Guest House Renovation / Special Touches That Make Guests Feel at Home


When renovating a guest house, it’s often the little touches that make the biggest difference. Beyond fresh paint and furniture, it’s the details that show thought and care — creating an experience that feels welcoming, comfortable, and memorable. In this project, we layered in practical comforts and beautiful extras so every guest feels at home.

Matching Linens and Towels

Nothing says “welcome” like hotel-quality linen. We styled each bedroom with matching sets of bed linen and plush towels, creating a sense of calm and consistency. Not only does this look polished, it also helps guests easily identify what belongs to their room.

A Guest Book of Need-to-Knows

We created a property guidebook filled with everything guests might need to know — from WiFi passwords and appliance instructions, to local cafés and scenic walks. It’s the kind of touch that saves endless questions and makes guests feel instantly at ease.

Entertainment Baskets

Baskets filled with books, board games, and activities are dotted throughout the guest house. Whether it’s a rainy day or a relaxed evening in, guests always have something to reach for.

Tea, Coffee, and Treats

We styled canisters with go-to essentials like tea, coffee, and sweets, so guests don’t need to go rummaging. This makes the kitchen feel warm and approachable, and adds a little luxury to everyday moments.

Pillow Options for Every Sleeper

Everyone has their own pillow preference, so we provided a variety. Some are styled on the beds, while others are stored away so guests can swap them out for the perfect night’s sleep.

Hotel-Style Beds

Each bed was styled with layers of quilts, cushions, and throws. The idea is flexibility: guests can adjust to their own comfort level, whether they prefer light layers or cocooning warmth.

Lighting That Sets the Mood

We layered lighting options — from dimmable bedside lamps to candles — so guests can control the mood. Soft lighting in the evening creates relaxation, while brighter layers make reading or working easy.

Flexible Furniture Zones

Guest houses often host a mix of visitors: couples, families, or groups of friends. We created breakout furniture zones with flexible arrangements so the layout can shift depending on who’s staying. Poufs were also added — sturdy enough for seating, but lightweight enough to move around.

Scent and Ambience

We introduced subtle scent diffusers with calming essential oils — a simple way to make a space feel welcoming. Pairing scent with soft background music on arrival also creates an instant sense of atmosphere.

Thoughtful Extras

Other small touches can go a long way:

  • A welcome tray with a handwritten note and local goodies

  • Fresh flowers or greenery in a simple vase

  • A Bluetooth speaker for guests to connect their own playlists

  • Extra blankets for chilly nights stored in a woven basket

The Takeaway

Designing a guest house isn’t just about finishes and furniture — it’s about creating a feeling. From the perfect pillow to a basket of games, these thoughtful details make guests feel considered and cared for. The result is a space that doesn’t just look beautiful, but delivers a truly memorable stay.

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Sanding & Restaining Wooden Floors