Decorating one’s bedroom is a exciting task for most of us. Here are some pointers that must be kept in mind while creating the bedroom of one’s dreams:
Creating a Multipurpose room instead of a bedroom
The sole purpose of a bedroom is providing rest and relaxation. Work tables, computers, laptops or exercise equipment like tread mills etc have no place in the bedroom. They are a source of distraction and spoil the peaceful sleeping environment of the bedroom. There should be separate work and exercise areas in the house.
Picking style or trends over functionality and personal choice
A light colored rug may look amazing for the bedroom, but think of the dog or young children at home who may spill things on it. The bedroom should be done up with accessories that are stylish and trendy but not at the cost of functionality or comfort. Before buying those gorgeous pieces of furniture, or bedding sheets or comforters, one must ask themselves if they really require those things and if they would suit their lifestyle.
Heavy brocade may look fantastic but may not be very comfortable to sleep on. Synthetic fibers may be pretty and inexpensive but natural fibers would be a healthy choice. One should never buy anything from an over insistent salesperson. Chances of buying something that is not one’s preference are more. Personal style and taste rather than trends should dictate bedroom décor.
Disrupting the harmony of one’s sanctuary
The bedroom is a place where one should be at complete ease with oneself. It should have an inviting aura around it, something that makes one relax and calm down after a hectic day. Bringing things like television, treadmills, work or food in the bedroom disrupts the harmony or the ambiance that has been created with a lot of effort. It may not always be possible to keep the computer, treadmill or television out of the bedroom due to paucity of space elsewhere. In such cases these things should be kept out of sight, in an armoire or an entertainment unit.
Inadequate storage facilities
The rules of both Feng Shui and Zen recommend removing all sort of non essential items from open spaces in the bedroom to create a clutter free area. Adequate storage spaces like cabinets, armoires, dressers, additional shelves, shoe racks, under bed storage etc can help in achieving an uncluttered look. Furthermore, furniture with storage areas can be chosen. Nightstands with small drawers can be used to stash reading material or spectacles. A trunk or storage bench at the foot of the bed may be used for storing extra blankets or pillows.
Too many pillows
Try to avoid using a lot of pillows on the bed. Objectively consider how many pillows would be required as a minimum and then add a few decorative pillows to accent the setting. Ideally around 7 pillows should be enough for most people. If pillows cover half the bed, the partner keeps grumbling about having to deal with too many pillows before going to sleep, it takes 15 minutes to arrange the pillows every morning, its time to reduce the number of pillows you are using. A few throw pillows look nice but too many look like a pile of useless pillows.
Excessive matching
Bed sheets, bed skirt, comforter, pillows, furniture, drapes and valances in an identical floral or lined pattern give an overwhelming, claustrophobic effect to the room. Walls seem to be closing in, in a room where everything is matched excessively. Therefore, one must avoid this trap and focus on a matching a basic color palette rather than prints and designs.
Over accessorizing
Many people cover all open surfaces, in their bedroom, with little collectibles which have sentimental value or which just look nice. However, these knick knacks lend a cluttered look to the room. Since a cluttered bedroom leads to a cluttered mind, over accessorizing the room should be avoided. A few well placed decoration pieces would look orderly and create a relaxing environment.
Bare windows
Window treatments are an important part of the bedroom’s décor. The drapes provide privacy and block out unwanted early morning light. Ideally sheer drapes should be used in a combination with dark, lined drapes and valances, to create a dramatic effect. Roman shades, blinds, blackout lining may also be used for window treatments. The fabric and color of the window treatment should match the theme of the bedroom.
Rushing through it all
All good things take time. It is advisable to invest proper amount of time in picking out things for decorating a bedroom. Doing things in a hurry will result in a uncoordinated look and an unsatisfying decorating experience. It is tempting to do things quickly but one must remember that the result is only as good as the effort. Buying things one at a time would give the room much more character, than buying everything at the same time. So take your time and stop rushing.
Lighting woes
A single overhead light may not be sufficient in a bedroom. Accent and decorative lights like hanging paper lanterns should also be installed. It is also important to put in task lights such as reading lights. The lights should also have a dimmer switch.
Uncoordinated colors
While it is important to choose soothing colors, color coordination must be kept in mind. Light blue, sage green and other neutral colors are a good idea. A toned down version of one’s favorite color is also a good idea. Faux painting techniques should be avoided in the bedroom. They draw one’s attention and may distract you from sleep.
Using secondhand Mattresses
Tempting though it may be, buying a second hand mattress, is not a good idea. It may come cheap but it brings a lot of hidden costs with it. It may harbor dust mites or other pests and is likely to be worn down. A second hand mattress may be cheaper but it may prove to be a lot costlier in terms of health and hygiene. If the mattress is more than 9 years old, has become lumpy, has started sagging in the middle and does not allow restful sleep, it is time to replace the mattress.
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