Create Your Very Own Bedroom Sanctuary!

With a few simple steps, your bedroom can be a wonderful place to escape the stresses of every day life.  Here are some ways that you can turn your sleeping space into your own personal sanctuary.  First and foremost, skip the TV.  Most of us think of having the TV in the bedroom as a luxury, but it actually hinders relaxation and rest.  If you can’t bring yourself to get rid of it, then hide it when it’s not in use.  An armoire is the perfect way to do this because it will also double as storage space.  Find an armoire with doors that are double hinged or that slide into the armoire so that they are completely out of the way when you have the doors open.  Don’t forget about your computer equipment!  Having a computer in your bedroom will only remind you of the many other things you could be doing.  The last thing you should be thinking of in your bedroom is work, so get rid of it or hide it.

Depending on your own personal style there are different ways to achieve the ambience you desire.  For example, if you want to create a warm and cozy space, you should add fabrics and texture to the room.  Add as many accent pillows to the bed as you can tolerate taking on and off each day.  Paint an accent wall in a warm color such as Amber or a Rusty Red.  You can also warm up your walls by adding texture to them.  There are many ways of doing this.  Create a textured effect with a faux finish or use one of the many textured wall coverings that are now available.  Adding fabric to the walls is also a great way to add warmth to a room.  Don’t forget the ceilings!  High white ceilings can make a room seem empty & cold.  Paint the ceiling a warm neutral color to make your room feel cozier without making it seem too small.   If you have the space, add a comfy oversized chair or two with a small table in between them.  This creates a seating area you can use for reading, writing or drinking your morning coffee with your loved one.  If you have hard wood or tile floors, add a soft rug.  Use Table lamps or wall sconces instead of an overhead light.  These will give off a soft glow instead of a direct harsh light.  Finally add artwork & accessories that remind you of the things you love. 

If you have more minimalist tastes, you can still follow the guidelines above with a few minor adjustments.  You may want to avoid using tons of throw pillows.  If you still want to use pillows as accents, choose ones that are more tightly upholstered, have less fussy patterns or are one solid color and that have no tassels or fringe.  For accent paint colors, you may prefer a cool blue or green.  These colors are very soothing and will create a relaxing atmosphere.  To warm the room up a bit while still keeping the minimalist feel, try using various shades of chocolate brown.  Yet another idea for color is to paint the entire room a very neutral shade, keep fabrics & furnishings in a monochromatic color scheme (different shades of one or similar colors) and then use accessories to add splashes of vivid colors.  Fabrics can still be soft and plush, but should be used more sparingly and should fall in clean lines.  For your seating area, choose chairs that are mid century modern, contemporary or ones with an Asian Flare.  Accessories should be kept to a minimum, but should still reflect the things you love.  Pictures of loved ones or special moments can add a personal touch to the room while still maintaining clean lines.  In a room this minimal, several styles of artwork can be used.  A bold Abstract painting would work well as would black & white photography.  An interesting way to bring more fabric into a minimalist room is to use it as art.  Find a fabric with a stripe or a geometric shape and either frame it or wrap it around a large canvas.  Even in this style of room, lighting should be kept soft as it is best for relaxation.   Use floor lamps or table lamps with a modern shape.

Whatever style you prefer, the most important thing to remember is to create a space that reflects who you are and the things you value.  Choose colors and textures that you love and that will compliment your life.  For example, if you are a morning person, choose a color that you will want to wake up to every day.  When buying any new furnishings, artwork or accessories, purchase items that are either going to be useful to you or that you absolutely love.  Add personal touches wherever you can.  Hang a piece of your own artwork or add an accessory that has sentimental value.  The ultimate goal is to make a space that you will enjoy being in.  Last but definitely not least, always remember the most important accessory to any bedroom is the one you love!