50 Spare Bedroom Ideas

Does your spare room feel like a storage unit instead of a cozy retreat?

It doesn’t have to be complicated or cost a fortune to make it perfect.

I’m sharing 50 simple spare bedroom ideas to give your guests a high-end, comfortable stay, all while keeping your budget happy.

1. Hotel-Style Guest Retreat

Design the spare bedroom to feel like a true hotel stay. Focus on high-quality, crisp bedding and soft throws. Comfort should always be the top priority so your guests feel completely relaxed and welcome.

• Invest in soft cotton sheets.
• Layer a duvet, quilt, and throw.
• Keep the color scheme calm.

Pro Tip: Use a white duvet cover and add color through easily washable throw pillows.

2. Install Blackout Curtains

A good night’s sleep is key. Install blackout curtains or room-darkening shades that block nearly all outside light. This simple change makes the room functional for sleeping in or taking a quiet daytime nap.

• Choose floor-length curtains for drama.
• Ensure the rod extends past the window frame.
• Opt for lined curtains for better insulation.

Pro Tip: Darker curtain colors, even in soft neutrals, tend to block light more effectively than light ones.

3. Symmetrical Bedside Setup

Place matching bedside tables on either side of the bed. Add matching lamps for symmetry and function. This balances the room and gives guests a convenient spot for their phone or a glass of water.

• Ensure lamps are easy to reach.
• Use dimmable bulbs for reading.
• Keep surfaces tidy and clear.

Pro Tip: If space is tight, use wall-mounted floating shelves instead of full tables.

4. Provide Luggage Storage

Save your guests from bending over or cluttering the floor by providing a place for their suitcase. A foldable luggage rack or a sturdy bench works perfectly. This makes packing and unpacking much easier.

• Place the rack near the closet.
• If using a bench, ensure it is wide enough.
• Keep the area clear of clutter.

Pro Tip: A lightweight, foldable luggage rack can be stored easily in the closet when not in use.

5. Add Simple Greenery

Bring life and freshness into the spare room using a low-maintenance plant, like a snake plant, or a vase of fresh flowers. Greenery instantly makes the space feel cleaner, calmer, and more inviting.

• Use faux plants if you travel often.
• Place greenery on a nightstand or shelf.
• Choose simple, neutral planters.

Pro Tip: A small bundle of eucalyptus lasts a long time and gives off a subtle, spa-like scent.

6. Calming Neutral Walls

Choose calming neutral colors like soft gray, warm white, or beige. Neutral tones make the room feel larger and appeal to every guest, regardless of their personal style. It’s a safe, elegant choice.

• Test three shades before painting.
• Ensure the color works in low light.
• Use a matte finish for a high-end look.

Pro Tip: Warm whites prevent the room from feeling stark or cold, especially in low-light spaces.

7. Layer Area Rugs

Rugs add warmth underfoot and define the sleeping area. If you have hardwood floors, layer a smaller, textured rug (like jute) over a larger, softer rug to introduce depth and texture easily.

• Ensure the rug extends past the bed sides.
• Use a rug pad to prevent slipping.
• Mix materials, not colors, for subtlety.

Pro Tip: If you are on a budget, look for large rugs made of natural fibers like jute or sisal.

8. Offer Pillow Choices

Everyone sleeps differently, so offer a variety of pillow types, such as soft, medium, and firm. Having options shows guests you care about their comfort and ensures they get the rest they need.

• Keep extras stored in the closet.
• Use hypoallergenic covers.
• Label the pillows if necessary.

Pro Tip: A common complaint is thin pillows; always offer at least two high-quality options per guest.

9. Bench for Extra Seating

Place a simple upholstered bench at the foot of the bed. This provides extra seating and a convenient spot for guests to lay out clothes or place their bags while they settle in.

• Choose a neutral fabric for versatility.
• Measure to ensure it doesn’t block walking paths.
• Select one with internal storage for bonus points.

Pro Tip: A bench with slender legs keeps the room feeling lighter and less bulky than a solid ottoman.

10. Visible Blanket Basket

Keep extra blankets in a visible, stylish basket near the bed. This allows guests to easily grab one if they feel cold during the night without having to search through closets or drawers.

