The bedroom is the most intimate space in our homes, a haven for rest and relaxation. However, when decorating, it's easy to overlook certain aspects that can disturb the room's harmony. Let's delve deeper into the common mistakes people make when setting up their bedroom sanctuary and how to steer clear of them.
1. Forgoing the Nightstand:
At a cursory glance, stacks of books, magazines, or medicine on the floor beside your bed might seem like a quirky, bohemian choice inspired by decor magazines. However, in reality, it can appear careless and unhygienic. Historically, nightstands were invented for a reason: to store essential items and keep them within arm's reach. From the simple functionality of holding an alarm clock to storing your bedtime read, nightstands offer both convenience and style. So, rather than treating the floor as a makeshift storage space, invest in a bedside table that complements your room's decor.
2. Overcrowding the Room:
The bedroom should exude calmness and peace. An overly cluttered space doesn't just physically restrict movement, but it can also mentally overwhelm the inhabitant. While personalizing the room is essential, striking a balance between decor items and empty space is key. Incorporate storage solutions like wardrobes and shelves to keep potential clutter out of sight. While displaying a few cherished trinkets or framed photos can add character, ensure it doesn't tip over into a chaotic display.
3. Neglecting Window Curtains:
The importance of curtains goes beyond mere aesthetics. If your room lacks blinds or shutters, you'll quickly realize how essential curtains are for a good night's sleep. They provide privacy, block out intrusive light, and insulate against drafts. Furthermore, curtains have the power to transform the room's ambiance. Whether you're aiming for a luxurious velvety boudoir vibe, a bohemian lineny look, or a Scottish-inspired floral design, the market is brimming with choices that suit every style and budget.
4. Poor Furniture Placement:
Ease of movement is a crucial aspect to consider when arranging furniture. Typically, the bed, as the room's focal point, is positioned centrally with its headboard against a wall, preferably adjacent to a window. Wardrobes and dressings should be placed ensuring there's a gap of at least 80 centimeters from the bed. If you’re incorporating a workspace, opt for minimalist or wall-mounted desks positioned opposite a window, maximizing natural light. And don't forget the cozy touch: a rug strategically placed by the bed's foot adds warmth and texture.
5. Incorrect Bed Positioning:
The bed's placement isn't just about aesthetics or ease of movement; it’s about energy flow too. Feng shui principles caution against placing the bed directly in line with the door or a large window, as this is believed to disrupt the flow of positive energy. Ideally, the bed should be against a sturdy wall, providing a sense of security, with a clear view of the room's entrance.
6. Shunning Indoor Plants:
Dispelling the myth – indoor plants won't suffocate you while you sleep. Although they do release CO2 at night, the amount is minuscule and poses no threat. Instead, plants can enhance bedroom air quality and bring a touch of nature indoors. While an "Amazon rainforest" theme might be excessive for a bedroom, incorporating air-purifying plants or small fresh flower arrangements can be refreshing. However, note that dried flowers are a feng shui no-no, symbolizing stagnation and death, which isn’t the kind of energy you’d want in a sleep space.
7. Overlooking the Headboard:
If you’ve wisely chosen to set your bed against a wall, remember the significance of a headboard. Apart from protecting your wall paint or wallpaper from wear and tear, headboards add a finishing touch to the bed, making it look complete. Whether you prefer something sleek and modern, ornate and plush, or a DIY version crafted from repurposed materials, ensure the headboard resonates with the room's overall theme.
8. Disregarding Lighting:
Lighting in the bedroom should be versatile. Whether you're reading, dressing, chatting, or engaging in other activities, different situations call for varied lighting intensities. By integrating multiple light sources, such as overhead fixtures, floor lamps, wall sconces, and bedside lamps, you can tailor the ambiance to your mood and need.
9. Direct Access to the Bathroom:
An en suite bathroom might sound like the pinnacle of luxury, but it has its drawbacks. From compromising privacy to unintentional water splashes on bed linens, and from unsightly toiletry displays to humidity issues post-shower, it’s worth reconsidering the open bathroom concept. Introducing a dividing door can effectively address these concerns.
10. Leaving the Wardrobe Open:
After a hectic day, the last thing your eyes need is the chaos of an untidy wardrobe. An open, disorganized closet not only strains the eyes but can also mentally unsettle you before sleep. Investing in a closed wardrobe, be it with doors, curtains, or as a separate walk-in space, can drastically enhance the room's tranquility.
11. Sticking to Minimalism:
While simplicity has its charm, an overly austere bedroom can feel impersonal. Bedrooms are the most personal spaces, reflecting your tastes, passions, and memories. Embrace colors, textures, and designs that resonate with you. Wall art, decorative light fixtures, plush cushions, and intricate bedspreads can infuse life into the room, making it uniquely yours.
12. Over-Reliance on White:
While white symbolizes purity and calm, an all-white bedroom can come across as stark and unwelcoming. Feng shui advises against overly vibrant hues, but that doesn't mean you should shun colors altogether. Consider serene shades like teal or lime green that both soothe the senses and elevate the decor. If painting walls feels daunting, infuse color through bedding, throws, cushions, or curtains to break the monochrome monotony.
Crafting a masterpiece:
Curating the perfect bedroom is akin to crafting a masterpiece; it's an endeavor that calls for a fusion of aesthetics, functionality, and personal preferences. Our bedrooms are not just spaces where we retire at the end of a long day; they're sanctuaries, intimate spaces that echo our personalities, dreams, and aspirations. Every element, from the hues on the walls to the texture of the linens, plays a pivotal role in influencing our mood and overall well-being. Being cognizant of common decorating pitfalls can act as a guiding compass, steering us away from design choices that detract from the room's tranquility. Thoughtful and meticulous planning, paired with a dash of creativity, can lead to a harmonious blend of style, comfort, and practicality. By investing time and energy into the design process, we can ensure that our bedroom isn't just another room in the house but a soulful retreat that rejuvenates, comforts, and inspires us each day.
