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Small Bedroom? 10 Ideas to make it functional and cozy

A small bedroom is one of the most challenging spaces to furnish because it contains the most cumbersome furniture, like the bed, which you can’t do without!

So, let’s see what to do when you have a small bedroom and want to make it functional and cozy!

– PRIORITIZE THE ESSENTIALS

If the bedroom is small, it’s best not to overcrowd it, as it might become stifling!

The bed and wardrobe are the essentials you can’t do without; everything else is extra!

For instance, you can have an integrated dresser in the wardrobe!

Consider the correct size of these elements, not just concerning the room’s size but what suits your needs as well.

Let me explain: if you’re single, there’s no point in getting a double bed; you could opt for a one-and-a-half size bed or, if you prefer, one of those single beds that, besides a headboard and footboard, also have a backrest.

With the proper pillows, these beds can transform into a sofa during the day, which can be helpful if the room also has other purposes, like a study!

The same goes for the length; if you’re not a basketball player, you can get a 1.90m bed instead of a 2.00m one.

In small spaces, even 10 cm can make a difference.

Arrange everything to have adequate space for moving around and comfortably accessing everything!

(credits: Elizabeth Roberts Architects; leroymerlin.it)

– UTILIZE VERTICAL SPACE

Especially for the wardrobe, utilize the height rather than the width.

Even if there is space for a medium-large wardrobe, look for a smaller but taller one.

The storage space will be the same, but the room will feel more open, potentially allowing space for another element.

You can also opt for a bridge wardrobe to use the entire bed wall and give the rest of the room more breathing space.

Consider placing shelves above the door as well to gain more storage space.

(credits: svenskfast.se; thatssogemma.com)

– PAY ATTENTION TO NIGHTSTANDS

Classic nightstands might not fit in small spaces, but as mentioned before, that’s not a good reason to go without them!

It’s essential to have something to place, if only an alarm clock, a book, or a pack of tissues.

Anything can serve as a nightstand, like a chair, or a stool (as long as it matches the chosen style!)

If you prefer, you can opt for two small shelves, cubes, or tiny suspended drawers.

And if it indeed becomes difficult, you can place a large shelf above the bed!

Obviously, if you’re single, you can have just one nightstand, even if you have a double bed!

Aesthetically, you can also choose two different types of nightstands, but if you want a balanced relationship, according to Feng Shui, the nightstands should be identical!

(credits: Fabmood.com; mykidstime.com)

– SIMPLE, LINEAR, AND MULTIFUNCTIONAL FURNITURE

As we’ve seen when discussing tiny homes in total, choosing furniture with simple and minimalist lines is a good idea to avoid weighing down the room!

Ideally, all furniture should have legs to allow you to glimpse the space underneath and create the impression of a larger environment.

For example, having a shelf or a hanging drawer as a nightstand allows you to use the space underneath, perhaps with a basket that, besides being decorative, will give you additional storage space.

In a small bedroom, it might be convenient to have a storage bed or a bed with drawers.

However, this can weigh down the environment a bit (in addition to not being ideal from a Feng Shui perspective, as it doesn’t allow energy to flow freely).

Always keeping your needs in mind, consider the possibility of a bed with legs and then potentially placing boxes (perhaps on wheels) underneath.

The boxes will be more hidden under the bed, revealing some of the floor, which will visually enlarge the space.

That will also help with cleaning, as you can effortlessly move the boxes, allowing energy to flow better, so it is better also from a Feng Shui perspective!!

(credits: zevemomo.com; joyfulderivatives.com)

– COLORS

As you know, light colors reflect light best and help make the room airy and bright.

However, as we’ve said other times, dark colors can be an excellent option for the bedroom.

That is because dark colors provide depth and are enveloping, giving the sensation of a hug!

Additionally, the fact that they don’t reflect light can help promote sleep.

Whether choosing light or dark colors, you only have to be mindful of avoiding high contrasts that can create somewhat a boundary and visually shrink the space.

Another consideration when choosing colors is to avoid vivid colors, except in small doses of minor elements.

That is because they are stimulating and do not promote good sleep!

Great colors for the bedroom are greens, blues, and browns in all their shades, from the lightest, almost neutral tones to the darker ones!

(credits: cocolapinedesign.com; Jotun)

– MIRRORS

A mirror should never be missing in a bedroom, especially if it’s the room where you get dressed: it’s paramount to check your appearance before going out!

If the room is small, the mirror becomes essential to enlarge it and increase the light visually!

An excellent position for the mirror would be opposite the window, but this is not ideal from a Feng Shui perspective, as it reflects energy back, so it’s better if it’s at least angled.

Speaking of Feng Shui, it’s also vital that the mirror does not reflect the bed and the person sleeping in it.

That is because reflecting energy could cause insomnia or interfere with restful sleep.

If no position of the mirror doesn’t reflect the bed and you don’t want to give up the mirror, try covering it at night!

(credits: @obsessed4interiors; spazifluidi.it)

– LIGHTING

As you’ve heard me say many times, light is always fundamental!

If it’s true, as mentioned earlier, that you can use dark colors in the bedroom, even if it’s small because they are enveloping and reassuring, it’s also true that for it to be cozy, you must accurately light it!

Natural light is always the best and most preferable, so be careful not to cover windows or French doors with furniture or heavy curtains.

Use lightweight, very sheer curtains to make the most of the light.

If you love double curtains, which are helpful in the bedroom to prevent nighttime lights from disturbing sleep, ensure they only cover the wall and leave the windows completely free when they are open.

