Archbishop's web site Denver Catholic Register Parishes Catholic Pastoral Center
July 4, 2001
Decorating for summer visitors
Tips for furnishing a guestroom include providing special touches
Summertime is prime time for a visit from family or friends. Is your guestroom ready, or does it feel like a cave?
"For many homeowners, furnishing the guest room is an afterthought, and it shows," says Richard Roll, president of American Homeowners Association. "But it doesn't take much effort or expenditure to make your guestroom more inviting."
The guestroom can be a blind spot in your home decorating plan. Here are some basic suggestions to provide your guests the comfort they deserve.
Start with the bed. Don't shortchange your guests on a good night's sleep. If the bed is sagging or feels like a trampoline, consider replacing the mattress.
If you're planning to accommodate more than one person, and space allows, look into purchasing a queen sized bed or two twin beds.
But if you really want your guests to feel pampered, look beyond the basic conveniences to special amenities.
Put in charming curtains and install curtain lining or blinds that block the light. We often forget that the light requirements for office space or daytime uses are quite different from a guestroom.
Don't let the sun dazzle your poor guests in the morning.
A small TV or a CD player might be a nice touch and fresh flowers are always appreciated.
Nothing beats an ample supply of thick, plush towels and washcloths, preferably hanging in the bedroom. And you may want to provide some perfumed soap, shampoo, and other toiletries.
Many other conveniences we take for granted in our bedroom may be lacking in the guestroom. For example, is there a side table with a lamp where a book, alarm clock or pair of glasses can be set down?
Where is the closest mirror? Consider installing a full-length mirror on the door or provide a magnifying mirror on the dresser, especially if you share a bathroom with your guests, so they don't have to compete with you to dress or put on makeup.
How about closet or drawer space? Empty out a few items of clothing to open up some hanger space and provide several hangers. If there's no closet, consider purchasing a small chest of drawers.
Making these few touches and providing for your guests' basic needs will pay off when you put out the welcome mat for your friends or family.
For more information on any aspect of buying or owning a home, go to the American Homeowners Association website, www.ahahome.com or www.realhome.com
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