Simplicity, tranquility and good cheer … these should be your goals in a bedroom makeover project. And practically speaking, your room’s size will naturally affect its decorating possibilities and its capacity to serve multiple purposes.
Here, as in other rooms, strive for a harmonious relationship between color, form and space. If your bedroom isn’t restful and restorative, then change it.
First and foremost, your plan should include more than just sleeping accommodations, if possible. Inevitably, your bedroom typically becomes the chosen place to accomplish those things which require privacy – reading a book, writing letters, watching TV or maybe just contemplating the meaning of life. With clever planning, your bedroom makeover project can accomplish all of those tasks and more.
Choosing a bed: Your bed is typically the most dominant piece of furniture in the room. It must be comfortable since you spend one third of your life there, so I encourage you to make whatever investment is necessary to get the perfect mattress for your needs. You may also want to consider a fabric-covered headboard and custom bedding ensemble to add that wow factor that just can’t be found in the local “big box” stores.
Night tables: Minimally, it’s important that the top space is adequate for a lamp, book or magazine and a clock. Drawers with dovetail joints and whisper-close glides are desirable features for all case goods (dressers, chests, etc.) in the room.
Floor coverings: This should always be selected with consideration for bare feet in winter. Wall-to-wall carpet is the choice of many. Large-sized decorative area rugs are also a popular and practical choice.
Lighting and accessories: As with any other room, a combination of ambient and task lighting will contribute to both mood and function. Carefully selected lamps and artwork will give your personality a chance to shine through while adding to the overall cohesive design.
Window coverings: Is privacy your main concern? Are room darkening treatments your priority? Or do you prefer to let the sun shine in? Be sure to share your thoughts and functional requirements with your decorator. He or she will know the best products given your special circumstances.
Now that we’ve introduced you to the important elements of bedroom design, we’d like to share a couple of our favorite Decorating Den Interiors bedroom makeovers.
The first is in a home recently purchased by a couple who weren’t crazy about the existing décor. On the plus side, the master bedroom had beautiful arched windows that soared upward and filled the space with natural light. There was also a generous floor plan that could accommodate furniture for multiple activities. On the down side, the existing dark blue walls were harsh and unwelcoming and the window treatments consisted of frilly and outdated ruffles and bows.
The couple had two requests: They wanted to create a soothing retreat using soft blues and chocolate brown, and they wanted to showcase the architectural beauty of their windows along with the stunning view. These goals were achieved in a dramatic makeover. Silk fabric panels were designed in alternating shades of brown and blue, and rather than close in the beautiful windows, the drapery panels were installed in such a way as to complement them and preserve the stunning view. A seating area was nestled next to the windows providing lots of natural light for reading or relaxing. Updated lighting, custom coordinated bedding, quality case goods and perfect accessories to adorn the fireplace completed the design.
In our second makeover, a young woman wanted to transform her eclectic guest room with its bare windows, drab walls and mismatched furniture into a dreamy bedroom reminiscent of Hollywood in its heyday of glamour. The design started with textured platinum wallpaper that added interest and depth to the lackluster walls. Grey/platinum silk window treatments and a specially-designed “Hollywood glam” cornice were added to further enhance the theme. A tall headboard such as one would find in a luxury hotel was custom-made in green faux-silk with Swarovski crystal button tufting. It was framed in striking black, and an accent chair was added using the same faux-silk and crystals. Custom bedding was created using a double layer cream fabric with a sparkly mesh skirt. An ornate round mirror, antique mirror chest and a variety of chrome and crystal lamps and accessories finished this cozy “eye-candy” retreat. A true vintage Hollywood glam style was achieved here with lots of sparkle and bling.
What is your style? What does your dream master bedroom look like? Are you channeling Marilyn M. or Jackie O. and need for your space to reflect this side of your personality? At Decorating Den Interiors, we are here to help you achieve the bedroom of your dreams.
Janet Cunningham is an interior decorator who lives in Morgan Hill. She is a Decorating Den INTERIORS business owner and enjoys working together with Pamela Ryalls-Boyd. Reach Janet at (408) 478-1095,
jg************@gm***.com
or visit www.decdens.com/jcunningham.
