Getting Ready for House Guests Part II

Freshen up the guest bath. By this- I am not talking about cleaning it- hopefully that goes without saying. Take a fresh look at it. This is quite likely a bathroom that does not get used often- leaving a few details neglected.

1. Check your light bulbs. Any burned out? I love bright bathrooms.
2. How about your towels and rugs? Make sure the room is fully stocked and fresh and fluffy.
3. Do you use bar soap? Pull out a fresh un-used bar. Hand soap? This is a good time to replace dated pumps and accessories. You’re overspending this month anyway. Don’t stop now.
4. How about a candle and small book of matches?
5. Make your room look alive with a plant. This could even be as simple as a branch cut from your backyard and put in a tall vase.
6. Include a basket of toiletries- extra toothbrushes, toothpaste, and shampoo- you get the idea.
7. Do you have a shower curtain? Replace the liner. They are inexpensive- and it’s always nice to have a fresh one.
8. Leave things easy for people to find. Anyone ever get out of the shower in a new place and have a hard time finding a towel? Not a fun time. I don't know about you- but a hand towel doesn't quite cover it... What is obvious to you- may not be to others- Leave towels on the counter- or in a large basket on the floor.

Photos from Elle Decor and Country Living

Getting Ready for House Guests

So- anyone have house guests coming into town for the holidays? I do- and I am really looking forward to it. Do you need some new bedding- I wanted to introduce you to a line that I love. The company is called "Echo." They have such a crisp fun feel that is just the right mix of modern and transitional. For bold patterns that might not be what you are hoping for in a master bedroom- the guest room is the perfect spot. What do you think? Do you like it? Not? Have a favorite?

70's Floral

Ovation

Lucy Bloom

Fan Floral

Delano

Jaipur

From 1980's to Today

Stacy Garcia Seripi Texture Wallpaper
Ellery Chair- West Elm

Hi Christine,
I found you while searching online for ideas for our guest bedroom to redecorate. The room has painted molding and wallpaper border all the way around the room. Very 1989. I’m not sure whether to take off the molding and try to strip the wallpaper or fill in the space covering the wallpaper border with something else. Any ideas?

I’ve attached the other two photos in separate emails.

Thanks so much,
Janet

Hi Janet-

As far as the wallpaper/trim border goes-... I would take down the whole thing. I know that will leave some drywall repair- but it is worth it. :)

I see that your carpet leans to the mauve - I thought I'd give you some ideas to update the room without replacing your carpet. You know what they say- you keep something long enough and it comes back in style? Well- I don't really believe that- but- with that said, pink is a great color in interiors right now. Yes- seriously.

I selected some bedding for you from West Elm- their Winterberry collection. the quilt at the foot of the bed really ties in the colors with your carpet. The raspberry color in the pattern is just enough to coordinate- but still very 2010- not 1985. I like the headboard and night stands as well...

I like the close up of the pillow here- really showing that raspberry color.

Don't forget variation in texture. Use your bedside lamps as a way to increase your textural variety. The raspberry color invites a bit of femininity to the room- go with that. Sure you will have male guests also- but do you really want them to be too comfortable... The mirrored surface of the lamp leans toward the feminine glamour- while the shape works so well with the boxiness of the West Elm furniture.

You can be more whimsical in a guest room than you would perhaps want to be in your own bedroom. So- who among us does not love shoes and purses???? Anyone????

You don't need a lot of furniture in a guest room- which might leave you with large empty walls. Check out this oversized mirror a full 62 inches in diameter. I picture you using the soft neutral of the bedding background for your wall color- use a highly textured wallpaper and you won't have to worry about the nail holes left from the trim. It will also add a great texture to the room. Add a fresh coat of white on your closets and trim. Your closets are looking a little drab.

Tuck a comfortable chair in the corner- and you might find yourself escaping to the guest room for a quiet place to read. (Anyone read Mockingjay? I just finished that one and I am trying to get into 1776. )

Don't forget a large plant and up-light in another corner. Your place will look great- thanks for writing in.

Christine

Furniture and bedding from West Elm. Wall decor and lamp from Uttermost. Wallpaper from York.