Designing a guest bedroom can sometimes be challenging. The room is typically used to accommodate all types of guests so it can be difficult to create a space that feels inviting and personal. We often look to our own needs when designing but creating a neutral room that suits everyone is no easy task.
When we're faced with design dilemmas such as these, interior designer and homeware founder Shea McGee usually has the answers. She's long been designing everyday spaces that feel cozy yet elevated, meaning she has a real plethora of rustic and contemporary creations under her belt.
Shea recently took to Instagram to speak about the process behind her guest bedroom process and named a few key design tips to keep in mind. 'I like to look for creative ways to style a guest bedroom so that anyone can feel welcome.' she says. So let's take a look at her advice that'll make your guests want to extend their stay.
Shea recognizes the initial hurdles when it comes to designing this space. Without one clear person in mind, it's almost impossible to envision what they may want or need. She says that guest bedrooms 'pose a unique challenge in that you don’t have one single point of inspiration or one guest using the space.'
In a way you want to take yourself out of the space, you aren't designing your bedroom but a space that will work for many. Shea outlines the two different looks that differentiate the spare room from the main bedroom, saying, 'I am going for more inviting and cozy in a guest bedroom than I am a stately retreat which is the goal in a primary bedroom.'
You want a guest bedroom to feel elegant, yes, but you first want it to feel really welcoming – a less serene sanctuary more cozy cocoon as Shea rightly points out.
Moving onto her decor choices, Shea selects certain styles that will add to the cozy feel of the guest bedroom. Bearing in mind the intended user, Shea says 'I often do a little bit of a lower headboard. I don’t always pick the largest or tallest one that I would in a primary bedroom.'
By choosing a less dramatic piece, it's more likely a guest will feel at home as its neutrality will align with almost all tastes. Lower headboards can sometimes feel less harsh and more inviting, which is another key element to consider when picking your bedframe.
To finish off the bed space, Shea explains, 'There’s the opportunity to style above the bed with artwork too which adds personality.' While art can be a gamble, it's important to bring some character to the space as you don't want it to feel too neutral or avoidant of personality. Choosing art for the home isn't always simple when you want to ensure all types of guests will enjoy it, but we suggest opting for pieces that aren't too much of a statement, like a scenic landscape or a colorful abstract painting.
Shop Shea's guest bedroom look
Shea places two of these green pillows in the guest room's bed. They're a timeless and classic choice that's bound to suit any guest's style and couldn't be easier to style.
Vintage style pictures bring a dose of character to a bedroom. Shea uses this piece to hang above her guest bed as it both fills an empty space and brings some interest to the room.
Rattan has a welcoming feel that doesn't feel too formal or stark making it a great choice for a guest room. Shea opts for the Peregrine bed as it has a low headboard that allows for a cozy feel.
Comfort is key when creating a guest room as you want a guest to feel at home. If you're struggling to design a cozy scheme, adopt the guest's mindset and pinpoint exactly what you need and look for during a stay.
