The Modern Grid Apartment, a design by Be Esthete Studio and Kate Gavryliuk, feels full of intention. Every line, every color, every surface has purpose. Bold blue cabinetry anchors the layout, and soft light floods the rooms. Warm wood floors add comfort without losing the modern edge. It’s simple, but it stands out. And once you walk through the rooms, the structure of the entire home starts to reveal itself; clean & calm.
The hallway sets the tone for the apartment, where black-framed doorways create clean graphic lines. Warm wood wardrobes stretch across one wall, giving you plenty of hidden storage; their tall black handles echo the apartment’s modern grid theme.
As you move through the corridor, the mix of grey, black, and natural wood stays consistent. The matte-black door blends into the cabinetry wall, with a small wall sconce casting a soft glow. Simple but inviting.
The living room feels easy to settle into. A grey sectional shapes the seating area, also adding balance to the darker shades around. The low blue console creates a striking contrast with the bold black accent wall, and ties the space into the apartment’s signature hue. Oversized windows let plenty of natural light fall onto the warm wood flooring, and the lightly patterned rug brings just the right amount of texture.
The kitchen sits quietly along the wall, keeping the space feeling airy. There’s ample storage but minimal visual weight, thanks to the soft grey cabinetry that runs up to the ceiling.
The countertops and sink faucet are kept minimal so the speckled backsplash can stand out. A slim black shelf sits above it, holding just a few glasses and warm wood accents.
Designers have used the dining table as the focal point here to bridge the kitchen and living room seamlessly. Finally, clever, strategic placement of the statement black lamp gives height to the corner, and the leather seating helps it all come together.
Calmness takes over when you step into the bedroom of the Modern Grid Apartment. Blue is on the lead here, wrapping the headboard wall and the shelving divider in a rich, modern tone. Furniture is kept low to create a relaxed, easy feel.
The tall shelving unit, also a statement feature here, does more than divide the room- it hides the sleek white workspace + provides useful storage without clutter. A trailing plant and a white reading light finish off the decor while adding extra functionality.
Things are looking crisp & modern in the bathroom. Light grey tiles prevent the interior from feeling too boxed-in, while the blue vanity ties back to the palette used throughout the apartment. White subway tiles break up the grey and make the sink area feel brighter.
A simple walk-in shower sits behind a soft grey curtain. The warm LED strip above it adds just enough glow to make the space feel inviting. Fixtures stay sleek and minimal, so the room feels open despite its compact size.
Victoria Beckham is undeniably a tastemaker of the highest calibre who has a great eye for both fashion and interiors. Which is why I – and many others – pay attention whenever she gives something the thumbs up. The latest interior trend to receive Victoria Beckham’s seal of approval is swapping out a regular coffee table for a large ottoman or a footstool, as she has done in her own living room.
This home decor trend made an appearance in an Instagram reel that the fashion designer recently posted on her account followed by over 33 million people. The video sees Victoria sitting on her sofa in what appears to be her London home, singing along as her son Cruz Beckham plays the guitar. But what caught my eye – similarly to when the Ideal Home team was taken with Victoria’s white glossy kitchen last month – was the absence of a regular coffee table which was replaced by a huge olive green ottoman.
This is an increasingly popular living room trend that I’m seeing in many high-end homes, but I had my reservations at first about the practicality of this switch. An ottoman is, of course, much softer than a traditional coffee table – so how can one put a cup of tea or a plate of snacks on top of it without risking spillage? But interior experts are fully on board with this look and back it as an alternative.
‘Ottomans offer a relaxed and versatile alternative to a traditional coffee table,’ says Julia Bilotta, creative stylist at Sofology. ‘They help to unify the look and feel of your upholstery, offering an opportunity to add a new fabric choice – be it a complementary plain or characterful print. Ottomans are highly multifunctional, serving as a table, extra seating and a storage solution all in one.’
(Image credit: Future PLC/Rachael Smith)
And the pros have an easy practical solution for my conundrum, too. It all lies in the addition of a good – and ideally a pretty and stylish – tray. ‘Of course there are practical considerations,’ say Liz and Sarah Hellmer, co-directors of Lathams. ‘If you are accessorising with books, ornaments and candles, or serving drinks and snacks, you will want a sturdy tray so you limit spill risk and denting on upholstery.’
