Crafting The Perfect Bedroom: A Guide To Writing Your Sanctuary

A bedroom is a private space, a sanctuary, a place of safety and repose. It is a stage for dreams, a sacred cocoon, a forest at first light, a place of calmness, serenity and optimism. It is a unique space, a little palace, a favourite room, a place to lock yourself away from the world, to listen to music, to unwind, to watch TV, to let your creativity roam free. It is a place to be alone, to relax, to play video games, to read, to make wildest dreams come true, to save damsels in distress, to slay monsters. It is a place to be with friends, to jump on the bed, to play games, to eat pizza, to argue with siblings, to listen to music, to do homework, to watch TV, to sleep. It is a place of comfort, a favourite room, a place to be oneself.

The layout of the furniture

• Start with the bed: The bed is typically the largest piece of furniture in the bedroom, so it's a good idea to start by placing it first. Consider the size and shape of the room when deciding on the bed's placement. If the bedroom is small, placing the bed against a wall can help save space. In larger bedrooms, positioning the bed in the centre of the room can create a sense of luxury and opulence.
• Create a cosy seating area: Adding a comfortable chair or a small sofa to the bedroom can make it feel more inviting. Place the seating piece in a corner or near a window to create a cosy reading nook.
• Utilise storage: Bedrooms often need to accommodate a variety of items, from clothes to books and other personal belongings. Incorporate storage solutions such as dressers, wardrobes, and shelves to keep the space organised and clutter-free.
• Play with symmetry: Symmetrical arrangements can create a sense of balance and harmony in the bedroom. For example, you could place matching nightstands and lamps on either side of the bed.
• Leave walking space: Ensure that there is enough space to walk around the bed and other furniture. Allow for at least 60 cm (2 feet) of walking space around the bed and other large pieces of furniture.
• Incorporate a desk: If the bedroom is used for work or study, consider adding a desk. Place the desk near a window to take advantage of natural light during the day.
• Use rugs to define spaces: Area rugs can help to define different areas within the bedroom, such as a seating area or a dressing area. They can also add a touch of colour or pattern to the space.
• Don't forget the windows: When arranging furniture, don't forget to consider the windows. Avoid placing large pieces of furniture in front of windows, as this can block natural light and make the room feel darker and smaller.
• Add personal touches: The bedroom should reflect the personality and style of the person who uses it. Incorporate accessories, artwork, and decorative items that bring joy and make the space feel unique.

The colour scheme

When it comes to the colour scheme of a bedroom, there are a few key things to consider to ensure a cohesive and visually appealing space. Colour schemes can be influenced by a variety of factors, including personal preference, the desired mood or atmosphere, and the size of the room. Here are some tips to help you choose a colour scheme for your bedroom:

Start by deciding on a colour palette: Choose a few colours that you want to use as your primary shades. This can be as simple as two colours that complement each other or a combination of three or more colours that work well together. Consider colours that you find relaxing and soothing, as the bedroom is a space for rest and relaxation. Soft, neutral colours like beige, grey, and taupe can create a calm and elegant atmosphere, while bolder colours like deep blues and greens can add a sense of luxury and sophistication.

Consider the lighting: The lighting in your bedroom will impact how colours appear on the walls and furnishings. Natural light can make a space feel brighter and more open, so take note of the direction your windows face and the amount of sunlight the room receives throughout the day. Warmer colours tend to make a space feel cozier, while cooler colours can make a room feel more spacious. If your bedroom has limited natural light, opt for lighter colours to help brighten up the space.

Create a balance with neutrals: While bold colours can add personality to your bedroom, it's important to balance them with neutral shades to create a harmonious space. Neutral colours like white, cream, beige, or light grey can be used as a base, while your chosen accent colours can be incorporated through accessories, artwork, or an accent wall. This will help to create a sense of balance and prevent the space from feeling overwhelming.

Play with patterns and textures: Incorporating patterns and textures through fabrics, rugs, and wall art is a great way to add depth and interest to your bedroom. Patterns can be used to accent your chosen colour scheme, and they don't have to be overly bold or complex. Subtle patterns, such as stripes or florals, can add a touch of elegance, while textures like knit throws, velvet cushions, or woven baskets can enhance the overall aesthetic and make the space feel more inviting.

Don't forget the ceiling and floor: While walls are the main focus when it comes to colour, don't neglect the impact of your ceiling and floor. A fresh coat of paint on the ceiling in a light colour can help to brighten the room, while a darker shade can create a cosy atmosphere. As for the floor, consider whether you want to add a pop of colour with a rug or keep it neutral to complement your chosen wall colours.

By following these tips and considering your personal preferences, you can create a bedroom colour scheme that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Remember to have fun with the process and don't be afraid to experiment with different colours and combinations to achieve your desired look.

Accessories and decorations

Wall Decor

A well-decorated bedroom should treat blank walls as a canvas for self-expression. Consider hanging mirrors, framed artwork, photography, DIY paintings, or decorative baskets. Wallpaper is also a great option to add pattern, colour, and texture to your bedroom. You can experiment with accent walls or fully commit to wallpapering all four walls.

Lighting

The right lighting fixtures can create a serene and ambient glow in your bedroom. Opt for multiple light sources, such as table lamps, floor lamps, and sconces. Place a table lamp on your bedside table or dresser, and consider adding chic sconces or hanging lights. Avoid relying solely on overhead lighting to prevent unwelcoming shadows. Don't forget to use soft white bulbs in your light fixtures.

