In the wintertime I always find myself spending more time in my bedroom. On those gloomy weekend days it's so comforting to curl up in our bed and binge watch Parks and Rec. But what makes the perfect bedroom oasis? Here are the elements that I think are necessary for a relaxing, yet dynamic bedroom.
The Bed. A no brainer is make sure you have a comfortable mattress, but also make sure the frame is the right height for you. This is really personal preference so try the frame out before you buy it. Lower beds do take up less visual space and make ceilings appear higher so if you have a small bedroom this is a good trick to make it appear larger.
Bedding. I prefer a duvet with a cover because it's easier to clean than a comforter and duvet covers are easier to store if you like to change your bedding with the seasons. I like to omit the flat sheet because I'm apparently a wild sleeper and find myself tangled up in it in the morning, It also makes it way easier to make the bed, and I'm lazy, so there.
Rugs. Whether you have carpet or hardwood it doesn't matter. A rug defines the space and anchors the bed in the room. And if you do happen to have hard-surface flooring in your bedroom, then a thick rug protects your toes from the cold hard floor first thing in the morning.
Nightstands. Make sure they fit with the scale and height of your bed. If you have a low bed you don't want to have to reach up to set something on the nightstand, it's best if they are even with the top of the mattress. If you need the storage go for one with drawers and shelves. I tend to like nightstands that are more of a side table, especially because we have a small bedroom. Keeping the nightstands open on the bottom will take up less visual space, and with all of the heavy furniture that tends to come with the bedroom I think it's a nice break.
Lighting. Natural lighting is always great but if you live on the first floor of an apartment building, like I do, there's not a lot of privacy when your curtains are wide open all the time. Sheers are a great option to let in light but still have privacy, and IKEA makes a thicker sheer than usual that still lets in light while blocking the view. When it comes to artificial lighting, soft lighting is best for the bedroom. Avoid overhead lights and use floor and table lamps around the room. Lastly, light next to the bed is necessary if you like to read in bed. You could go the table lamp route, or mix it up with a wall sconce, or a pendant light hung over each nightstand.
Natural Elements. Natural elements are a must for any room. Nature has a calming effect which is perfect for a bedroom. Bring in live plants, raw wood, stone, a water feature, candles, and don't forget to open your windows. You know, earth, wind, fire...
Art. Also a must for any room. This is a great way to bring in color that can easily be switched out when you're ready for a change. Art is also a great jumping off point if you aren't sure what style you want for your bedroom. Choose the art first, then pick out colors and patterns from the piece to in the textiles and accessories.
Wall Color. Choose something neutral or muted. Bright colors aren't going to do you any favors when you are trying to fall asleep.
1. Souk Wool Rug from West Elm // 2. Block Party by Maddy Nye from Minted // 3. Rock Pendant Lamp from CB2 // 4. Natural Tree Stump Side Table from West Elm // 5. Mid-Century Bed Set from West Elm // 6. Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree and DRUVFLÄDER Plant Pot from IKEA // 7. Granada Duvet from Anthropologie
