CALMING CLASSIC

Muted tones are a simple way to create calmness in the bedroom. This was the strategy interior designer Karen Akers employed when creating a guest bedroom in this home on acreage in Duffys Forest, north of Sydney. “The house was to have a casual grace, and be layered and textured to create a timeless look,” Karen says. Bedroom design requires careful thought. Karen suggests asking the following questions: do you read in bed and need lighting? Do you want privacy and darker drapes or will lighter window coverings be sufficient? Ensuring that there is enough storage in the room is imperative too, she adds. “When a space is clutter-free, it assists in providing a ‘quietness’ in the room.” The use of double doors and floor-to-ceiling drapes helps build a sense of grandeur. While dark timber floorboards and an antique, neutral coloured rug with a subtle pattern adds a touch of elegance. Karen worked with a soft, pale colour palette of tea green, lavender and blush so the old Chinese chair stands out as a feature. “I would always recommend a carpet under the bed if there are hard-floor surfaces as it helps create comfort underfoot,” she says. > For more information, telephone (02) 8920 9018 or visit karenakers.com.au Wall light Francis wall light in Antique Brass from Emac and Lawton, (02) 9516 3555; emac-lawton.com.au Ginger jar Orient House, (02) 9660 3895; orienthouse.com.au Bedside table Customised Luca bedside from Perfect Pieces, (03) 9768 3125; perfectpieces.com.au Bedhead Fairmount smooth back headboard in Weathered Oak from Canalside Interiors, (02) 9565 2390; canalside.com.au Chair Find similar at Orient House, (02) 9660 3895; orienthouse.com. au Bed linen Sheridan, 1800 223 376; sheridan.com.au Rug Find similar at Cadrys, (02) 9328 6144; cadrys.com.au Paint Wall painted Dulux Unforgettable and panelling is Natural White, 13 25 25; dulux.com.au