Are you looking to revitalize your spare room and create a welcoming space for your guests? Look no further! In this blog post, we will dive into my most recent guest bedroom makeover project that transformed a dull and uninviting room into a stylish blue-green bedroom straight out of a boutique hotel.
From the moment my guests step into the room, I wanted them to be taken over by the soothing color palette, the comforting textures, and the thoughtful details that make the space a true home away from home.
Painting, hanging trim, utilizing existing belongings, and finding unique thrift store treasures, I managed to achieve a remarkable transformation without breaking the bank. This total cost of this transformation came to just about $1000 with the trim work being the most expensive part. Read on for inspiring guest bedroom ideas, clever DIY projects, and practical design tips that can used to turn even the most boring bedrooms into a space your guests won’t want to leave.
THE BEFORE
THE AFTER
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Why is a welcoming guest bedroom important?
A welcoming guest bedroom is important for many reasons.
It prioritizes the comfort and well-being of your guests. I want my guests to know I value their presence and prepared a space with them in mind. While I’m no southern bell hospitality expert, I want them to feel comfortable and welcomed in the space.
It gives them a personal space where they can retreat from the busyness of daily life or the activities of your home. This can be especially important for guests who are traveling or have busy schedules, as having a comfortable and inviting space to retreat to can make a positive impact in their overall experience.
A welcoming guest bedroom sets the stage for future visits and encourages your guests to return. When guests have a positive experience and feel comfortable in your home, they are more likely to want to visit again in the future. (Unless of course you don’t want Aunt Betty to return… in that case a inflatable mattress in the living room will do).
So while claiming that a welcoming room will help create lasting memories might seem like a stretch… I think it might be true! Your friends and family are more likely to visit again, less likely to want to stay in a hotel and they’ll sleep well waking ready for exploring!
Paint Color:
To set the tone for a tranquil and sophisticated space, I chose a stunning blue-green paint color as the foundation of the guest bedroom makeover. Benjamin Moore Iced Marble. The cool undertones of this hue instantly create a serene ambiance, making the room feel refreshing and inviting.
This space was tough to select a paint, anyone else struggle with north facing rooms? Check out my blog post on selecting colors for north facing rooms.
But this color turned out perfect! It some corners it looks green, but in bright light it looks more blue. I think it adds depth and elegance to the space, while still maintaining a cozy and intimate atmosphere.
I’ve been loving the color drench trend of painting trim, walls and doors all the same color. My only regret… not painting the ceiling too! I just love how the closet doors fade into the background and let the rest of the room talk. It’s such a sophisticated, unstated look and I’m in love.
DIY picture frame molding:
I hung picture frame molding on the walls, which instantly added architectural interest and a touch of sophistication. When a room is feeling boring, adding decorative molding or trim is a great way to instantly elevate a space. It was just what this room needed. Hanging picture frame molding in the bedroom added just the right amount of understated elegance to this space.
Looking to hang your old picture frame molding? Be sure to first read my “Answering All Your Questions on How to Hang Picture Frame Molding post.” If you need more accent wall ideas check out Wall Treatment Ideas: Intriguing Rooms Start with Interesting Walls blog post.
wrought iron Bed Frame:
A guest room makeover wouldn’t be complete without a beautiful bed frame. This wrought iron bed was the first bed I ever bought for myself (After PA school of course. In my poor days I, too, slept on a mattress and boxspring directly on the floor. Ohh my humble beginnings…) I can’t remember where this particular bed was purchased, but there are lots of similar styles out there. Here is one from Wayfair at a very fair price.
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Cozy Bedding and Pillow Covers:
To enhance the comfort and style of the guest bedroom, select cozy bedding and plush pillow covers. Soft, high-quality fabrics and neutral tones are a great canvas for creating a bed your guests will want to cuddle up in at the end of the way or for an afternoon nap. Consider layering different textures to add depth and visual interest to the bed. It’s hard to tell, but the duvet cover has a faint paisley pattern that pairs perfectly with the textured quilt at the end of the bed.
Don’t be afraid to play with a combination of solid colors and patterns to create a harmonious and inviting arrangement. By keeping things the same color family you can remain neutral while still creating visual interest and coziness in your bedding.
I topped off the neutral bedding with some fun floral plum accent pillows by Danielle Oakey. She may have some competition now, though… I sewed my own lumbar pillow! I had this left over fabric from a previous furniture project. It seemed like fate – I had just the perfect amount left over and it fit the space perfectly. With a little help from Momma Oak and Grain I was able to create a gorgeous accent pillow for no money. I just used stuffing from an old pillow so I didn’t even have to purchase a new insert.
Thrift Shop Finds:
One of the best ways to keep the cost down during a room makeover is by exploring thrift stores and secondhand markets. These treasure troves often hide unique pieces that can become the focal point of your design. Look for items like bedside tables, artwork, and decorative accessories that resonate with your desired aesthetic. Incorporating secondhand items not only adds your own personal touch to the space, but also contributes to sustainable and eco-friendly design choices.
This vintage floral art pair may be one of my best thrift store finds yet! They, luckily, fit perfectly into the picture frame molding and frame the queen bed perfectly. What a great statement piece hanging over the bed!
