Bedroom Design Fundamentals: Creating a Relaxing Retreat in Your Home

Welcome to our guide on crafting the ultimate sanctuary – your bedroom! We're diving into the nitty-gritty details of bedroom design to help you properly masterplan your space.

Rugs

Let's start from the ground up, quite literally, with rugs. If your feet are tired of meeting the cold, hard floor every morning, it's time to bring in our trusty friend. Even with wall-to-wall carpeting, adding a rug can level up the look and dimension of your space. Ideally, your rug should have at least 24 inches on all three sides of your bed. If the rug is similar in width to your bed, it will look disproportionate. For a twin bed, we recommend a 5'x8' rug minimum. For a full/queen bed, we recommend a 6'x9' rug minimum. For a king bed, we recommend an 8'x10' rug minimum. Delve into all things rugs HERE.

Matching Sets

Matching sets are like the fast food of bedroom design – convenient but not the most creative option. You should spice things up by mixing materials and colors. Add a pop of lightness to contrast dark woods or a fabric to soften a sterile space. Banish the copy-and-paste vibes and curate a space unique to you! 

Note how the white nightstands contrast the upholstered headboard with a wood trim. Everything does not always need to match exactly. Challenge yourself to mix things up!

MatTresses

Choosing the perfect mattress is more than just picking a comfortable place to sleep. It involves multiple factors you might not have considered: mattress type, the right support system, protective covers, and even the ideal height that complements your other bedroom furniture. We've crafted a comprehensive mattress guide HERE that breaks down every aspect, empowering you to make an informed decision.

Nightstands

Nightstands can be functional and decorative, the unsung heroes of the bedroom. Consider your storage needs – do you need a drawer for your ever-expanding collection of bedtime stories or a countertop space to charge your phone? Size does matter – though you do need to consider the measurements of your room, you don't want a king bed with a measly side table! For a twin bed, we recommend a 20” wide nightstand. However, if two twin beds share a room, you can size up! For a full/queen bed, we recommend a 20-30” wide nightstand. For a king bed, we recommend a 24” + wide nightstand.

When selecting a nightstand, consider both style and functionality. Choose a design that reflects your personal taste while providing adequate storage and space for lighting. Nightstands come in various materials, including wood, metal, stone, and acrylic, allowing you to mix and match for a unique look. If you keep water by your bed, consider a stone-topped nightstand to protect against spills and add a touch of elegance to your bedroom decor.

Remember, don’t be afraid to mix and match your nightstands with the rest of your furniture in your room!

Pro tip: Keep the height of your nightstand within 4 inches below or above your mattress. You should be able to easily reach the countertop from your bed without falling to the ground or standing atop your mattress.

LIGHTING

Use lighting to set the mood and create a cozy ambiance. Chandeliers, pendants, sconces, table lamps, swing arm and floor lamps - the options are endless! Use our lighting guide to find the pieces perfect for your space!

Pro tip: For table lamps, particularly on nightstands, we recommend choosing lamps around 30" or taller to add height and cast a pleasant glow. However, ensure the lamp isn't taller than your nightstand. If you have a low-profile nightstand, opt for a smaller lamp to maintain the proper proportion.

By thoughtfully combining different light sources and sizes, you can create a well-lit, visually appealing space that adapts to your needs throughout the day.

DRAPERY

Drapery can make such a difference in your room!  It can help block out light but also can add a soft texture that just frames your window plus just makes them look complete. CLICK HERE to find out everything you need to know about drapery.

BENCHES

Lastly, if you have space for a bench at the foot of your bed – that’s icing on the cake! Whether you go for one long bench or two shorter ones, ensure the width adds up to three-quarters or more of your bed's width. And don't forget the height – a few inches shorter than the top of the mattress ensures a harmonious balance. A bench can help add function and style in a bedroom.  Whether it’s an additional perch to lace up your shoes or a hidden spot for additional storage!