Bedroom directions
say hello to the hot new design trends coming your way soon
1 Heads up
Big, bold headboards have made a welcome return to the bedroom – they’re an easy way to make the bed a focal point using colour, pattern and texture. If the headboard is an elaborate shape or has lots of detail, keep the fabric plain and textural; a simpler silhouette can take a vibrant pattern. If you opt for the latter, choose muted bed linen and walls and add a few patterned accents such as cushions or a rug. Be daring, adds Mandeep Dillon, creative director of Savoir Beds. ‘Headboards are an opportunity to make a strong statement, but you can always re-cover them as your taste changes or as trends move on.’ For a wide selection of headboards, try Loaf, from £275, which has designs in numerous fabrics.
2 LOWLIGHTS
Plan your bedroom lighting with care – it’s probably the most important in the home. ‘It’s often an afterthought to a room design, but it’s so important for creating a relaxed mood in a bedroom,’ says Nicky Line, creative and product director of Feather & Black. ‘A dramatic overhead statement piece is practical for those times when you need more light, while lamps either side of the bed are good for reading and winding down.’ Think beyond table lamps – wall lights and low-hung pendants beside the bed are on-trend alternatives and free up space on your bedside table. Make sure the switches are within easy reach of the bed, hotel style, so you don’t need to get up to turn them off. ‘A dimmer switch is also a good idea for waking up slowly, especially in winter,’ advises Lucy Helmore, buying and merchandise director of And So To Bed.
3 DISTINCTIVE PERSONALITY
What gives a room character? It’s all about mixing things up. From interesting colours and patterns to vintage finds and the odd unexpected touch, diverse elements bring a room to life. The last feature could be statement lighting, a family heirloom or just a quirky ornament, but it should be something that sparks joy. If you’re unsure about how to bring verve to a space, start with fabrics, suggests Nicky Line of Feather & Black. ‘Layering textures will inject interest and personality to a bedroom. Jacquard bed linen is a great way of adding pattern in a subtle style because the design is woven into the fabric. You can then layer more sumptuous textiles on top, such as velvet or knitted throws.’ Making a collage of family photos and artwork to hang above your bed is another great idea.
can you pull off more than one pattern in a bedroom? Absolutely – it’s all about balance. contrasting two designs creates a strong, clear message without overwhelming the senses: this could mean a bold wallpaper against a patterned rug or two clashing motifs on the bed. choose a unifying theme, such as geometrics or florals, and keep some areas plain to maintain a restful feel. ‘I like to use a calm colour on walls and then let fabrics do the talking on the headboard and curtains,’ says Mandeep Dillon of Savoir Beds. ‘extravagant patterns create a sense of fun.’ Finally, make sure you choose lighting that can hold its own against strong prints, as that will help everything hang together.