• Use a large woven or wire basket.
• Fold blankets neatly inside.
• Keep the basket on the floor, not a table.

Pro Tip: A faux fur throw blanket looks expensive, feels cozy, and adds great texture to the room.

11. Statement Headboard Focus

Use an upholstered, wood, or patterned headboard as the main focal point of the room. A statement headboard adds instant style and luxury without overcrowding the space with excessive decor.

• Choose rich velvet for a luxe feel.
• A simple wood plank style works for coastal themes.
• Ensure the size matches the bed frame.

Pro Tip: You can DIY a headboard using plywood and batting covered in a nice linen fabric.

12. Warm Earthy Colors

Incorporate warm earthy tones like taupe, olive, clay, or soft brown. This color scheme creates a grounded, relaxing, and very current atmosphere that feels both comforting and sophisticated.

• Use clay tones in decor, not walls.
• Pair olive green with creamy white.
• Bring in wood furniture to support the theme.

Pro Tip: Earthy colors work best when paired with lots of white to keep the room from feeling too heavy.

13. Use Textured Bedding

Layer quilts, throws, and textured cushions to make the bed look full and inviting. Focus on materials like linen, cotton gauze, or chunky knits. This adds depth without relying on bold patterns or colors.

• Use a linen duvet for a relaxed look.
• Drape a textured throw casually.
• Mix cotton with a faux fur element.

Pro Tip: Ironing your pillowcases and duvet cover makes the entire bed look instantly tailored and expensive.

14. Wallpaper Accent Wall

Add visual interest behind the bed with wallpaper or a painted accent wall. This creates a strong design moment while keeping the rest of the room simple and uncluttered.

• Peel-and-stick wallpaper is renter-friendly.
• Choose a muted floral or simple geometric pattern.
• Only cover the wall behind the headboard.

Pro Tip: If you are using a bold pattern, pull one neutral color from the paper to use for the rest of the walls.

15. Soft Ambient Lighting

Avoid harsh overhead lights. Instead, use warm lamps, wall sconces, or soft bedside lighting to create a cozy, relaxing mood. Good lighting is essential for a comfortable evening.

• Use bulbs labeled ‘soft white’ or ‘warm white’.
• Place lamps at different heights.
• Ensure lights are easy to turn off from bed.

Pro Tip: Adding a floor lamp to a corner can instantly brighten a dark space without needing an electrician.

16. Simple Artwork Display

Decorate with framed artwork or a small, curated gallery wall. Art personalizes the space and adds character, but make sure the pieces are calming and not too overwhelming for a sleeping area.

• Choose abstract or landscape prints.
• Use matching frames for a cohesive look.
• Hang art at eye level above the furniture.

Pro Tip: You can download high-resolution public domain art and print it yourself for cheap decor.

17. Mix Vintage and Modern

Blend modern, clean-lined furniture with vintage accents like an antique mirror or a thrifted dresser. This mix creates a timeless look that feels thoughtfully curated rather than overly trendy or generic.

• Pair a modern lamp with a wood antique table.
• Use neutral fabrics to tie the styles together.
• Limit the vintage pieces to two or three items.

Pro Tip: Look for vintage dressers that you can repaint in a crisp white or soft gray to refresh them.

18. Focus on Subtle Patterns

Introduce subtle patterns through bedding, curtains, or throw pillows. Think small stripes, checks, or muted florals. Patterns add depth and interest while keeping the overall feeling calm and restful.

• Mix two patterns of different scales.
• Use patterns in neutral tones only.
• Keep the bed linens solid white.

Pro Tip: Pillow covers are an inexpensive way to try out a new pattern without committing to a whole new look.

19. Use Natural Materials

Incorporate materials like linen, wood, rattan, or stone-inspired decor. This creates a peaceful, organic feel that brings the calm of nature indoors, perfect for a relaxing retreat.

• Use a wooden tray for bedside items.
• Add a rattan basket for laundry or storage.
• Choose linen curtains for an airy look.

Pro Tip: A simple mirror framed in natural wood or rattan instantly adds texture to a plain wall.

20. Balanced Furniture Layout

Arrange furniture so the bed is centered and feels supported by the surrounding pieces. Ensure there are clear walking paths around the room. Good flow is essential for guest comfort and ease of movement.

