Archive for the ‘Bedroom Style’ Category

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Romantic Purple bedrooms…

Saturday, April 14th, 2012

Beds | Mattresses | Linens

The colour purple has a beguiling feminine and somewhat regal appeal, making it a particularly appropriate colour for the basis of any romantic bedroom décor scheme. With the right balance of paint or wallpaper treatments, linens, furniture and decorative accents, a room style becomes possible that invites relaxation and intimacy. In addition to use of purple for backdrop shades and fabric choice, choose an accent colour that complements the dominant hue to break up any monotony or overkill, to create a stunning bedroom mood to stir the emotions…

Choose purple as the primary wall colour, and should you opt for a paler derivative such as lilac or lavender, give all the walls the same colour treatment. For deeper shades of purple, such as amethyst, you may just prefer to feature an accent wall such as at the head of the bed, with other surfaces finished in a lighter complementary purple shade, or a neutral colour for appealing contrast, such as cream or vintage white.

Repeat the purple treatment in the form of a plush purple area rug, at the foot or to the side of a glamorous traditionally styled iron bedstead, which will add warmth to the floor and ensure colour continuity within the room. That traditional bed will look great in an ivory or white satin finish, as the perfect contrast to purple tones. Antique white dressers, chests of drawers and nightstands will continue the theme, and choose a white wooden headboard that matches the other wooden elements within the room, should you prefer. For a softer flavour a white upholstered tufted headboard will also fit the bill, perhaps complemented by a white settee or love seat at the foot of the bed, when space allows, or in a corner of the room to create a cosy seating area.

Incorporate luxurious linens into the room, in the form of a crushed velvet or satin comforter atop the metal bedstead, in a purple shade that contrasts with your chosen wall colour. Suspend purple organza over the bed for a romantic canopy effect, with floor to ceiling purple silk or velvet drapes at the windows. Consider also sheer fabrics in different shades of purple as suitably enticing window dressings, for a more whimsical arty look.

Hang a decadent crystal chandelier over the bed or in the centre of the room, and flank the bedstead or headboard with crystal wall sconces. Carefully selected accents and accessories will complete the room theme, such as wall art in the form of purple flower art against a white or cream background or fresh purple flower displays on the dresser or a bedside table. Arrange a purple throw blanket or pillows on the couch or bed, along with white or cream cushions for appealing contrast. Create clusters of different shaped and sized purple or ivory candles on silver platters, and set them on a windowsill or occasional tables to create a beguiling ambiance for those dreamy romantic moments…

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More 1920s Bedroom moods…

Saturday, April 14th, 2012

Beds | Mattresses | Linens

Nearly a century has passed since the dawn of the 1920s and yet there are many elements and décor trends from that era which remain relevant within the 21st century western world. We’ve spoken of this period before and yet there are so many interesting design nuances and influences from those inter-war daysthat we make no apology for covering old ground. It was a time in history that embraced all things machine and industrial, with the beginnings of the modernist design period with the emphasis on form following function. Art Deco was to manifest this sensibility with bold colours, lavish textures, high contrast, and sleek, clean lines. In addition to the popularity of wood, glamorous lacquered finishes, and chrome, mirrored, metal and glass furniture, as well as animal print accents, epitomise the 1920s inspired bedroom…

Art Deco reacted against art nouveau’s passion for pastels, and instead focused on high contrast colours. If you fancy a less assertive room colour scheme, you might prefer sea green or a deep blue, whilst cream and silver or black is classic 20s Hollywood, as is burnt orange or rich reds for a slightly different twist. Consider also, chocolate brown, hot pink, pure white and ultramarine, which are Art Deco through and through. Remember to keep skirting board and crown mouldings in a deep accent colour in order to accentuate the geometry of the room.

1920s bedroom furniture featured straight clean lines with bullnose curves and simple ornamentation, compared to more detailed rococo and art nouveau designs. Sunburst bed headboards were common with inlaid corona rays in a high gloss veneer finish, whilst upholstered oversized headboards were also in vogue in shimmery fabrics or rich buttoned velours and animal print designs. Varnished wooden bedsteads featuring chevrons or geometric patterns were favourites, in exotic timbers such as ebony or mahogany, whilst mirror finish, chrome bed creations and transitionally styled metal bed designs were also on the art deco scene. Glass and mirrored furniture pieces also defined the era, and these elements would also be found in accents such as drawer pulls and lighting features. Glamorous highly lacquered furniture in piano gloss black, light yellow or deep red were also highly influential in art Deco bedroom decor trends.

