A great bedroom means different things to different people. Some want a soft, dark cocoon in which to escape the stresses of the world, others want a sexy room that is a fantasy escape. Somewhere in the middle are those who want a dazzling space that is both calming and visually appealing. Our feature bedroom today really fits that bill.
Soft colours
The soft hues of this room beget a feeling of a calming retreat. The pale green wall colour is soothing and brings a sense of instant serenity when you walk into the space. Soft, subtle colours are best suited to a bedroom space where you want your mind and body to truly unwind from the tension of everyday life. The complementary sand colour on the opposite wall, while in the same colour tone, provides visual interest without assaulting the senses. You don't have to stick with one colour in a space just because you want it to be demure. You do, however, have to keep within the same realm of colour intensity with each colour so that neither one glares out, but rather, they balance and complement each other. This colour scheme of sand and sea is a good choice for a relaxing space.
Window dressing
The two-tone, shimmery window treatment complements both wall colours while adding a bit of sparkle and romance to the room. Solid-coloured panels would work but in this case, the design in the fabric adds a bit of subtle interest to the space. The large grommets add a contemporary, urban feel which keeps the look current. Fussy, pinch-pleated draperies in this space would make it too formal.
The main focus
This platform bed in dark wood tones is a nice contrast to the muted wall colours. The sandy beige bedding, which also has a soft shimmer, allows the dark wood to provide needed contrast to the space. Hanging a set of prints over the headboard provides support to the focal wall by creating drama at the head of the bed. The outdoor scenes framed in a sand-coloured suede matting suit the sand and sea theme of the room.
Balance in lines
The linear lines of the dark dresser and headboard are balanced nicely with curvy accessories. The lamps in this room are amazing. Each one stands on its own as a dazzling accessory while providing necessary lighting throughout the space. The wavy lines of the dresser accessories and lamp shades and bases help tone down the hard lines of the furniture. The side chairs, which swivel, also have a lovely curve to them which is atypical and a nice visual surprise.
British Colonial meets Hollywood
I love the juxtaposition of the traditional and fanciful aspect of this room. While the large tropical plant and dark wood tones evoke a British Colonial flavour, the sparkly, sexy accessories are reminiscent of Old Hollywood glamour. The champagne flutes on the glass-topped table in the foreground, filled with glass beads and silk hankies, bring a feeling of romance and glamour. Supporting this are the two silver spires on the nightstand (which look a little like movie statuettes), the shiny, spiral-based lamp and faux fur throw. The large scale of the accessories also lends itself to the "overstated" look of Old Hollywood. I have to say my favourite thing in the room is the large, mesh accent ball on the night table. It's light as a feather but adds a wonderful sense of style and whimsy to the space.
This bedroom is simple yet elegant, glamourous yet cosy. The most surprising thing about this room is that it's not actually in a home. This is a display room in my newest favourite haunt called Changes by Design. I was told about this fabulous design house by a friend who suggested I drop by. I'm very glad I did. Changes by Design is a wonderful, local interior-design company offering not only design services but also a fabulous showroom which is open to the public. Owner Tara MacTavish started a small, home-based design business 11 years ago which has grown into the now-popular design boutique. The shop is located on Ellice Avenue and King Edward Street. It's a little hard to see from the road but well worth the effort if you're looking for awesome accessories, furniture, lighting, window coverings and/or assistance with your choices.
