Posts Tagged ‘Bedsteads’

« Older Entries
Newer Entries »

Décor solutions for narrow bedrooms…

Monday, April 23rd, 2012

Beds | Mattresses | Linens

Not all rooms come in convenient décor friendly shapes and sizes. Older properties or modern small apartment dwellings often suffer from oddly shaped or compact bedroom spaces, and yet good design doesn’t have to suffer just because your bedroom is  a tad on the small size, or is longer than it is wide. In fact there are several design tricks that you can use to create a space that is cosy and comfortable that appears larger than it really is…

Start by clearing everything out of the room so that you start with a blank canvas, making it easier to decide what will fit within the scheme and what will not. Smaller rooms draw attention to wall and ceiling imperfections, so take the opportunity to affect any remedial repairs whilst the room is clear and clutter free. Use lighter paint or wallpaper colours and a large wall mirror to make the room appear wider. You might choose to paint the two long walls a different colour for pleasing contrast or a lighter and darker shade of the same hue. Colour is subjective, so don’t be afraid to use darker colours if you wish. Red, for example can make a room feel cosy, whilst lighter purple shades lend the space a sophisticated air.

Hang the large mirror on the darker painted wall or use a free standing floor mirror where space allows. The mirror will reflect the lighter wall colour, brightening the room and giving an illusion of space. Likewise, hanging a mirror opposite a window creates more natural light in the room, making it feel wider than the dimensions might suggest.

Decide where to position the bed in order to maximise floor space and not block any doors. A modern or traditional bed with its longest side against the wall gives the impression of a day bed, or you may wish to purchase a day bed proper, that can be converted to a seating area when it is not required for sleep. To make the best use of the space position a dresser or bookcase behind the head of the bed or to one side of the day bed, rather than a bedside table, and place a lamp and alarm clock on the dresser to create more floor room.

Divide the space to create smaller vignettes. Creating smaller zones in this way is particularly effective if the room is extremely long. Use drapery to create a delineation and make a cosy reading zone with a chair, area rug and reading lamp that is separate from the sleeping area. You might also like to consider a Japanese style screen or purpose made room divider to create the same effect. Draperies should complement the wall colour, and using fabrics that hang from wall to ceiling, allow the eye to travel up and down, once again breaking up the space.

If your bedroom is to incorporate a TV, hang it on the wall or position it on an armoire whenever space allows. Flat screen wall mounted TVs take up virtually no space and wall mounts with swing arms increase the viewing angle range.

Finally make up the bed with linens that harmonise with the room colours with textures and accents that appeal to the senses. If you are going for the daybed look, finish the scheme by positioning pillows against the wall for the appearance of a sofa, with bolster pillows at each end to create a truly comfortable seating area.

Tags: , , , , ,
Posted in All Posts, Bedroom Style | Comments Off

Bird Motif Bedroom themes…

Monday, April 23rd, 2012

Beds | Mattresses | Linens

Bird motif bedrooms have a distinctly traditional quality and country house flavour that you might associate with the Victorian era or Colonial settings. Think faded wallpaper in tea-stain hues featuring floral and hummingbird themes and you are on the right lines, although the bird motif approach to room décor can be rather more contemporary in style whenever the situation dictates. Either way, it’s a motif that can look charming in any room setting, from the nursery or a master bedroom, and for a child’s room it’s particularly appropriate as it is very gender-friendly and is a look that remains relevant as she or he grows. Likewise for an adult’s bedroom, it need not be overtly feminine, but instead offers a timeless traditional stance that has broad appeal. For nature lovers and bird watchers alike, it offers an opportunity to incorporate a favourite hobby or a flavour of the great outdoors, with a theme that can lend the room space a homespun flavour, particularly if you choose to create some of the décor pieces yourself.

One of the simplest and most original ways to incorporate a bird motif is in the form of a wall mural, using stencils and wall paints to apply your chosen design to the wall. To create a precise and well- proportioned design project an image onto the wall using an overhead projector, and then enhance the tree’s branches with vibrant green leaves and colourful birds such as red cardinals and blue jays or parrots and hummingbirds for a more tropical flavour. For a more vintage vibe consider traditionally styled wallpaper treatments that feature a bird or bird-related theme, of the kind that would have been favoured through the 19th and early 20th century, with a feature wall at the head of a traditional iron bed, or perhaps throughout the room for gentler pastel patterned wallpaper designs.