Floor décor tended to continue the wood theme, so if you have hardwood bedroom flooring, leave it bare. 1920s art Deco style was all about polished and patterned wood features with chevron and diamond detailing. Fitted wall to wall carpet was popular as were Persian or Turkish rugs featuring geometric patterns. For a glamorous vintage touch include a zebra print accent rug at the foot of the lavish wooden or metal bedstead, and if you want high contrast, go for a bold coloured dark carpet. Some ocean liners even used black within their cabin designs, which was a common trim colour in the 1920s.

For wall treatments, look out for glossy finish paint or wallpaper to realise that authentic 20s style. Wallpaper was very popular and bold vertical stripes and Egyptian motifs reigned. For that Hollywood look, use light creams and tea stained hues for the backdrop tones, accented with gold and silver. Whilst for a more feminine touch consider art deco style floral motifs, as a gentler, but nonetheless authentic alternative room feature with a touch of romance…

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More Zebra print décor ideas…

Saturday, April 14th, 2012

Beds | Mattresses | Linens

The Art deco look of animal stripes is always in fashion. From the catwalk, to home accessories and of course, home décor, there’s something about animal prints that appeals to our most basic ancestral instincts. So why not consider an alternative bedroom style that is anything but mundane, and unleash your wild side with a bedroom makeover with zebra stripes as the central theme?! This pattern lays the foundation for a safari or nature-inspired theme, which would suit a youngster’s room, or for an enticing Art deco fashionista statement. Use a few zebra print accent pieces for a more understated look, or allow zebra stripes to become a prominent feature that sets the mood for the room style as a whole.

For wall treatments find a zebra pattern that you like and place it on an overhead projector. Project the image so that it is sharply in focus on the wall and ensure that the width of the stripes is in proportion to the size of the wall and bedroom. It goes without saying that bigger spaces will require a wider zebra print pattern. Trace the outline of the stripes with a pencil, but possibly limit the application to a couple of walls maximum to avoid overkill, or choose to feature the bed head wall only to draw the eye to the focal point of the room. Complete the stripy theme by painting between the lines; a dark brown shade of your choice is an effective and authentic option and coordinates well with many other brighter room shades should you wish. Select white or cream background hues to contrast with the brown stripes in true zebra style.

Install coordinating flooring. Since the walls provide a dramatic statement, a more subtle choice of flooring will help balance the effect, and earthy organic tones are entirely suitable here. Mocha coloured carpet is a sound choice for a warm and comfortable flavour, whilst bare hardwood flooring with an accent rug or two at the foot or to the side of the bed, offers a more exotic solution.

Likewise, solid colour furniture pieces will help to anchor the room theme, without detracting from the zebra print story. A rustic wooden bedstead in a dark finish might form the perfect room focal point, whilst a traditionally styled iron bed in a rusty metal finish, or black, ivory or white, will contrast nicely with the stripy deco theme. Add brighter colours for accent interest, such as red or a bright blue in the form of accessories and fabrics, such as a red love seat or reading chair or as the chosen fabric for scatter cushions or a bed valance. Consider also a token piece of furniture featuring zebra stripes, such as an upholstered bench, chaises longue or cosy armchair, to extend the zebra print element.

Include complimentary textiles and patterns, such as a continuation of the stripy theme for window treatments, a lavish or faux fur throw for that rustic bed, pillows, or an area rug. Avoid the temptation to overdo the stripy message however; be selective and restrained. As an alternative incorporate solid brown or cream textiles for a monochromatic look, whilst the inclusion of hot pink or Tiffany blue linens, will give the room a more feminine touch.