Then, plan the artificial lighting well.

You won’t be surprised when I tell you it’s crucial to have multiple light sources: a general light, preferably dimmable, and then other light points, for sure near the bed and perhaps near the wardrobe.

The light should be warm, soft, and diffused to promote relaxation!

For the light near the bed, if you only have small shelves, use wall lights to avoid “stealing” space.

That is also a way to utilize heights, as I suggested in point two!

(credits: tlcinteriors.com.au; thathomebirdlife.com)

– ORDER

You expected this point, didn’t you?

Yes, order is vital in a small bedroom, primarily because clutter visually shrinks the room but also because it makes it far from inviting!

A room with fewer pieces of furniture (as I mentioned in the first point) and functional and intentionally chosen objects, kept well-organized, will undoubtedly be more welcoming and inviting!

Even from a Feng Shui perspective, clutter drains energy and thus disturbs sleep!

(credits: laredoute.com; heygraceann)

– DRESS THE BED

Whenever I discuss the bedroom, I emphasize the importance of dressing the bed.

You don’t need many things, as they could overwhelm the space!

But don’t forgo a few decorative pillows and perhaps a nice throw at the foot of the bed.

The bed will be super inviting, making the room, even the smallest one, truly elegant and cozy.

(credits: StyleRoom.se; apartmenttherapy.com)

– PLANTS AND SCENTS

Last but not least, to make the bedroom cozy are plants and scents!

No matter how small the room is, these two things should NEVER be missing!

For scents, a small aroma diffuser or those little bottles with sticks will be enough; You can place it on the nightstand without taking up too much space.

For plants, even only a leaf or some beautiful branches in a small vase will do, or you can utilize heights by hanging them or placing them on shelves!

(credits: bloglovin.com; amazon)

I hope this article has been helpful and enjoyable for you. If so, let me know in the comments!

Feel free to share it with anyone you think might be interested, I would be honored, and it will help me gain more exposure.

If you feel that your home, or any specific area of it, doesn’t reflect your personality enough, don’t wait any longer and book your consultancy!

20 May 2024/0 Comments/by Virginie Simonet

Bedroom: 4 color combinations, all to choose from!

interior design, Interior designer

Colors, as we know, can influence our emotions, so it’s essential to consider how we want to feel in a given environment to choose the right ones.

That applies to the entire house, but especially to the bedroom because it’s where we most need to feel good and safe, thus promoting also good sleep!

So today, we’ll look at some suitable bedroom color combinations!

– DARK AND MOODY BEDROOM COLOR COMBINATIONS

Using dark colors is ideal if you love the idea of a cozy and enveloping bedroom.

Using deep blues with a warm undertone, rich browns, and charcoal grays gives a comforting sense of intimacy, like a hug and a sense of security!

Moreover, they are associated with the concept of sophistication and depth.

Dark shades also significantly enhance the cone of light from every light source, which is less visible with light colors!

That creates a beautiful contrast with the dark tones and intensifies the feeling of intimacy!

– BLACKS AND DARK GRAYS

Black or anthracite grays are quite beautiful but not so easy to use because they can result in a flat look.

If you opt for a monochromatic combination, it’s wise to use different finishes and textures to add some movement and play!

Wallpaper could be an example, but also in textiles like blankets and pillows; this, in addition to the movement mentioned earlier, also helps to soften everything!

I suggest painting the ceiling white anyway to maintain a minimum of openness in the room; everything completely dark could become overwhelming!

Another way to brighten the room could be to dress the bed with light textiles!

That will create some contrast and, as with textures, soften the environment a bit.

Everything doesn’t need to be solid color; conversely, introducing patterns, once again, creates some play and movement.

These patterns can be tone-on-tone, playing with various saturations, or you can introduce some other color to contrast and brighten things up.

(credits: Ikea; Lovisa Häger foto Jesper Florbrandt)

– BROWNS

Browns are another way to create cozy and moody environments.

They are definitely lighter compared to blacks and also more natural.

However, it’s still a dark color, so it’s good to balance it with lighter shades.

For a more enveloping environment, with browns (if they’re not overly dark), you can use the same color for walls, floors, and ceilings.

Also, in this case, remember to play with textures and patterns to create movement!

(credits: @ideabedroom; @rustandtrust)

– DEEP BLUES

In general, blues are calming tones, making them perfect for the bedroom.

Certainly less dramatic than black, one can use blue with more ease!

Blues are fantastic when paired with browns because they are the exact opposite in temperature.

Brown warms up blue, giving the rooms a relaxing sensation.

You can use brown as a color, but it’s even better as a material like wood.

Another great way to brighten blues is by using brass elements; the contrast is pleasant and elegant.

In the case of a monochromatic pairing, again, I recommend playing not only with various shades of blue but also with different textures and patterns.

That creates movement and adds character to the room.

(credits: Jotun; Studio Enass)

– RELAXING AND REASSURING COMBINATIONS

For a relaxing and reassuring bedroom, softer colors like powder blue, sage green, and other pastel shades are most suitable.

These colors are associated with nature, such as water, sky, or tree leaves, elements that reinforce the feeling of calmness and tranquility.

– LIGHT BLUES

As we saw earlier, blues are calming colors, and lighter ones are reassuring and relaxing as well.

This color is cold and quite luminous, which will visually enlarge the room and give a sense of freshness and space.

One can use it on ceilings as well as walls, and even in a monochromatic pairing, the result will be pleasant and inviting.

Being so light, it almost becomes a neutral color and serves as a perfect background if you want to use some darker blue accents.

