By Judy O’Gorman Alvarez
Bedrooms are more than places to lay our heads at the end of the day. Bedrooms serve different functions, and not all are conducive to relaxation.
Whether you’ve been using your bedroom as a home office and it’s time to organize the chaos or you’re just tired of those same old window treatments and need a new look, turning your bedroom into a relaxing retreat can offer a respite from the outside world.
The first step to redesigning a room – and just about any other endeavor – is to declutter. A sense of calm can be achieved simply by removing excess clutter. There is some evidence that the brain is calmer near an empty dresser, desk or clothes hamper. Therefore, removing excess items from the room is a first step to making a nice retreat.
“Too many accessories scattered around, too many picture frames, are going to detract from the style of the room,” said Teri Lodato of Riverside Interiors in Red Bank. A relaxing vibe is what you should be trying to impart.
“The first thing that I generally discuss with clients is what their style is. I think that’s very important moving forward to kind of define what they’re envisioning their space to be. Even if it’s a calm, relaxing space, they want it to reflect their personality. Maybe they want bold colors and some invigorating color. I think it’s really about personality.”
Neutral color palettes evoke a spa feeling. Walls can be painted white, beige or a light shade of gray. This can help the room feel calm and welcoming.
People who use their bedroom as a workspace may find they’re compromising their well-being by introducing activities other than sleep into the bedroom. The Sleep Foundation says having an office in the bedroom blurs the line between work and personal life, which can have serious effects on sleep.
For those who can’t escape the books, files and work spilling into the bedroom, storage is the key, especially closed storage. Open shelves and visible closet interiors will not hide a mess and exposure to clutter can contribute to feelings of anxiety. Store items that shouldn’t be on display behind closed doors or drawers.
Readers shouldn’t dismay: “Bookshelves are fine,” Lodato noted, as are a couple of books on the nightstands. “As long as the books are not on the dressers or piled up next to the bed. That detracts from what you’re trying to achieve.”
Bringing in an area rug adds warmth. Even in rooms with carpeting, an area rug under the bed can further define its perimeter and add extra plushness underfoot.
Lodato cautions against buying an area rug that is too small. “The intent is that when you get out of bed, your feet land on the rug,” she said.
“A rug that’s too small will actually make that bedroom feel very broken up. You want cohesiveness within the space.”
Soft, subtle and warm lighting is an asset. Dimmers enable homeowners to adjust lighting as needed – for when you want to read or are ready for sleep.
Removing blue-light-emitting devices from the bedroom is another way to ensure a good night’s sleep. Computers, tablets, smartphones and other electronic devices emit blue light, which can compromise the natural melatonin production in the body that contributes to sleep.
Linens also play a crucial role in creating a relaxing space and contributing to your overall well-being.
“We take pride in our high-quality linens made from the finest European fabrics,” said Kerry Bray from Down to Basics in Red Bank. “This luxurious feel and enhanced comfort give our clients the opportunity to feel wrapped in luxury. Premium linens add a touch of sophistication and beauty to create a serene atmosphere.“
High-end quality comforters can help regulate body temperature, promoting a more restful sleep.
“Most importantly, investing in luxury linens is a way of prioritizing self-care and creating a sanctuary within your home where you can escape from the stresses of daily life and rejuvenate your mind and body,” said Bray.
This article originally appeared in the March 14 – 20, 2024 print edition of The Two River Times.