Tray top picks
Dunelm
Sophie Robinson Large Wavy Edge Tray
This tray is not only pretty and fun with its wavy edges and bold green shade, it’s also bigger than most similar alternatives.
H&M Home
Lacquered tray
Even a small home accessory like a tray can provide an opportunity to incorporate more pattern. This chequered H&M Home number is the perfect example.
M&S
Rattan Round Tray
Soft curves and rounded edges are welcome even when it comes to trays for your ottoman. This rattan design from M&S is especially chic.
What ottoman should you pick?
For this coffee table alternative to work, you need to pick the right ottoman from the many available on the market – it’s all down to the design and upholstery choice. For example, leather tends to be a harder material – and therefore more stable to rest things on. ‘The fabric choice is key; performance upholstery, boucle, leather, a rich woven texture or patterns hold up better in everyday living,’ Liz and Sarah at Lathams say.
(Image credit: Future PLC/Paul Massey)
Meanwhile, Kellie Wyles, head of upholstery at DFS, recommends a more traditional ottoman design to swap out your coffee table for. ‘Opting for a plush, upholstered Chesterfield-style buttoned lid with elegant wooden feet is a timeless choice.’
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(Image credit: Future PLC/Katie Lee)
And don’t let a living room storage idea and opportunity go to waste if you’re running out of space to put your things. ‘Built-in storage helps keep living areas tidy by concealing items like magazines, toys or cushions. They are also a great choice for small spaces, where their multifunctionality and built-in storage can help maximise the room without overcrowding it,’ Julia at Sofology says.
Top ottoman picks
Swoon
Plymouth Footstool in Easy Velvet Biscuit
Kellie at DFS recommends a Chesterfield-style ottoman with wooden legs – this Swoon design is exactly that. And the neutral-coloured velvet and bobbin legs make it look especially elevated.
Habitat x Morris & Co.
Merton Sunflower Fabric Footstool
Habitat’s Morris & Co. armchair covered in the classic Sunflower print was a sellout success. And I just found this matching ottoman that will look stunning either on its own or paired with said chair – but best be quick before this one goes, too.
DUSK
Soho Ottoman Storage Pouffe in Dark Olive
If you’re into the dark olive green shade of Victoria Beckham’s large ottoman, you’ll love this number from DUSK. And if you’re short on storage space, you’re going to love the storage design within, too.
‘Ottomans instinctively signal comfort; there’s something very relaxed and luxurious about putting your feet up with a book and a cup of tea. They are especially wonderful in rooms where you want a sense of warmth and tactility,’ Liz and Sarah at Lathams conclude.
In my opinion, there are two types of people in the world. Those who get Christmas planned, prepped, and sorted before October is even over. And those who begin to think about the festive season, say, about now.
I am firmly in the second camp, and whilst starting to think about the festive season in mid-November doesn’t in any way qualify as ‘last minute’, it does throw up one problem if you have guests coming to stay this Christmas and you don’t already have one of the best sofa beds in place.
Many sofa beds are made to order with long lead times. I’ve learnt during my time as Ideal Home’s Sleep and Sofa Bed Editor, that by now (mid-November), we’ve passed the cut-off point for ordering a new sofa bed that will arrive before Christmas at many retailers. Luckily, there *are* still places you can shop for quick delivery sofas and sofa beds right now; you just need to know where to look.
Swyft’s website also makes it very clear exactly when the delivery of each upholstery option is available from, so you know exactly what you’re getting before you shop.
This is in contrast to many retailers, where that info can be kept a little vague until *after* you’ve placed your order. And that’s pre-Christmas stress no one needs.
Swyft’s ‘Airforce Blue’ Model 08 sofa bed isn’t just on sale right now, it’s also available with *next-day* delivery. Plus, there are plenty more upholstery options with fast delivery options. You could be hosting faster than you can iron your guest bedding.
This bestselling sofa bed is available with delivery within seven days at John Lewis. Despite its compact footprint, it also offers a double bed-sized sleeping area that guests will appreciate.
Only need to sleep one guest at a time? Habitat’s stylish Roma chair bed is ideal and this bestselling burnt orange colourway can be delivered in time for Christmas if you shop soon.
Aldi has just launched a £34.99 sofa bed, and although it does come with a catch, this bargain piece of furniture could make Christmas hosting *much* easier.
