It's that time of year again, time to roll out the trundles and dust off the duvets for a season of guests. So what can be done to ensure that friends and family have a pleasant experience in your home? A few quick and easy changes can drastically (and affordably) transform the household catch-all into a cozy retreat.

The first and most important thing to remember is that less is more. The guest room should actually have fewer personal effects than any other room in the house. Clearing clutter from the tops of dressers, vanities, beds and chairs makes for a more inviting space.

When in doubt, remove everything from the room except the furniture and add accessories back in small doses. A handful of interesting accessories is better than a collection of tiny trinkets on every surface. Try channeling a posh hotel suite; they always feel inviting, but usually contain only the basics.

There is nothing more inconvenient than living out of a suitcase. Cleaning out closets and dresser drawers allows guests to unpack easily, making them feel at home and settled more quickly.

Now that the space is clean and clutter-free, it is time to start adding elements that will make it comfortable and cozy. It is easy to create depth and warmth by layering complimentary colors, textures and patterns throughout the room.

Start by laying out a large area rug. The size of the rug can be determined by the size of the room and the furniture in it. A sparse room would require a larger rug, while one full of furniture may need a smaller one near the foot of the bed. A rug is a great way to soften a room as well as add color and will work over any flooring, including carpet.

The next step is to make the bed as plush and inviting as possible. Topping a featherbed or pillow-top mattress with freshly washed and pressed sheets with a thread count of 200 or higher will make guests feel luxuriously pampered and is the perfect foundation for the rest of the bedding.

Adding a bed skirt will hide not only the box spring, but also the space underneath the bed, offering more room for storage. Choose a pleated, ruffled or clean lined skirt based on the other fabrics and décor used throughout the room.

Finish off the bed with a down comforter in a duvet or a coverlet with a warm flannel blanket underneath and ample pillows. Be sure to leave an extra stack of pillows and blankets on a chair or bench for guests to use if needed.

The possibilities are endless when choosing fabrics. Try mixing different textures and patterns, such as toile and plaid or a modern floral print with a stripe. A monochromatic color scheme is always a safe bet, but don't be afraid to experiment with complimentary colors as well. However, keep in mind that the room should flow with the rest of the house and reflect the same overall feel.

Add a few pieces of local art or photography to the room if possible; it will add an interesting element that guests both familiar and unfamiliar with the area will enjoy. Finish the room off with window coverings, preferably room-darkening shades or curtain panels, to complete the look and keep out the sun for those guests who aren't early risers.

Make these changes and expect more overnight guests and extended stays from friends and family eager to return and unwind in their own personal oasis.

Making the holiday stay a luxury for your guests:

n Be sure to leave a few books and current magazines on the dresser or nightstand. Classics novels or autobiographies are always a safe bet.

n Leave a small fan or sound machine in the corner. The white noise will help drown out the sounds of a busy street or the creaking of an old house.

n Place a small amount of lavender in pretty bowl by the bed to help promote relaxation and sleep.

n Leave a bottle or a glass of water for your guest before they turn in for the night.

Karissa Eifert is an interior designer and a freelance writer. Contact her at Karissa@karawhiteinteriors.com.