1. TIDY

We can all fall into the trap of using the bedroom chair as a clothes rack (hands up there) but putting away your clothes and shoes is an instant fix!  Whilst you’re at it, tidy your bedside table or chest of drawers by removing “stuff” (bedside table drawers are good for this).  Find a pretty dish for those extra coins, hair ties and jewellery.

2. FOLD BACK YOUR BEDLINEN

The “relaxed bed” is a popular look right now.  It’s casual and welcoming.  You can achieve this unstructured look by pulling the quilt (doona or duvet) below the pillows and folding the top sheet over the edge of the quilt. It’s a great way to showcase your sheets especially if they’re a striking colour or are patterned.  Doing this introduces contrast, detail and personality. ( For me, I really like plain quilt covers with patterned sheets.)

Ever been to a hotel and thought about how enticing a turned-down bed looks? Folding back the layers is inviting and makes you want to dive straight in.

3. CREATE LAYERS WITH TEXTURE

Using a throw or coverlet (also known as a quilted blanket or comforter) or even both, place these over the top of your quilt.  Ruffle them up a bit.  They instantly add volume and a feeling of comfort that makes you want to sink in and sigh.

4. CHOOSE CUSHIONS

This could be a blog post on its own! But in short, adding a few cushions in different shapes or sizes creates visual interest.  I recommend keeping it to 3 maximum – too many is overwhelming and creates too much work to remake or unmake the bed.  Believe me, nothing dampens your efforts more than collective groans about the cushions!

5. ADD FRESH FLOWERS

You might already know that I’m a big fan of styling with flowers and foliage.  I use them everywhere and the bedroom is no exception.  On a bedside table, keep the arrangement small, like a posy.  Find small-sized bowls or even glass jars or jugs if you don’t have a vase.  Remember it needs to accompany the bedside table, not dominate it! Small blooms like tulips and roses and even better yet, fragrant ones like daphne are perfect.  Otherwise, foliage like soft fern and camellia leaves are beautiful too.  And use what’s in your garden.

6. PLACE A CANDLE

An aromatic candle is a beautiful addition to a bedroom.  It’s not only fragrant but when lit, creates a dreamy ambience.

7. INCLUDE A COMFY CHAIR

If you have the space, choose a chair to create a corner retreat where you can sit.  Place it near a window, catch the light and put your feet up with a good book.  Or even if it’s just to put your shoes on, a chair turns your bedroom into your sanctuary that is both personal and functional.

Ta Da!  You’re done!  And all achieved quickly, easily and using what you have.  Try it for yourself and shout out if you need a hand or have any questions.

Elisabeth