Lighting:
Don’t underestimate the impact of lighting on the ambiance of a small bedroom. Opt for a stylish bedside table lamp that provides warm, soft lighting for reading or relaxation. I had this sleek white arm schoolhouse lamp which I hadn’t planned on keeping here, but I kind of like its contrast against the whole space. I always figured I’d replace it with a thrifted ceramic lamp or one with a pleated shade. TBD.
As for the main light… I chose this chandelier with black body to tie in the wrought iron bed textures.
But wait… the ornate ceiling medallion adds so much more interest to the ceiling and draws the eye up to the crystal beauty. I was a little nervous to get ride of the ceiling fan, but after surveying our guests I learned that most of them don’t sleep with a fan. This gave me some real design freedoms in the bedroom designs.
Rug:
This bedroom is carpeted, but yes, I layered an area rug over the carpet. This total works and adds some dimension to your 6th wall, the floor! Don’t be afraid to put a rug on carpet. It not only protects it from traffic and spills, it can easily dress up boring, beige carpet.
Biev Rugs are authentic, one-of-kind vintage rugs. I love this one with it’s plum and blush undertones which complement the plum accent pillows perfectly.
Rug from Biev. Enjoy 10% off with code:
JESSICA10
Oak and Grain Refinishing is a reader-supported blog. At no extra cost to you, I may receive commission if you click and buy through links on this site. Please review Terms & Conditions.
Curtains:
Curtains are a pretty essential thing to get right for the guest bedroom makeover. Stick with black out or opaque curtains and blinds. This blackout gingham curtain set from Amazon was perfect for the space. Curtains are just another chance to add a new texture or accent to the palette. Whether you want them to blend into the walls or stand out, selecting a high quality black out curtain will ensure your guests get a great night’s sleep and aren’t woken too early by the sun.
Bedside table:
A small side table or nightstand is a must for the guest room (or any bedroom in my opinion). Your guests will need somewhere to set their phone, their water bottle or glasses so take this into consideration when designing your space. If the wall outlet isn’t accessible consider adding a little extension cord so they have easy access to a power source.
This round table was an estate sale find for $20! I dress it up using my Refresh Wood Furniture Without Sanding tips. While this small table is not a traditional night stand, it works perfectly at the side of the bed since we don’t need much storage space in the guest room. The dark mahogany wood is such great, warm contrast against the blue-green walls and neutral textures. What a great find!
I topped it with a few small items I found at the thrift stop including vintage books, a decorative little hang painted container and faux hydrangeas. (As cute as a bouquet of fresh flowers would be, I’m lazy.)
Vintage Inspired crystal hardware
Another key element to making a space look more expensive than it is and give it a custom look is the door hardware. You may have picked up on a trend – no space in my home is safe from Nostalgic Warehouse details.
These Rope Rosette Crystal knobs were the perfect touch to add a bit of glam to this room and keep the vintage feels flowing. They put just the perfect amount of sparkle into this space and it’s nice crystal compliment to the chandelier.
replace Attic door string
Do you have an ugly, pull cord hanging from your attic? Yeah, me too! Especially after this room was looking glamorous the string stuck out like a sore thumb. I found this hook and pole set off of Amazon which disgusts the attic pull down door a little more and looks sleek. I just keep the hooked pole in the guest closet.
With a little creativity, a fresh coat of paint, and some clever thrift store finds, it’s possible to turn a small spare room into a stunning guest bedroom that rivals a boutique hotel. By selecting soothing paint colors, cozy touches and some understated details like trim, I was able to create a welcoming space that is stylish and comfortable.
Interior Design Tip from a Non-Interior Designer:
Really study rooms that you love – it’s probably not just the color of the walls and furniture you like, it’s the details. Pay close attention to repeating textures or materials and trim details that give the room depth.
SOURCE LIST:
01// gingham curtains 02// Tan hand block pillow 03// ceiling medallion 04// black chandelier 05// Wrought iron bed 06//plum floral pillows
07// crystal door knob 08// table lamp 08// paisley duvet cover (look-a-like) 10// cream quilt (look-a-like) 11// faux hydrangeas 12// round table (look-a-like) 13//Floral Art (look-a-like) // attic hook & pole set
Remember, a guest bedroom makeover doesn’t have to be super expensive. By using what you already own and exploring thrift shops, you can find unique statement pieces and accessories that add character to the room without draining your budget. DIY projects like picture frame molding and layer bedding allow you to infuse your space with that extra cozy factor that will keep your guests coming back to visit.
Sometimes I just stand in the hallway and gaze into this space I’ve created. What used to be a dumping ground is now a cozy small guest bedroom oasis. From the molding and overall color palette to the details in the textures and personal touches … this room has come a long way!
So what’s stopping you? Go create your own guest bedroom makeover! With a little imagination and some resourcefulness, you can create a stunning, personalized space that will make your guests feel like they’re staying in a luxurious boutique hotel. Better get the sheets washed and the drinks restocked because they’ll be back before you know it!
Girl Behind the Blog
I’m Jess, the creator of Oak & Grain. A mid-west girl at heart who now resides in Raleigh, NC. I love finding old things and giving them new purpose by way of refinishing or incorporating unexpected, overlooked thrift store finds in the modern home. I work full-time in medicine and I love dipping into my creative side and in the process, keeping my sanity. Follow me on Instagram and YouTube to see more behind the scenes action.