Our bedrooms should be a retreat, a place we go to unwind and escape the chaos of everyday life. As the place we start and end the day, it goes without saying that we should focus on making our bedrooms as relaxing and peaceful as possible. To help get you started, our interior experts have put together all their tips for creating your own bedroom sanctuary.
The Essentials
It all starts with a good foundation. While a bedroom is so much more than just a space to sleep, there’s no denying the importance of a great bed. Beds are as individual as the people that sleep on them so it’s important to select one designed to suit your specific needs. Choosing a bed that takes into consideration your comfort preferences, health needs, and any other sleeping issues is your first step in creating a bedroom sanctuary; no amount of styling will make up for an uncomfortable bed! With so many different types of beds, it can be difficult to know where to start so make sure you head in store to see our Bed Consultants who are experts at finding the perfect bed.
Likewise bedding essentials such as sheets, pillows, mattress protectors and duvet inners should be top priority. High quality sheets made of natural fibres will feel best next to your skin and allow for a more restful sleep. Cotton & linen sheets are the most popular, providing a breathable and comfortable sleeping surface. Duvet inners & toppers made of goosedown and feather will make your bed snuggly and warm while still being light and breathable. Pillows should be selected based on your preferred sleeping position and a mattress protector is a must to extend the life of your mattress.
Layers
Layers are key to creating a bedroom retreat. Layers give a luxe feel and allow you to introduce elements of texture, colour and pattern. A layered approach gives you the flexibility to try out a new look without committing to a trend or overwhelming a space. Throws, comforters and cushions can all be used, but so too can rugs, accessories, art and window furnishings. There are no rules here, keep it as simple or as decorative as you like to suit your style.
The amount of pillows and cushions you should layer on your bed is an often debated topic that largely comes down to personal preference. Typically you would have at least Europe pillows at the back then standard pillows to match your bedding. Cushions can be used on top of this to accessorise.
When using a layered approach it’s important to not forget about creating a focal point. Headboards are a great way of doing this and with so many styles available you will be spoilt for choice. There is also the option to custom design a headboard to suit your look. Alternatively a piece of art work behind the bed is perfect for basing your bedroom design around.
Layout, Organisation & Storage
A calming space is one free of clutter. Too many visual distractions can make us feel uneasy and isn’t conducive to creating a relaxing atmosphere. Fortunately, our bedrooms are much simpler than they use to be with lot of new homes now having walk in robes for clutter to be stored. That being said, older homes can benefit from clever storage- whether that is a bed base with drawers or a dresser.
Consider the visual weight of any furniture pieces you have in your room and seek to create balance. Beds are usually the largest item so ensure you buy a size suited to your room. In a master bedroom you should have a minimum of 90cm on each side of your bed for ease of movement. The more room you have, the more luxurious your bedroom will feel so don’t be tempted to squeeze a California king bed into a small room.
When there is enough space, a nook is the perfect way to create a dedicated area for relaxation within your bedroom. They are particularly good in larger rooms, where one can be created with an armchair sectioned off with a small circular rug. Add a cushion, cosy throw, small side table and of course a good book to complete the look.
Lighting
Lighting is an amazing way to create ambience and add to the sanctuary feel. Go for soft warm lights and look to use a combination of pendants, bed side lamps and floor lamps. Dimmers are also another option that are great for giving you flexible light control. Don’t rely on overhead downlights alone in your bedroom. While these are very functional and are necessary in their own right they won’t provide a relaxing environment.
Lighting can also be used to create a feature, especially when used to highlight and draw attention to items in your bedroom. Creative recessed lighting is the perfect accent and gives a designer look.
Windows
Equally as important as artificial lighting is the way you control the light coming through your windows and managing any heat loss through them. There are many different options available but curtains are always popular. Soft floaty curtains that puddle slightly on the floor are beautiful, especially on a double track with a sheer on the front and block out fabric on the back track. This gives you the best of both worlds, with the sheer creating daytime privacy while having the option to create total darkness at night with the block out layer. Shutters are also often requested, especially for those wide narrow windows above beds. Shutters filter the light beautifully, creating privacy when needed and helping to insulate from noise and heat.
If you would like help designing your own bedroom sanctuary visit our team in store or learn more about the McW interior design service here. Our highly experienced team can come into your home and work with you to develop the perfect furnishing scheme from the floor to the ceiling and everything in between. We also offer an in store bed consultation with our bed experts. They will go through a thorough bed fitting process, offering tips, tricks and advice for a better night’s sleep.
Did you know?
Right now, until the 15th of August 2021 we have incredible deals on top brand beds during our Big Bed Sale! View all the deals online here.