How to Create a Perfect Guest Room

Spring for Great Bedding: "High-quality linens are essential," says decorator Amanda Nisbet, who favors Sferra sheets. "They're divinely soft and wear well--people always tell me how great they feel." Arrange a cozy throw near the footboard to add color and texture to the room. "Design a guest room with the same care as you would your own personal bedroom. Above all, your visitors should feel wanted in your home and instantly at ease."

Leave a Sweet Treat: Indulge your lucky guest with a beautiful little box of chocolates. "It's a tiny gesture that delights everyone," she says. If you know you'll be having consecutive weekend visitors, buy several boxes at a time and keep a stash on hand.

Lay Out a Luxe Robe: "Guests never bother to pack one, so they always appreciate a robe," says Nisbet, who prefers a white cotton wrap. Fold it neatly and display it on the bed to let your guest know it's freshly laundered and at her disposal.

Find a Photo: If a close friend is coming, dig up an old picture of the two of you—on a trip, perhaps, or from childhood--pop it in a pretty frame, and put it on the dresser.

Lead Them to Water: Place a chic carafe near the bed for middle-of-the-night sips (so there's no need for stumbling around in the dark in an unfamiliar home).

Spread the News!: "Leave a few can't-put-'em-down magazines, from fashion titles to guilty-pleasure tabloids, in the room," says Nisbet. "If there's a book you think a guest may enjoy, include that in the mix."

Luggage Stand: Luggage rack gives your guest a sturdy place to set your suitcase while they pack or unpack. When not in use, the luggage rack folds and slides under the bed or into a closet for easy storage.

Try It Out: Spend a night in your guest room--it's the best way to gauge the comfort level. After this firsthand experience, you may realize that, say, a softer pillow or a sunlight-blocking window shade is what the room needs.

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