How to create a relaxing bedroom
Create a relaxing bedroom with this Country Living magazine guide to space, style and texture. More interiors stories at countryliving.co.uk
A calm, restful, relaxing bedroom will help you enjoy the best night's sleep. The secret to decorating this space is to keep colours subtle, pick practical linens for the bed and windows and choose graceful furniture, plus have plenty of storage to keep clutter under control. Whether you are starting from scratch or just want to breathe new life into a scheme, follow these simple ideas for a comfortable tranquil effect.
Stylish simplicity
White linen with indigo and raspberry patterns uplift and refresh a pale painted room. Connected by colour, a mix of small-scale designs - from florals, toiles, stripes and checks - creates an interesting effect, and, with the mismatched nature of this scheme, there's no need to wait for full sets to be laundered.
Decorative feature
A headboard made from old shutter panels adds a rustic touch to a room and makes an unusual backdrop for a soft monochrome scheme. Light duck egg tones, on furniture and lighting, introduces gentle colour to soften the black, while spots of red bring warmth. A simple hanging peg rail creates relaxed open storage.
Small space
Give a bedroom under the eaves a fresh and smart feel with denim blues and sprigged linens. Offset the deep blue wall colour by painting the exposed beams and woodwork white to keep the room light.
Subtle texture
Combine embroidered and monogrammed linens, quilted textures and romantic prints, to create a relaxing bedroom, full of classic country charm.
Summer brights
This simple scheme uses a single colour to enliven the white woodwork and the wooden floor. A hint of poppy red on linens, furniture and at the windows helps unify the room. For a summertime feel, pick a lightweight voile or sheer fabric for curtains, with plain blinds behind to filter the light.
Refined style
Bold patterns are eye-catching, when the rest of the scheme is pared-back. Used sparingly, for a cushion or blind, designs in sunshine yellow uplift grey painted tongue-and-groove and bring a modern touch to traditional furniture.
Alaina is the Style & Interiors Editor at Country Living (previously Home & Crafts Editor). Her creative eye stretches over decorating, style shoots, seasonal inspiration and craft, as well as event styling and licensing creatives. She has a BA (Hons) degree in Graphic Design and started her 17 year career at Hearst on House Beautiful  before discovering a love for nature, the country home and bird watching. Alaina also works on Modern Rustic where she champions talented makers, and Vintage Home. Alaina has held several craft workshops and talks and styled a Country Living with Raymond Blanc's at Le Manoir.
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