As Ideal Home’s Sleep Editor, I’ve spent the past four years putting the best sofa beds on the market to the test, and one thing I can tell you for sure is that I’ve never come across a sofa bed as cheap as this before.
Generally speaking, the most affordable sofa beds on the market start around £250, and a model with all the bells and whistles can cost upwards of £3000.
In comparison, Aldi’s £34.99 sofa bed is a complete steal. The catch?… This sofa bed is inflatable! But here’s why I think that could be a real plus point.
Aldi
Inflatable Pull Out Sofa
Available in store for £34.99, this bargain inflatable offers extra seating and sleeping space.
Available in stores from 20th November, the AldiInflatable Pull Out Sofa may not be a permanent piece of furniture, but that could be a good thing.
The festive season sees all sorts of things occurring that don’t take place the rest of the year, such as multiple friends and family descending on your home all on the same day.
Yes, a sofa bed can be a great solution, but if you don’t use it for the rest of the year, that’s a big piece of furniture taking up a lot of real estate in your home. An inflatable sofa bed can simply be deflated and packed away until next year.
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Plus, as I’ve mentioned, ‘real’ sofa beds are expensive. If your Christmas gatherings involve lots of young children or teenagers, then you *might* not want them sprawled all over your brand new seating, or to be worrying about sticky fingers on your new upholstery.
(Image credit: Future PLC/Dominic Blackmore)
Opting for this Aldi inflatable offers extra seating with the peace of mind that you can wipe it clean as many times as needed during the festivities, and just like one of the best air beds, it can be transformed into extra sleeping space that the littlest ones in your Xmas gathering will love. After all, what kid doesn’t love a campout in the living room!
That said, you don’t have to go inflatable, of course. There are affordable sofa beds out there if you’d rather host your Christmas guests on something a little sturdier. I’ve included my top recommendations below for comparison.
Shop alternatives
Intex
Inflatable Camping Sofa Bed
If you can’t get into an Aldi store to bagsy the Inflatable Pull Out Sofa, then you can snap up this Intex version that’s on sale at Amazon.
Habitat
Roma Velvet Fabric Chairbed
It can only sit and sleep one guest at a time, but if you just need a little extra hosting space, this is one of the most affordable sofa beds I’ve come across.
Habitat
Kota 3 Seater Sofa Bed
Habitat is also the home of this great value sofa bed. It can seat three guests at a time, and has a small double sized sleeping area. Plus, discount code FURN20 will get you 20% off.
There’s something magical about opening your home to friends and family. Whether you’re hosting overnight visitors for the holidays, welcoming out-of-town guests for a summer weekend, or having house guests stay while they’re in town for a special event, making people feel comfortable and cared for is one of life’s simple joys.
But if you’ve ever stressed about whether you’ve thought of everything or wondered how to make guests feel welcome when you don’t have a dedicated guest room, you’re definitely not alone!
The good news?
Creating a warm, welcoming environment doesn’t require a perfectly styled guest bedroom or an entire home makeover. It’s all about thoughtful touches that show you’ve prepared for their arrival and genuinely want them to feel at home.
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From the practical essentials to those nice touches that make all the difference, I’m sharing everything I’ve learned about being a gracious host. No matter what season you’re welcoming guests or what kind of space you’re working with.
Setting the Foundation: Preparing Your Space
Before your guests arrive, a little preparation goes a long way in making them feel welcome from the moment they walk through the door.
Start with a Clean, Fresh Home
Nothing says “welcome” quite like a clean, tidy space. You don’t need to achieve perfection (remember, we’re going for comfortable, not intimidating!), but focusing on the areas your guests will use most makes a big difference.
Give the bathroom a thorough cleaning, paying special attention to the shower, toilet, and sink. Fresh towels, a clean bath mat, and sparkling fixtures create an inviting atmosphere.
I always do a quick wipe-down of light switches and door handles—those high-touch areas that we don’t always think about but guests definitely notice.
In the guest bedroom or sleeping area, dust surfaces, vacuum or sweep floors, and ensure the bedding is freshly laundered.
If you’re hosting during warmer months, having a fan available can be a lifesaver. During colder seasons, make sure the room is comfortably warm and that extra blankets are within easy reach.
