Creating a Beautiful Serene Bedroom

by Joan Findley-Perls

As I work on ideas for organizing each room in the house, I realize that I don't have a very big collection ideas for organizing the bedroom except for having to do with clothing.  That's because I believe your bedroom should be kept very simple.  This is a refuge for sleep, rest and intimacy and shouldn't be a place to store much at all.  

Whether you share your bedroom with a partner or enjoy having it to yourself, this room should have nothing it it that will distract, annoy or agitate you in any way, but rather should only hold things that add to your peace of mind and enjoyment. This February, take some time to make your bedroom the perfect beautiful and peaceful space that you desire.  

1. Declutter 
Start by decluttering and simplifying the room.  Clear the surfaces of anything that isn't either absolutely necessary or that you absolutely love.  Put anything that belongs elsewhere in the house back where it belongs. Cut down collectibles and artwork to just a few meaningful items. Not to say that your bedroom needs to be barren and without personality – display a few photographs or treasured pieces that make you feel good when you see them.

2. Electronics
Consider moving all electronics out of your bedroom.  Studies have shown electronics can interfere with your sleep in several ways, from the blue light from screens slowing your melatonin production to making it hard to fall asleep by keeping your mind alert.  Save the bedroom for old fashion books and conversation and falling and staying asleep more easily.

3. Dim the lights
Bright lighting can be jarring and can also contribute to disruption of your sleep patterns as well.  While you do need good lighting for reading in bed, the bedroom doesn't really need bright central lighting like other rooms in the house.  Instead, use lamps on your bedside tables and dressers to be used as needed and to create small pools of soft golden light. Use dimmers or three way bulbs where you can so that you can light the room with soft light when you don't need more.

4. Bed/Bedding
Invest in a good mattress and luxurious bedding. A comfortable mattress is important to making sure you get a good night sleep.  When you can't wait to go to bed, you know you have the right mattress.  Then dress it in crisp, smooth all-cotton sheets in the highest thread-count you can afford. Wash them weekly in hot water and a great-smelling detergent. The finishing touches are a few fluffy pillows in a variety of thicknesses and densities. A couple of soft blankets are essential also; choose one in a light weight for warmer weather and one heavier for colder weather. A down comforter will keep you luxuriously snuggled in warmth on the coldest nights.

5. Textiles, Color and Textures
Select a color pallet that you find calming and serene.  Pull the color in with different textures in your bedding, rugs and artwork.  This will help make your room feel plush and luxurious.  Add a couple of candles for additional soft lighting and soft scent and you will never want to leave your bedroom again.

Have you done any of these suggestions?  I would love to get your feedback!  Please leave a comment by clicking on Comments below.