Category Archives: Bedroom Design
Bedroom Design: 6 Ways to Think Outside the Box
Post by Tracy Kaler.
Most of us sleep in a bedroom with four walls, one that’s large enough for an occasional chair, dresser, and if we’re lucky a walk-in closet. But not every bedroom in every home is conventional or expected. Here’s a look at six ways to think outside the box when designing a bedroom.
Mix materials.
A Denver loft-style bedroom mixes materials to create an eclectic design. Metal cabinets, brick, a rustic bed wall, modern wood furniture, and a shag rug manage to work together in this industrial bedroom by James Maynard.
Get creative with storage.
A shoe closet on a bed wall is not the norm, but it’s innovative and a crafty way to introduce storage into this London bedroom. This bespoke “shoe wardrobe” finished in turquoise does the job and looks good at the same time.
Go with an unconventional floor plan.
A master bedroom with a bed floating in the center of the space isn’t seen too often, but in this instance, that layout works. Notice the closet and French doors leading to another room. This floor plan might have been the most practical option given the room’s layout.
Let the architecture be the star.
This Los Angeles Arts District loft bedroom had no doors and uses curtains for privacy. Ductwork and pipes are left exposed and become the highlight of the design scheme. Furniture, lighting, and accessories are contemporary.
Work with what you’ve got.
This bed in Italy resembles a built-in bench but works well for a small person. Notice the unique tile pattern on the floor as well.
Make the most of a small space.
This secluded nook is a perfect escape for a child or teen. The tiny space is quirky, but it’s a clever way to craft an extra bedroom when needed.
Thread Count: What You Need to Know
Post by Tracy Kaler.
Let’s talk sheets, shall we? If the term “thread count” has you baffled, then this post is for you. “Thread count” appears on bed linen packaging, and suggests the number of vertical and horizontal threads per square inch (in fitted sheets, flat sheets, pillow cases, etc.). Higher thread counts usually mean that a linen will wear well, feel softer or become softer as it ages, and be more expensive than lower thread counts. If you’re looking at 200-thread count vs. 800-thread count, the 800 should be higher quality and cost more than the 200-thread count. But, that’s not always true.
You see, depending on the construction of the sheet, that higher thread count might not mean much. According to HGTV, “Astronomical thread counts don’t necessarily mean the sheet is better—there are even tricks to inflating the thread count (such as using multiple yarns twisted together) that don’t actually improve the hand of the fabric and may even detract from its quality.”
Photo by Prentiss Balance Wickline Architects
Depending on the construction and finish of the sheets, 200-thread count can feel quite luxurious, so don’t always aim for a higher number when shopping sheets. Certain types of cotton sheets boast longer fibers, offering a stronger construction and softer hand on the fabric.
Want the best quality sheets? Go with 100 percent Egyptian cotton (also probably the priciest), followed by pima cotton, which should be trademarked Supima. If you find sheets marked 100 percent cotton, they’re probably American upland cotton, which won’t be nearly as expensive (or soft) as Egyptian or pima, and will be more likely to pill.
Bedroom Design: Chic Brown Bedrooms
Post by Tracy Kaler.
Brown in a bedroom? Okay, so the color doesn’t sound sexy, and when you fantasize about your dream bedroom, you’re probably not dreaming in brown. That being said, it’s not the most obvious choice for the basis of any color scheme –– especially that of a romantic room –– but brown can be incredibly appealing, and lovely in a bedroom. Let’s take a peek at a selection of chic brown bedrooms.
Straightforward with a clean design, this California bedroom takes on a Mediterranean feel. The crisp, white bedding balances the soft brown backdrop. Notice how the nightstands fit perfectly into the head cubicle.
Timeless elegance and luxurious, brown walls set the tone for this Chicago bedroom. Again, the white bedding pairs well, but this time, with an embroidery detail. A traditional crystal chandelier makes the space feel upscale with a feminine twist.
