Interiors inspiration for a good night’s sleep
Sleep deprivation can cause many problems, from stress to fatigue. But with a little interiors inspiration, you can create a relaxing environment to help you on your way to sweet dreams.
We’ve put together some tips to create a chamber Sleeping Beauty would be proud of.
Declutter, declutter, declutter
Tidy house, tidy mind; it’s a well-known adage, but if there’s one room where you must stick to this, it’s the bedroom. Taking the minimalist approach can really help to relieve stress, meaning you’ll be more likely to drift off to sleep come bedtime. Clear the clutter from your bedside table, keeping a few essentials on display; an alarm clock, a reading lamp and a pot of night cream, for example. Hidden storage units are key and will help maximise space too - divan beds are a great way to keep items out of sight, while floating shelves are practical and stylish.
Light and shade
Lighting is a key consideration when updating your interiors, particularly when it comes to making your bedroom a relaxing haven. Letting in natural light can boost spirits and help you to naturally rise and shine in the morning, but if you’re planning a precious Sunday morning lie in you’ll want to ensure you’re not woken prematurely. Venetian blinds are perfect for easily controlling light levels, while curtains made from heavier materials can create the blackout effect when you need it. Where artificial lighting is concerned, avoid harsh, bright bulbs, opting instead for the dimmable variety which can be adjusted to create a certain mood.
Soothing sanctuary
Several colours are renowned for being relaxing, but it’s better to stick to muted tones and shades in the boudoir to aid the sleep process. White, pastels, greys and pale blues and greens are all good choices. It’s important to strike the right balance of calming, relaxing hues with fresh, lively picks that can help put a spring in your step in the morning. Fussy patterns in bold, bright colours are best avoided but if you can’t resist a print, restrict subtle florals in soft shades to one feature wall, preferably the one your bed sits against.
Sleep on it
It’s estimated we spend around a third of our lives sleeping, so it’s important for your bed to be comfortable. When it comes to bedding, layering is particularly effective for creating the comfort factor; add cosy cushions, throws and blankets to your bed for the plush effect. As a rule, the higher the thread count the softer the sheets, and Egyptian cotton is often heralded as the best. A good mattress is also key - bear in mind the Sleep Council recommends you replace your mattress every eight years, as this is when they tend to lose their original support and comfort.
What are your favourite tips for creating a relaxing bedroom? Let us know in the comments.
