Preparing Your Home for Holiday Guests: Interior Design Tips

The holiday season is fast approaching, and with it comes the excitement of hosting family and friends. Whether you’re welcoming overnight guests or entertaining for a special holiday meal, preparing your home is key to making sure they feel comfortable and at ease.

Fall is the perfect time to start transitioning your space for the holidays, adding cozy touches, organizing common areas, and setting up a welcoming environment that’s both stylish and functional.

In this post, we'll share essential interior design tips to help you get your home guest-ready for the upcoming holiday season—starting with fall.

Create a Cozy Entryway

First impressions matter, and your entryway is the first thing your guests will see when they arrive. Make it inviting and functional by adding decor that’s both seasonal and practical. Consider placing a stylish bench or a console table where guests can set down their bags or coats, along with a decorative basket for shoes or scarves.

For a warm, fall touch, layer your entryway with cozy elements like a woven throw on the bench, a fall wreath on the door, and a few decorative pumpkins or lanterns on the table. Add a welcoming mat and some soft lighting, like a statement pendant or floor lamp, to make the space feel even more inviting.

Add a mirror near the door to give guests a final place to check their appearance, while also reflecting light to brighten the space.

Declutter Common Areas

As the holidays approach, you’ll want your living spaces to be both functional and organized for entertaining. Start by decluttering high-traffic areas like the living room, dining room, and kitchen. Remove any unnecessary items that may crowd the space, such as excess furniture, outdated decor, or piles of magazines.

Once you’ve cleared the area, consider adding a few decorative yet functional pieces that will serve your guests well. Stylish storage solutions, like woven baskets or built-in shelves, are great for keeping things tidy while also adding a rustic, seasonal touch.

If you have limited space, use furniture that doubles as storage, such as an ottoman that can store blankets or a coffee table with hidden compartments.

Warm Up the Living Room with Textiles

The living room is often the heart of the home during the holidays, where guests will gather to relax, chat, and enjoy each other's company. Make it as cozy as possible by layering in soft, warm textiles. Swap out lightweight summer throws for thicker, chunkier blankets, and add plush pillows in warm, fall tones like mustard, burnt orange, or deep red.

Incorporating a large area rug can make the space feel even more inviting. Choose a neutral rug with soft texture or a patterned one in autumn hues to complement your decor. Rugs not only help to define the seating area but also add warmth, both literally and aesthetically.

Opt for a faux fur throw or velvet cushions to give your space a luxurious, holiday-ready feel. You can also add a few candles or string lights to enhance the cozy ambiance.

Refresh the Guest Bedroom

If you’re hosting overnight guests, preparing a comfortable guest bedroom is essential. Start with fresh, clean linens and consider swapping lighter bedding for something more substantial, like a down comforter or a cozy duvet in fall colors. Layer the bed with extra blankets or throws so your guests can adjust to their comfort level.

Make sure the room is well-lit with bedside lamps and that there’s ample storage space for your guests’ belongings. A small chest of drawers or a decorative luggage rack will allow them to unpack and feel more at home.
To give the space a holiday touch, add a few seasonal accents, such as fall foliage in a vase, a scented candle, or a basket of goodies like snacks and toiletries. This attention to detail will make your guests feel pampered and welcome.

Add an extra layer of warmth by placing a soft area rug next to the bed, so your guests have something comfortable to step onto in the morning.

Set Up a Dining Area for Festive Meals

One of the highlights of the holiday season is sharing meals with loved ones, so ensure your dining area is ready to host. Start by organizing the space, removing any unnecessary items from the table, and cleaning up the dining area.

Next, focus on setting the mood with a stylish yet functional tablescape. Use a fall-inspired table runner or placemats in autumn colors, and add natural elements like pinecones, pumpkins, or branches as a centerpiece. Layer plates and napkins in warm, rich colors, and finish the look with festive candles or elegant glassware.

Make sure you have enough seating for everyone, and if space allows, consider adding a small bar cart or buffet for drinks and appetizers to keep the dining experience easy and enjoyable.
For an elevated dining experience, choose tableware with metallic accents, like gold-rimmed plates or copper utensils, which will bring a touch of elegance to your holiday table.

Revamp the Bathroom for Guests

Your guest bathroom should be as inviting and well-prepared as the rest of your home. Start by thoroughly cleaning and decluttering the space, then add fresh, plush towels and bath mats for a luxurious feel. Stock the bathroom with essentials like hand soap, fresh hand towels, and holiday-scented candles for a welcoming touch.

Consider placing a decorative basket on the counter with extra toiletries, like travel-sized shampoos, lotions, and toothpaste, in case your guests forget anything. Adding a few seasonal accents—such as a small pumpkin, autumn-scented diffuser, or fall foliage—will give the space a festive flair without overwhelming the room.

Make sure the lighting in your bathroom is bright and functional, but consider dimmable options or softer lighting fixtures for a more relaxing atmosphere.

Add Personal Touches Throughout

As you prepare your home for holiday guests, remember that the little details make all the difference. Personal touches like handwritten welcome notes, holiday-themed treats, or fresh flowers can make your guests feel extra special. Incorporate holiday music in the background, and offer seasonal drinks like hot cocoa or mulled wine to enhance the cozy atmosphere.

Whether it's placing a decorative tray with festive treats in the living room or adding a scented candle to the guest room, these small details will help create a warm, memorable experience for your visitors.

Getting your home ready for holiday guests doesn’t have to be stressful. With a few thoughtful updates and a blend of cozy, seasonal decor, you can create an inviting space where your guests feel right at home. From refreshing the guest room to setting a stunning dining table, each detail contributes to a warm and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for the festive season.

Ready to get your home holiday-ready?

Browse our collection of cozy throws, stylish storage solutions, and seasonal decor to make your space warm and inviting for the holidays. Need more help? Contact us today for personalized tips on creating the perfect guest-ready home this holiday season!