DESIGNED FOR SLEEP
“When it comes to cultivating good sleep hygiene, making some lifestyle changes and developing habits are key, but one cannot ignore the role that the bedroom plays in this equation,”
says Priya Naik, founder and design director of Interior Design Journey. Here, he outlines how you can amplify the ambience of the bedroom to promote better sleep.
[1] INVEST IN YOUR BED
A good mattress is crucial, but another key item is bed linen – choose materials that are soft to the touch and have a luxurious feel. Pick textures that give you a personal sense of calm – for example, some prefer silk, cotton or linen bedding that makes them feel more comfortable. I personally like Akemi for its soft Tencel fabrics; Sojao, which has great options for lovers of organic products; and Bedding Affairs, which offers various thread counts.
[2] KEEP IT BALANCED
Organisation is key in every room of the home, but more so in the bedroom. Keeping things organised and clutterfree will help with creating an ambience of calm in the space. Take care when curating the bedroom decor pieces – too much pattern or the incorrect balance of colour will not help to create a calm space. In general, furniture placement needs to be sensible. Do not try to squeeze in too much – not having enough space to walk around will leave you feeling frustrated and is especially not advisable for the bedroom. Rugs are also a good idea. If there are a lot of hard finishes in the bedroom, such as wood or laminates, then a rug can help soften the atmosphere and make it feel cosier.
[3] CREATE A SENSE OF CALM
Incorporate sensory elements, such as reed diffusers, essential oil diffusers or room sprays, at strategic locations in the room. I love the scent of lavender for its calming and relaxing properties. Air purifiers can also be helpful in improving sleep.
[4] LIGHTEN THE SENSES
Window treatments are an important factor. Depending on your sensitivity to light, choose between full blackout curtains and those with a dim-out option that allows a little light in. When it comes to lighting, get creative and mix them up – such as table lamps, floor lamps, recessed lighting, or even simple chandeliers. Opt for light-diffusing lampshades in areas where you are not going to be reading. Dimmers make a difference, and two-way switches are a must.