We were thrilled to be featured in Livingetc for their piece on guest bedroom storage! Being asked to share insights on creating welcoming, functional guest spaces was perfect—this is where practical design meets genuine hospitality, and where our wellness-focused approach really makes a difference.
Publication: Livingetc
Article Title: Guest Bedroom Storage Mistakes
Publication Date: December 14, 2025
Author: Maya Glantz
Livingetc explored common guest bedroom storage mistakes and asked designers to share solutions for creating spaces that feel truly welcoming rather than just temporarily cleared. The article examines how thoughtful storage design directly impacts guest comfort and the overall hospitality experience.
The Most Common Guest Bedroom Storage Mistakes:
When Livingetc asked about guest bedroom storage mistakes, here’s what I shared:
1. Treating the Guest Room as Overflow Storage for the Household
I want to acknowledge upfront that having a dedicated guest room is a privilege not everyone has—but even if you’re hosting in a multi-purpose space, the principle remains the same. The biggest mistake is letting your storage needs overtake their temporary living space. Many guest rooms have closets crammed with holiday decorations, corners piled with boxes, or shelves stacked with personal items, which make the room feel cramped and doesn’t evoke that welcoming feeling we’re trying for. Whether it’s a dedicated room or a home office that converts for visitors, the space should feel intentionally prepared, not just temporarily cleared.
2. Prioritizing Decorative Storage Over Functional Storage
Here’s what most people don’t realize: visible storage clutter doesn’t just look messy—it measurably affects sleep quality. Studies show that visual chaos in bedrooms triggers stress responses and disrupts rest. Open shelves filled with random items or “pretty but non-functional” furniture creates exactly that kind of visual noise. My rule: if guests can see your storage solutions everywhere they look, they’re not solving anything. True guest room storage should be completely invisible when not in use, leaving surfaces clear so the space actually feels restful.
3. Ignoring Luggage Logistics Entirely
This is the most overlooked practical need: guests arrive with bulky suitcases, yet most guest rooms offer nowhere to put them. Without a luggage rack, bench, or dedicated surface, people end up living out of their bag on the floor for days, which defeats the purpose of providing any storage at all.
How to Do Guest Room Storage Right:
Create Intentional, Empty Zones Specifically for Guest Use
Your guests need three things: a clear drawer or two for folded items, open hanging space with extra hangers already in place, and a designated spot for luggage at an accessible height. The key word is “empty”—these spaces should be ready and waiting, not something guests have to clear out or work around.
Choose Multifunctional Furniture That Keeps Essentials Accessible But Concealed
A storage bench at the foot of the bed serves as both luggage space and hidden storage for extra linens (be sure to tell your guests the spare linens are there in case they’re needed!). Nightstands with deep drawers help keep surfaces clear while providing practical storage. Platform beds with lift-up storage or built-in drawers help maximize your storage opportunities without adding furniture or clutter out in the open. The goal is to offer plenty of storage while maintaining those calm, uncluttered surfaces that actually allow the nervous system to rest.
Clear the Room Completely and Consider What You’ve Been Storing
This is non-negotiable for true hospitality, but as a wellness-focused designer, I take it a step further: what have you been storing in that guest room while it sits empty? Items like old synthetic bedding, memory foam pillows, etc. that have potentially been off-gassing VOCs that then concentrate in closed spaces over time. Before your guests arrive, air out the room thoroughly. Your storage choices directly impact the air quality your guests are breathing all night. Then add a few thoughtful touches—a basket with fresh towels, a small tray for jewelry or glasses, extra blankets. These small gestures signal that you’ve designed the space with their wellbeing in mind, not just made room for them as an afterthought.
Your Guest Bedroom Essentials Checklist
Storage Must-Haves:
☐ At least 2 empty drawers for folded clothing
☐ 12-18 inches of empty hanging space with 5+ hangers
☐ Luggage rack, bench, or ottoman for suitcase
☐ Nightstand with drawer or shelf for personal items
☐ Small basket or tray for jewelry, glasses, phone
Air Quality & Wellness:
☐ Room aired out 24 hours before arrival
☐ Fresh, clean linens (natural fibers preferred)
☐ Window treatments for light control
☐ Temperature control (thermostat access or extra fan/blanket)
Thoughtful Touches:
☐ Fresh towels in a visible basket or shelf
☐ Extra blanket folded at foot of bed
☐ Bedside lamp with easy-to-reach switch
☐ Mirror (full-length if possible)
☐ Charging station or easily accessible outlets
☐ Small notepad and pen
☐ Water carafe or glasses
Hidden But Helpful:
☐ Extra pillows stored in closet (let guests know they’re there!)
☐ Hair dryer in drawer
☐ Basic toiletries (in case they forgot something)
☐ Stain remover and laundry bag (just in case)
What to Remove:
✗ Personal storage items and boxes
✗ Off-season clothing
✗ Exercise equipment
✗ Work-from-home setup (unless it’s a multi-purpose room)
✗ Strong air fresheners or scented candles (some guests are sensitive)
✗ Any items off-gassing VOCs (new synthetic materials, memory foam, etc.)
Why This Approach Matters:
At The Intentional Design Studio, we believe hospitality is about more than just making space—it’s about creating an environment where guests can truly rest and feel welcomed. When we design guest rooms, we think about the nervous system: clear surfaces signal calm, hidden storage reduces visual stress, and thoughtful details communicate care.
A well-designed guest room isn’t about impressing people with décor—it’s about making them feel so comfortable they can actually exhale. That’s the difference between hosting and true hospitality.
We’re so grateful to Livingetc for the opportunity to share these insights with their readers!
Read the full article on Livingetc →
Related Reading:
Bedroom Design Mistakes That Sabotage Sleep – Creating restful bedroom environments
Your Nervous System on Design: How Spaces Influence Stress & Relaxation – The science behind calm spaces
Design Tricks for Small Spaces – Multifunctional furniture strategies
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