The New Guest Experience: Designing Thoughtful Spaces for Visiting Friends and Family

The New Guest Experience: Designing Thoughtful Spaces for Visiting Friends and Family

A custom home isn’t just for you — it’s for the people you welcome into it.

At Homes by Westgate, we design homes that make hosting effortless and memorable. Whether you’re accommodating in-laws for a week, entertaining out-of-town guests for a weekend, or simply want to offer a little privacy for visiting friends, the right design choices can make all the difference.

Here’s how we help our clients create spaces that are warm, elevated, and beautifully functional for guests — without compromising their own everyday flow.

1. Separate Guest Suites for Comfort and Privacy

Gone are the days of blow-up mattresses in the living room. We often design dedicated guest suites — complete with a full bathroom, storage, and sometimes a separate entrance — that make guests feel at home.

Design tip: Include a small coffee bar or mini fridge for added independence and comfort.

2. Multi-Use Guest Rooms

For homes without the square footage for a full guest wing, we create versatile rooms that function daily as offices, lounges, or fitness spaces — and transform seamlessly when guests arrive.

Design tip: Use built-in murphy beds or custom cabinetry with pull-out functionality to keep the space elegant and flexible.

3. Bathrooms That Feel Boutique

Guest bathrooms are an opportunity to blend practicality with hospitality. Heated floors, curated toiletries, towel warmers, and good lighting go a long way.

Design tip: Choose finishes that are timeless but unique — think statement tile or a beautifully framed mirror.

4. Garden Suites & Detached Spaces

Where zoning allows, we’re seeing more clients opt for fully detached guest houses or laneway suites. These mini-residences offer total privacy and long-term flexibility (think future rentals or extended family living).

Design tip: Match the exterior design language of the main house to keep the entire property cohesive.

5. Built-In Hospitality Moments

Small touches make a big impact. Hooks for bags, open shelving for unpacking, USB outlets, blackout shades — these are the details that make guests feel considered.

Design tip: Think about your favourite hotel stays — and bring that feeling home.

Design for Welcome

Thoughtful guest spaces aren’t just about good manners — they’re about creating a sense of ease, flow, and care that enhances the entire home.

Whether you host monthly or only a few times a year, we can help you design spaces that leave a lasting impression — on your guests, and on you.