• Avoid pushing all furniture against the walls.
• Keep the biggest piece (the bed) centered.
• Ensure the closet is easily accessible.

Pro Tip: Draw a quick floor plan on paper first to visualize the flow before you start moving heavy items.

21. Office and Guest Combo

If you need your spare room to work double-duty, combine a guest bed with a compact desk. Choose a desk that doesn’t feel too bulky and ensure the workspace can be tidied up quickly when guests arrive.

• Use a stylish desk that doesn’t look like office furniture.
• Keep files hidden in drawers.
• Use a comfortable, versatile desk chair.

Pro Tip: If possible, place the desk facing away from the bed to mentally separate the work zone from the sleep zone.

22. Install a Murphy Bed

A wall-mounted Murphy bed is the ultimate space saver. It allows you to maximize floor space when the room is not being used by guests, giving you a functional area for hobbies or exercise.

• Choose a style that blends with the wall.
• Ensure there is room to open the bed safely.
• Add shelves around the unit for storage.

Pro Tip: Look for Murphy beds that include a fold-down desk feature for ultimate flexibility.

23. Flexible Twin Bed Layout

Instead of one large bed, use two twin beds. This makes the room flexible for different guest needs, such as two friends traveling together, or you can push them together to form a large king-sized bed when needed.

• Use matching bedding for a cohesive look.
• Place a single nightstand between the beds.
• Ensure the beds are easily movable.

Pro Tip: To turn two twins into a king, buy a foam ‘bed bridge’ to cover the gap in the middle.

24. Cozy Reading Nook

If space allows, add a comfortable accent chair or armchair to create a reading or relaxation corner. This gives guests a quiet spot to unwind outside of the bed itself.

• Pair the chair with a floor lamp.
• Add a small side table for a mug.
• Choose a chair with soft upholstery.

Pro Tip: A small, sturdy ottoman can serve as both a footrest and a side table in a tight corner.

25. Built-In Storage Shelves

Utilize built-in shelves to store books, decor, and guest essentials. This maximizes vertical space and keeps things off the floor, making the room feel larger and much cleaner.

• Use the shelves for neatly folded guest towels.
• Keep decor minimal on the shelves.
• Paint the shelves the same color as the walls.

Pro Tip: If you can’t install built-ins, use tall, narrow bookcases to mimic the look.

26. Use a Trundle Bed

Choose a trundle bed, which offers an extra mattress that slides out from underneath. This provides extra sleeping space instantly when needed while keeping the room open and functional most of the time.

• A daybed style looks less like a typical bed.
• Ensure the trundle mattress is comfortable.
• Use simple, matching bedding for both beds.

Pro Tip: Trundle beds are perfect for kids’ sleepovers or when hosting multiple family members.

27. Slim Wall Desk

If you need a desk but are short on space, install a slim wall-mounted desk. It saves floor space and keeps the room visually uncluttered, providing a spot for a laptop or writing without bulk.

• Choose a desk with a fold-down feature.
• Keep the chair lightweight and small.
• Place the desk near natural light.

Pro Tip: Use a stylish storage box on the desk to hide pens and office supplies when guests arrive.

28. Add a Large Mirror

Strategically place a large mirror to reflect light and make the spare bedroom feel brighter and much more spacious. A full-length mirror is also necessary for guests getting ready.

• Lean a large mirror against the wall.
• Hang the mirror opposite the window.
• Choose a simple frame color (gold or black).

Pro Tip: Round mirrors are very stylish right now and soften the harsh lines of a rectangular room.

29. Multifunctional Furniture

Select furniture that doubles as storage. Beds with drawers underneath, storage ottomans, or end tables with hidden compartments are smart choices that fight clutter effectively.

• Use a storage bench at the foot of the bed.
• A trunk can double as a coffee table.
• Look for nightstands with deep drawers.

Pro Tip: Use storage ottomans to hold extra blankets or seasonal clothes that you don’t use often.

30. Nightstand with Drawers

Avoid open shelving nightstands. Use bedside tables with drawers instead. This gives guests a private place to store personal items like charging cables, medications, or jewelry, keeping surfaces clean.

• Ensure the drawer slides smoothly.
• Line the drawer with nice paper.
• Keep the drawer empty for the guest.

