Snooze in style with bedroom decor that indulges the senses
Combine fabrics and finishes that appeal to hand and eye for a calm, refreshing mood
I think of the bedroom as a sanctuary, one where our tactile and visual senses have the opportunity to revel in an atmosphere that’s both peaceful and luxurious.
A good starting point when decorating a bedroom is the bed cover. It’s the focal point and will be the inspiration for the colour of the walls, the window treatments and floor covering.
The materials that make up the furnishings — the bed, bedside tables, dresser, and chair — are also important elements. Wood, metal and plastic each tell their own story when mixed and matched with fabric designs and colours.
When it was time to compose sleeping spaces for my own home, my first thoughts centred around what fabulous fabric textures enhance a good night’s sleep. We all have our preferences, but for me, the touch of smooth, crisp, high-quality cotton sheets feel glorious against the skin. These high-end hotel sheets, shown above, are meant to make you feel special. The duvet cover is linen, a true classic with a slightly rougher finish that has rustic appeal.
The custom headboard is a favou- rite DIY project that is easy to assemble. A sheet of MDF acts as a canvas behind the bed, creating any mood that suits. Wrap padding around the front and sides of the board and glue it in place. Then cover the headboard with fabric.
Here I used vintage sacking material that had a fine stripe design. The sacking introduces another textural dimension to the bed. The cashmere blanket folded neatly at the foot of the bed, ready to pull up for a bit of extra warmth and indulgence, is the final touch.
Wood is a natural element that maintains the simplicity and rustic allure of the setting. A bench placed at the end of the bed is always a good idea. Floating bedside tables, also made from old wood, are small and appear weightless, adding to the airy feeling of the rustic mood. Positioning tiny reading lights on the wall is a space-saver. The overall simplicity of this bedroom is captivating.
Natural materials and uncomplicated style lines soothe and refresh. Debbie Travis’s House to Home column is produced by Debbie Travis and Barbara Dingle. Please email your questions to house2home@debbietravis.com. You can follow Debbie on Twitter at twitter.com/debbie_travis, and visit Debbie’s new website, debbietravis.com.