Solihull Living Nov - Dec 2020

MAKING A GUEST ROOM
W
feel like home
hilst it can feel like another job to
add to the list, preparing the guest
bedroom to receive guests for
Christmas can actually be quite relaxing -
making a space comfortable and inviting
really does something good for the soul.
When you start to plan your guest room,
think about what you’d expect to find in
a lovely hotel and try to make your room
measure up to that standard. Your budget
may not be enough to create a getaway
oasis, but you can clear the decks, lay out
all the necessities, and provide a quiet place
to relax.
PROVIDE A
COMFORTABLE BED
Don’t give your guests the oldest, saggiest
mattress you have. Try sleeping in the room
yourself and assess the quality of your sleep
on that mattress - it may be time to invest
in a new one. If you can’t afford a new bed,
think about getting a quality air mattress.
adding luxurious bed linens and comfort
items supplied by fine B&Bs: a featherbed or
wool mattress topper, a choice of pillows, a
cosy down quilt or thick throw, extra blankets
and freshly ironed pillowcases. We like to
provide a decorative basket in the room filled
with extra blankets.
MAKE ROOM FOR
A SUITCASE
Clear a space to put a luggage rack or
provide a small table or bench to set down
a suitcase. No one likes to have to stoop
over to the floor to pull out a clean pair of
socks. Even a chair is better than nothing.
SUPPLY EXTRA LINENS
Always have an extra set of bed and bath
linens available for your guests. Accidents
do happen! Or you may have one of those
wonderful guests who insists on changing
the sheets when they leave. Let them do it,
and thank them profusely.
UPGRADE YOUR
BEDDING
Beyond clean, crisp bedding, think about
CLEAR THE DECKS
Resist the temptation to cover the top of the
dresser with your prized collectables or fill
Earthy materials and handmade items make spaces feel cosy. Left to right: Clio
Basket, £25, habitat.co.uk; White Arrow Mudcloth, £56, hauslife.co.uk; Arizona
Natural Woven Chair, £385, Cielshopinteriors.com
www.solihullliving.co.uk | 21