For your own bedtime story
Priority one Resist the temptation to treat your bedroom like an afterthought: remove clutter, nonessentials and keep only the furniture and decor you love. “I became pretty critical about what we [keep] out in the open,” Gaines writes.
A private collection Use personal mementos for art and decor. “These [serve] as reminders of where we’ve been and what we hold dear to keep us grounded and really make this space feel sacred.”
Color theory Establish a simplified color palette using a base of neutrals with complementary accents.
Square footage fixes In smaller rooms, consider floating shelves instead of nightstands, a built-in headboard or low-profile bed frame to increase visible space; or a bed without a footboard. “It will save you a few inches of floor room.”
Magic carpet Look down: “A rug is usually one of the first details I add to a client’s bedroom,” Gaines writes, “and it’s amazing how this one piece can easily bring a room to life and help establish the overall design of the space.”
No plain panes Window treatments provide privacy, texture, detail. “I typically choose them in neutral colors,” she writes, “so that they can serve as a backdrop to the room. … To make windows appear larger, hang curtains a few inches above the trim.”
Chair-ish your space Sit, stay. Gaines highly recommends adding a bench, chaise, chair (or two) in the bedroom for functionality and a sense of real retreat.