Use the bed to draw the eye and showcase the feature wall as you enter the room. An antique brass bedstead could work well here, or traditional wooden bed in a plain paneled design or something more ornate with carving and corner post detail. Consider also a wooden sleigh bed for a French twist or a romantic four poster bed whenever space and budgets permit.

Bird themed textiles will harmonise nicely here to add warmth, colour and whimsy to the room scheme. Enhance a plain coloured silk or damask comforter with several scatter cushions that feature exotic bird designs and incorporate a runner in the same material to lie at the foot of the traditional bed or to drape over a chaises longue or love seat. In a child’s room soften up hardwood or tiled floors with a large bird shaped or bird patterned area rug, and replace boring white blinds with cotton bird-patterned curtains.

Track down a vintage bird cage as an accent feature for the room for an enchanting whimsical touch, and fill it with small flower vases, potted plants, a little stack of antique leather-bound books, or a raffia style model bird. Display it on a shelf, occasional table or nightstand or hang from the ceiling, whilst for a creative lighting solution you may instead prefer to place candles inside the cage to cast a gentle romantic glow.

Complete the scheme by updating bedroom furniture with little accent touches such as hand painted bird patterned ceramic draw pulls and door knobs. Some ceramic vases featuring floral and bird themes might be equally appealing along with a collection of framed bird prints as a wall feature or a larger single painting hung over the bed.

With a little trial and error and a splash of imagination, a coordinated bird motif bedroom theme is possible that will appeal to all the family that defies transient fashion trends and ensures a refreshing alternative to more mundane bedroomschemes…

Tags: , , ,
Posted in All Posts, Bedroom Style, Design Inspiration | Comments Off

Vintage bedroom chic…

Saturday, April 14th, 2012

Beds | Mattresses | Linens

The term “vintage” summons up any number of different images, and it is the very uniqueness of the vintage style of decorating that makes this room theme so bespoke and appealing. Personalise a vintage style bedroom with antiques, accents and enticing colours, for a makeover that showcases your creative style and individualistic good taste. Whether it’s shabby chic, old Hollywood glamour, a feminine floral vibe, or any number of different variations that you enjoy, create a look that is all your own, for enduring, timeless appeal. For inspiration wander around antique arcades, car boot sales, bric a brac stores or research online or within decorating magazines for the perfect bedroom scheme. Sometimes a great find such as an antique armoire or rusty iron bed will create inspiration for the whole room. Take your time in your search for the perfect inspirational piece, as this part of the process is half the fun, and will make the transformation process all the easier as the correct choice of complementary accessories and fabrics falls into place.

Start by drawing a scale plan of the room and incorporate scale cut-outs of the pieces of furniture that you hope to buy or have already acquired. If you have an interesting architectural detail in the room such as a window seat or archway, you may wish to accentuate it and allow it to become the focal point. Alternatively you would most probably choose the bed as the likeliest largest room element to place centre stage, and inspire the room theme as a whole.

Select vintage style wallpaper for a great oldie feel, to offset the furniture collection and create the perfect mood. For a sophisticated and formal look choose damask floral wallpaper in a floral or crest design, or a vintage tropical leaf design for a Palm Beach look. Retro floral wallpaper designs are appropriate for a feminine bedroom style, whilst for a son or daughter’s bedroom look at old style images of zoo animals, or trains, planes and classic cars. Faded yellow wallpaper colours are a popular choice for a child’s room, with pink and green being particularly suited to floral feminine schemes. Silver damask is one to consider for a glamorous silver and white vibe.

Use that glamorous antique or reproduction iron bed or wooden bed to become the room focal point, in true Victorian or 20th century vintage spirit. A spectacular Rococo style wooden bedstead would be eye-catching, and canopy beds or an antique four poster bed will undoubtedly inspire a vintage room theme. Antique style brass bed designs are also wonderfully in keeping here, and will harmonise nicely with vintage style wooden dressing tables and writing desks, with antique armoires and wardrobes providing ideal storage solutions.

Dress the bed with fabrics and linens that bring it to life. Plump pillows, down filled duvets, bed throws, quilts and crocheted Afghans will introduce a lavish and comfortable feel to the room, with a thick accent rug at the foot or to the side of the bed to continue the theme. It’s easy to transform linens that you already own into a retro look by sewing crocheted lace detailing onto pillowcases and sheetsand using lace doilies as accent features on bedside tables.

