In a world brimming with constant hustle and bustle, finding solace and tranquillity within our homes has never been more desired. One of the lesser-known benefits of consistent, high-quality sleep is its impact on longevity and immune function. Studies have found that individuals who consistently get seven to eight hours of sleep per night tend to live longer and have a lower risk of developing chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. With this motivator to improve and maintain a good sleep routine it’s no surprise I regularly get asked for easy tips to improve bedroom design.

As an interior designer, I have the privilege of sculpting spaces that reflect clients' unique personalities and cater to their need for rest and rejuvenation. Today, let's begin a plan to design the ultimate bedroom retreat – a cocoon of comfort and serenity where worries melt away, and dreams take flight. My ethos is becoming more directed towards starting a concept with comfort, it’s something I crave, and having pain with me throughout the day I take sleep very seriously (if you count how many hours sleep you’ll have before you even get to bed, we have something in common). Through this blog I’ll share design guidance you can easily apply in your home as you embark on crafting a sleep sanctuary that promises nights filled with deep, uninterrupted slumber and mornings awash with renewed vitality.

Remember the Purpose

Step 1: declutter and minimise. The main intention for your bedroom is to rest and sleep soundly. If we’ve met to discuss your bedroom project before you’ll know the thought of an ironing board in a bedroom makes me shiver. Sometimes lack of storage means things we want out of sight in the main area of the home migrate to the bedroom, ironing boards, hoovers, cat climbing apparatus, weight benches, treadmills...I've seen it all. Neither of which invite rest and rejuvenation. Before you begin changing any of the aesthetic of your bedroom, be prepared to make changes elsewhere in your home as you remove everything you don’t need to use in the bedroom.

Storage Solutions

Step 2: sort the storage. Once you’ve completed your bedroom cleansing you can think about the appropriate way to store what’s left. What storage do you actually need? Do you have too much or not enough? The decluttering applies to excess furniture too, by seeing the edges of your room it will feel bigger so don’t position a pile of baskets on the floor for appearances sake if they’re not vital storage. Is it possible to have one or two functional larger pieces of furniture than 3 or 4 smaller pieces dotted around the edge? Can you increase your bedside tables to options that add more space? For some having a walk-in wardrobe or separate dressing room solves this problem allowing the bedroom to become simply for sleeping. Once you’ve decluttered and decided on suitable storage you’re ready to start with the design. My guide to creating a mood board might help you with the aesthetic as you apply these steps to your project.

Colour for Desired Emotion

Step 3: choose the colour palette. The colour that springs to mind when you hear the words soothing, calming and gentle, might be different to mine so take some time to consider what colours evoke a peaceful mood for you. The colours you choose for your bedroom can significantly impact your ability to relax and unwind. If you’re stuck it would be my advice to opt for soft, muted tones such as calming blues, gentle greens, or warm neutrals to create a peaceful atmosphere. These hues help to evoke a sense of tranquillity and promote a feeling of serenity, essential for drifting off into a deep slumber. Whilst blue can be a cool colour the psychology of using it in a bedroom has a positive impact; did you know body temperature drops as you prepare for sleep?

Get Comfortable

Step 4: Add the essentials. Start with the essential elements and invest here first. I always advise clients to prioritise comfortable bedding, a good quality quilt and pillows too. Investing in high-quality bedding is non-negotiable when it comes to designing a sleep-friendly bedroom. Choose breathable, natural fabrics like cotton or linen for your sheets and pillowcases to promote airflow and keep you cool throughout the night. Additionally, consider layering your bed with plush pillows, a cosy duvet, and a soft throw blanket (or two) to enhance comfort and create a luxurious sleep environment.

Layer the Lighting

Step 5: Locate and select the lighting. The simplest rule I apply to bedroom lighting is to minimise sight of the light bulbs. If you apply this rule of thumb you’ll be on the right path, also where possible this means avoiding downlights which are great task lighting in kitchens but not always necessary in bedrooms. Downward facing light isn’t ideal for doing makeup as it casts shadows, so if you have a dressing table in your bedroom table lamps should be helpful here. Incorporate a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting to create a versatile lighting scheme that can be adjusted according to your needs. During the evening, opt for soft, dimmable lights to signal to your body that it's time to unwind and prepare for sleep. Additionally, consider installing blackout curtains or blinds to block out unwanted light from street lamps or early morning sunlight, promoting deeper, more restful sleep.

Welcome in Nature

Step 6: Incorporate natural elements. If allergies and pets permit, introducing elements of nature into your bedroom can help create a calming and rejuvenating atmosphere. Consider adding indoor plants to purify the air and add a touch of greenery to your space. Natural materials such as wood, stone, and bamboo can also be combined in your bedroom design to bring a sense of harmony and connection with the outdoors.

Invite all the Senses

Step 7: Awaken the senses of smell. Harness the power of scent to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality in your bedroom with aromatherapy. Incorporate essential oils such as lavender, chamomile, or eucalyptus into your bedtime routine through diffusers, linen sprays, or scented candles and enjoy the benefits. These calming aromas can help alleviate stress, soothe the mind, and prepare you for a restful night's sleep. Lovely to add fragrance to the air as you unwind from the day with a journal, book or cup of herbal tea.

By implementing these design strategies, you can transform your bedroom into a tranquil haven dedicated to promoting restful sleep and overall well-being. Remember that achieving quality sleep is essential for maintaining optimal health and vitality, and investing in a well-designed sleep sanctuary is a valuable step towards achieving that goal. I hope from following these steps sweet dreams await in your beautifully designed bedroom oasis!

If you’d like some help designing your bedroom keep an eye on our events page for an exciting workshop to be announced soon!