As mentioned earlier, it’s a cold color, so it’s always good to warm it up with elements like wood and wicker.

Alternatively, you can add a bit of cheerfulness by incorporating some touches of orange, its complementary color.

That will add some dynamism and make it more contemporary.

As always, to add some movement and character, it’s also good to play with textures and patterns here as well.

(credits: Ikea; dudasenna_garden)

– GREENS

Greens are relaxing and rejuvenating colors and come in numerous shades, from pale green to richer olive green.

Sage green is the most commonly used because it’s less intense and imposing than olive green and deeper than pale green.

Although a monochromatic pairing, always playing with textures and patterns, is undoubtedly appealing, I recommend adding some browns either as colors or as elements like wood.

That combination is fabulous because it emphasizes the connection to nature!

(credits: @ideabedroom; posterstore)

– DUST PINK

Pink is a very delicate color, and if taken with a slight hint of brown, it’s perfect not only for a nursery but also for a master bedroom.

However, avoid candy pink or overly “sugary” shades, which are actually more challenging to pair and can become somewhat noisy!

Since it’s a very light color, it’s wise to have a few darker elements to add depth to the room.

If you don’t like dark colors, create contrast with whites to prevent the pink from becoming too flat.

(credits: @emilycapes1; stylebyemilyhenderson.com)

– LIGHT GRAYS

Light grays are the ultimate neutral colors for relaxing and reassuring bedrooms.

However, if you choose this color, you’ll need to pay close attention to its undertone, which could tend towards blue, green, or yellow.

The undertone drastically changes the perception of the environment.

Be careful to choose the one that best suits the existing finishes and furniture.

There is also a subcategory of gray called “greige,” a mix of gray and beige.

It’s a warm, enveloping color, very pleasant and subtle, with a contemporary and harmonious feel.

(credits: alvhem.com; Viktoria Askerow)

– WHITE BASES COMBINATIONS

We can’t talk about bedrooms without mentioning whites.

Whites are bright, timeless colors that complement every style and easily pair with any other color.

But, as explained here, it’s easy to say white because, besides pure white, there are at least another 150 shades, depending on its undertone!!!

Some people don’t like white because they think it can be flat and monotonous; however, it’s actually the perfect backdrop for any feeling you want to evoke.

Moreover, you only need to change details such as blankets, pillows, and a few decorative elements to have an ever-changing room.

Even a total white look can be fascinating if you create movement with different textures, finishes, and patterns, too!

(credits: lifeoncedarlane.com; thebrainandthebrawn.com)

– VIBRANT AND ENERGIZING COMBINATIONS

For an energizing bedroom, it’s good to use warm colors like red, peach, salmon pink, yellows, and oranges.

The advice with all these colors (especially red, yellow, and orange) is to avoid their most vibrant version because they would be too stimulating and disturb sleep.

Use these shades in less saturated versions by adding white for lighter colors, grays, or blacks for darker colors.

This way, you’ll retain their energizing properties while creating a more relaxed and tranquil atmosphere.

Use the brighter tones in small accent elements like pillows or some decorations!

(credits: clemaroundthecorner.com; @toc_estudiocreativo)

– HOW TO CHOOSE THE VARIOUS BEDROOM COLOR COMBINATIONS

The choice between these color combinations will depend on the feelings you want to experience in your bedroom.

Another element to consider in the choice is the existing finishes, such as the flooring, unless you decide to change it (that’s also a color to think about).

If you’re having difficulty making a choice, you could start with something you love, like the headboard of the bed, a particular painting, a rug, etc.

Additionally, consider how much natural light enters the room and its orientation.

As we’ve seen other times, a north-facing room receives colder light than one facing south!

I hope this article about bedroom color combinations has been helpful and enjoyable for you. If so, let me know in the comments!

Feel free to share it with anyone you think might be interested, I would be honored, and it will help me gain more exposure.

If you feel that your home, or any specific area of it, doesn’t reflect your personality enough, don’t wait any longer and book your consultancy!

26 February 2024/0 Comments/by Virginie Simonet

Small Bedroom: 8 tips to make it comfortable!

Interior designer

The bedroom is where we spend one-third of our lives; it’s a room that affects our sleep and, consequently, our days!

Compared to other rooms, we often give less importance to the bedroom because it’s the one we see only ourselves.

On the contrary, it should be the one we prioritize because it’s where we drop all our defenses when we go to sleep, and to sleep well, we really need to feel comfortable!

Today, we will explore some ideas on how to make the bedroom comfortable and restful even when the space is small.

1 – ORGANIZATION AND TIDINESS

In small spaces, it’s best to limit the number of furniture and accessories to avoid making the room feel overcrowded and suffocating.

Consider seeking multifunctional pieces, such as a storage bed, and utilize vertical space by opting for taller wardrobes.

Having fewer well-thought-out items will create a more functional environment.

(credits: cocolapinedesign.com; Olivia Thébaut)

Watch out for clutter too, because it can create subconscious discomfort that might disrupt sleep.

Avoid going overboard with wall decorations as well: a gallery of photos or paintings covering the entire wall can feel overwhelming and create visual clutter.

Choose a few larger pieces and leave some empty spaces.

A well-maintained and organized room will promote relaxation and make you feel comfortable.

(credits: stylecurator.com.au; @homeprojetos)

2 – COLORS

When dealing with a small space, to minimize visual contrast is paramount to avoid visual “barriers.”

That said, you can choose both light and dark colors!

Light colors will reflect light and make the room appear visually more spacious.