Complete the vintage room theme with enchanting accessories that you may already own or have tracked down in your antique hunt travels. Antique mirrors with gilt frames, beaded lampshades, a vintage bird cage, or old wooden coat stand, will all incorporate beautifully. Antique water pitchers and bowls can be displayed on an occasional table, with a silver vanity hairbrush set on the dressing table for a generous helping of vintage charm, with such accents as pretty Victorian jewelry boxes, heavy glass candlesticks, and old fashioned hat boxes all adding to the authentic beguiling allure…

Tags: , , , ,
Posted in All Posts, Bedroom Style | Comments Off

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…

Tags: , , , ,
Posted in All About Sleep, Bedroom Style, Design Inspiration | Comments Off

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…

Tags: , , ,
Posted in Bedroom Style, Design Inspiration | Comments Off

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…

Tags: ,
Posted in All Posts, Bedroom Style, Design Inspiration | Comments Off

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…

Tags: , , , ,
Posted in All Posts, Bedroom Style | Comments Off

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.

Tags: , , , , , , , ,
Posted in All Posts, Bedroom Style | Comments Off

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.

Tags: , , , , , ,
Posted in All Posts, Bedroom Style, Design Inspiration | Comments Off

High-tech bedroom style…

Thursday, March 29th, 2012

Beds | Mattresses | Linens

For an ultra- modern, no-nonsense approach to bedroom style, very little comes close to the gritty urban look of a high-tech room setting where colour, cool textures and steely accents come together for an aesthetic that is definitely masculine in character, where simple accents and furnishings do the talking.

Any such scheme needs a catalyst to get the ball rolling. A focal point bed is the perfect contender here to provide inspiration for the room mood as a whole. Keep things simple but classy with a basic bed that is nonetheless supremely comfortable. Think soft but supportive mattress on a box spring, continental style or on a carpet covered platform. Adjustable bed frames are also appropriate here with or without upholstered head and foot ends, or consider a contemporary metal bed design in any number of paint finishes. Black, white, pewter, silver in satin or textured guise are great choices, with nickel and chrome bed creations offering the perfect solution for the most sophisticated room settings. Metal bed designs embody the high-tech room mood requiring the minimum of dressings and frippery to make a bold room statement. So keep bed fabrics simple with a quilted solid or blocked geometric bed spread and with scatter cushions well out of the equation. Standard bed pillows in plain covers are fine and if it’s necessary to hide a box spring or divan base, it can be upholstered or covered with a plain bed skirt.

Be creative with nightstands that will complement the bed design whilst offering practical style. A rolling metal cart, hi-fi shelves, or a rolling office storage unit of basic drawers will work here. Whatever you choose need not match the bed, although this is one solution, but it should radiate the same persona to ensure cohesion and uniformity.

Stow clothes and other bedroom clutter in chests and other storage units that borrows from the school of office furniture design, including black or white laminate as well as of course, metal finishes. Consider using lockers or wire-drawer closet systems within the scheme, and cover the hard surface artificial floor area with only the plainest of area rugs for just a hint of comfort and texture contrast, such as natural sisal or a bound offcut of commercial grade carpet.

Keep wall treatments simple with monochromatic grey or white semi-gloss paint with some black accents for a grounding feel. Gloss paint is great in this environment too, but will highlight any wall flaws so works best on walls that are in pristine condition. Metallic wall finishes or metallic wall accents are another option. Think textured industrial steel plates or aluminium cladding for a truly gritty flavour, whilst for something a little less assertive you might consider an accent wall in pure yellow or crayon red for a splash of brightness in contrast with those cooler room shades and elements.

Select lighting that’s industrial in nature. Photographer’s lights, adjustable metal halogen lighting and recessed halogen lighting solutions, will all extend the urban mood. Have them illuminate wall and free standing artwork and contemporary sculptures, such as black and white photos in chrome or black frames, or oversize abstracts and contemporary cutting-edge carvings or metal statuary.

Natural light falling through tall glass widows or ceiling panes can be controlled as though they were in a purely industrial setting with venetian blinds, vertical blinds, high-tech look perforated roller shades, or grommet topped curtains hung on a simple metal curtain rod, for a softer feel. Consider curtain fabrics that feature a simple geometric pattern such as stripes, or a solid coloured utility-type fabric such as canvas, burlap, or unbleached muslin.

Tags: , , , , ,
Posted in All Posts, Bedroom Style | Comments Off