'A Little Hospitality'

Southerners might be known for their hospitality. After adding a few decorative touches to the guest room, you will be too.

Thin, crisp summery mats not only complete the look of a room, but keep the ground cool underfoot. When temperatures start to dip, just roll it up and replace with the cushy winter rugs. A whimsy print in and teal or lime by Koko Company ($60-$90) are extremely versatile.

When was the last time you changed the pillows on the guest bed? Do you leave the guest room for last when it comes to changing the décor? No more bland pillows in foreboding colors. Allow guests to relax after a long trip with this lasting pillow in a mosaic pattern, floral, or multi-stripe ($14.99-$19.99) at Décor Innovation.

On a similar note, a please-all bedspread in a neutral pattern might lack personality if your décor is less French country and more neoclassic. Isn’t it important that they be comfortable and have a memorable stay? An exotic animal print is guaranteed to remind your guests of their gracious and adventurous host. This cheetah bed cover set ($119.99), complete with the duvet, sham and pillow cover, is made of 100 percent microplush fabric – which is softer than regular fleece and other fabrics.

A must-have for any guest room, a clear Plexiglass rack ($89) will hold up your guests’ luggage. Unlike its metal version, the clear legs of this rack are more luxurious and just as practical.

Just like coffee tables make a great to keep picture books for guests to rifle through, so do nightstands. For the overnighters or troubled sleepers, Furnish Furniture and Interior Design for the 21^st Century takes a look at masterful works of arts that are reinventing the interior design industry. Very Vintage: The Guide to Vintage Patterns and Clothing (left) includes not only photographs of iconic vintage fashions, but previously unpublished sketches.

Lights out! A blackout tie-up curtain shade in colors like royal blue, sage and turquoise ($34.99) will do the trick. The tie-up creates ruches in the center, softly draping at the sides. And it makes sure your guests get the best rest by blocking out unwanted noise and sunlight.

Who needs Southern hospitality when there’s a host like you!

-S. Gonzalez

*Photos courtesy of pillowsandthrows.com and decorinnovation.com