CREATE A WELCOMING ROOM FOR GUESTS

Spare bedrooms can often be an afterthought, especially if they have to multitask as offices or storage spaces. We asked three interiors experts for their ideas and solutions…

- JENNIFER MORGAN

Being the smallest bedroom, or having to do double duty, shouldn’t stop a guest room from being a well-functioning and comfortable space. We asked three experts – an interior designer, a hotelier and a holiday cottage owner – how to work with what you have to create a room that will leave your guests feeling well-rested and looked after.

WHAT’S THE BEST MATTRESS TO SUIT DIFFERENT PEOPLE?

‘The bed is the most important item,’ says interior designer Nicky Dobree, ‘so it needs to have a good mattress. Choose one that is medium-firm, enabling guests to sleep comfortably in most positions.’ Julia Hands of Hand Picked Hotels loves Hypnos Landsdowe cashmere mattresses for their quality, durability and comfort. ‘Hotel guests have even asked where they could buy one,’ she says. Lisa Ridge-Valentine, owner of holiday home Quay Cottage says, ‘We’ve had a similar response to the mattresses we use too. Again, they’re medium-firm, but we use a topper.’

HOW DO YOU CATER FOR DIFFERENT BEDDING PREFERENCES?

‘I use crisp white cotton in a 300-thread count,’ says Lisa. ‘As for pillows, try a mix of plump and flatter pillows, with a medium-tog duvet.’ Nicky says to buy the best-quality bedding you can afford: ‘Climbing into freshly laundered sheets is a must, as are down duvets and pillows, although keep a spare hypoallergenic set.’

HOW CAN IT WORK AS AN OFFICE AND A BEDROOM?

Julia says, ‘A good-quality dressing table can make a comfortable desk, but remember to have a suitable chair.’ Lisa loves baskets and boxes for paperwork, while a desk/bedside lamp is a must.

HOW DO WE USE IT AS A STORAGE SPACE, TOO?