Finalise the scheme with accessories that are in keeping with either the earthy African mood of the room or reflect a more Art deco style. African inspired statuary, artwork, pictures and ceramics are an obvious choice here with red, turquoise, aqua, and yellow accessories in the form of lamps, mirror surrounds and artwork bringing appealing contrast to the décor mix…

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Romantic Bedrooms for Small Apartments

Saturday, April 14th, 2012

Beds | Mattresses | Linens

In modern homes and town apartments, space is invariably at a premium, and yet even in the tightest of home environments, the bedroom, above all others, should be the one space that is a reflection of our innermost self, an expression of our style and individuality, which is unimpeded by architectural or dimension constraints. Indeed, such characteristics can create the platform for cosy and romantic décor themes with just a little attention to colour and room planning. Larger furniture pieces are unlikely to even be an option here, so make a style statement with rococo details in accessories and textiles and highlight special architectural features with furnishings and accents that make a lot out of a little…

Update the room with a new colour scheme. Just the simple application of a couple of coats of paint can make a huge difference to the style and personality of smaller bedrooms. Warm tones suggest intimacy or you might like to try burgundy or red for a little extra drama, introducing mirrors and lighter accents to avoid a claustrophobic feel. For a roomier, airy flavour keep paint colours paler and cooler, such as a shabby chic palette of icy pink, cornflower blue, lavender or cream. Pale yellows or gold gives a small romantic bedroom a hint of regal elegance, or you might like to introduce this look into the room, by hanging fabric accents or tapestries on the wall.

Furnish the bedroom with stylish but functional pieces that flatter the space without eating up more room than absolutely necessary. This means striking large ornamental pieces off the list, and instead considering a low-rise platform bed or contemporary wooden bed for a clean modern look and simple silhouette, or perhaps a vintage style iron bed, with ceramic or antique brass detailing, for a romantic bohemian flavour. A plush upholstered headboard covered in the fabric of your choice, will soften the look of the room, and is a good option whenever space is particularly tight, whilst a simple wooden dresser or armoire will provide romantic style, perhaps with antique drawer pulls, crystal knobs or hand painted trim.

Soften the mood with a complementary mix of textiles, such as lighter, translucent fabric at the windows to allow in plenty of natural light, and darker fabrics featuring gold stamping, embroidery, beading, small mirrored trim or fringes, to add a romantic flourish to throw pillows, bedspreads, floor cushions or bed canopies. Embellish textiles with pompom trim and rich tasselled detailing for an ornamental look.

Incorporate artwork that lends the room space an inviting tranquil feeling. Landscape paintings or prints in decorative frames have classic style, whilst abstract artwork in saturated hues, are unmistakably contemporary. Black and white photographs and movie stills will give any apartment bedroom a certain Old world elegance. Coordinate modern gallery-style frames in black lacquer, chrome or stainless steel for a streamlined look.

However small your apartment bedroom, take time to experiment with multiple light sources, that can drastically alter the mood of the room. Flank a large painting or the modern or traditional bed with wall sconces, or complement nightstands with appropriately styled bedside lamps. Brass floor lamps with elaborately curved detailing and rich velvet or damask shades, have a distinctly feminine flavour, while a romantic crystal chandelier or a bouquet of bright paper lanterns over the bed, gives the room sculptural detail and a captivating visual dynamic to draw the eye…

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Contemporary Black and Chrome bedrooms…

Saturday, April 14th, 2012

Beds | Mattresses | Linens

Black might not be everyone’s first colour choice when it comes to bedroom décor, and yet with the addition of brighter colour accents and interesting textures, an eminently sophisticated room mood becomes possible for a gritty urban theme or a stylish boudoir. Add chrome or nickel furniture and accessories into the mix, to create the perfect contrast for a look that is sleek and ultra- stylish, for modern minimalist room themes where one or two accent furniture pieces set the tone for the room space as a whole. For here undoubtedly, less is most definitely more, with a monochromatic approach to room design, or with colour accents for a less masculine flavour.

Consider an all-black scheme if the room is large with good natural light, although in smaller spaces or apartment bedrooms you may prefer to limit the backdrop to just one accent wall at the head of the bed. Neutral colours such as white, cream, beige or light grey will all make suitable partners for black and chrome schemes, in the form of contrasting wall and ceiling colour, soft furnishings and bed linens. Lighter colour wallpapers in natural fibres can also work in this environment, whilst steely metal cladding for a distinctly industrial feel will deliver an assertive streamlined message.