Photo by Rugo/ Raff Ltd. Architects
Designer Marcia Morine used a variety of brown shades in this rustic bedroom in Minneapolis. The house boasts a mountain or lodge feel, and the smart layout accommodates multiple guests.
IMI Design LLC is responsible for this contemporary Asian-inspired Phoenix bedroom, which has brown in the grasscloth, wood floors and built-ins, platform bed, ceiling pattern, and bench, but adds a color on the bed. This teal bed covering gives the space the punch that it needs.
This San Francisco bedroom might be a bachelor pad, but that doesn’t mean a woman wouldn’t appreciate the space. Decorator Grace Dumalac added a woman’s touch but still maintained a level of masculinity for her single client, and it begins with brown walls.
Bedroom Design: Tips for Decorating a College Dorm
Post by Tracy Kaler.
Living in a tiny room for four years or even two years of college isn’t all that fun unless you have a decorating strategy. Yes, you’ll mostly sleep and study in that room, and probably spend the majority of your time participating in activities on campus and in the library and classroom. But, wouldn’t you like to look forward to returning to your dorm room every night? Here are some practical yet essential tips for decorating a college dorm, and making it your home away from home.
First off, start with a comfy bed.
A great mattress will give you a great night’s sleep. Try adding a topper if you prefer that cocoon effect, and buy the best sheets and pillows that your budget allows. (Ask mom for help in this department.)
Get organized with storage.
You might have a single closet and it probably won’t be of the walk-in variety, so additional storage can keep away the clutter and make your tiny space more livable. Use freestanding units, or individual hanging shelves, as well as storage bins under your bed. Opt for a hamper for dirty clothing, an over-the-door shoe rack, and decorative boxes so every item has a place, including any miscellaneous stuff on your desk.
Accessorize, even a little bit.
Add a mirror, and perhaps an easy-to-maintain indoor plant that doesn’t require too much sunlight. Speaking of light, add lamps, both table and floor, and your new home will take on a warm glow.
Dress up a plain bed with a few bold accent pillows, and a cozy, decorative throw that you can use if your room gets chilly. Consider covering the floor with an area rug, and adding strippable wall covering that can easily be removed when you move out. Even an accent wall can spruce up the dullest interior. And don’t forget the artwork. Posters are an affordable alternative to framed prints.
Make it yours.
Now that you’ve cleared away the clutter and accessorized, make your dorm room say something about you. Add your initials to your wall above your bed, bring in photos of your friends and family, pets, or even you alone. Be sure to have copies of your go-to magazines and favorite novels, and a small stereo to play your tunes. This compact apartment will give you a welcome respite, and a place to relax and retreat when you’re tired of hitting the books.
Bedroom Design: Autumn Inspired
Post by Tracy Kaler.
Who doesn’t love fall? The temperatures aren’t too warm or too cool, and nature might even be its prettiest during September and October. Fall colors can make us feel warm and fuzzy inside –– so much that we want to drink a Pumpkin Spice Latte or eat a slice of warm apple pie. From deep corals to rusty reds and mocha browns, the hues that we associate with autumn can inspire the palette for any room. Here are five bedrooms that feel like fall.
Warm grays, beiges, golds, and a hint of orange in a master bedroom seating area give us a glimpse of fall. The cozy spot looks perfect to curl up with a good book or watch the leaves fall outside those big windows.
For some reason, the color eggplant alludes to the fall season. The rich color works well on the tufted headboard, and orange with purple is an unexpected combination. The accent pillows balance the two colors.
Scottsdale might not get the same fall as the Northeastern US, but it does get seasons. Regardless of the amount of leaf-peeping available in this Arizona town, this bedroom sure feels like autumn.
Vivid masculine colors come together nicely in this modern Australia bedroom. The simple design allows the architecture to shine. The paper pendant fixtures add some fun to the space.
This Carmel Valley retreat boasts a Mediterranean flavor with its exposed wood beams, Venetian plaster walls, and the balcony and its metal railing. The subtle red and yellow scheme makes the bedroom feel homey and inviting.
Don’t you love fall?
