The Pampered Guest

Though this cozy, charming guest suite has the appearance of being tucked up in the attic, it is actually the second story of a pool house recently designed by architect Norman Askins to accompany a 1920s Georgian-style house in Atlanta. The homeowners envisioned a separate guesthouse where visiting family could have their own getaway, apart from the main house. "It's almost like a dorm room," says Atlanta designer Jackye Lanham, who designed the interiors in both houses.

WHAT MAKES THIS ROOM WORK

•  Two double beds in the main room, dressed with simple, matching linen-and-cotton bed linens that offer neutral texture.

•  Raffia headboards trimmed in white cotton gimp with nailheads for a tailored look.

•  Pillows monogrammed with a modern M to add personality and underscore the color theme.

•  Antique spool-legged benches at the foot of each bed to hold suitcases.

•  A straightforward black-and-cream color palette to keep the small space simple and uncluttered.

•  Charcoal-and-cream checkerboard cotton rugs that underline the overall bold, graphic style.

•  Old leather trunks refurbished as side tables. They've been turned on their sides to make them tall enough for the beds.

BEDROOM BASICS: If you don't have an empty dresser, place a bench, trunk, or luggage rack at the end of the bed or along a wall so that guests can stow their gear, suggests Lanham.

RESOURCES: Jacquelynne P. Lanham Designs, 404/364-0472; Norman Askins, Architect, 404/233-6565, www.normanaskins.com.

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