Which Style is Best for a Bedroom? A Designer's Complete Guide
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Time to read 7 min
How to Choose Your Perfect Bedroom Style: A Designer's Perspective
Creating the perfect bedroom style is essential for both your comfort and wellbeing, as we spend roughly a third of our lives in our bedrooms. The right bedroom style can transform your space from a simple sleeping area into a peaceful sanctuary that promotes relaxation and rejuvenation.
Whether you're planning a complete bedroom makeover or simply refreshing your existing space, understanding the key elements of bedroom design will help you create your ideal retreat.
Table of Contents
How to Choose Your Perfect Bedroom Style: A Designer's Perspective What Makes a Good Theme for Your Bedroom? Where Should Your Bed Face in a Bedroom? Strategic Bedroom Layout Guidelines Where to Put a Mirror in Your Bedroom Our Most Popular Bedroom Furniture Creating Your Perfect Bedroom Style: Bringing It All Together Frequently Asked Questions About Bedroom Styles Related Readings
How to Choose Your Perfect Bedroom Style
Your bedroom style should reflect your personality while maintaining a calming atmosphere conducive to rest. Consider your lifestyle and daily routines when selecting your bedroom style.
If you're drawn to minimalism, a contemporary design with clean lines and neutral colours might suit you best. For those who prefer a cosier feel, a traditional or cottage-core style with layered textiles and warm tones could be more appropriate.
Professional interior designers recommend starting with a mood board to help visualise your preferred style. Take inspiration from design magazines, social media, and home décor websites, but ensure your chosen style will work within your space's constraints and your practical needs.
Remember that the most successful bedroom designs balance aesthetic appeal with functionality.
Need Inspiration? Check Out Our Bedroom Furniture Collections
Where Should Your Bed Face in a Bedroom?
Now, let's chat about bed placement - it's rather like positioning the star performer on a stage.
The bed should ideally face the door without being directly in line with it (a principle known as the commanding position).
This arrangement allows you to see who enters while keeping a comfortable distance from the doorway.
Strategic Bedroom Layout Guidelines
The layout of your bedroom plays a crucial role in creating a harmonious space. The proper arrangement of furniture can maximise both space and energy flow while adhering to interior design principles.
Start by measuring your room and creating a scaled floor plan, accounting for windows, doors, and any architectural features that might impact furniture placement.
According to the UK National House Building Council's guidelines, the minimum bedroom size should be 7 square metres for a single bedroom and 11 square metres for a double bedroom.
This measurement helps ensure adequate space for essential furniture and movement. For more detailed information about space standards, you can refer to the UK Government's Technical Housing Standards .
| Element | Minimum Space | Ideal Space | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bed to Side Wall | 75cm | 90cm | Allow comfortable access |
| Bed to Foot Traffic | 90cm | 120cm | Create easy pathway |
| Wardrobe Door Clearance | 100cm | 120cm | Space to access storage |
| Window to Bed Distance | 90cm | 150cm | Prevent drafts |
| Ceiling Height Clearance | 230cm | 270cm | For visual comfort |
| Door Swing Area | 90cm | 100cm | Unobstructed movement |
Where Should Your Bed Face in a Bedroom
The positioning of your bed is perhaps the most critical decision in bedroom layout. Traditional feng shui principles suggest placing your bed where you can see the door while not being directly in line with it.
This position, known as the 'commanding position', helps create a sense of security and comfort while sleeping.
When considering bed placement, take into account the room's natural light sources and ventilation.
The UK Building Regulations emphasise the importance of adequate ventilation in bedrooms, which you can learn more about through the UK Government's Planning Portal . Position your bed to avoid direct drafts from windows or air conditioning units while still allowing for proper air circulation.
Bedroom Mirror Placement for Optimal Effect
Mirrors can dramatically affect the feel of your bedroom, making it appear larger and brighter when positioned correctly.
The best placement for a bedroom mirror depends on both practical and aesthetic considerations. Avoid placing mirrors directly opposite the bed, as this can create an unsettling feeling and disrupt sleep patterns.
