HOME + BEAUTY

Dreams ahead; Some like it hot

A framed photograph is a contemporary substitute for a traditional bedhead.

When it comes to bedroom decor essentials, bedheads rank just behind the bed (pun unintended). They can transform a room in minutes, adding glamour, comfort and interest. They take up almost no space, provide a focal point and make a room feel finished. And padded ones are useful to lean against when reading in bed. But there are alternatives.

Art. The most obvious substitute for a bedhead is a significant, framed artwork. Play around with size and dimensions since the perfect fit depends on how much space is available. And hang it securely; the last thing anyone needs is for it to fall on their head.

Gallery walls. A collage of multiple photos, prints or paintings hung in either a grid or a more random, organic way is another option. It takes more thought — and be prepared to spend hours juggling with a spirit level — but the results can be more characterful than using one large piece. Accent walls. Choice when it comes to feature walls is almost unlimited and includes tiles, patterned or textured wallpaper (geometrics and florals are currently popular), murals, reclaimed wood, paint (channel that inner artist and try a splattered multicoloured look), panelling, chalkboard paint, marble, bricks, stone, padding and even glass. Mirrors. These bounce light around a room and can make it feel bigger and sunnier. But hanging one large mirror can be a mistake — like you’ve put your dressing mirror in the wrong place: how will you know if that dress is too short unless you’re standing on the bed? Best take a decorative approach and use multiple mirrors, mixing up frame style, colour and size.

Plates. As traditional as it seems, a grouping of decorative plates can look contemporary. Pick textured plates for a minimalist home; coloured for a more conventional look.

Textiles. A textile drop behind the bed secured to the wall with either a rail or nails is interesting and dramatic, especially when draped. No to fabric? A rug or blanket is more rustic.

Shelving. Fixed at just the right height (not too high that it has no spatial relationship with the bed; not too low that you will bump your head when you sit up), a shelf adds another focal point besides the bed and can substitute for a nightstand if the room is pint-sized.