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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Lifestyle
Kate Jacobs

Dim the lights, add a trinket tray and put out your best towels: how to spruce up your spare room

A composite photo of one side of double sofabed in muted colours and with messy objects beside it, and the other with nice bedding, towels, cushions, a tidy bedside table and a plant

When guests feel that they’ve been looked after with care, it sets the tone for a harmonious visit. Whether you have the luxury of a guest room, or a space that is somewhere between a home office and a laundry graveyard, there are lots of simple, thoughtful ways to give guests a genuinely warm welcome.

When friends and family are staying for just one night, it’s all about making their room comfortable and convenient – think cosy bedding, chargers by the bed, space for an overnight bag, etc. But if it’s a few days or more, it’s worth putting more effort in because, however close you are, you don’t want to be on top of each other. Create a space where they’re happy to relax, and everyone will be able to enjoy some time to decompress.

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