A Holiday-Inspired Guestroom Makeover

White walls, white bedding, and castoff furniture was not a welcoming sight for weary travelers. With pops of cheery color and a few holiday-inspired accessories, designer and Better Homes and Gardens contributor Stephen Saint-Onge created a happy and restful room.

During the holidays, a guest room should be dressed up for visitors. Playing off the pale green walls, Stephen added punch with deep cranberry accents -- pillows, rugs, and a wreath. The designer also took advantage of the solid furniture pieces that already existed. By re-arranging the furniture he was able to give the room a cozier feel and tap the furniture's full potential.

Simple accessories such as pine sprigs intertwined with candles add an extra touch of holiday coziness.

To rev up the comfort factor, Stephen added warm-toned fabrics and furniture. The large console table is the perfect spot to hold extra blankets and show off family keepsakes. To break up the wall-to-wall carpet, Stephen chose a cranberry rug.

Stephen found a few inexpensive wrapped canvases at a local home store to add a little extra cheer to the room. The prints' vintage flair and rich color scheme tie-in perfectly with the space.

With a portable DVD player, guests may watch Christmas moves, play music, or pop in an exercise DVD. Bottled water, fruit, and gift-wrapping supplies are a thoughtful addition to the room during the holidays.

A dresser used as a nightstand utilizes existing furniture and expands storage capacity. Guests are sure to appreciate close-at-hand niceties such as a reading lamp, flowers, and books or magazines.

Sea salt "snow," small ornaments, pine branches, and family photos transform a glass lamp base into a festive still life. A cork top holds light bulb hardware for easy display changes.

Like what you see in this makeover? Re-create Stephen's look with these resources:

Stephen's keen understanding of the homeowner has moved him into the spotlight in recent years through his work on television and in magazines. This understanding, accompanied by his friendly, approachable, and creative style, is making design accessible to everyone -- no matter who they are, where they are, or what their budget may be

As a husband, father, and homeowner, he understands the needs of the family-focused lifestyle. "I have the same to-do list on my refrigerator that everyone has. There is always something to be to done with our homes and hopefully what I bring to the table will help everyone see the best in their homes," says the designer. He draws upon his background in film and design to help the homeowner create a home that truly captures who they are, but at the same time captures a mood they are looking to bring to life that represents their home in the right light.

Good home design has the power to change lives.