Today, the bedroom represents more than just a place to crash at the end of the day. For most people, the bedroom is the place to relax and unwind, read, meditate, exercise, watch TV, and of course, to sleep. So how do you decorate such a multi-functional space?
Focus on the bed. The bed is obviously the biggest piece in the room, so choose something that shows off your personality in a big way! If you have a high or vaulted ceiling, consider a four-poster bed. If you’re in an apartment and need to conserve space, a bed with built-in storage drawers might suit you best. Be sure to pick a frame that is not only stylish, but also well made. The bed is the most noticeable piece, and you want to invest in one that will hold up after many years of use.
Invest in the best mattress you can afford, too. When you consider the amount of time you spend in your bed and how important a good night’s sleep is to your physical and emotional health, the mattress and box spring set is incredibly important to putting together your bedroom retreat.
Tables and storage. Plan on getting a nightstand for one or both sides of the bed, with a lamp on each for reading or performing other tasks. If you need more space for storage, consider bedside tables that have drawers or cabinet doors. For even more storage space, consider buying several simple, shallow baskets to slide under the bed to keep the clutter at a minimum. The more you keep out of sight, the roomier your bedroom appears.
Additional seating. Your bedroom should have at least one other place to sit besides on the bed. Depending on the size and layout of your room, you might choose a padded bench or ottoman at the end of the bed, or you may want a comfy chair where you can sit to tie your shoes in the morning and curl up with a good book at night.
Add some color. Once you have the basics down, then you can start planning on how to further personalize your space and create the mood you want – and color is the easiest way to do that. If you already have a comforter or rug in your bedroom that you love, choose one of the more subtle colors in those patterns to paint the wall. Gentle hues of blue, lavender, or green are considered calm and serene, while rich, jewel-toned hues help set the mood of coziness and comfort (think toasty browns, deep pomegranate, or plum).
Cover the windows. A beautifully dressed window will help to frame the window and the view, and it provides other ways to add color, pattern, texture, and dimension to a bedroom. If you love soft sheer curtains that filter light, combine them with opaque blinds that can be pulled down to maintain privacy at night and to block morning light.
Accessorize sparingly. Choose a beautiful piece of artwork to go above the bed that incorporates some of your colors. Place a framed photo, a plant, or a scented candle on the bedside table, but keep your accessories to a minimum so they don’t end up looking like clutter.
Check your troubles at the door and create a quiet place to relax and renew.