Tips & Trends

We were delighted by the many compliments we got on the elegant bedroom we did for the recent designer showhouse. Clients ask us what has the biggest impact in making a bedroom look beautiful and feel both comfortable and luxurious. Here's our short list:

Wall color is key: While bright colors can be great in kitchens, dining areas or family rooms, bedrooms need to be restful spaces, so chose soft blues, silvery grays, mossy greens, or rich taupe for wall colors; keep floor coverings subtle as well--carpeting or area rugs in light colors provide great underfoot comfort and add to a sense of a quiet refuge.

We love using wallpaper on an accent wall to add a bit of texture and interest but again subtlety is key: try an organic looking grasscloth in a natural color or a soft tone-on-tone print.

Great lighting is an important component of a wonderful bedroom: make sure bedside reading lamps are tall enough and bright enough to cast enough light over our book or magazine; use dimmable sconces or light candles for a romantic flair; overhead lighting should also be on dimmers, so as not to create a too-harsh glare.

Fabrics that look beautiful, feel luxurious and launder well are a must in a bedroom: washable silk, high quality cotton or linen and soft cashmere can be terrific choices.

Room darkening window treatments --drapes, blinds or shades are important not only for privacy, but for good sleep hygiene too.

A few final reminders: reduce clutter, locate work related computers/devices to another room, play relaxing music, limit TV noise, grow a live plant, surround yourself with art and accessories that really make you feel good and that reinforce a relaxing/nurturing/romantic mood.

Share your great ideas for fabulous sleeping/relaxing spaces with us!