For most of us winter is our chill time, a time we look inward for inspiration, or we can feel a little down because it’s just so darn cold. So like my mum always said “when you’re not feeling great, go back to the basics, the most basic, have you had enough sleep?”.
We spend most of our life asleep. Our bedrooms are the first thing we see when we wake up, they welcome the start of our day and kiss us goodnight. It is where our dreams are made and where we retreat to rejuvenate. So I want you to ask yourself, is yours a nightmare?
1 X BED 3 X LOOKS
White winter: white on white sighs serenity
INVEST IN THE BASICS: When designing your bedroom it’s all about quality, not quantity- this approach allows you to splurge on pieces that count, like the building blocks - a great mattress and dreamy linens. *Tip if budget doesn’t allow, try a new mattress topper.
LINENS: Buy the best quality you can afford, check the thread count, personally I believe 100% cotton is best. There is such a selection of duvet covers out there too, try to keep it neutral and in light tones so it won’t date quickly or become overbearing to everyone’s eyes.
TEXTURE: Layering of textures adds depth and luxury. Add texture with pillows and throws, choose fabrics such as: cashmere, velvet, fur and jute, don’t be all matchy-matchy, mix them up. Adding texture on a neutral palette or white, ivory or beige is extremely effective and very much on trend.
LIGHT: As any photographer will tell you, lighting makes a difference to a space. Light fittings and lamps are vital to a room’s ambiance. From show stopping chandeliers to a contemporary floor lamp the possibilities are endless. Try not to over think it, have fun with lighting. Lamps, candles, shadow play, multiple light sources, string lights are some of the options to choose from. Don’t forget the bulbs they are just as important choose, warm, vintage looking filament. Set the tone and feel of the room that you want, make it cozy, romantic or dramatic with just a change of bulb.
SCENT: Very important to have a smell that induces restfulness, (or lust) I’m a fan of linen sprays, and scented candles.
*Tip: make your own linen spray with a quality essential oil in water in a stylish spray bottle. (No cheap nasty oil).
EMBRACE SPACE: Less is more, ditch all your stuff lying about or use ornate boxes or drawers. Have white walls or clean lines, don’t be afraid of open spaces - serenity is important in the bedroom. Get organiSed in your room and it will subconsciously organiSe your mind for the day.
Happy Creating from The Muse - Anna Stevenson
Got the Blues: create a wonderful serene space with the calming influence of blue hues.
Natural: crisp linen exports you to another exotic place. Beautiful earthy tones and natural fabrics create a sense of warmth.