Don’t forget about common areas where your guests will spend time. A quick declutter of the living room and a tidy kitchen create a welcoming backdrop for your time together.
Create Comfort in Any Sleeping Arrangement
Not everyone has a dedicated guest room, and that’s perfectly okay!
Whether your overnight visitors are staying in a spare bedroom, sleeping on the couch, or using an air mattress in your home office, you can still create a comfortable retreat.
For those lucky enough to have a guest bedroom, the basics matter: clean sheets, adequate pillows (including options for different sleeping preferences), and appropriate bedding for the season.
A bedside lamp ensures guests can read or navigate the room at night without fumbling for a switch.
If you’re working with limited space, get creative! An air mattress or sleeper sofa can be surprisingly comfortable with the right bedding.
Add a small nightstand or even a chair beside the bed to hold personal items, glasses of water, and phones. A privacy curtain or room divider can transform a corner of your living room into a semi-private sleeping area.
The Guest Bedroom Essentials
Whether you have a dedicated guest room or you’re creating a temporary sleeping space, certain essentials help guests feel settled and cared for.
Bedside Conveniences
Think about what you reach for on your own nightstand and recreate that convenience for your guests.
A bedside lamp with easy-to-reach controls is essential. Nobody wants to get up to turn off an overhead light after getting cozy in bed. Add a small clock (or let guests know the time is on their phones, if you prefer a more minimal look) and consider including a carafe or bottled water so they can hydrate during the night without wandering to the kitchen.
A small tray on the nightstand can corral these items and provide a designated spot for guests to place their belongings like jewelry, watches, or glasses.
It’s a simple touch that prevents the “where did I put my ring?” scramble in the morning.
Closet and Storage Space
Even if your guests are only staying a night or two, giving them space to unpack and organize their belongings makes a huge difference in helping them feel settled rather than living out of a suitcase.
Clear out a section of the closet (or the entire closet if you can) and provide a few hangers. If closet space is limited, a coat rack or even hooks on the back of the door work beautifully.
A luggage rack or a cleared chair gives guests a place to set their suitcase without bending to the floor.
Consider adding a bin or basket where guests can toss items like dirty clothes or toiletries they don’t want mixed with clean belongings.
This small gesture shows you’ve thought about the practical realities of staying in someone else’s home.
Bathroom Hospitality
The bathroom is where guests often need the most thoughtfulness, especially if they’re sharing this space with your household.
Stock the Essentials
Make sure your guests have everything they might need, even if they forgot to pack something. Fresh towels are non-negotiable. I like to provide at least two per guest (one for the shower and one for the face/hands) plus a washcloth.
Stack them somewhere obvious or, better yet, show guests where towels are located when you give them a quick house tour.
Keep travel-sized toiletries on hand for guests who might have forgotten items.
Toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, and soap are the basics, but body wash, lotion, and even a spare toothbrush can be lifesavers.
You can arrange these in a small basket in the bathroom or place them in the guest bedroom, depending on your setup.
If you share a bathroom with guests, consider creating a designated space for their belongings—a cleared shelf or a basket they can use keeps their items separate from yours and helps them feel less intrusive.
The Little Extras
Beyond the basics, a few thoughtful touches transform a functional bathroom into a spa-like retreat. A candle creates a pleasant atmosphere (and can provide soft lighting for a relaxing bath).
If you have the space, a small vase with fresh flowers or a pretty soap dish adds a welcoming element.
During holiday hosting season, you might add seasonal scents—peppermint or pine in winter, fresh citrus in summer. And don’t underestimate the power of a good bathroom fan if your space tends to get humid!
Kitchen and Refreshment Station
Helping guests feel comfortable helping themselves to snacks and drinks is a cornerstone of good hospitality.
Stock the Fridge and Pantry
Before guests arrive, stock up on basics that work for different dietary preferences. Bottled water, various beverages (coffee, tea, maybe some sparkling water or juice), and easy snacks like fresh fruit, crackers, cheese, and nuts give guests options throughout the day.
If you know your guests’ preferences, personalize your selections. Maybe your sister-in-law loves almond milk in her coffee, or your college friend is obsessed with a particular brand of tea.
These small gestures show you were thinking about them specifically.
