Your primary bedroom is more than just a spot for rest; it’s your personal oasis, a retreat to rejuvenate, and undoubtedly the most intimate space in your home. Whether you’re updating it for your own enjoyment or with a special someone in mind, revamping your bedroom is a heartfelt way to express love for yourself and your partner. This Valentine’s season, let’s aim to transform your bedroom into a dreamy escape that combines comfort with elegance. Here’s our expert advice on creating the sanctuary you truly deserve.
Measure Your Space
First things first, you should always start a home project by measuring your space. Start by taking the overall measurements of your room, meaning all walls and ceiling height(s). Next, locate those windows and doors! For both windows and doors measure how far the opening is from the nearest corner of the room to the window or door opening (not trim). Record the width and height of doors and record the width, height, and sill height of windows. If you want to be incredibly accurate (like a pro) record the location and sizes of outlets, switches, vents or anything out of the ordinary. When planning your room, the location of these items is good to know so that you do not block them with furniture or art. Next mark the location of any built-in fixtures such as pendant lights or ceiling fans. Now you are ready to embark on the fun stuff!
Get Inspired
A great way to collect ideas for your room is to create a Pinterest board. Start by pinning bedrooms that you love so that you can get ideas for what you would like to do with your space. After you have decided on a look and feel for the room, start pinning actual items for the room. Typical items for a bedroom might include the following:
Bed Frame or Headboard
End of Bed Bench
Dresser(s)
Nightstand(s)
Wall Mirror or Standing Mirror
Desk
Task Chair
Area Rug
Linens (possibilities include comforter, duvet cover, pillow shams, sheets, coverlet, and decorative pillows)
Lighting (possibilities include table lamps, floor lamps, ceiling fan, flush mount light, sconces, or pendant lights)
Decorative Items (possibilities include draperies or shades, drapery hardware, wallpaper, and decorative accessories)
Plants
We recommend organizing your pins by dragging items you love next to one another on your board to ensure they coordinate. Create an archive section and archive items you no longer love for your design. By archiving instead of deleting, you can always go back to something without having to look for it again if your change your mind.
Set the Mood with Color
Color has a powerful impact on how we feel, so choose hues that speak to relaxation, romance, and comfort. Soft neutrals like warm taupe, ivory, and creamy greige create a soothing atmosphere, while deeper tones like soft plum, dusty rose, or navy bring a sense of sophistication and coziness. Blues and greens are excellent colors for relaxation and rejuvenation. If you want a touch of drama, consider a romantic accent wall behind the headboard with wallpaper in a subtle pattern, such as a floral or a delicate texture in metallic tones. This adds depth without overwhelming the space. Wall murals and wallpaper can become the centerpiece of your room design, providing inspiration for the other selections in the room.
Luxurious Linens for the Win
Your bed is the room's centerpiece, so invest in high-quality bedding. Soft, breathable fabrics like linen or cotton make all the difference in comfort. Layering is key for creating a designer look. Start with crisp white or neutral sheets, add a plush duvet or comforter, and finish with decorative throw pillows and a cozy knit coverlet or faux fur blanket. Stick to a cohesive color palette when layering your linens. A mix of textures—smooth sheets, quilted covers, and soft throws—adds dimension and an inviting feel.
Mood Lighting Matters
Lighting sets the tone in any space, especially the bedroom. Avoid harsh overhead lighting and instead opt for a combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting.
Ideas to Try:
Place matching table lamps on bedside tables for soft, symmetrical lighting.
Install a statement chandelier or pendant light with a dimmer switch for adjustable ambiance.
Add a few decorative candles in chic holders for a romantic glow.
Choose Meaningful Art and Accessories
Decor should reflect your personality and what brings you peace and joy. Whether you prefer abstract paintings, nature photography, or sentimental pieces, art can tie together your room's color palette and design theme. Avoid clutter by choosing just a few impactful decorative pieces. Let your favorite items take center stage.
For accessories, think understated elegance. A beautiful ceramic vase with fresh or dried flowers or a tray on the dresser for candles and jewelry can create beautiful, decorative touches to complete your room.
Create a Luxe Sitting Area
If space allows, adding a small sitting nook makes your bedroom feel even more indulgent. A cozy armchair or loveseat paired with a side table and a small reading lamp creates the perfect spot to unwind with a book or enjoy your morning coffee. Choose a plush, inviting chair with soft upholstery in a neutral or jewel tone to complement your bedding. Add a decorative pillow or small throw to tie it all together.
Invest in Furniture That Fits Your Lifestyle
Functional furniture makes the space both beautiful and practical. Consider your lifestyle needs when deciding on furniture pieces to include in your space. A storage bench at the foot of the bed offers extra seating and a place to store blankets. Nightstands with built-in drawers help you keep clutter out of sight. A chic dresser with ample space ensures your room stays neat and organized. If your furniture pieces feel mismatched, a coat of paint in a unifying color or swapping out hardware for cohesive finishes can give everything a polished look.
Embrace the Power of Plants
Houseplants bring life and serenity to your space. Low-maintenance options like snake plants, peace lilies, or philodendrons thrive in indoor environments and help purify the air. Place a trailing plant on a high shelf, in a wall planter, or in a hanging planter. Place a potted fiddle-leaf fig or rubber tree in an empty corner to create visual interest and soften the lines of your furniture.
Whether you're designing your dream bedroom as a special gift to yourself or as a romantic retreat for two, the goal is to create a space that brings you comfort, joy, and peace. A thoughtfully curated bedroom isn’t just an indulgence—it’s an investment in your well-being.
This February, celebrate love in all its forms by creating a primary bedroom that truly feels like home. After all, everyone deserves a little luxury and relaxation—including you!