Pro Tip: Using a vintage chest of drawers as a nightstand adds character and maximizes storage space.

31. Charming Cottage Style

Decorate with soft colors, gentle floral patterns, and cozy, layered textiles for a charming cottage-inspired look. This style is instantly welcoming and feels very relaxed.

• Use light blue or pale yellow accents.
• Incorporate ruffled or quilted bedding.
• Add a vintage wooden chair.

Pro Tip: Avoid overwhelming the room with too much floral print; stick to one or two accent pieces.

32. Relaxed Coastal Vibe

Create a relaxed coastal vibe using light, airy fabrics, white shiplap, and subtle nautical accents. Think blues, whites, and natural wood tones. This works perfectly if you want a breezy, vacation feel.

• Use linen curtains that let light through.
• Incorporate driftwood or shell decor minimally.
• Paint the walls crisp white or seafoam green.

Pro Tip: Keep the theme subtle; a few striped pillows and natural wood pieces are enough.

33. Moody Modern Look

For a sophisticated feel, try a moody modern look. Incorporate darker walls (think deep blue or rich green), rich textures like velvet, and minimal, geometric decor. This feels grown-up and luxurious.

• Use metallic accents (brass or gold).
• Keep furniture lines very simple.
• Opt for a dark, upholstered headboard.

Pro Tip: To prevent a dark room from feeling small, ensure you have multiple light sources and a large mirror.

34. Collected Traditional Style

Layer classic furniture, framed prints, and timeless textiles for a refined traditional guest room. This style feels established and elegant, often using rich woods and tailored fabrics.

• Use classic patterns like damask or stripe.
• Choose heavy, high-quality curtains.
• Incorporate antique-looking lamps.

Pro Tip: Traditional style benefits from symmetry, so use matching nightstands and lamps.

35. Boutique Hotel Style

Style the spare bedroom like a boutique hotel. Focus on layered bedding, soft lighting, and clean, high-quality finishes. The key is comfort, simplicity, and attention to detail.

• Provide high-quality towels.
• Use a simple, modern desk or table.
• Keep the color scheme muted and sophisticated.

Pro Tip: Place a small tray with water and a chocolate on the bed for a true luxury touch.

36. Warm Neutral Elegance

Use creamy whites, warm beige, and soft camel tones to create an elegant and timeless guest space. This warm neutral palette feels instantly welcoming and works year-round.

• Mix light wood tones with cream fabrics.
• Focus on varying textures (wool, linen).
• Avoid using stark white.

Pro Tip: Layering different shades of the same color prevents the neutral room from looking boring.

37. Cozy Attic Guest Room

If your spare room is in an attic or loft, highlight the sloped ceilings and architectural details. Embrace the coziness by placing the bed under the lowest point and using soft lighting.

• Use low-profile furniture.
• Install wall sconces instead of table lamps.
• Paint the ceiling and walls the same color.

Pro Tip: Sloped walls are perfect for hanging small, lightweight pieces of art or photography.

38. Tailored Classic Design

Focus on symmetry, quality fabrics, and simple, tailored patterns for a polished traditional look. Everything should look neat, crisp, and perfectly balanced, relying on clean lines and structure.

• Use a tailored bed skirt.
• Choose structured, pleated curtains.
• Ensure all furniture is straight and solid.

Pro Tip: A small dose of houndstooth or glen plaid fabric adds a tailored, classic feel to cushions.

39. Art as Focal Point

Use large framed prints or photography as the main decor element to give the room personality. Choose one large piece above the bed instead of many small ones for a cleaner, more impactful look.

• Choose art that evokes calm (landscapes).
• Keep the frame simple and modern.
• Ensure the art is proportionate to the wall.

Pro Tip: If the art is colorful, pull one of those colors into a pillow or blanket for cohesion.

40. Soft Minimalist Style

Keep decor minimal while prioritizing plush textures and soft lighting to maintain comfort and warmth. This style is clean and clutter-free, but still feels inviting, not stark.

• Stick to a monochrome color palette.
• Use high-quality linen bedding.
• Only keep necessary items on surfaces.

Pro Tip: A sheepskin rug or textured throw is essential to keep a minimalist room from feeling cold.

