5 must-read tips to help you design a hybrid guest-friendly home office just in time for hosting over the holidays

You don't need us to remind you that the holidays are well and truly upon us. So creating a multifunctional space that serves as both a home office and a welcoming guest room can be a challenge – but a worthy one.

Since the rise of WFH, most of us have been using a guest bedroom as an office space but that doesn't mean we still don't need to host overnight guests from time to time. When designed thoughtfully, a home office can seamlessly transform into a cozy retreat for guests.

With the right approach, you can successfully create a hybrid space that meets your needs of both functionality and feeling welcoming to guests. So whether you're looking to stage a home office with a fold-down bed or a guest bedroom that houses a desk for occasional remote working, we've asked the experts for their best advice.

How To Make Your Home Office Guest-Friendly

The key to a successful dual-purpose space is to first establish the main focus of the space. Is it mostly your home office that needs to occasionally welcome your in-laws or a regularly used guest bedroom that just needs an alcove for a small desk?

You also need to concentrate on being flexible yet intentional with your decor and furniture so you can ensure that your guest-friendly home office is as inviting as it is efficient.

Dive into these 5 tips interior designers shared with us to help you in your quest to design a guest bedroom meets home office hybrid.

1. Think multi-function

When designing a home office that can double as a guest room, it’s essential to prioritize multifunctional pieces that offer both style and practicality. If you want to design a home office that doesn't look like an office, think about how guests will use the space and look for pieces that give them flexibility, like a small desk that doubles as a nightstand or a set of shelves that can store office essentials on weekdays and guest amenities on weekends.

'A guest-friendly home office should balance function with a warm, inviting vibe,' says designer Linda Hayslett of LH.Designs. 'If you’re tight on space, a convertible desk setup can be a lifesaver, allowing you to clear the workspace easily for guest use.'

'Often in New York City apartments where space is at a premium, we combine a home office with a guest bedroom, creating a multifunctional space that's equally beautiful and welcoming to the homeowner and guest,' adds Molly Torres Portnof of DATE Interiors.

2. Try out a Murphy Bed

'In my own home, we have an office in a room with a Murphy bed to accommodate our guests,' says Emily Brownell of Gilded Hearth. 'The Murphy bed itself [seen above] is cleverly disguised and looks like its own wall feature so that alternatively when we are working it doesn't feel as if we are in a bedroom.'

A Murphy bed is ideal for a dual-purpose room because it allows the space to feel like a dedicated office most of the time while effortlessly converting it into a guest bedroom when needed.

It’s also essential to consider bedding storage and comfort, and keep a dedicated space for linens, making it easy to set up for guests at a moment’s notice. 'When needed it easily folds down to a truly comfortable queen-size bed,' Emily adds. 'This is also key, don't skimp on a mattress. If your guests aren't getting a good night's sleep then all the cute pillows, luxury linens, and pine-scented candles won't matter.'

3. Or a sleeper sofa

Sleeper sofas or sofa beds are another fantastic choice for creating a home office that doubles as a comfortable guest room. If you're looking for ways to make your home office look beautiful, a stylish sofa that folds down to a bed can provide ample sleeping space while taking up minimal room when tucked away as a sofa.

'The easiest solution is a bed that folds completely out of the way when unused,' suggests Ward Welch, partner at Studio SFW. 'When the room is larger, a comfortable sleeper sofa is a request we get a lot – and yes, they do exist!'

Many sleeper sofas now offer plush, comfortable mattress options, so your guests won’t have to compromise on quality. Finding the best sleeper sofa can really help to upgrade your home office setup, and provide a comfortable space to chill between meetings.

4. Include plenty of storage

With hidden storage, you can neatly tuck away work tech and other essentials, transforming the room into a relaxing, clutter-free environment for guests when needed. It keeps everything in its place and out of sight, creating a more peaceful space for guests while allowing you to have a tidy workspace.

The room seen above utilizes transitional furniture to turn the space into an office or guest room as needed. 'When creating a home office, I recommend incorporating plenty of storage to help avoid clutter in your living space,' says Gideon Mendelson, founder and creative director of Mendelson Group.

Choose bedroom storage solutions that make it easy to switch between modes. That way, when guests arrive, you’re not rushing to tidy up. Consider installing built-in cabinetry, shelving units with doors to hide everything away, or even under-bed storage solutions if you’re using a daybed or Murphy bed.

5. Consider a restful seating area

For many interior designers, a seating area is a great trick to make a guest bedroom look beautiful. A seating area brings a sense of calm to a home office, making it feel more inviting and homely for guests, while for you, it offers a place to take breaks and recharge during the workday.

'Many home offices that we design have a balance of working and lounging spaces. A comfortable spot to work, but also, a seating area to take a break and relax,' advises designer Wendy Labrum. 'With the way people work evolving over the last few years and more individuals working from home, it's become more important to have a comfortable and enjoyable space at home – this is especially critical when you may have guests staying over who need a place to work or even when a couple both work from home.'

'Consider adding a comfortable chair or even a small bench for guests to use,' adds Linda Hayslett. 'I’d also add a few homey touches like a small vase with fresh flowers or a basket for extra blankets to keep it welcoming for visitors.'

A multi-functional space shouldn't have to feel like a compromise – it can become one of the most versatile and inviting rooms in your home if you take a thoughtful approach. With these tips, you’ll be ready to host guests with style and ease, all while maintaining a space that supports your day-to-day productivity.