For holiday hosting, having sweeteners, creamers, and various coffee options ensures everyone can start their day just how they like it. During summer visits, keeping cold drinks readily available and maybe some popsicles for afternoon treats shows thoughtful planning.
Create a Self-Serve Station
Set up a beverage station with mugs, glasses, and everything needed to make coffee or tea.
A small tray with sweeteners, spoons, and napkins makes it easy for guests to help themselves without asking where everything is located. This is especially helpful for early risers who wake up before their hosts.
Keep a basket of snacks on the counter or designate a specific cabinet or shelf as the “guest snack zone.”
When you show guests around, point out where things are and genuinely encourage them to help themselves whenever they’re hungry or thirsty. The phrase “make yourself at home” only works if guests actually feel comfortable doing so!
The Welcome Basket: A Special Touch
A thoughtfully assembled welcome basket is a lovely way to make guests feel anticipated and valued. This doesn’t have to be elaborate or expensive. It’s truly the thought that counts.
What to Include
Start with the basics: bottled water, some wrapped snacks (granola bars, nuts, crackers, chocolate), and perhaps a piece of fruit. Add any items specific to your guest’s preferences if you know them.
Include practical items they might have forgotten: travel-sized toiletries, a phone charger, maybe a small sewing kit or stain remover stick. During different seasons, you might add items like sunscreen and bug spray for summer guests, or hand lotion and lip balm for winter visitors.
A personal note welcoming them to your home adds a warm, personal touch that guests will appreciate.
You might also include local information like wifi passwords, house quirks they should know about (“the bathroom door sticks a bit, just give it a good pull!”), or recommendations for nearby restaurants and attractions if they have free time.
Seasonal Welcome Basket Ideas
Winter/Holiday Hosting
Hot cocoa mix and marshmallows
Cozy socks
Small candle in a seasonal scent
Holiday cookies or treats
Spring/Summer Hosting
Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
Insect repellent
Reusable water bottle
Fresh local berries or seasonal fruit
Light, refreshing snacks
Fall Hosting
Apple cider or tea
Warm blanket or throw
Autumn-scented candle
Seasonal treats like pumpkin bread
Making Guests Comfortable Beyond the Basics
The physical setup is important, but making guests truly feel welcome goes beyond having fresh towels and snacks ready.
The House Tour and Open Communication
When guests arrive, give them a quick tour highlighting what they need to know. Show them where they’ll be sleeping, where towels and toiletries are located, how to work the shower, and where to find snacks and beverages.
Point out any quirks (“the front door lock is a bit finicky”) and make sure they know the wifi password.
Most importantly, let them know they should ask for anything they need. Some hosts worry about being too specific with instructions, but guests genuinely appreciate knowing where things are and how they work.
It eliminates that awkward “I don’t want to bother them” hesitation that can make people uncomfortable.
Respecting Privacy and Downtime
While it’s wonderful to spend quality time with your house guests, remember that everyone needs some downtime to recharge. Make sure your guests know they can retreat to their room or space whenever they need to, whether that’s to take a nap, make a phone call, or just have some quiet time.
Provide entertainment options for those moments when they’re on their own—books, magazines, streaming service information, or recommendations for nearby activities if they want to explore solo. During holiday visits when the house might be bustling with activity, having a quiet retreat becomes even more important.
Accommodating Different Schedules
Not everyone operates on the same schedule, and that’s completely fine! Let guests know it’s okay if they sleep in or turn in early.
Make sure they can access what they need without waking you, hence the self-serve breakfast station and clearly communicated locations of everything.
If you’re hosting during the holidays or special events, communicate the planned schedule but keep it flexible. Not everyone wants to participate in every activity, and giving guests permission to opt out without guilt is a generous gesture.
Special Considerations for Different Hosting Scenarios
Holiday Hosting
The holidays bring their own special energy (and sometimes stress!) to hosting. In addition to the regular guest comforts, consider:
Extra blankets and cozy throws for post-meal lounging
Designated spaces where guests can store gifts before big reveals
A quiet spot away from the main festivities for anyone who needs a break
Flexibility with meal times and activities—not everyone wants to watch the big game or help with meal prep
Summer and Seasonal Guests
Warm-weather hosting has different requirements:
Ensure adequate cooling, whether that’s A/C, fans, or at least good air circulation
Provide extra water bottles and encourage hydration
Have sunscreen and insect repellent available
Consider lighter bedding options—some guests run hot and appreciate having choices
Hosting in Small Spaces
Don’t let limited space stop you from welcoming overnight visitors! A few strategies help maximize comfort:
Invest in a quality air mattress or sofa bed
Use vertical storage to keep floor space clear
Create privacy with curtains or room dividers
Be especially clear about shared spaces and bathroom schedules
Embrace the coziness—small spaces can feel intimate and special rather than cramped when you set the right tone
The Art of the Good Night and Good Morning
How you send guests off to bed and greet them in the morning sets the tone for their entire stay.