Allow chrome furniture designs to establish the sophisticated mood. A sensual chrome bedstead design with matching bedside tables, would create the perfect room focal point when displayed against that black backdrop wall, from which the room can draw inspiration. Desks, occasional tables and contemporary chairs finished in chrome will also work fabulously within such a room setting, and particularly so within larger bedrooms, with chrome wall sconces flanking the bed. Chrome four poster bedstead options are also worth considering whenever space and budgets allow, with other chrome accents such as a chrome framed mirror or picture frames continuing the theme. For a different stance, metal or wooden furniture in black finishescan also sit happily alongside chrome designs, such as a modern black low-rise metal bedstead dressed in contrasting fabrics and bed throws, like creamy coloured linens and a black comforter, or one that features black patterned detailing. Because black can overpower, some brighter colour might also add some visual relief and interest here, such as pale gold, beige and lighter shades of blue, grey, green and yellow in solid or patterned designs.

Complete the room design with window treatments that echo or match the style of bedding that you have chosen. If you have a larger than average bedroom, and you decided against using black for most or all of the walls, you may like to use a black fabric for the window dressings, or alternatively continue lighter wall colour selections with similarly coloured curtains for a coherent, uniform look. This will also have the effect of making the bedroom appear larger. Additionally, using a sensual fabric such as silk for the window dressings and matching pillow shams or decorative cushions, will add a different dimension of texture to the room space that perfectly harmonises with those enticing chrome elements and accessories…

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Inspiring Teen bedroom themes…

Monday, April 9th, 2012

Beds | Mattresses | Linens

In a vibrant fast-moving world where fashions change in the blink of an eye, it’s little surprise that the preferences and tastes of teenagers change constantly. From catwalk fashion to cutting edge technology and musical genres, it’s a constantly shifting period of change out there, but one that can become ubiquitous as we follow the fashion bandwagon.

Room décor on the other hand offers a canvas for individuality and interests to shine, tucked away from the public gaze, and even though neon walls and oversized pop group posters might not be to every parents taste, freedom of expression is all part of the growing up process. And yet there are other ways in which the art of design compromise can be executed for a look that is no less unique, but brings a flavour of mature sensibility to a teen’s sanctuary. Consider inspired themes that will keep your son or daughter happy without the need for a complete refurb once they fly the nest, so that transformation to a guest room or more mainstream style becomes a breeze when the time comes…

For a distinctly exotic ethnic feel, consider eclectic bohemian design that brings great scope for self- expression and a glamorous flavour to any bedroom theme. Bold wall colours blended with rich fabrics and lush textures set the scene for charmingly mismatched furnishings and accents. Flea markets, craft fairs, garage sales and specialist ethnic stores will yield many treasures for “boho” bedroom design. Visit ethnic markets to find fabrics to dress windows or cover a rustic wooden bedstead, or create unique cushion covers. Candles, brightly coloured glass pendants and ornate lamps cast moody subdued lighting. Create informal seating and a fabulous chilling, relaxing or reading corner with a grouping of oversized pillows in your chosen fabrics, and add a flavour of intrigue and romance with a canopy to drape over the traditional bed, fashioned from shawls or saris.

Zen bedroom themes offer a calmer, less visually stimulating approach to teen bedroom design, but also a quiet and relaxing place to de-stress away from hectic teenage lifestyles, that will appeal to many tastes. Zen bedroom design typically brings together minimal design with sleek furniture styles, such as a platform or low-rise contemporary bed design, and soothing colours. Zen bedrooms  help disorganised or untidy teenagers by providing streamlined storage solutions that blend seamlessly with the décor. Low modern furniture pieces, that platform bed, and floating nightstands create clean lines and lend the room a feeling of lightness. Neutral wall colours with accents of light blue and green provide a relaxing backdrop for a sisal rug, natural woven window shades and organic bed linen. Separate homework space from the sleeping area with a translucent rice paper shoji screen, for a touch of oriental charm.

Go coastal and give the teen in your life a touch of summer holiday magic all year round with a beach-inspired bedroom. Add the fun of a beachside resort with a number of simple design ideas, with blues, tans and cream wall colours and accents, evoking thoughts of the sea, sky and sand. Accessorise with shells, artefacts and artwork that imply that the beach is just over the horizon. Keep accessories simple to avoid a kitschy feel, and select furniture pieces that have a well-loved slightly weathered look. A whitewashed or natural pine wooden bedstead and furniture would look good here, whilst darker traditional wooden bed and furniture designs, add a tropical vibe reminiscent of a British colonial island getaway.

