Let’s face it – real estate is expensive.  We don’t all have the luxury of a separate room for everything, but combining a guest room and home office into one room is functional and effective.  If it’s a guest room, I would expect that means it’s only used on an occasional basis for short stays (unless of course you’re like my daughter that lives on the opposite side of the country and whenever we visit she has us for more than a day or 2!)

Selecting furniture that serves dual purposes and finding ways to “hide” the work space are the 2 challenges in creating this multi-function room.  Here are some suggestions to get you started and to take advantage of your prime real estate.

 

I find this piece so interesting – open or closed, well, it’s just a little different.  When you’re not working, close it up or leave open, and put some fresh flowers and books for your guests on the shelf.

Restoration Hardware

Restoration Hardware

 

A pretty desk looks nice anywhere.  The glass and brass make this desk almost invisible and take up such little visual space in a room.

West Elm

West Elm

 

A table can serve as a desk when you need it, and a space for storage or a suitcase when you have guests!

Apartment Therapy

Apartment Therapy

 

Multi-function pieces have come a long way.  “Murphy” beds now hold more than just a bed.  I have one in my Chatham house that has bookcases that slide away when the bed needs to come down.  Great use of space!  These 3 versions show how versatile they can be.

Tustin Woodworks

Tustin Woodworks

 

Closet Solutions

Closet Solutions

 

WallbedFactory.com

WallbedFactory.com

 

What tricks have you used in your home to use your home office as a spare guest room?  We’d love to see pictures!