Designing A Cozy Cape Cod Bedroom: Tips And Tricks

Cape Cod-style homes are unique and interesting, with a long history that dates back to the British colonists in the New World. Characterised by gable pitch roofs, low ceilings, and chimney doors, these homes are designed with efficient construction and easy heating in mind. When it comes to decorating a bedroom in a Cape Cod-style home, there are a few challenges to consider, such as slanted ceilings and limited wall space. However, with the right methods and tips, you can create a charming and sophisticated space. Exposed beams, for instance, can be perfect for a nautical theme, with fishing nets, starfish, and anchor hooks. Built-in shelves can make use of limited wall space, while soothing pastel colour palettes, pretty pastels, sage greens, and subtle butter yellows can help capture natural light and make the space appear larger and brighter.

Exposed beams and low ceilings

Embrace the Character: Exposed beams add character and a sense of history to your space. Consider highlighting this unique feature by sanding and refinishing the beams to bring out their natural beauty. You can also opt to stain or paint the beams to complement your chosen colour palette.

Create the Illusion of Height: Low ceilings can be a challenge, but exposed beams can actually help create the illusion of more space. Painting the beams and ceiling in a light, neutral colour, such as white or cream, can make the room feel airier and more open. Another trick is to use contrasting colours for the beams and the space between them, which can also enhance the sense of height.

Strategic Lighting: The right lighting can make a big difference in a room with exposed beams and low ceilings. Consider installing recessed lighting or track lighting to draw attention to the beams and make the space feel larger. Wall sconces or hanging pendant lights can also be a great way to illuminate the room without taking up valuable ceiling space.

Furniture Choices: When dealing with low ceilings, it's important to choose furniture that won't overwhelm the space. Opt for low-profile furniture with clean lines to create a sense of openness. Avoid tall headboards or bulky furniture that will make the room feel cramped.

Window Treatments: Natural light is essential in a room with low ceilings. Consider hanging curtains or blinds that reach from the ceiling to the floor to draw the eye upward and create the illusion of height. Sheer or light-coloured fabrics will also help to maximise the amount of natural light in the room.

By incorporating these ideas, you can create a beautiful and inviting Cape Cod bedroom that embraces the character and charm of exposed beams and low ceilings.

Nautical themes and decor

A nautical theme is a great choice for a Cape Cod bedroom, especially if you have exposed beams. Throw fishing nets over the beams and add starfish for a peaceful, beachy environment. If you have limited wall space, anchor hooks are a great decorative and functional choice. Globes and maps can also add to the nautical theme, bringing to mind the Age of Exploration.

For a fun feature, consider a chalkboard wall, or a sign with a nautical-themed message. A wood ship wheel is another great feature, especially if it's hung so that it can be turned. A Cape Cod bedroom with slanted ceilings and exposed beams can also be the perfect place for a child's bedroom, as the nautical theme can easily be adapted as they grow.

For a more subtle nod to the nautical, consider a colour palette of soft khaki and cream, accented with black. Sophisticated and authentic, these colours can be used for pillows, rugs, and curtains. A silk ikat or a floral pattern can bring a garden-like feel to the room, while a sea grass rug adds a further nautical touch.

Colour palettes and lighting

When it comes to colour choices, Cape Cod homes typically feature soothing pastel colour palettes, with sage greens and subtle butter yellows as characteristic furnishings. These colours not only add a touch of elegance but also help to create a relaxing atmosphere in the bedroom. Soft khaki and cream are also popular colour choices, especially when accented with black. For a more modern twist, consider a subtle pop of colour, such as a vibrant silk ikat pillow or a floral print.

To enhance the sense of space and brightness in your Cape Cod bedroom, opt for light and neutral colours that will maximise the distribution of natural light. This is especially important if your Cape Cod bedroom has slanted ceilings and limited wall space. Light colours will make the room appear larger and brighter, creating an airy and inviting atmosphere.

Built-in shelves are a great way to add both functionality and style to your bedroom. Finish the shelves in the same colour as your walls to create a seamless and elegant look. White-washed wooden panels, such as beadboard or shiplap, can also add a calming and convincing Cape Cod vibe to your space.

When it comes to lighting, layered lighting is key to creating a cosy and inviting bedroom. Replace standard clinical lighting with statement fixtures, such as oversized pendant lights. Cape Cod homes often have dormers, which are windows that project vertically from a sloping roof. Use this natural light source to your advantage by positioning a comfortable reading nook or seating area underneath. Add a couple of chairs and a table to create a relaxing space where you can spend the day curled up with a good book.

Lastly, don't forget to incorporate task lighting, such as bedside lamps or wall sconces, to provide focused light for reading or other activities. With the right colour palette and lighting choices, you can easily transform your Cape Cod bedroom into a stylish and welcoming retreat.

Furnishings and accessories

When it comes to furnishings and accessories for a Cape Cod-style bedroom, there are several design elements and features that can be incorporated to create a charming and authentic look. Here are some ideas to consider:

Firstly, it is important to recognise the unique architectural features of Cape Cod homes, such as slanted or low ceilings, exposed beams, and limited wall space. Embracing these features can enhance the character of the bedroom. For example, exposed beams can be accentuated with fishing nets and starfish decorations, creating a fun and peaceful nautical theme that grows with the child. This theme can be further emphasised with anchor hooks, a wooden ship wheel, and a chalkboard wall for added functionality and playfulness.

Another key consideration is the colour palette. Cape Cod bedrooms often feature soothing pastel colours, sage greens, and subtle butter yellows. These colours not only create a calming atmosphere but also help to capture and distribute natural light, making the space appear larger and brighter. Built-in shelves or bookshelves painted in the same colour as the walls can add a subtle sense of elegance and consistency while providing extra storage and display space for cherished collectibles.

Additionally, the choice of furniture and accessories is essential to achieving the desired aesthetic. Wooden floors are a classic feature of Cape Cod homes and can be complemented by pretty pastel-coloured furnishings. Comfortable and relaxed seating options, such as a banquette with black leather seats and linen stripe backs, can create a cosy atmosphere. Accessories such as pillows, rugs, and curtains can introduce patterns, textures, and pops of colour. For instance, pillows in silk ikat or floral prints can bring a touch of garden charm, while a black pencil-post bed can provide a sleek and sophisticated focal point.

Lastly, attention to detail and unique touches can elevate the overall design. For a playful twist, consider a "Poop Deck" sign or incorporate family heirlooms and interesting objects found on Etsy or at antique shows. These personal touches will make the space feel truly special and reflective of your style.

Windows and doors

When it comes to windows in a Cape Cod bedroom, you have several options to choose from. One characteristic feature of Cape Cod homes is dormers—windows that project vertically from a sloping roof. Adding one or two dormers can be a great way to introduce natural light into the bedroom and modify the height of the structure. If you're working with slanted ceilings, you can embrace this unique feature and get creative, much like the exposed beams and fishing nets in the example from Prayer Wine Chocolate. Consider window treatments that complement the slanted lines, such as curtains or blinds that can be angled to follow the ceiling slope.

If you're fortunate enough to have a Cape Cod home with an abundance of windows, as mentioned in Apartment Therapy, embrace the natural light and views by keeping window treatments minimal. Sheer curtains or lightweight fabrics can provide privacy while still allowing sunlight to flood the space. Opt for materials that complement the soft and subtle colour palette often associated with Cape Cod style, such as pastel shades, sage greens, and butter yellows.

French doors are another elegant option for your Cape Cod bedroom. These doors, as mentioned in Apartment Therapy, can provide a sense of openness and create a seamless transition between spaces. For example, you could install French doors between your bedroom and a sitting room or an adjoining guest room, allowing you to close off the spaces for privacy when needed while still maintaining a sense of airiness.

When it comes to door styles, consider simple, classic designs that align with the overall aesthetic of your Cape Cod home. For a cohesive look, you can opt for doors with panelled details, moulded trim, or understated embellishments that echo the architectural features of the exterior. Painting your doors in a colour that complements your chosen palette can also add a subtle touch of sophistication.

Lastly, don't underestimate the power of accessories and decorative touches. For example, you can find anchor-themed door handles or window latches that nod to the nautical theme often associated with Cape Cod style, as seen in the Prayer Wine Chocolate example. These small details can tie your windows and doors into the overall design scheme, creating a cohesive and charming Cape Cod bedroom.

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