Show your bedroom some tender loving care this spring, says Eileen Leahy
If your slumbering space is more of a dumping ground or makeshift laundry than a relaxing and serene place to be, it’s time to introduce some changes. And what better time to do it than the arrival of spring?
It’s all too easy to end up with piles of clothes, stray towels and general clutter if you’re tired at the end of the day, but spending just a few minutes returning items to your wardrobe and tidying away will mean you’ll have at least a fairly ordered space to look at and start making some plans for.
Once you can see things like your bed and floor again, it’s time to work out how you’re going to update and enhance them.
You needn’t spend a fortune on a complete transformation. Simply by ‘dressing’ your bed with chic linen, and using a few low-level lamps to give instant ambience, you’ll be on your way to a more comfortable and cosy room.
If, however, you decide that a big overhaul is required, then remember to choose a colour scheme that will be restful and make the most of your space. Big, brash, bold colours will not send you off to the land of nod that easily, so instead go for soft pastel or natural tones, which can be harmonised by a richer accent tone courtesy of your soft furnishings, such as a throw or lamp shade colour.
If replacing your flooring isn’t an option right now then don’t underestimate the transformative powers of a good rug. Whether you go for a classic sheepskin variety, which is a simple way to introduce a touch of luxury, or go for a�monochrome printed style – such as the hugely popular Rabisco Berber, currently on sale at La Redoute – it will help provide that essential and soothing underfoot experience while you pad about barefoot.
John Lewis
The bed is the natural focal point of your snoozing space, so make it look as inviting as possible. A new headboard will instantly smarten it up – and there are now so many styles out there to choose from, including traditional button back and more contemporary ideas like reclaimed wooden ones.
Adorning your bed with lovely linen couldn’t be easier, and there are plenty of places to source it – from The White Company’s understated elegance to Designers Guild floral affairs. There are also lots of affordable ranges out there from retailers such as Matalan, Wilko, Dunelm and Primark. Mid-range, you have John Lewis, Marks & Spencer, Laura Ashley and Next. All of them have really impressive collections of linen, scatter cushions and throws to suit your personal taste.
You could also try gaining inspiration from the brilliant Zara Home and House of Fraser. You never know, a patterned cushion or luxury blanket might be just the thing to kick-start how your room eventually evolves colour or theme-wise.
Put some thought into your walls by artfully�displaying some sentimental photos or suitable prints. Have a look at websites such as King & McGaw, Not on the High Street and Desenio to get you started.
Good storage is essential for stowing all your everyday practical items and clothing, so have a look at what will suit your space. It could be anything from drawers under a divan bed or stacking boxes if space is a challenge, or a large, attractive armoire if you have the �oom to create a stylish storage statement.
Whatever style you opt for, remember that the key to making your room look and feel warm and inviting is to ensure it has had lots of tender loving care lavished upon it.
A well thought-out colour scheme, plenty of tactile fabrics, mood-enhancing lighting, fresh flowers and candles will all help to strike the perfect stylish note – and hopefully guarantee a great night’s sleep, every night.