As a final suggestion, think mid-century modern with a retro themed room that is sure to have broad appeal, by turning back the clock to the 50s when interior design took on a decidedly contemporary turn. Bright white and punches of bold colour epitomise this energetic style. Incorporate clean lines and organic shapes in furniture, lighting and accessories. Light Scandinavian style woods, moulded plastic accents, and vinyl upholstery, all replicate the flavour of the era. Stick with uncomplicated bed designs such as a simple wooden bed, Shaker style with a slatted headboard or an unadorned platform bed or modern metal bed. Lightweight curtains in a neutral coloured fabric provide unassuming window treatments, whilst a funky shag area rug at the foot or to the side of the bed introduces comfort and an added dash of youth appeal…

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Contemporary bedrooms with a vintage twist…

Thursday, April 5th, 2012

Beds | Mattresses | Linens

Prefer more modern room décor but love the look and history of older vintage accents? No problem, for it’s an easy room theme to create when you combine the old and the new in contemporary vintage style. Vintage décor has great appeal as it can be both whimsical with a distinctly romantic flavour. Fill your bedroom with cherished pieces that have a rich history and a story to tell, and marry them with modern colours, patterns and textures to create a space that is undeniably vintage chic. Shop smartly, and not only is it a fun and rewarding experience, but a budget friendly one too which won’t leave a huge dent in the pocket.

An appropriate colour scheme gets the ball rolling here and an accent wall in a bright modern colour is always a safe and successful bet within contemporary spaces. Choose the bed head wall for maximum effect; it is after all the room focal point, and consider such colours as slate purple, slate blue, a royal blue or green, or a rich red. When making your selection, keep in mind the characteristics of your vintage collection and how they will interact with the wall colours as a backdrop. Also ensure that your accent wall colour is not so bold that it will overwhelm the other room elements, but rather flatter and harmonise.

Mix and match your furniture choice, teaming up some pieces with simple lines and colours with others that have a vintage air that are maybe heirlooms or that you have hunted down at the antique arcade or auction rooms. For example, pair a simple modern panel headboard with antique or vintage style nightstands or a vintage desk or vanity unit. Alternatively select a traditional Victorian styled iron bedstead or an antique wooden bed design and flank with more contemporary styled bedside tables that nevertheless share similar texture or colour traits. This really is essential here, as success can be possible only if there is a similar scheme or colour thread that binds all the room elements, both young and old, together. Too many variations or too much disparity and your room setting runs the risk of starting to look like a thrift store with no coherence or distinct persona.

Add a simple colour bed throw or duvet that coordinates with the wall and complements the traditional bed, but keep the colour restrained as to not swamp the wall shade. Include a few throw pillows with a modern pattern which will not only draw together the contemporary and vintage elements but allow for scheme flexibility as you can easily change these accents at any time, subtly affecting the room mood in the process.

Place a piece of vintage artwork on the wall, above the focal point bedstead or headboard or on a feature wall. A landscape oil painting or dramatic antique print in a gilt frame could look fabulous here, or consider enlarging a favourite family or personal photo, transforming it into black and white or sepia tones in the process. Should you prefer more modern artwork try mounting it in a vintage style ornate frame for another intriguing twist on the old/new combination.

Conclude the room scheme with interesting, whimsical, or just plain quirky accessories and accents, such as a tea set from the 1950s, an old vintage vase filled with fresh flowers, a retro lamp or rug, or an old fashioned alarm clock. Consider also, vintage bird cages, coat stands, apothecary jars or a French marble mantel clock flanked by leather bound classic novels. Allow the imagination to run wild for a room scheme that introduces eclectic styles for room décor that is unique and eminently enticing…

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White on white bedroom themes…

Thursday, April 5th, 2012

Beds | Mattresses | Linens

It’s easy to be deterred by the concept of a monochromatic bedroom scheme that by and large lacks any colour accents, relying instead on other stimuli to make a statement. There’s no shortage of décor tips to be discovered out there to ensure success if you are decided upon this decorative path and what they will almost certainly unanimously conclude is that it is the interaction of the textures and room elements that will bring this room scheme to life. For it is the careful selection of antique and vintage furniture here together with fabric and décor accents that is key to the task of creating a tranquil and dreamy getaway that is anything but boring or sterile.

