How to Create a Calm and Relaxing Bedroom
There are endless ways to decorate a bedroom, but the room should above all encourage relaxation and sleep. A good night’s sleep is an essential element of a healthy lifestyle. In working with my clients over the years and listening to their feedback, I’ve found that following these 10 tips is the most effective way to create a calm and relaxing environment in the bedroom.
1. Opaque Window Coverings
I always recommend blackout shades for bedroom windows. Your body repairs itself while you sleep, and it needs darkness to do so effectively. There are many options for blackouts that filter enough light so you can wake up in the morning naturally to sunshine yet provide sufficient privacy during the day.
2. Calming Color Palette
While many of my clients prefer warm colors over cool ones, when it comes to the bedroom, cooler hues are the better choice because of their calming effect. Blue, lilac and cool shades of gray promote rest, while warm tones can often be energizing and more likely to keep you up at night.
3. Minimal Decor
Even though your eyes will be closed when you go to sleep, if you have too many distractions in your bedroom, it may be hard to actually fall asleep. It’s wise to get rid of the clutter around your bed. Keeping your bedroom clear of distractions will help you clear your mind at the end of a long day.
4. Properly Positioned Bed
I like to position the bed so that it’s one of the first things you see when you walk into a room. Generally, it’s a great way to invite you into the space. However, if your windows overlook something that warrants it, consider flipping your bed so that it faces the view. Just make sure to purchase those blackout shades I previously discussed.
5. Safe Circulation
Please ensure that you leave enough room around your bed so that you aren’t bumping your shins or stubbing your toes when getting in and out of it. Consider the actual dimensions of the bed frame when purchasing a mattress, not just whether it holds a twin, full, queen or king size.
6. Adjustable Lighting
Bedside lighting is critical. Soft, soothing lighting is ideal for a bedroom. Having light fixtures on a dimmer is also a smart move since it lets you regulate the amount of light that your fixture emits. Adjustable sconce lighting is a great option because it allows you to keep your nightstand neat and tidy, and it can be positioned to provide optimal lighting for reading in bed.
7. Expressive Headboard
Because I recommend keeping your room free of distractions and stimulating colors, you may want to consider bringing in interest via your headboard. This is an opportunity to express your creativity. If not a headboard, then think about installing an interesting item above your bed. It’s also important to consider what your headboard will look like to you when you’re lying down on your bed. Is it distracting? Will it affect the way you sleep? Remember, achieving a good night’s sleep is key.
8. Quiet Ceiling Fan
When planning your bedroom design, you may want to think about adding a ceiling fan. Fans help provide good circulation and fresh air, which will aid in a good night’s sleep. It’s not imperative to have a fan, but it’s certainly a bonus to any healthy bedroom. Just be sure to find one that makes as little noise as possible.
9. Serene Artwork
In keeping with the theme of creating a relaxing environment, it’s important to choose art that’s calming and sleep-inducing. Choose your art wisely, and keep it sparse in your bedroom. Again, you don’t want too many distractions.
10. No Tech
My No. 1 rule for my clients is to banish televisions, computers and exercise equipment from the bedroom. To make it a peaceful haven, you need to ensure that you aren’t bringing your work to bed with you. Creating an oasis devoid of technology will allow you to connect better to your natural biorhythms.