Neutral and soft tones will create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

Alternatively, you can opt for darker colors to create a slightly more dramatic atmosphere!

Dark colors reflect less light, which can be conducive to better sleep.

Additionally, they provide a sense of depth, giving the impression of a larger room!

(credits: cocolapinedesign.com; Pella Hedeby)

3 – PATTERNS AND DESIGNS

Whether they are on the wall or on the bedspread, look for patterns that are proportionate to the room and, ideally, not too contrasting with the colors you’ve used.

Maintaining some uniformity helps create the perception of a larger room and makes the environment relaxing and inviting.

Don’t give up on patterns and designs if you like them, but don’t overuse them: they could overwhelm the room!

If you’re using wallpaper, choose one that’s not too contrasting with the rest of the space and consider using it only on the wall behind the bed, again to avoid visually shrinking the room!

(credits: littlemissfearless.com; colinandfinn.com)

4 – FURNITURE

The two main pieces of furniture in a bedroom are the bed and the wardrobe.

When choosing and positioning them, pay attention to maneuvering space; everything should be easily accessible!

Around the bed, the minimum clearance should be about 24 inches (60 cm), even just for the practicality of making the bed.

Having this space on all three sides might not be feasible, but still, try to maintain some distance from the wall on the side where you can’t have the whole 24 inches (60 cm).

As mentioned earlier, a storage bed is an excellent solution in a small bedroom, but be mindful of your choice!

If space is limited, a bed with drawers might not be the best option; a bed with a lift-up frame is a better choice!

(credits: Solteiras Noivas Casadas; onekindesign.com)

No matter how small the space is, a nightstand is essential, even if it’s just a tiny shelf.

To create a sense of more space, consider using wall-mounted nightstands: seeing the floor visually enlarges the room.

You can always place baskets underneath them: they add warmth and movement and are helpful for storage without crowding the space.

(credits: mykidstime.com; joyfulderivatives.com)

Maximize the available space, including height, when it comes to the wardrobe.

It might be better to get a wardrobe with sliding doors for more practicality!

You could also consider mirrored doors (perhaps not for the entire wardrobe).

That will be functional for getting a full-length view of yourself and will visually expand the space.

(credits: a-r-s.ru; MB Fitted Furniture)

5 – DRESS THE BED

It may seem trivial or a waste of time, but a “dressed” bed will make the room more inviting and comfortable, and if it’s small, it will transform it into a snug nest!

When I say “dress the bed,” I mean not just limiting yourself to a bedspread or duvet but adding some decorative pillows and even one or more blankets at the foot of the bed.

You’ll bring texture and movement with just a few elements but, most importantly, warmth to your bedroom!

That is significant in every bedroom, but it becomes even more crucial when it’s small to make it comfortable: a little gem!

(credits: studio-mcgee.com; oneaffirmation.com)

6 – LIGHTING

Having layered lighting is always advisable, especially in a small bedroom, to make it comfortable!

Relying solely on the central light fixture is not enough for proper illumination, and it will flatten the environment, making it appear visually smaller!

To save valuable space on the nightstands, use wall lamps or, in the case of renovation, consider installing ceiling lights, which can be quite dramatic!

(credits: kyliejackes.com; @the_citizenry)

7 – PLANTS

By now, we’ve understood that plants can be placed in the bedroom (of course, without turning it into a forest!)

If you want to know more about it, you can watch this video!

We also know that plants make us feel closer to nature, thereby promoting relaxation!

So, bringing a few plants into the bedroom is the ideal choice to create comfort.

You don’t need large plants; even a vase with a few branches will do!

Just like with lights, to save valuable surfaces, you can also hang them!

(credits: westwing.it; bloglovin.com)

8 – SCENTS

Finally, to make the small bedroom relaxing and comfortable, use scents!

You can bring them in with scented candles, a vase of flowers, or diffusers.

All of these things don’t take up too much space but will make your small bedroom inviting!

Certain fragrances like lavender, chamomile, vanilla, jasmine, and bergamot promote sleep because they calm the nervous system!

(credits: westwing.it; theoakcollective.com)

I hope this article has been helpful and enjoyable for you. If so, let me know in the comments!

Feel free to share it with anyone you think might be interested, I would be honored, and it will help me gain more exposure.

If you feel that your home, or any specific area of it, doesn’t reflect your personality enough, don’t wait any longer and book your consultancy!

11 September 2023/0 Comments/by Virginie Simonet

Bedroom: 6 mistakes that will ruin your sleep!

interior design, Interior designer

The bedroom is where we spend a third of our lives, and it’s where we should successfully get a good, restorative sleep to recharge our batteries and face the following day.

Proper bedroom design becomes truly vital, as the risk, otherwise, is to spoil your rest.

The bedroom should give us a feeling of calm, relaxation, and serenity to promote sleep.

Let’s see how to design the bedroom, regardless of its size, style, or budget available!

1 – PAY ATTENTION TO COLORS

Color has a powerful psychological impact (I talked about it here), so it’s paramount to have a relaxing color palette!

The colors should be soft and inviting.

Neutral colors are definitely a great choice, but in general, you can also choose colors like blues and greens, which remind us of nature’s colors!

You can also combine these colors to create a pleasant, calming, and relaxing palette.

(credits: athoughtfulplaceblog.com; Domino)

If your home has a vibrant color palette, you don’t have to give it up for your bedroom.

Just make it more neutral by adding white for light colors or black for dark colors.

If you love vibrant colors, you can still use them but in littler elements, like pillows or decorative blankets.

