We received a sweet email from a reader, Shelby, who asked:
…”I know this may sound off-topic but I love the way you guys design bedrooms, and with that, beds and bedding. I was wondering if you would cover that. I’m looking to refresh my space, and I didn’t know if there’s a formula of some sort that you use, or advice, or whatever you can throw my way. Thank you so much…”
Bedrooms have been on our brains lately. Probably because we’ve designed quite a few bedrooms for our own kiddos and clients, too. It’s the season to cozy things up! Add some layers, and stay a while in the mornings on the weekend with some coffee… So I thought I’d share a few of our very favorite tips to make a bed feel oh-so cozy! While there are no hard and fast rules, we have a few nice little tips we like to stick to, because they’ve proven time and time again to be solid choices. So without further ado, our best tips for a cozy bed!
1. Best Tips for a Cozy Bed: Where to Begin
The big question usually comes down to where to begin. We always say start with a good solid basic and then build from there. Go with the base that you want.
this one with all the great details, here!
Because sheets are so personal, and they’re what you’re touching the most from the moment you hop into bed. So we say, start there. We personally can never love white sheets enough. They’re just a great universal, classic piece for us personally. I also love a great printed sheet for kiddos’ spaces. So when in doubt, start simple. And from thread count to material, choose what works for you.
this whole space here! – I adore this one too!
2. Best Tips for a Cozy Bed: Layer up.
We believe in great layers to help create the perfect bed. That means don’t be afraid to have lots of them. Sometimes that is seasonal for us personally, where we remove a blanket or two in the warmer months, but we tend to layer in two different ways:
Even daybeds count… more details behind this space, here
• Pillows – This one goes beyond the one that you sleep on because that is a very personal preference indeed. I’m talking about the toppers. If you look at every single bed we’ve put together, I’m definitely not afraid to use pillows. More on that below, but even the daybed above has a generous amount. Don’t hold back. I know pillows are a trigger for some… {side-eyeing Jamin.} they don’t have to be. They bring so much potential to a boring bed… so even if less is more for you, consider what you want and than make it work in layers.
this room, here – it’s a personal fave for obvious reasons…
• Bedding – We usually layer up with the duvet and quilt/throw combo. Never underestimate the power of a good quilt, along with layers of bedding. They never go out of style, and they only get softer with time. I guess you could say we’re maximalists when it comes to layers. I love that it basically greets us, as a result, when we walk into the room. At the end of a long day, there’s nothing better than folding yourself into the bed. Or letting the bedding fold around you… whichever comes first.
My very favorite basic formula for bedding: Sheets + quilt + duvet + quilt {or throw} at the foot of the bed.
this garage to an airbnb transformation, here!
3. Best Tips for a Cozy Bed: Pillow Contrast + Placement
Some of these photos may give a good idea as to where to start when it comes to sizing and placement. When it comes to pillows, people always tend to shy away from using them and aren’t sure about proportions, numbers, etc. A good general rule of thumb to follow when placing pillows:
• Large to small, front to back – Build from back to front with large to small in the pillow category. A good basic pattern to start with, for a king bed, for example, would be three euros, two standard pillows, and one lumbar. Or something in that arena.
• Vary your sizes – Use a combination of euro, standard, throw, and lumbar to mix it up and make it interesting.
• Pattern + Color Contrast – mix organic with geometric patterns, and a plethora of colors to tie it all together.
more info on this glam teen girl space, here!
4. Best Tips for a Cozy Bed: Don’t Be Afraid of Color
Neutral is great, but have you tried color? I think if you read here often, you may feel the same. And if you prefer neutrals, we hear you. I’m offering a third option: Constrast. Don’t be afraid to go with contrast and simplification with color, as our client did in this bedroom. We love this simple refined look.
Too many people tend to shy away from color when it comes to a bedroom, and as a default, because, honestly, they’re probably not so sure how to tie it all in. Just because something has color, doesn’t mean it can’t be relaxing. Soft hues mixed with beautiful textures are a great way to create a haven, just for you!
5. Best Tips for a Cozy Bed: Tiny but Mighty
Just because it’s on the small side, doesn’t mean it can’t be bold and fun. We’ve created lots of welcoming retreats by thinking creatively about the bedding, and this is no exception to flexing those creative muscles. Always consider easy ways to incorporate colorful collections and make it interesting!
this tween room here
Our kids original shared space, here.
Bonus: Little Details that Take it Over the Top.
1. Flat Sheets Down! Want your bedroom to feel like an escape? If you’re using a pattern on those sheets, be “extra” by putting your top sheet face down. That way, when you fold it back to make the bed, the pattern can be folded over the top bedding for a great hit of pattern.
see more of this space transformaiton here!
2. Make your bed every day. Sorry, not sorry, but we’re adding this one here. It’s the first thing on your list to make you feel accomplished, and up + off of the floor is best! Make your bed in the mornings. You won’t regret it. I’m still working with the kids on this one… and the other parental unit doesn’t care. So it’s always a battle around here. I guess I won’t die on that hill… cue the dramatic champagne probs kinda sigh.
this one here! – I’m still in love with their bedding.
These are some of our favorite tips for making that bed. We hope it helps you get started!
What are some of your go-to tips? We’d love to hear!
Have an inspired day!
lastly, check out our own bedroom here.
Dillan Robel says
It offers the best tips for creating a comfortable and warm sleeping environment. With details such as the choice of soft and high-quality bedding, the comfort of pillows and duvets, and the use of layered textiles, it is possible to have a peaceful sleeping experience every night. With these simple but effective tips, you can turn your bed into a comfortable haven and get a restful sleep every night.