QA with Julie Meyers, Design 360 @ Decorating Den
Q. We’ve all had occasions when we just close the door to keep people from seeing our tired bedrooms, the rumpled and worn-out comforters and sheets, boring color scheme. How do we begin to transform this space into a cozy and beautiful space?
A. Start by evaluating the scope of your bedroom makeover. Are you going to undertake a complete overhaul, in which case you can develop an entirely new color scheme and style for the room, or will it be a simple facelift? Even if you will only be making a few changes to the room, you can still achieve an impressively fresh look by tweaking your color scheme, taking away one of two colors and replacing them with pops of updated colors.
Think beyond the basics. So many of us focus on just the functional elements of bed, nightstands and dressers, but keep in mind that other elements like a cozy sitting area (even if very small, tucked into an empty corner) or elegant draperies will help in creating an inviting, luxurious space that will feel like so much more than just a place to sleep.
Q. What are the elements and layers important for creating an inviting bed? How important are the basics – a good foundation, luxurious sheets etc.
A. The basics are critically important, as they play such a big role in the physical comfort of the bedroom. Always start with the very best quality mattress and box spring that will fit your budget, and do the same with your sheets and pillow cases. Keep in mind that you don’t necessarily have to have 600-plus count Egyptian cotton, although those do provide a wonderful look and feel for your bed. Today’s bedding market also offers some great new textile options, such as eco-friendly bamboo-based fabrics which are incredibly soft, durable and budget-friendly.
When planning for your new “dream bed,” think about what kind of a look will draw you into the room, how that look will greet you at the beginning and end of each day, but also how the bed will actually feel when you crawl into it for a good night’s rest. Answering those questions will lead you to a design that pleases all of your senses.
Q. Are there any “must have” bed fashions trending now – Euro shams, faux fur throws, etc. – that can transform a bed from ordinary to wow?
A. I’m seeing a very strong trend for a look which combines elegance and tranquility with simplicity and sophistication. Gone are the days of overpowering multitudes of pattern in our bedrooms, and in their place we’re seeing strategic layering of colors, rich textures and judicious use of pattern in small amounts.
Oftentimes we will use a very simple, luxuriously lofty duvet rather than a busy bedspread, then finish the bed off with beautifully layered shams and toss pillows and a patterned bed scarf across the foot of the bed. Repeating textures, colors or patterns in an afghan, small end-of-the-bed bench or upholstered chair really helps to finish the room off.
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