That will allow you to have that vibrant touch while maintaining a calm and serene mood.

(credits: homesweethome.co; etsy.com)

2 – PAY ATTENTION TO LIGHT

For a good rest, it’s essential that the room is completely dark; it has been scientifically proven.

If you have blinds that can be fully closed, adjustable slatted shutters, or blackout shutters, you won’t have any problems.

However, if that’s not the case, it’s essential to use the proper curtains to darken the room.

If you like draped curtains, you can opt for double-layered curtains with sheer panels and blackout ones.

If you find double-layered drapery too classic and prefer a more modern look, you can always mix two types of curtains!

You can combine draped curtains with roller blinds.

For example, you could have sheer draped curtains with a blackout roller blind, or vice versa!

(credits: inredningshjalpen.com; lillytaylorinteriors)

There’s also the option of having double-layered roller blinds for an ultra-modern style.

Whichever type of double-layered curtains you choose, not only will help darken the room better but also add some movement and contrast, creating visual interest.

The colors of the curtains, needless to say, should harmonize with the rest of the room’s colors.

(credits: tau.com austarchitect.com)

3 – PAY ATTENTION TO THE LIGHTING

In the bedroom, lighting must also be designed to promote sleep!

It will be crucial to choose, thus, bulbs with a warm color temperature, around 2700 degrees Kelvin.

This temperature reminds one of the sunsets and helps cellular relaxation.

Also, be careful with the wattage of the bulbs: they should not be too strong!

You can put some additional, punctual lights in the closet area to see better, but stay soft in the rest of the room.

Another great idea is to use lampshades that can further soften the light!

(credits: essenziale-hd.com; lights.com)

4 – TAKE CARE OF THE BED

To sleep well, the bed must be comfortable and inviting.

First and foremost, you should choose a suitable bed frame, mattress, and pillows according to your needs.

Then, it’s paramount to select the right bedsheets that are soft and pleasant to the touch, making you feel embraced and welcomed.

In addition to well-known fabrics like cotton, linen, and silk, you may not be aware of bamboo sheets!

They are said to be very soft, hypoallergenic, and temperature-regulating, preventing night sweats.

They are also reputed to be fantastic for skin and hair care, similar to silk.

(credits: halemercantileco.com; ellos.se)

Make your bed inviting and attractive by “dressing it up.”

Use a beautiful bedspread or duvet, and add a blanket at the foot of the bed made of a different material to create some movement and subtle contrast.

Also, add some decorative pillows to add a touch of playfulness, patterns, and colors.

A well-cared-for bed not only adds a touch of elegance to the room but also makes it pleasant and enticing.

It will make going to bed even more enjoyable!

(credits: oneaffirmation.com; zdesignathome.com)

5 – KEEP THINGS TIDY!

Beyond the purely aesthetic aspect, having a cluttered or overly crowded bedroom creates a subconscious disturbance that can hinder a good night’s sleep.

It’s vital, therefore, to keep the room well-organized and everything in its place.

In addition to traditional furniture, you can add more storage under the bed or as a bench or ottoman.

If you have an open nightstand, consider placing baskets underneath to store items that may be visually bothersome.

(credits: urbanoutfitters.com; joyfulderivatives.com)

That applies to decorations as well!

Avoid having too many pictures on the walls; it’s better to have a single large piece that serves as a focal point.

(credits: Laura Resen; stylecurator.com.au)

6 – BRING NATURE INTO THE BEDROOM

I couldn’t conclude without mentioning this point.

By now, we have established that the idea that having plants in the bedroom is harmful is incorrect (if you missed it, you find the interview with Simona, aka “Nina the urban gardener,” here).

On the contrary, Simona tells us that some plants even have purifying properties and, thus, they are beneficial to our health.

Having plants in the bedroom is psychologically beneficial because it makes us feel closer to nature, which aids relaxation.

They can only be vases with branches and leaves, but if space allows, you could even have large pots with big plants!

You can also enhance the ambiance with natural fragrances such as lavender, lemon balm, or chamomile.

These scents are subtle, relaxing, and promote sleep.

(credits: westwing.it; ingredientsldn.com)

I hope this article was helpful and you love it; in case, let me know in the comments!

Feel free to share it with anyone you think might be interested, I will be honored, and it will help me get my name out there.

If you feel that your home, or some environment of it, does not reflect you enough, do not wait any longer and book your consultancy!

26 June 2023/0 Comments/by Virginie Simonet

Designing the perfect bedroom: here is how!

interior design, Interior designer

Today I would like to talk about designing the perfect bedroom so that it is a super inviting, relaxing, and beautiful room!

The bedroom is the most intimate and personal room, and it is often the one we care for the least because “only I see it anyway”!

Actually, it should be the one we pay the most attention to because it is the one where we drop all our defenses when we go to sleep, so it is the one that should make us feel the best of all!

So let’s look at some suggestions to make the perfect bedroom for you!

– USE THE RIGHT COLORS

Use soothing and cozy colors, colors that can make you feel good.

Recommended colors for the bedroom are shades of green, beige, and light blues, but really any color that you feel is yours will do!

The only caution will be not to use too vivid colors, except as an accent, but try to make it more neutral by adding white if you want light colors or black or gray if you want darker colors.

Doing this will allow you to have your favorite color, making it softer.

As you noticed, I mentioned not only light colors but also dark colors; this is because dark colors make the room more intimate, and therefore, it could really be a good idea for the bedroom!

(credits: lillytaylorinteriors; Pella Hedeby)

– CUSTOMIZE THE BED WALL

In most cases, the bed wall is the focal point of the room, so make it significant for you!