Consider installing mirrors where they can reflect natural light and beautiful views, such as adjacent to windows or opposite attractive architectural features.
Full-length mirrors work well on wardrobe doors or in dressing areas, while decorative mirrors can serve as artistic focal points above dressers or consoles.
Our Most Popular Bedroom Furniture
Creating Your Perfect Bedroom Style: Bringing It All Together
When designing your ideal bedroom style, it's essential to consider how all elements work together to create a cohesive and functional space.
The most successful bedroom designs incorporate appropriate storage solutions, lighting layers, and comfortable furnishings that complement your chosen style.
Remember that your bedroom should be a personal sanctuary that promotes rest and relaxation.
Your chosen style should evolve with your needs while maintaining its core functional elements. Consider incorporating adaptable design features that can accommodate changes in your lifestyle or preferences over time.
Think about how your bedroom style might need to adjust for different seasons or life changes.
The key to creating the perfect bedroom style lies in balancing these essential elements: selecting an appropriate style that reflects your personality, implementing a functional layout that maximises space, choosing the correct bed position for optimal comfort, and incorporating mirrors and lighting to enhance the room's atmosphere.
Here are the crucial points to remember:
- Your bedroom style should prioritise both aesthetic appeal and functionality while creating a peaceful environment that promotes quality sleep and relaxation
- The layout and furniture placement should follow ergonomic principles and space planning guidelines while accommodating your daily routines and lifestyle needs
- Consider how natural light, ventilation, and room flow work together to create a harmonious space that supports your wellbeing and comfort
Need Inspiration? Check Out Our Bedroom Furniture Collections
Frequently Asked Questions About Bedroom Styles
What is the most relaxing colour for a bedroom?
Soft, muted blues and greens are scientifically proven to promote relaxation and better sleep. These colours work particularly well when paired with natural neutrals like warm whites and gentle greys.
How high should bedside lamps be?
The bottom of your bedside lamp shade should align with your shoulder height when sitting in bed. This typically means placing the base of the lamp at around 58-64cm from the ground, depending on your bed height.
Can I mix different styles in my bedroom?
Absolutely - in fact, combining styles often creates more interesting and personalised spaces. The key is to maintain a consistent colour palette and balance between different elements.
How much of my bedroom should be empty space?
Aim to keep about 40% of your bedroom as clear floor space. This creates a sense of calm and allows for easy movement around the room.
What's the ideal bedroom size according to feng shui?
According to feng shui principles ( Wikipedia link: Feng shui ), a bedroom should ideally be between 15-20 square metres. This allows for proper energy flow while maintaining cosiness.
Should bedroom furniture match exactly?
Matching furniture isn't necessary and can sometimes make a room feel flat. Instead, aim for complementary pieces that share similar elements or finishes.
How many pillows is too many for a bed?
For everyday use, limit decorative pillows to 2-3 for a single bed and 4-5 for a double or king. Remember that each pillow should serve either a functional or significant aesthetic purpose.
What's the best height for a bedside table?
Your bedside table should be approximately the same height as your mattress top. This usually means between 55-65cm high for optimal reach and visual balance.
Can I put my bed under a window?
While not ideal due to potential drafts and lack of a solid headboard wall, sometimes placing a bed under a window is unavoidable. If you must, ensure proper window insulation and consider a substantial headboard.
How far should pendant lights hang above bedside tables?
Pendant lights should hang approximately 30-40cm above your bedside table surface. This provides adequate task lighting while avoiding any head-bumping hazards.
Should I place a rug under my bed?
Yes, a rug under your bed can add warmth and define the space. Ensure it extends at least 60cm beyond the sides and foot of the bed for visual balance.
What are the most popular bedroom styles in the UK?
Contemporary and Scandinavian styles lead in popularity among UK homeowners, with their clean lines and neutral colour palettes creating serene environments. You can learn more about bedroom style evolution through the Wikipedia article on Interior Design .
What size should my bedroom be for a double bed?
According to UK building regulations, a double bedroom should be at least 11 square metres to accommodate a standard double bed and essential furniture. Visit the UK Government's Housing Standards for detailed guidance.