A family of furniture within this room setting need not all be of the same genre, but the mix and how they interact with each other is the catalyst for the scheme as a whole. An eclectic jumble of furniture styles actually is to be encouraged where the mix of designs and textures takes the place of incorporating a variety of colours for visual interest. Do not be afraid then to bring in furniture from different periods, where for example, an old white occasional table might be complimented by a pair of white weathered metal chairs. Look for items that tell a story with intricately carved pieces sitting alongside those with cleaner lines. Place an old wicker hope chest at the foot of an antique wooden four poster bed, or choose an original or reproduction traditional iron bed in white or ivory finish to create the room focal point, flanked by white wicker nightstands for charming style contrast. In other words, the underlying white on white decorating success tip, is that it is the similar white accents that will make the theme cohesive, whilst varying the character and texture of the pieces will ensure a stylish feel.

Choice of lighting style and intensity is crucial in a monochromatic room setting; it’s an element that can make or break the design. Look out for antique chandeliers that can be easily rewired for romance and drama. Even if you can only find examples in black or gold, a can of white spray will soon fix that, and look for the lines within the piece as well as the embellishments that it features .Does it fit in with the overall persona of the room and are the proportions in tune? Apply the same philosophy to bedside lamps and wall sconces, and don’t forget the simple appeal of candles as an enticing lighting alternative whenever the mood dictates. Track down some old cut glass crystal candlesticks and line a vintage dresser or wall shelf with a cluster of candles at varying heights.

Within this room scheme, artwork should not deviate from the black and white style. To inject a personal touch make copies of old family monochrome photographs that evoke pleasant memories. School photos, wedding snaps, holiday adventures and old family photos are all appropriate. Newer memories in colour can easily be reprocessed into black and white vintage style patina photographs, whilst other artwork options include winter scenes and more contemporary photos that contain scenes of only white images.

Finalise the room theme with appropriate accessories, the hunting down of which, is part of the enjoyment of pulling the look together as a whole. This is where there is chance to introduce real interest to the room. For example, a favourite collection of porcelain angels could be displayed on a glass or white painted wooden shelf, whilst antique arcades and thrift stores are great places to track down vases, wash basins, decorative plates, and other pieces in white hues. But no matter what pieces you choose to incorporate, the essential factor here is that the room elements, from the style of furniture that you love, to your selection of accents, all showcase your unique personality, for a supremely classy room setting that is enticing and splendidly romantic…

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Blue and Brown bedroom design for all the family…

Thursday, March 29th, 2012

Beds | Mattresses | Linens

The earthy shades of brown rival that of many more neutral tones, as an eminently versatile colour that you can match up with almost any other shade for fabulous results. This is particularly true when it comes to the brown and blue colour combo that you can dress up or down for a trendy or ultra- relaxing effect that, depending on the execution, mix of textures, furniture choice, and room accents, can appeal to all age groups, young and old alike…

Within teen bedrooms this colour pairing has particular appeal with a funky persona that is easy to enjoy. Trendy aqua shades in contrast with chocolate brown create a distinctly modern vibe with hints of retro. Paint the walls with solid colours, stripes, polka dots, or a combination of all three. Use beige and white accents to ground the room in the form of linens, furniture and accessories, as too much aqua will create a less than restful atmosphere, whilst too much brown will make the room feel small and dark. Try painting three walls beige with some white detailing with the fourth wall chocolate brown topped off with aqua circles. Incorporate white furniture such as a satin white metal bed in contemporary or transitional style, with aqua window dressings and a mocha coloured bedspread featuring aqua retro inspired patterns. Floral patterns rather than more 60s style swirls or circles might be more appropriate here if the room is to have a more feminine flavour.

Within adult bedrooms use a backdrop of pale or faded blue with chocolate brown accents to create a luxurious space, far removed from more ubiquitous room schemes. Pale blue walls will create a calming effect and create the perfect canvas to enable chocolate brown furniture to really stand out. Consider a traditional wooden bedstead design in walnut, cherry wood or dark oak for the perfect room focal point from which the room style as a whole may draw inspiration. Matching bedside tables, vanity units and dressers will extend the theme, with some quality plain white bed linens married up with a satin or damask comforter set to bring the traditional bed design to life. Choose bed throws and quilt covers that reflect your individual style, such as nicely contrasting pale blue covers with a brown piped border, or a chocolate brown comforter with a blue flower or damask pattern. Add a large white artificial flower or bunch of fresh white flowers in a blue vase to the room scheme to rest on a nightstand or the dresser, whilst white pillar candles can sit within brown china or antique brass candlesticks to add a romantic flavour in tune with the room style as a whole.

