needle's is constructed with high-quality, long-lasting hardwood that will stay sturdy and beautiful for years to come. Top it with a mattress that helps guests get quality beauty sleep, like their popular Mint mattress which is made with heat-wicking cooling gel for extra breathability. It also comes with a washable cover that makes it super easy to keep clean.
Then, pile on the coziness with linen sheets that get softer with each wash, and a down alternative duvet and pillows so that even visitors with allergies or sensitivities remain cool and comfortable at night.
To style the space, consider who's most likely to check in to your very intimate B&B, and choose pieces that will have them leaving 5-star reviews—if only in their minds. Here are chic options for three common scenarios.
If you expect your college roommates to call dibs…
Since you already know how well you cohabitate, it makes sense to reserve a bed for the bestie who was by your side for years of tailgates and all-night cramming sessions. Assuming they've graduated from the bargain vibe of your youth, aim for decor that's still fun, but a bit elevated from the freecycle pages you used to pore over.
Rattan accessories (eye-catching table lamps and a planter that proves you've learned how to keep things alive), statement-making modern art, and a macrame wall hanging strike just the right boho chic feel, as does a funky round woven chair. (Extra points for providing a stack of art or philosophy books to peruse.)
Make up the bed with linen sheets in warm sandy shades for added coziness, and set up a blanket ladder that can hold extra layers for especially cold nights while also providing a spot to drape purses, coats, and scarves.
Streamlined walnut end tables offer up enough space for jewelry and phones. Plus the white noise machine they'll need if they choose to leave the party early for once.
If you need a spot for your couple friends to crash…
A true sign you're growing up: Your pals now come in pairs and they appreciate things like abstract artwork and unique lighting (perhaps a floor lamp with an intriguing tufted shade). Lean into adulthood by curating a space that’s equal parts bold and elegant.
Slate-hued linen sheets and a flatweave, natural fiber, black and white rug anchor a moodier palette, while a bed for any pups keeps things dog-family-friendly. Minimalist nightstands in solid walnut produce plenty of storage and provide a backdrop for metallic accents like a set of gooseneck bedside lamps that complement an architectural chair.
And because you all have responsibilities to get up for now, spring for an alarm that's a bit more evolved than the one on their phones. The Loftie smart clock is a nightlight, Bluetooth speaker, and white noise machine all in one, so it can get the party started and help guests drift off to sleep. And thanks to a two-phase alarm system designed to gently rouse dreamers, your guests won't be in for any rude awakenings.
If Mom is a regular…
Whether your parents are coming to pitch in with the grandkids or just to offer commentary on the state of your love life and your dusty baseboards, you'll want a space that looks like a boutique hotel—but is much more affordable to furnish.
Opt for linen sheets that are meant to look delightfully lived-in to save yourself a conversation about hospital corners. Then add a perfectly overstuffed duvet cover, with a cotton-linen blend quilt layered on top, all in Mom-friendly neutral hues.
For a true oasis feel, opt for muted tones and natural elements with a jute rug, cream curtains, flora- and fauna-themed wall art, and a chair for reading by the window. And since your 'rents are likely to be regulars, make sure they know that furry relatives are also welcome with a portable dog bed.
Finally, throw in the sort of touches Mom is sure to appreciate: A tray-top side table with enough drawers for all the essentials, fresh flowers, and maybe even a family photo.
No matter who you expect to host this holiday season, Tuft & Needle is a must-shop for cozy, comfortable sleep essentials that will make every guest feel welcome—even the unexpected ones.
Art direction and production by Arminé Altiparmakian. Photography by Christian Harder. Prop styling by Olga Grigorenko.
