The Best Way to Furnish a Guesthouse: Style, Comfort & Practicality Combined.
Furnishing a guesthouse is more than just a shopping spree, it’s an opportunity to create a welcoming space that feels like a home away from home. Whether you’re catering to holidaymakers, business travellers, or romantic weekenders, a well-furnished guesthouse sets the tone for a memorable stay. But where do you start?
Here’s a guide to furnishing your guesthouse in a way that blends aesthetics, comfort, and practicality, while also encouraging rave reviews.
Learn how to furnish your guesthouse to create a welcoming, stylish, and functional space that guests will love, and recommend.
1. Start with the Basics: Bed, Bath, and Beyond
The bedroom is the heart of any guesthouse. Prioritise a good-quality bed with a supportive mattress, high-thread-count linen, and layers of pillows for added luxury. Neutral colours are always a safe choice, they’re clean, calming, and universally appealing.
In the bathroom, opt for fluffy towels, a good mirror, ample lighting, and simple but elegant toiletries. If your guesthouse doesn’t offer daily cleaning, make sure there’s enough toilet paper and a small cleaning kit on hand.
2. Think Function First
Each room should serve a clear purpose without feeling cluttered. A small desk and chair are perfect for digital nomads or business travellers, while luggage racks or storage benches help keep rooms neat. Side tables, bedside lamps, accessible plug points, and space for charging phones or laptops are all must-haves.
In communal areas, include comfortable seating, good lighting, and easy flow. Think open shelving for books or brochures, and a coffee/tea station for guests to help themselves.
3. Keep It Cohesive, But Not Boring
A unified theme or colour palette helps your space feel intentional, but don’t be afraid to add character! Use décor to bring warmth and interest, local artwork, unique mirrors, statement cushions, or a pop of colour in curtains or rugs.
Try to avoid over-personalising. You want the space to reflect your brand and atmosphere, but it should also allow guests to feel at ease and relaxed.
4. Durable Over Delicate
Guesthouses experience high foot traffic, so durability matters. Choose fabrics that are easy to clean, rugs that can withstand wear, and furniture that won’t show scuffs or stains easily. Leather, wood, metal, and synthetic blends often perform better in a hospitality environment than glass, linen, or velvet.
Pro tip: Machine-washable slipcovers on couches or dining chairs are a lifesaver.
5. Don’t Forget the Small Touches
It’s the little things that guests remember:
- A hairdryer and mirror in the room.
- Hooks for hanging clothes or towels.
- Local snacks or a welcome basket.
- A few books or games for downtime.
- Extra blankets and plug adaptors.
A short welcome note with useful information (Wi-Fi password, contact details, local recommendations) goes a long way in making guests feel cared for.
6. Safety, Privacy, and Cleanliness
Install quality locks on doors and windows. Ensure curtains or blinds provide full privacy, especially in bedrooms and bathrooms. If possible, include safes for valuables.
Cleanliness is non-negotiable. Invest in easy-to-clean finishes and build a cleaning checklist into your daily operations. Well-maintained spaces give guests confidence in your professionalism.
Conclusion
A beautifully furnished guesthouse is a powerful marketing tool, it photographs well, keeps guests coming back, and turns first-timers into loyal fans. Remember, your space is part of their holiday or travel experience. Furnish it with intention, and it will tell the story you want your brand to share.
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