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Photography by NICOLE FRANZEN

Whether the in-laws are coming for the holidays or your best friend is crashing for the weekend, we’ve got helpful tricks for creating the ultimate space for your guests. Because the blow-up mattress just isn’t going to cut it this year.

A Spot For Clothes… Luggage Racks, Encouraged

No one likes having to jump over their suitcase to get to the other side of the room. A foldable rack barely takes up any space and provides the perfect support for unpacking. If the guest room comes sans a closet, designate an empty corner of a wall to double as one by installing a shower rod along a compact corner.

Photography by BRITTANY AMBRIDGE

Fresh Sheets and a Peaceful Decor Scheme

We know how tempting it can be to unleash your creative side when it comes to designing a spare room. Stick to the mantra of “decorating for them” and opt for a neutral color palette that complements the lush bedding.

Photography by EMILY HART & NATALIE PITTS

A Place to Recharge

Provide a spot where guests can (and want) to spend during downtime. Throw in some favorite books, magazines, and a pad and paper for jotting down notes and reminders.

Photography by DOUGLAS FRIEDMAN

Bedside Table

A nightstand complete with a few essentials can help make your guest feel right at home. Stick with the basics, such as a lamp, alarm clock and a carafe to avoid late-night trips to the kitchen.

Photography by PIA ULIN

Storage Space

Living out of a suitcase is far from fun. Designate a little shelf space for unpacking. Closets are optimal but a set of drawers will do, too. An extra side chair is perfect for the random odds and ends accumulated throughout the trip.

Photography by BRITTANY AMBRIDGE

Cozy Textiles

A luxurious throw at the foot of the bed provides an extra layer of warmth during those chilly night.

Photography by HALLIE BURTON

Personal Touches… Art Counts!

Think flowers. A simple gesture that speaks volumes. Pair a modest vase with lively florals to instantly uplift the space.

Photography by AMBER ULMER

A Mirror

Maximize the depth of a room, even if it just happens to be an illusion. A framed mirror gives the decor a polished touch and makes getting ready a little bit easier.

Photography by ADRIAN GAUT

Good Lighting

Some rooms are lucky to have lots of natural light. Others not so much. Make sure there are options so no one is waking up (and trying to walk around) in the dark.

Photography by TESSA NEUSTADT

A Welcome Kit

They are welcome (and most of the time invited). Treat them to a care package that’s filled with essentials that create a tranquil. spa-like ambience like candles, a set of subtly fragrant soaps, lotions, and sprays.

Read More:

How to Design a Multipurpose Guest Room That’s Also Incredibly Cool25 Things You Need in a Guest Room—Under $50guest bedroom decorating idea: twin beds