It could be a simple painting that has a special meaning or excites you, or a photo gallery or the display of particular objects; there is no rule: the important thing is that it draws you in and excites you!

Here are some ideas on how to decorate a bed wall.

(credits: bobbyberk.com; Bria Hammel Interiors)

– CHOOSE THE RIGHT BED

By the right bed, I don’t mean so much the aesthetic part, which certainly has its importance, as much as the bed base and mattress so that you can have a good sleep!

These are two items, especially the mattress, that you really cannot go cheap on!

It is absolutely essential to get the right products that will allow you to get the best rest because only then will you be fresh and relaxed to face the coming day!

The bed frame is an extra, which will undoubtedly be important aesthetically but not functionally.

You might even decide to have only one particular headboard, maybe only designed on the wall on the wall!

(Here you can find some ideas for the bed headboard!)

(credits: amazingbargains.com; @CarleysWorld)

– I RECOMMEND THE NIGHTSTANDS!!!

No matter how small the bedroom is, it is really paramount to have something to serve as a countertop next to the bed!

That is for being able to rest the necessities, from an alarm clock to a book or even the phone (although that would be better not to have it near at night)!

If you don’t like classic nightstands, you can use a chair or place a super simple shelf, but it’s really mandatory to have something!

It will also be relevant to pay attention to the height of this tabletop for easy use, which should be at mattress height.

When this is not possible, it should be a little higher, but a maximum of 10cm!

(credits: shoppe.puresaltinteriors.com; royaldesign.se)

– DON’T PURSUE SYMMETRY AT ALL COSTS!

When choosing nightstands, you don’t have to feel compelled to buy them the same, perhaps coordinating with the bed and closet.

This choice is often made because symmetry is thought to be visually more beautiful in the bedroom!

Well, NO, it is not mandatory; an asymmetry, on the contrary, if well balanced, could make everything much more interesting!

Also, if there are two of you, you likely have different tastes and, above all, different needs, so one type of nightstand may suit one but not the other!

So don’t worry if there are two different nightstands in terms of shape: the important thing will be that they can perhaps have a commonality like color or material!

If then the two nightstands were also very different as visual weights, you could balance them with lamps, pictures, or, why not, a plant!

(credits: stylebyemilyhenderson.com; modsy.com)

– ABATJOUR

While having multiple lighting points is always very important, in the bedroom even more so: it is essential to have a light near the bed.

It can be a table lamp to rest on the nightstand, a sconce light, or even (and we increasingly see more and more of these) pendant lights.

Some renovation work obviously needs to be done for the latter, but they have a spectacular effect that is truly amazing!

Wall lamps might be more functional where the bedside table top is cramped to avoid “stealing” practicable space for something else!

Another crucial thing in designing the perfect bedroom is the color temperature of the bulbs!

In the bedroom, it is preferable to use warm lights because they remind our brain of the color of the sunset, and this puts us in a position to relax and then sleep better.

(credits: behance.net; target.com)

– THINK ABOUT CONTAINING

It may sound silly to you because you definitely have a closet, but it’s essential that the bedroom is really uncluttered!

That is because the disorder creates unconscious discomfort that can also disrupt sleep.

So think about having more storage elements: in addition to the possible dresser, it can be the bed with a box or drawers, but it can also be boxes to put under the bed.

It could be a bench at the foot of the bed or even a simple ottoman.

(credits: Ikea; urbanoutfitters.com)

– ADD A SITTING

The bed should only be used for sleeping, so here, to make the room functional, it is relevant to add extra seating.

That can be useful for sitting down when you need to put on socks or shoes or to lay down a dress without precisely touching the bed!

Moreover, as seen in the previous point, the seat could be a container, thus also becoming a multifunctional element!

Not only that, it brings shapes and textures, and this gives some rhythm and movement to the room.

(credits: Pretty-Honeydew; Homepolish)

– USE THE RUG

The rug, as always, is a controversial element: if you think about it for the living room, it is much more difficult for this to happen in the bedroom!

And I’m not talking about the bedside rugs, which, let’s face it, are kind of sad!

I’m talking about a nice big rug to accommodate the bed, nightstands, and possible bench at the foot of the bed!

That will create an even more intimate sleeping area, but more importantly, it will be functional to avoid resting your feet on the cold floor!

And, again, it will contribute textures and colors, making the room more inviting!

(credits: Kristin DuFour; hartleyhomedesign.com)

– DON’T FORGET THE MIRROR.

The bedroom is the place, 99 out of 100, where you dress and get ready for the day, so it is paramount to have a mirror where you can check that you are in order!

Personally, I really love the mirror resting on the floor, but the important thing is that it is a long mirror in which you can see yourself entirely!

The mirror also doubles the light giving more breadth to the room!

(credits: ideasdonuts.com; nestingwithgrace.com)

– CHOOSE THE SHEETS WELL

Like with the mattress and the bed base, it is important to feel “welcomed” by the bed sheets too!

As with room colors in general, I would advise against colors or patterns that are too strong because they excite and do not help sleep.

Choosing quality bedding that makes you feel a little snuggled and pampered will also be essential!

Therefore, choose good quality cotton or linen.

Of course, there are also satin and silk, and for them, allow me a very small digression: they are great for skin and hair care!

A satin or silk pillowcase will leave your facial skin brighter and the same for your hair by drastically avoiding knots, and for us curly-haired people, for example, it’s a boon!

Having closed this short aesthetic digression, having soft and snug sheets will surely help you sleep better!