Evening Check-In
Before everyone turns in for the night, do a quick check-in with your guests. Make sure they have everything they need, show them (again, if necessary) where things are, and confirm plans for the morning. This is when you might mention whether breakfast will be at a specific time or if it’s a help-yourself situation.
Let them know it’s fine to get up during the night for water or the bathroom—you want them to feel comfortable, not like they’re creeping around trying not to wake anyone. If there are any household sounds they might hear (the furnace clicking on, the ice maker, a pet moving around), mentioning these can prevent middle-of-the-night confusion.
Morning Hospitality
Have coffee ready or at least easily accessible, along with breakfast options. If you’re preparing a meal, wonderful! If not, make sure there are easy options available like fresh fruit, yogurt, bagels, or cereal so guests can fuel up whenever they wake.
Respect different morning personalities—some people wake up chatty and energized, others need quiet coffee time before engaging. Follow your guests’ lead rather than forcing conversation if they seem like they need space to wake up fully.
What Makes a Guest Feel Welcome: The Intangible Elements
Beyond all the practical preparations, the most important elements of hospitality are harder to quantify:
Genuine warmth and enthusiasm about their visit set the foundation.
Even if you’re stressed about preparation or worried about having everything perfect, let your guests know you’re truly happy to have them.
Flexibility and grace when things don’t go exactly as planned.
The air mattress has a slow leak?
You forgot to buy someone’s favorite coffee creamer?
Laugh it off and problem-solve together. Your attitude matters more than perfect execution.
Making them feel included in your routines and rhythms rather than like they’re interrupting your life. The goal is to make guests feel like part of your household, not like visitors being entertained.
Being present during their visit.
Yes, you might need to do some meal prep or handle other tasks, but carving out quality time to actually connect is what makes visits memorable.
Your Hosting Checklist
Here’s a quick reference list to make sure you’ve covered all the bases:
Guest Sleeping Area
Clean, fresh bedding
Extra blankets for temperature preferences
Adequate pillows
Bedside lamp
Small table or surface for personal items
Cleared closet space or luggage rack
Privacy (door, curtain, or room divider)
Fan for air circulation (or extra warmth in winter)
Entertainment options (books, magazines, streaming info)
Communication
House tour including all essentials
Clear instructions for anything quirky
Morning plans and meal timing
Genuine invitation to ask for anything needed
The Bottom Line on Welcoming Guests
Making guests feel welcome is less about having a Pinterest-perfect setup and more about creating an environment where people feel comfortable, cared for, and genuinely wanted in your space.
Whether you’re hosting in a spacious home with a dedicated guest suite or making room on your couch in a small apartment, thoughtful preparation and warm hospitality create the same welcoming atmosphere.
The beauty of hosting is that it’s as much about connection as it is about comfort. Sure, fresh towels and a well-stocked fridge matter, but what your guests will remember most is how you made them feel.
Did they feel like an imposition or an honored guest?
Were they comfortable asking for what they needed?
Could they relax and be themselves in your space?
Start with the practical essentials we’ve covered, add personal touches that show you were thinking about your specific guests, and then let go of any pressure to be perfect.
Your warmth, flexibility, and genuine happiness to have them there will shine through and create the welcoming environment you’re hoping for.
Remember, every host has had moments of “I can’t believe I forgot to…” or “Why didn’t I think of…” Don’t let these small oversights overshadow the bigger picture of bringing people together in your home.
Your guests are there to spend time with you, not to judge your hosting skills or inspect your home.
Have you discovered any special touches that make your guests feel extra welcome? I’d love to hear what works for you in the comments below! And if you’re preparing to host for the first time, don’t stress. Your thoughtfulness and care will show through, and that’s what matters most.
