We spend over a third of our lives in our bedroom but we probably spend more time worrying about the décor of other seldom used rooms in our homes such as our living or dining room. There are a few things to keep in mind when planning the décor of our ultimate personal retreat.
Start with a good mattress: Your mattress should offer some cushion and recoil while being firm enough to provide adequate support for your neck, back and legs. What is comfortable for me almost definitely will not be comfortable for you. So as a general rule, it is advised that the best test is to test drive the bed; Lie on it. In perfect world you should replace your mattress every five years. The materials used in its construction degrade over time losing their loft and ability to provide good support.
Beautiful bedding: Now that you've got a good mattress to work with, choosing bedding is your next step. You can opt for store bought or custom made bedcovers and pillows, but the key to creating a luxurious bed is variety. Matched sets can look boring and unimaginative. Try mixing it up by using contrasting patterns and colors to create a rich mix of layers. If you like standard white bedding, go for it. It is fresh and classic. While the bed is usually the largest single piece of furniture and the main opportunity for decorative equity, white bedding can be at home in ultra-modern, contemporary or traditional decors. Let your personal style come through. It is your personal space. High thread count cottons are the most comfortable and durable.They get softer with each successive washing.Pile on the layers. Add a coverlet, bedspread or duvet to pump up the luxe.You can be as minimal or excessive as your personal style dictates. But please do not exclude. At least consider a scaldino or bed scarf. Toss on a few decorative pillows to prop yourself up when reading or lounging. All these layers provide the opportunity for added style, colour and texture.
Window coverings: Window coverings are another opportunity to make a style statement in your personal space. In order to get a good sleep and to relax you may need to manage the sunlight coming into your room. Consider layering functional shades underneath decorative panels for maximum flexibility or traversing black out lined draperies for complete darkness. For the ultimate luxury, have your treatments motorized so they can be controlled from your beside with a touch of a button.
Beside the bed: Matching nightstands are the old standard in bedroom furnishings but consider a mix different types and styles of tables or chests beside the bed. Tables do not have to be used in pairs; you can have a fabric covered table on ones side of the bed and a chest of drawers on the other as long as they balance each other. Use your imagination and think out of the box. The result will be a more interesting, vibrant space.
Lighting: As a retreat, our bedrooms may be used for more than just sleeping. Proper lighting is critical for creating a functional space.Be sure to include table or wall lamps on each side of the bed for reading as well as plenty of overhead light for general illumination.Install three-way bulbs or dimmer switches for maximum light control.For an easy décor statement, include a chandelier or shaded ceiling lamps. I particularly love the drum styled ceiling fixtures. They are quite trendy, but ageless.
Lounge in Luxury: Whether you just need a place to sit down to put on your shoes or you want to spend hours relaxing and reading a good book, try incorporating a comfortable seating area in your bedroom. A chaise lounge with a pretty side table at the end of the bed or two small upholstered chairs with ottomans in a cozy corner will give your bedroom the feel of a luxurious master suite. It doesn't have to be a large space. In fact, a cosy, intimate space can be really special.You can give the illusion of a separate space with well-placed artwork or a decorative screen behind your seating arrangement. If you don't have room for a separate sitting area, try placing a long bench at the end of the bed.
Climate control: Good ventilation is key. Being able to open your windows and let fresh air and light in will keep the room fresh and clean. For temperature control install a ceiling fan and/or air condition unit. The idea is to have enough control of your environment to assure relaxation and comfort. Are you in to aroma therapy? Go for it. Personally I love the light fragrance of fresh, clean linen.Making the design and functionality of your bedroom a reality will pay off in an improved quality of life due to a better sleep environment.So don't delay; start your bedroom makeover right away!