I know, you’re wondering how does a second-story hallway become a guest corner?
No, I don’t mean a space for guests to sit and hangout (although they seem to do that anyway), but rather a place my overnight guests can easily find all they need to feel at home.
The walls are now brightened up with “Cobblestone” a Martha Stewart (Glidden) brand paint from Home Depot, and a few DIY framed pieces. I have also given it some much needed organization, because ewww, I can’t believe that before! In my defense…no, no there are just no words.
Ok, I have to give you a close up on the art…it’s so much prettier (and more glittery) up close! I shared how to make these 15 minute (or less) art pieces with no more than some painters tape and spray paint! Learn how here.
The Guest Storage Shelf
Every year my husband and I host 10+ friends from our college days, and it was just easier to house all the guest necessities in one common location. A lot of these items are typically stored in a bathroom, but what happens when the bathroom is occupied and one of those 10+ people inevitably forgot to grab a towel or their toothpaste so they could use a different open bathroom? It just made sense to store everything I use for my guests easily at hand. Then there are no interruptions while making breakfast for 15 (which always seems like 30).
Towels & Washcloths
I use to set towels on my guests bed, and I still do it when it’s one or two friends, but after years of hosting our alumni group overnight I learned that it was easier to put the towels all together in one place. You never know when someone needs an extra towel for hair, or prefers a certain size or feel, so I let them know where the guest shelf is and the choice is theirs!
Sheets & Pillow Cases
I decided to store my “guest only” sheets sets here as well. This way the kids don’t mistake which sheets are off limits… and since my munchkins are all crafters (that means crayon marks on their favorite work space -their beds), yes I do reserve sheets for guests.
Pillowcases are stored in three small baskets at the bottom of the bookshelf. I love baskets, and I really loved the price of these pretty baskets when I purchased them 50% off at JoAnn’s Fabric Store! I found quite the basket assortment for $2-$5 each on sale!!
Forgotten Toiletries Basket
Every house needs to have a basket filled with items your guest may have forgotten. Believe me, your guests will feel relieved to know that you always have the little things covered.
Guest Slippers
In my opinion, it is worth going the extra mile to provide the little comforts that make your guests feel at home. Unless you don’t want your guests to stay too long…I won’t judge! *chuckle*
Ironing Accessories
I don’t store my iron or ironing board in the upstairs hall, but when I am having weekend or week long guests I bring those items out and they go next to the yellow cup (used to add water to the iron). It is also nice to keep ironing starch, and a lint roller handy.
Decor Pillows
While I’m keeping all my guest oriented items in one place…I figured I might as well keep the extra decor pillows at hand. What can I say, the nicer guest spaces look the happier I am, even if it ends up being a blow up mattress in the living room once all the beds are filled. *wink*
Keeping a shelf with all my guest items in one central location has made life easier for me as well as my guests. Now 10 different people don’t have to seek me out when they need something, and no one has to suffer embarrassment requesting the more personal items that may be needed.
Like This? You’ll Love These!
There might be things your guests aren’t telling you…learn what they are here | No guest room? Turn your living room into a temporary guest room! | How to make a home comfortable for visitors | Learn how to make the ideal bed for overnight guests (or you!) | Here are the top 10 projects to get guest ready! | 20 creative laundry room additions
Hello! I love this post and especially DIY Art. I tried to follow the tutorial link, but it is not working. Is there someplace else I can see it? Thanks!
Woops! Thanks for pointing that out Krystal! I will change that link right now… but here is the proper link for you: https://homemadebycarmona.com/diy-spray-paint-art/
Thanks for reading! 😉
I love, love, love this idea. I think it is fabulous to have such a well stocked place for your guests. The bookcase is perfect and all the baskets are fabulous. I need to find a small shelf or something to put inside the closet in my small guest room. This is such a great idea.
Thank you very much! I host so many people at once, it just made life simple for them. 😉
Coming over from Remodelaholic link up! Great job! Love!!!
Beautiful!! I love it!
i want to know how you fold your sheets so nicely! they look so pretty and mine are always a bundle of mess.
I found this post on Pinterest and loved it so I used in it my top 5. Hope you don’t mind. You can see it here Top 5: wire baskets
Have a great day!
Seriously, so pretty.
Love this. You did a great job.
Beautiful! What do you put in your forgotten toiletries basket? I’m creating my own but haven’t finished it off yet (ie, toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, etc).
Thank you! A better question is what DON’T I put in it? Lol! All of the obvious plus those odd & ends guests often need and get overlooked, such as: contact solution, shower caps, new hair bands, razors, a special area (locked or up high) for aspirin, antacids, and allergy medications. Well, you get the idea!
Beautifully done! Found you via Pinterest. Love the wire basket idea.