(credits: ellos.se; sheetsociety.com)

– DRESS THE BED

Don’t settle for putting a simple, albeit beautiful, bedspread on your bed: it would look a bit “incomplete”.

Add some decorative pillows and blankets to the bottom of the bed!

You might think it’s a bother to take everything off in the evening and put it back on in the morning, but this time will be amply rewarded!

Blankets and pillows will give that extra touch to your bed and the whole bedroom, especially if you choose different materials, textures, and colors, creating some contrast.

That will give some movement and character, but most importantly, it will make the bed and room even more inviting and cozy!

(credits: zdesignathome.com; messybits.com)

I hope this article was helpful and you love it; in case, let me know in the comments!

Feel free to share it with anyone you think might be interested, I will be honored, and it will help me get my name out there.

If you feel that your home, or some environment of it, does not reflect you enough, do not wait any longer and book your consultancy!

2 January 2023/0 Comments/by Virginie Simonet

7 tips on how to place furniture

interior design

It’s a question I’m often asked: “How to place furniture in different rooms to make the most of space?”

So today I will try to give you some tips on how to move, room by room!

First, I’ll give you 3 suggestions that apply to any room.

1 – THINK ABOUT THE FUNCTION YOU WANT TO GIVE THAT ROOM.

When you think about putting furniture in a particular space, think about how you would like to use that space or what function best suits your needs, whether because of the space available or its location within the house.

Knowing what you want to do in that room will allow you to choose the right furniture and accessories and organize the space in a manner that is most functional for you!

For example, you might want the living room as a conversation area; in this case, thus, you will not limit yourself to having one sofa, but perhaps you’ll take two and put them facing each other.

However, if the same living room is used more for watching television than anything else, understand that the solution above is not the best!

Better to have a sofa that can stand in front of the television.

(credit: lbmdesignstudio.com; @carinas_385)

2 – START WITH THE LARGEST PIECES OF FURNITURE

That sounds trivial, but it’s not!

If you are not careful, you risk creating disharmony and imbalance.

Starting with the larger piece of furniture will then help you add the other items you need so that they remain proportionate to the first one and so that you can create a good balance between the elements.

(credit: etsy.com, Pure Salt interiors)

I’ve often said good design is about scale, proportions, and balance: if you don’t start with the larger piece, the risk is to overcrowd the room, making it stuffy!

3 – ALWAYS ALLOW PASSAGE

In placing furniture, always look at the ease of use: getting in and out and moving around the room must be easy!

So think about how people get in, get out, and experience the room (obviously, you first!).

It is essential to be able to move with agility without having to do the obstacle course; the fluidity of the paths will make the rooms even more functional!

(credit: optimaproperties.com)

As mentioned previously, these three suggestions are valid for any room; now, let’s see more specific tips for each room.

LIVING ROOM

4 – LOOK FOR THE FOCAL POINT

The focal point in the living room could be the television wall, a fireplace, or, for the lucky ones, a beautiful window with a stunning view.

(credit: @decoratinglife.ca; Pinterest)

Having found this, position the furniture so that it faces this to emphasize it even more.

5 – CREATE A “CONVERSATION” AREA

As mentioned before, maybe you use the living room mainly to watch television, but it is still easy to happen to have guests in the house.

A single big linear sofa is not the best for encouraging conversation.

Better a corner sofa if there is space or a smaller sofa and some seating.

That will allow you to maintain the principal function of watching television without compromising on a pleasant chat with friends and relatives.

(credit: hgtv; Marc Williams Furniture)

Also, remember to have some countertops near the seats, such as a coffee table; this will allow you and your guests to be able to rest any glasses or plates!

Please note: Furniture and sofas do NOT have to be necessarily against the walls!

BEDROOM

6-USE THE BED TO CATCH THE EYE

In some rooms, you don’t have much choice, and you necessarily have to place the bed in a certain way, but where you can, think about how you want to use the rest of the space.

In large rooms, you might want a study or a small sitting area; based on that, then decide where to put the bed!

(credit: etsy.com; Maisons du monde)

Remember that, as with living, the bed doesn’t need to be against the wall: you could also put it crosswise.

DINING ROOM.

7 – CHOOSE THE RIGHT TABLE

We saw this in detail a few weeks ago (you can find it here): by understanding the size of the space we can dedicate to the dining room, you would be able to choose the right table, such as shape and size.

It will be essential to have a proportionate rug, especially if the dining area is part of the living room, to divide the space optically.

After the table, the other choices will follow, such as lighting, chairs, and possible sideboards!

While the function of the dining room is clear, it will be paramount for the choice and placement of furniture to understand how much and how you use this room.

(credit: curateanddisplay.co.uk; thelilypadcottage.com)

If you love to have a lot of guests, obviously, it will be more functional to have a large table (always proportionate to the space, mind you!) and perhaps sacrifice storage furniture instead.

Conversely, if you have a more intimate number of guests, you can opt for a smaller table, perhaps extendable, and thus have more space for other furniture.

I hope this article on how to place furniture was helpful and you love it; in case, let me know in the comments!

Feel free to share it with anyone you think might be interested, I will be honored, and it will help me get my name out there.

If you feel that your home, or some environment of it, does not reflect you enough, do not wait any longer and book your consultancy!

1 March 2021/0 Comments/by Virginie Simonet

Decorate the bedroom: here are 10 essential elements!

interior design, Interior designer

It is paramount to decorate the bedroom well because it is the most intimate room in the house and the most important since it is where we rest and thus actually recharge our batteries.

