BEDDED BLISS
Modern bedrooms allow for functionality, chic good looks, and individual tastes
A bedroom is that one personal space that is all one’s own. It not only offers privacy from the bustle of the rest of the household, but it is also a place where one can truly express oneself in terms of individual style and taste.
“A bedroom is a very personal space and it should be beautiful, comfortable and functional,” said Kim Terry, public relations director of Pottery Barn brands. “It’s a place to relax and decompress at the end of a long day, so it’s important to create a comfortable place you love spending time in.”
When decorating a bedroom, Terry starts with the bed, which is always the focal point of the bedroom.
“Bedding allows for an easy seasonal update, which I like,” she said.
A wide range of colours, textures and patterns are dominating bedroom trends, including bedding — from bold geometric motifs to the return of calming desert looks.
“We were inspired by the richly coloured, layered landscapes of the desert, from Morocco to California, creating a modern globalist look that infuses the home with painterly colour, worldly pattern, textural richness and a confidently casual approach,” Vanessa Holden, creative director at West Elm, explained in an email.
“We’re excited to loosen up the look with graphic, painterly geometric patterns and bright pops of colour that combine for a carefree California-modern vibe.
From soft sandy hues to a wide range of blues, we drew inspiration from the desert and the summer sky, creating a livable, layerable palette of neutrals in soft, sanded finishes with shimmery whitewashed metallics on everything, from candlelight to embroidered bedding and floor rugs.”
Linen Chest, a company steeped with history in Quebec, is loving the chic “hotel look” along with white-on-white palettes.
“Hotel is still a big word in bedrooms and there are so many different ways to do it,” said Stan Leibner, president of Linen Chest. “We have two hotel looks that can be mixed and matched and they’re really magnificent.
“Another trend that I find is coming up strong is linen and fauxlinen looks. They’re very classically sophisticated and gives the bedding more texture that is very high-end looking.”
A bedroom is a very personal space and ... bedding allows for an easy seasonal update ...
Lighting is also an important element in the design of a bedroom, and different types of fixtures can create one-of-a-kind ambience.
“Lighting adds style, whether it’s a dramatic chandelier or standout table lamp,” Kim Terry said. “Lighting also helps set the mood — soft lighting creates serenity and a sense of calm.
“Seating in a bedroom is also important; an upholstered bench at the end of the bed provides extra seating — or, if you have the space, create a reading nook with a comfortable chair and good lighting.”
A bedroom is the ideal place to showcase individuality, too.
“Decorative items including framed photos and decorative boxes add a personal touch,” Terry said. “Display these items on nightstands and dressers to make the room feel uniquely yours, and change it up frequently to keep the room fresh.”
Even smaller details have a big impact in the bedroom space.
“There’s more textural interest than ever — in new knits and crewels, and interesting embellishments like chindi and candle wicking, which can be used to layer interest into a monochromatic palette, down to details like mirrored embroideries and hand-tied tassels,” Vanessa Holden said.
A bedroom is a place for respite, and should instantly make you feel “at home.”
With a dash of trendy style, easy efficiency, and the addition of a few carefully selected personal items, it can be the perfect place to unwind and call your own.
... An upholstered bench at the end of the bed provides extra seating — or, if you have the space, create a reading nook ...