Bedding and Linens

Bedding and linens offer an opportunity to add comfort and style to your bedroom. Choose breathable and soft materials like linen, cotton, and cotton-blend sheets for warmer months, and flannel and weighted blankets for colder seasons. Experiment with patterns, colours, and textures to create a cosy and inviting bed. Layer throw blankets and pillows for a plush and welcoming atmosphere.

Curtains and Window Treatments

Curtains are a great way to add character and style to your bedroom while providing privacy and light control. Extend the curtain rod beyond the window frame to create the illusion of wider windows. Mix different types of curtains, such as thin curtains with blackout curtains, to adjust the lighting levels according to the season.

Rugs

A rug can anchor the bed and tie the entire room's decor together. Place a rug that surrounds the lower two-thirds of the bed, running underneath, to create a warm and soft spot for your feet when you get out of bed. Alternatively, use a smaller rug at the side or foot of the bed, especially if your bed is off-centred.

Plants

Bringing plants into your bedroom not only adds a touch of nature but also helps purify the air. Position your plants based on their sunlight needs, ensuring they get the light they require. Don't be afraid to go big with floor plants or plant stands to give the room height and disrupt the horizontal furniture line.

Art and Photos

Displaying art and photos on your bedroom walls creates a personal and comforting space. Surround a central art piece above your bed with accent pieces on the perimeter walls to create a relaxing retreat. Use picture shelves or ledge spaces to display photos and artwork effectively. Remember to hang your art at eye level, typically between 145-150 cm from the floor.

Candles

Candles are a simple way to create an ambient and tranquil atmosphere in your bedroom. Scented candles provide a sense of calm and can be placed on a tiled hearth or in a hollow fireplace for a decorative effect.

Accessories

Incorporate accessories that reflect your personality and interests. For example, if you enjoy reading, set up a cosy reading nook with a comfortable chair and a small table. If you appreciate functionality, include a bedside table with drawers or a dresser to store your essentials and keep the space organised.

Cleanliness

A clean bedroom is essential for maintaining a peaceful and inviting space that promotes relaxation and rest. Here are some detailed tips to ensure your bedroom is spotless and serene:

Declutter and Organise

• Start by removing any items that don't belong in the bedroom and place them in a box to stay focused on cleaning.
• Identify and assign unused furniture, decorations, or other objects to a separate box for donating.
• Clear clutter from areas around the wardrobe, behind the dresser, and under the bed, disposing of it in a trash bag.
• Sort laundry by placing dirty clothes in a hamper and hanging up or folding and putting away clean clothes.
• Return any misplaced items to their appropriate places.
• Ensure you have a designated space for all your possessions, including chargers, accessories, shoes, and bags.
• If you feel short on storage space, declutter your closet, dresser, and other storage units to free up room.

Dusting and Wiping Surfaces

• Begin by removing cobwebs from ceilings, fans, walls, switchboards, and light fixtures using a broom, extended rod, or vacuum cleaner.
• Dust windows, nightstands, dressers, and furniture, including natural and artificial plants.
• Wipe down frequently used surfaces like nightstands, dressers, window sills, bookcases, and shelves with a damp microfiber cloth and an all-purpose cleaning spray.
• Clean door handles, baseboards, electronic devices, and other sensitive spots that accumulate dirt, oils, and bacteria.

Linens and Bedding

• Strip the bed of sheets, pillowcases, and comforters, and launder them regularly.
• Wash blankets, bed sheets, pillowcases, curtains, and mattress covers, following the manufacturer's instructions.
• Air-dry large linens outside or use a dining room chair setup with a fan if they don't fit in the dryer.
• Sanitize your mattress by vacuuming it, sprinkling baking soda, and re-vacuuming. You can also twist and turn the mattress.

Floors and Windows

• Vacuum or sweep the floors, paying attention to crevices and hard-to-reach areas like under the bed and inside dressers or bookshelves.
• Disinfect windows and mirrors using a vinegar and water solution or a glass cleaner, wiping down with a microfiber cloth to prevent streaks.
• Mop or sweep the floors, using a duster or damp microfiber cloth to minimise dust when sweeping.

Final Touches

• Make your bed with freshly laundered linens and rotate your mattress regularly to prolong its lifespan and enhance comfort.
• Tidy up your closet by sorting your clothes into keep, donate, and discard piles, then hang or fold and place them in their designated spots.
• Ensure your garments are hung correctly and sorted by type, colour, or season, using storage solutions like dividers or hanging organisers.

The view from the window

The window offers a glimpse into the world beyond the bedroom walls. It provides a frame for the scenery outside, whether it's a bustling cityscape, a tranquil garden, or a panoramic view of the countryside. Through this window, one can observe the changing seasons, from the vibrant blossoms of spring to the golden hues of autumn.

On a clear day, the sky stretches out in an endless blue canvas, with perhaps a few wisps of cloud floating by. The window becomes a portal to the sky, inviting daydreams and contemplations. On rainy days, the window panes glisten with droplets, creating a hazy, dreamlike view of the world outside.

At night, the window offers a different perspective. With the curtains drawn aside, the glass reflects the cosy glow of the room back at its occupants. Beyond the glass, the darkness is illuminated by the twinkling stars and, perhaps, the soft glow of streetlights or moonlight.

Frequently asked questions