The blue/brown colour pairing is totally at home in younger daughters or sons rooms, and for a young girl is particularly charming if you opt for a robin’s egg blue wall treatment with perhaps a mocha accent wall at the head of the bed. Add polka dots or circles to the brown wall or large blue wooden block letters that spell out her name. A pretty white princess style metal bedstead will look fabulous here, and team it up with a reversible quilt that that features blue and brown polka dots on one side and stripes or a solid colour on the other. Rest a bedside lamp with a brown trimmed blue lampshade to the side of the bed and frame pictures and posters with brown or light blue frames.

For a boys bedroom, follow the same décor principles, but opt for more steely blue paint shades and a lighter brown such as tan for a warmer effect if desired. Ametal headboard in a satin black or bronze finish, or a bolder colour for a splash of visual interest is sure to tie in well, or consider darker wood bed and furniture choices for a more mature vibe.

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Ethnic style bedroom décor…

Thursday, March 29th, 2012

Beds | Mattresses | Linens

There’s a certain restrained elegance about ethnic décor which is exotic without relying on over-styling. The look is achieved by incorporating specific aspects of this distinct culture style by way of colour, accessories and furniture and textures. The room need not be a theme room in entirety but should at the very least reflect accurately the ethnic aesthetic desired by the room occupants. With this decorating style, less is most definitely more. Incorporating a few dramatic ethnic pieces, because they are unique and unusual, will make a much bolder statement than similar generic pieces.

Start the project with a clean slate, remove everything from the room, and use such sources as magazine reference and internet research to introduce the colours and style for the bedroom. Ethnic style seldom includes wall to wall carpet, but rather favours darker bare hardwoods with perhaps some sisal area rugs or ethnic style rugs for comfort. Extend the look to the walls, with perhaps a texture if you choose to emulate stucco and add muted colour with wall and ceiling paint. Neutral tones are the way forwards here and the ceiling treatment should be in a similar tonal range as that used on the walls. If you opt to faux paint the walls for the illusion of texture, select a neutral lighter colour and apply that to the ceiling.

Identify the focal point. This will either be the window wall, or more likely the bed head wall, as almost without exception the bed is going to dominate the room, in turn providing inspiration for the décor theme as a whole. Plan walking paths between any doors and windows so that the bed does not intrude, but allows access to all areas that require freedom of movement. Position the bed accordingly and select a style that reflects the ethnic aesthetic. Low platform style wooden beds with clean lines are a sound choice as are traditionally styled beds that incorporate leather or wrought iron detailing. Rustic iron bed designs are also in keeping here, with wooden four poster bed creations appropriate for more glamorous room settings, draped with sheer fabrics for a hint of intrigue.

Should you decide to allow the window wall to be the focal point, or if the room configuration dictates that it is so, then consider a window-width pelmet with distinct ethnic shape and detailing. This is particularly relevant for Moorish type keyhole effects which can be created from wood and painted or covered in appropriate fabric designs. Place a low ethnic style bench underneath the window for added effect and practicality.

Position an ethnic style rug to lie at the foot of the traditional bed or emerge from under the foot of the bed to catch the eye as you enter the room. For added drama you might choose to angle it, and include a couple of bedside tables to flank the bed and introduce a sense of visual balance. Likewise a wooden wide and low dresser with plain simple lines would look the part positioned against an open wall, with cultural prints hung in a symmetrical arrangement above. The trick here is to keep the room set looking elegant and spacious and free of clutter. Should you have a collection of objects to display, group them together on a small tray rather than scattering about the room. In the same vein, allow cultural elements to pop against a neutral background. They are most likely to possess strong colour, pattern and shape identities, so feature these differences. Avoid dark walls unless the room is very large and rotate your cultural collections by displaying different pieces at different seasons throughout the year, retiring pieces to storage periodically.

Finalise the room scheme and add a touch of comfort, with ethnic textiles on accent pillows and cushions, but once again, with restraint. Consider positioning one single larger ethnic art piece or fabric accent over theheadboard or netting for an enticing draped effect. Simply styled bedside lamps will look the part on ornate nightstands, with more ornamental lamps in keeping if your bedside tables are simple and plain. Include one key decorative accent statuary on the low dresser and some strategic plant displays for an earthy natural flavour.

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