Cosy guest bedroom at Project Harbour House


Design

15th October 2026

Project Harbour House: cosy guest bedroom

How I transformed a cold, north-facing room into a cosy and welcoming retreat for guests

Before

Cool colours, a hangover from a grandchild that had outgrown the space, and a lack of direction meant that this guest bedroom was lacking warmth and character, and it didn't reflect the clients, or the type of space they wanted for their friends and family.

They needed a room that could be used for a variety of guests, including adults and children. Other priorities included maximising storage and adding warmth and cosiness.

The Process

The inspiration behind the room's scheme was the local coastal landscape and the clients' love of being on and by the sea. I chose a palette of orange, blue and green to warm up the north facing room and reflect the colours of the south coast: the orange glow of a sunrise row or sunset walk; the brown mudflats and green algae at low tide; the blue sky and sea, slightly greyed by the English clouds.

We decided to keep the twin beds to allow for flexible sleeping arrangements depending on who was staying. Removing the existing slatted headboards and replacing them with patterned, upholstered ones instantly transformed the beds without the need for a full replacement.

The clients’ artwork, a collection of pieces showing local landscapes and travels, adds interest to the walls and a lobster pot inspired ceiling shade provides a focal centre piece.

I layered a mixture of patterned and plain soft furnishings through rugs, throws and cushions to add cosiness and warmth. Further texture and contrast was brought in through rattan and brass finishes. Layered lighting, including table lamps and wall lights, add to the cosy ambience.

A wall of wardrobes provides ample storage space for the clients and their guests alongside storage pouffes, which are ideal for hiding away toys and shoes.

I provided additional options for seating and relaxing using an existing vintage rocking chair and new pouffes.

The result is a warm, cosy room which embraces the property’s location and the clients’ loves.

After


If you loved this room transformation and would like something similar, check out my Single Room Design Service.

Pssst!

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