Design the Perfect Guest Bedroom
A well-designed guest bedroom makes visitors feel welcome and comfortable while adding value to your property. Whether you're converting a small box room or renovating a spacious spare bedroom, thoughtful design can create a hotel-quality experience for your guests.
At Hampstead Renovations, we help London homeowners create beautiful, functional guest bedrooms that balance style with practicality. This guide covers everything from layout and storage to creating a multi-functional space that works even when guests aren't staying.
Key Design Principles
1. Comfortable Sleeping Arrangements
- Quality mattress: Invest in a good mattress (minimum pocket sprung or memory foam)
- Bed size: Double bed minimum (160cm wide) for couples, or two singles for flexibility
- Bedding: Hotel-quality duvet (10.5 tog all-season), multiple pillows (firm and soft)
- Mattress topper: Adds extra comfort to standard mattress
- Bedside tables: One each side with reading lamps and charging points
2. Storage for Guests
- Wardrobe or hanging space: Minimum 4-5 hangers for hanging clothes
- Luggage rack or bench: Somewhere to place suitcase off the floor
- Drawer space: At least 2-3 drawers for folded clothes
- Shelf space: For toiletries or personal items
- Hooks: Behind door or wall-mounted for robes/bags
3. Thoughtful Amenities
- Full-length mirror
- Alarm clock or bedside clock
- Tissues and waste bin
- Water carafe and glasses
- Reading material (books, magazines)
- USB charging points or multi-plug adapter
- WiFi password card
- Welcome note or guest information folder
Dual-Purpose Design Ideas
Guest Bedroom + Home Office
The most popular combination for London homes:
- Wall bed (Murphy bed): Folds away to reveal desk underneath
- Sofa bed: Comfortable seating by day, bed by night
- Desk positioning: Against wall opposite bed, doesn't interfere with bedroom use
- Storage: Combination of wardrobe and filing cabinets
- Decor: Neutral, professional scheme works for both uses
Guest Bedroom + Dressing Room
- Built-in wardrobes along one wall
- Ottoman bed with underbed storage for off-season clothes
- Dressing table doubles as desk/workspace
- Full-length mirror serves both functions
Guest Bedroom + Playroom/Hobby Room
- Daybed or sofa bed that doesn't dominate room when not in use
- Cupboards hide away toys/hobby supplies when guests visit
- Neutral base with removable accessories
- Wipeable or durable flooring
Layout Planning for Different Sizes
Small Guest Bedroom (2.4m x 2.6m)
- Small double bed (120cm) or large single (90cm-120cm)
- Built-in wardrobes to maximise floor space
- Wall-mounted bedside shelves instead of tables
- Light colours to make space feel larger
- Mirror to reflect light and add depth
Medium Guest Bedroom (3m x 3.5m)
- Double bed (135-140cm)
- Freestanding wardrobe or alcove storage
- Bedside tables and comfortable chair
- Small desk if dual-purpose
Large Guest Bedroom (3.5m x 4m+)
- King-size bed (150cm) or super-king (180cm)
- Separate seating area with armchair
- Larger wardrobe and chest of drawers
- Potential for en-suite bathroom
- Desk and office area if desired
Colour Schemes and Decoration
Neutral and Versatile
Safest choice for guest bedrooms:
- Soft greys, warm whites, or gentle beiges
- Pairs well with any guest's preferences
- Easy to refresh with accessories
- Timeless and sophisticated
Calming Blues and Greens
Promotes relaxation and sleep:
- Soft sage green or duck egg blue
- Coastal or nature-inspired theme
- Pair with white or cream for brightness
Warm and Welcoming
- Soft terracotta, blush pink, or warm taupe
- Creates cosy, inviting atmosphere
- Works well in rooms with less natural light
Lighting Design
Essential Lighting Elements
- Ceiling light: Dimmable pendant or flush mount
- Bedside lamps: Individual adjustable lamps each side
- Reading light: Adjustable wall-mounted or clip-on option
- Ambient lighting: LED strips or fairy lights for atmosphere
- Blackout: Lined curtains or blackout blind for quality sleep
En-Suite Considerations
If space and budget allow, an en-suite bathroom greatly enhances the guest experience:
Minimum En-Suite (1.5m x 2m)
- Shower cubicle (minimum 800mm x 800mm)
- Wall-hung toilet
- Wall-mounted basin with cupboard beneath
- Extractor fan and heated towel rail
Comfortable En-Suite (2m x 2.5m)
- Walk-in shower with glass screen
- Toilet and basin with storage
- Additional shelf space for toiletries
- Better lighting and ventilation
Budget Planning
Refresh and Update (£2,000 - £5,000)
- Redecoration (painting, new flooring)
- New bed and mattress
- Quality bedding and soft furnishings
- Updated lighting
- Basic furniture (wardrobe, bedside tables)
Complete Renovation (£5,000 - £12,000)
- Full redecoration
- Built-in storage solutions
- New flooring (carpet or engineered wood)
- Electrical upgrades (more sockets, USB points)
- Quality furniture and soft furnishings
Luxury Guest Suite with En-Suite (£15,000 - £35,000+)
- Creating new en-suite bathroom
- Bespoke fitted furniture
- High-end finishes and materials
- Designer lighting and fixtures
- Smart home integration
Contact Hampstead Renovations
Ready to create the perfect guest bedroom? Get in touch today.
Hampstead Renovations
Phone: 07459 345456
Email: contact@hampsteadrenovations.co.uk
Address: Unit 3, Palace Court, 250 Finchley Road, Hampstead, London NW3 6DN
Hours: Monday - Sunday, 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM