She Strengthens

Creating a Peaceful Retreat: Expert Tips for a Restful Bedroom

As our homes continue to serve as multifunctional spaces, it’s essential to prioritize one area that promotes relaxation and rejuvenation – the bedroom. Whether you’re starting from scratch or seeking a refresh, we’ve gathered expert advice from five interior designers to help you craft a serene sleep environment.

Define Your Comfort Zone

Before considering aesthetics, think about how you want your bedroom to feel. Do you prefer light, airy spaces or dark, moody environments? Identify what comforts you need to unwind at night and feel refreshed in the morning. A super soft, comfortable mattress is a great starting point, suggests Alexis Garrett. If a new mattress isn’t in your budget, consider a thick, plush memory foam pillow top.

Color Palette: A Key to Calm

A monochromatic color scheme can create a sense of tranquility in the bedroom. Jake Rodehuth-Harrison recommends dustier tones, which feel calmer and more muted than their brighter counterparts. White paint with a warm undertone can also work wonders. Rodehuth-Harrison repainted his bedroom ceiling with a smokey lavender hue, which changes beautifully with the lighting and brings a smile to his face every morning.

Clutter-Free Oasis

Minimize clutter on your bedside table to promote relaxation. Garrett suggests keeping only essentials, like a book and a pencil, within reach. For those who enjoy lingering in bed, consider adding a candle, water carafe, or a mini tea service. If you have the space, indulge in a luxurious Nespresso machine.

Layered Lighting: A Game Changer

Clara Jung of Banner Day Interiors emphasizes the importance of layered lighting in the bedroom. Start with overhead lights controlled by dimmer switches, and add task lighting for ambient reading. Sconces can free up bedside table space and provide soft, warm light. If you prefer natural light, skip blackout window treatments and opt for color spectrum light bulbs that mimic the sun’s progression.

Working from Bed? Think in Layers

With the rise of remote work, bedrooms have become multipurpose spaces. Raili Clasen suggests doubling down on pillows for back support and storing them in a basket at the foot of the bed. A laptop tray can be a useful addition, and don’t forget to keep everything washable, including your duvet cover and pillow liners.

Productivity Nook

Create a dedicated space for productivity with an inexpensive accordion screen or ceiling-mounted curtains. These dividers can help absorb sound and create a sense of separation. Add a cabinet to conceal printers and work materials, and consider relocating your dresser to the closet or reorganizing your closet altogether. Don’t forget to incorporate plants and natural light to boost your mood and energy.

Meaningful Furniture

Minimal furnishings can translate to less visual clutter and dust. However, don’t sacrifice storage for the sake of minimalism. Side tables with drawers or cabinets can stash work-related items, preventing clutter from building up. Skip the upholstered chair and opt for stools instead, which can help maintain a clutter-free space. A plush rug can be the ultimate bedroom accessory, providing a soft, comforting surface to step onto before bed.

Use Your Space Intentionally

Finally, make sure to use your bedroom as designed. Establish morning and evening rituals to create a clean slate, and prioritize cleaning and organization to maintain a peaceful environment. By following these expert tips, you can craft a restful retreat that promotes relaxation, rejuvenation, and a good night’s sleep.