41. Provide Clothing Storage

Guests need a place to unpack. Add simple wall hooks, a small wardrobe, or clear out space in the closet and include hangers. This lets them settle in comfortably and feel at home.

• Hang three sturdy hooks on the back of the door.
• Provide empty, nice-looking hangers.
• Clear out at least one empty drawer.

Pro Tip: Over-the-door hooks are a lifesaver in small spaces and require zero installation.

42. Bedside Water Carafe

Place a small carafe and glass on the bedside table. This simple gesture offers convenience during the night and looks much more thoughtful and elegant than a plastic water bottle.

• Choose a set with a glass that doubles as a lid.
• Ensure the glass is stable and won’t tip easily.
• Set it on a small coaster or tray.

Pro Tip: A small, inexpensive tray corrals the carafe, a book, and a remote, making the nightstand look instantly organized.

43. Small Reading Material

Include a few books or current magazines on the nightstand or a small shelf. This makes the room feel thoughtful and lived-in, offering guests something relaxing to flip through before bed.

• Include local travel guides.
• Choose coffee table style books (art, design).
• Avoid heavy novels or political topics.

Pro Tip: If you don’t have a nightstand, install a small floating shelf right next to the bed frame.

44. Subtle Room Scent

Use light, neutral scents like linen, cotton, or a gentle lavender to enhance the room without overpowering the space. A subtle scent makes the room feel fresh and clean.

• Use a reed diffuser, not a candle.
• Avoid strong food or floral scents.
• Ensure the scent is gentle and non-irritating.

Pro Tip: A linen spray is great for a quick refresh on the bedding right before guests arrive.

45. Add Local Details

Add local guidebooks, maps, or regional decor to make guests feel connected to the area. This is especially helpful if you host travelers who are new to your city or town.

• Leave a note with nearby restaurant suggestions.
• Include a map of the neighborhood.
• Frame a local postcard or photo.

Pro Tip: If you live near a tourist area, leave out brochures for the most popular nearby spots.

46. Charging Station Ready

Install charging ports or power outlets near the bed for phones and devices. Guests always need to charge their devices, and having ports right next to the bed is a huge convenience.

• Use a nightstand with built-in USB ports.
• Provide a spare charging cube.
• Ensure extension cords are neatly hidden.

Pro Tip: A small charging tray can hold all cables neatly and keep them from sliding onto the floor.

47. Decorative Throw Pillows

Use cushions to introduce color, texture, or pattern without changing major furniture pieces. They are the easiest way to update the look of the room seasonally or refresh the style quickly.

• Use an odd number (three or five) on the bed.
• Choose removable pillow covers.
• Ensure the inserts are plump and firm.

Pro Tip: For a high-end look, use pillows that are slightly larger than the insert to make them look fuller.

48. Basket for Belongings

Provide a small basket for guests to store personal items, or maybe extra linens and towels. A basket helps contain clutter and makes clean-up simple after guests leave.

• Choose a neutral woven material.
• Place one next to the bed or in the closet.
• Use it to hold rolled-up towels.

Pro Tip: Use a small, shallow tray on the nightstand to hold small items like keys and jewelry.

49. Dimmable Light Control

Install dimmable lights so guests can easily adjust the brightness to their preference. This is a small upgrade that makes a huge difference in creating a customized, relaxing mood.

• Install a dimmer switch on the wall.
• Use three-way bulbs in lamps.
• Ensure the dimmer works smoothly.

Pro Tip: If you cannot change the wiring, buy lamps that have a touch-sensitive base for easy dimming.

50. Clutter-Free Storage

Use hidden storage solutions, like closed drawers or trunks, to keep the spare bedroom clean, open, and stress-free. The less visual clutter there is, the more peaceful the room feels for your guests.

• Designate a ‘host closet’ for your own items.
• Use decorative boxes to hide small items.
• Keep the floor completely clear.

Pro Tip: If the guest room is also your storage room, clearly label one closet or cabinet as ‘Private’ so guests know what space is theirs.

Making your spare bedroom comfortable is the best way to be a great host.

Remember, the goal is peace and quiet, not perfect staging.

Start with blackout curtains and great bedding, and you’re already halfway there! You’ve got this.