Furniture, colors, textiles, and objects are the means that will help create the atmosphere of our rooms, and in the bedroom, this takes on even more importance.

Today I would like to tell you about 10 essential elements to consider when decorating your bedroom, which will help you feel comfortable and relaxed.

A good night’s sleep will enable you to face each day in the best possible way.

1) CHOOSE THE RIGHT COLORS

I repeat myself, but color plays a really very important role in homes.

Having a psychological implication, choosing the right color becomes crucial; the risk is not feeling comfortable and, in the bedroom, not resting properly!

It is advisable to choose, in the bedroom, colors that relax and soothe.

(Fabmood.com) (Fabmood.com)

Earth tones, sand, dusty blues, greens, and soft pinks are colors that suggest tranquility and serenity.

That does not mean having to give up slightly brighter colors, in which case the ideal is to use it as an accent color, perhaps in the bedspread or pillows, while keeping more neutral colors in the rest of the room.

(Apartmenttherapy.com) (caldwellflake.com)

2) MIRRORS

The mirror, especially if it is vertical, is functional because it helps you get ready for the day!

It will make the room brighter and airy, making it also look bigger by reflecting light!

It also gives style and character to your bedroom by having different shapes and sizes to choose from!

(coolchicstylefashion.com) (songofstyle.com)

3) FRAGRANCES

As said many times, a good design is not limited to the aesthetic part; we need to experience an environment with all 5 of our senses.

The sense of smell is one of them, and it is among the most powerful because scents can influence brain activity.

It is proven that some fragrances bring benefits to our well-being.

A good fragrance in your room may help you fall asleep more easily.

Lavender, vanilla, jasmine, chamomile, bergamot, and rose are among the best essences to promote sleep because they help slow down our nervous system.

Scented candles, diffusers, and flowers are all ways to bring your favorite fragrances into your room.

These then will also be useful to give that extra aesthetic touch to the room.

(Etsy.com) (pfcandleco.eu)

(theoakcollective.com) (unsplash.com)

4) CURTAINS

As with the living room, curtains dress the windows, complement the whole, and give warmth.

And again, they will be the best way to introduce colors and patterns!

Curtains also will be beneficial in darkening the room and thus allowing you a better sleep.

If the light is vital during the day, you should know that at night even a little glimmer of it decreases your melatonin intake, ruining your rest.

The ideal to do this is to use two different types of curtains, one light to let light through during the day while maintaining the privacy and one thicker that can darken the room when needed, especially at night.

(estiloydeco.com) (inredningshjalpen.com)

5) PLANTS

Perhaps you, too, grew up with the idea that you can’t keep plants in your room because they absorb oxygen and release carbon dioxide!

Whereas, this is not the case!

Because while it is true that they do release carbon dioxide at night, this is so little that it does not have the slightest impact on us (if you make your room a forest, maybe so, but in general…).

The positive effects, on the other hand, are many:

– they absorb harmful substances in your home environment, improving the quality of the air you breathe;

– they have a relevant psychological implications because they make you feel closer to nature…

Aloe vera, spathiphyllum, sansevieria, orchid, pothos, and lavender are ideal for the bedroom.

(@arrowsandapricots) (ingredientsldn.com)

The right plant for your bedroom will not only purify the air, making you feel more relaxed and thus promote rest but will give the room freshness and liveliness.

With the right vases, you will also add a touch of design!

6) SOFT TEXTILES

Feeling wrapped and pampered before, during, and after sleep will really make a big difference!

Rugs, pillows, and bedding should feel soft and pleasant to the touch to make you 100% relaxed and always comfortable.

(cottage-bound.com) (cottage-bound.com)

Adding a blanket, almost thrown in, adds warmth, softness, and color!

7) WARM LIGHT

Light is, of course, super important in every room of the house, but it takes on a prominent role, especially in the bedroom.

Warm, soft, indirect light is ideal for creating an intimate and relaxing atmosphere.

For this room, you should choose bulbs with a warm color temperature of around 2700 degrees kelvin (if you want to learn more, I talk about lighting and color temperature here)

For the bedside lamps, prefer those with shades that can soften the light and bulbs with not too high lumens-you only need them for reading, not for lighting the whole room!

(Adrienne DeRosa ph) (dserbadesign.com)

8) ONE MORE SEAT

An extra seat near or at the foot of the bed increases the functionality of your bedroom while also helping to add color and material.

You can use it for seating when you need to put on socks or shoes or to prop up an outfit without having to lean it against the bed: that’s for sleeping!

(cityfarmhouse.com) (mydomaine.com)

A bench, armchair, or pouf will then give that extra touch that will give character to your room.

9) STORAGE ITEMS

Clutter is definitely anti-aesthetic, so storage elements are really essential.

I’m not just talking about the closet, or the walk-in closet, for the lucky ones, but also dressers, nightstands, and why not storage benches and ottomans.

That will help to store as many things as possible, leaving the room looking large and tidy.

(jacquelynclark.com) (weswingnow.it)

Also, aesthetically, they will add color and material, as said in the previous point, and could be special pieces that will make your room truly unique.

10) PERSONAL DECORATIONS

Last but not least, make the space truly yours by using decorations and objects that represent you.

The personal touch can never be lacking, least of all in the bedroom, to make the environment familiar and intimate.

Photographs, paintings, souvenirs, books, and various objects that have value to you are ideal for leaving your mark on your room.

They can be the unique piece, the focal point that attracts the eye, or somehow merged by picking up colors and shapes in other parts of the bedroom.