Bedroom Style Secrets

When it comes to the bedroom, style and comfort are not mutually exclusive.Whether you’re building, renovating or your boudoir just needs an update, here’s how to transform your bedroom into a sleeping beauty.

The bedroom is where we sleep, feed our minds, recharge our bodies and soothe our souls.

Like any other room in your house, the décor should reflect your personality, interests and lifestyle, while also promoting a sense of relaxation and calm to lift our body, mind and mood.

With so much inspiration out there, choosing a theme for your master suite will help you create a cohesive space that looks as good as it feels.

Whether your interior aesthetic is contemporary or classic, natural or luxury, interior designer Eve Gunson, founder of design blog Dot + Pop, helps you define your slumber style.

Contemporary

Understated, sleek and simple are some of the hallmarks of contemporary design. This goes for bedrooms, too.

To get the balance right, Eve says to think minimal, but stylish — especially if you’re working with smaller spaces.

“I tend to keep the colour palette neutral, so that means greys, whites, and earthy tones,” she says.

“I always like to include natural elements somewhere — whether that’s a timber bed frame or bedside tables or including natural stone. It just adds a warmth to the space.”

The most important piece of bedroom furniture is, of course, the bed. Once you’ve chosen this, you can layer everything else on top.

For effortless style, Eve says a timber frame can be a modern yet timeless tone setter. Mid-century-inspired pieces, which feature soft curves and elegant silhouettes, work beautifully in contemporary spaces.

“The My Design Ellipse bed frame from Snooze is a timeless design,” she says. “The upholstered bench seat at the end is functional and adds a little more interest.”

Natural

Organic themes are having a moment right now — and it’s easy to see why. Not only does the blend of raw materials and textures create a sense of connection to the outside, but the earthy palette also adds an instant sense of warmth and cosiness.

For a natural aesthetic, think distressed timber frames for a more raw look, or sustainably sourced messmate with in-built storage for a natural, yet clutter-free aesthetic. Then, accent with timber side tables, natural linens and throw blankets, dried florals or greenery.

Classic

Some styles are always in vogue. This couldn’t be truer for Hamptons-inspired aesthetics that strike a balance between modern farmhouse and rambling beach shack. Think French Provincial meets country luxe.

Comfort is key when it comes to classic styling, especially in the bedroom. This elegant aesthetic is all about the details, embellished with timber frames in rich walnut or mahogany hues, or softened with upholstered bedheads paired with beige, cream or grey linens.

A timber sleigh design, with its elegant curves and carved footings can be a beautiful addition, while an upholstered frame with tapered or winged details will add subtle texture and sophistication.

Luxury

Luxury style is all about decadence — both in furniture and soft finishes. It can often make the space feel more like a retreat than a regular bedroom.

From plush fabrics and excess drapery to an opulent colour palette, when it comes to luxury, more is more.

Layers are the key to nailing the look, starting with an upholstered bed head, perhaps with a tufted or buttoned finish for added detail.

Next comes the velvet throws, silks, ruffles and rugs to add texture. The look is then elevated with contrast timber side tables, metallic-based lamps or statement light fixtures.

“For me, aesthetics come first,” Eve says. “But you can’t forget functionality.”

While there’s no magic amount of furniture that will make a bedroom feel complete, when you’re working with larger spaces, Eve says simply adding an occasional chair and side table will turn your bedroom into a multi-purpose retreat.

“My secret style hack is to pay attention to your bed placement,” she says. “Walking into an open space, instead of right into the bed makes the room feel ‘styled’. So, make sure you measure out everything!”