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Sweet Dreams

A place to check out, zone out and opt out of the day?s stresses

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By Julia Freemantle | April 26, 2016 | Bedroom

A place to check out, zone out and opt out of the day’s stresses, a bedroom should be all that is relaxing and uplifting. Julia Freemantle shows you how to create special spaces that nurture body and soul.  

Custom luxe detailing and unique pieces have been combined by designers Cécile & Boyd’s to craft a space that is über personal (above). Mirrors, pressed ceilings and wall mouldings are subtle yet sophisticated ways to introduce detail and texture. Combine abstract and ornate elements for an updated take on tradition. 

 

Bedroom as Sanctuary

Nurturing and personal, sanctuaries should offer respite and an opportunity to recharge.

Photograph: Elsa Young

Stephen Falcke’s take on African safari, in all white, is the ultimate setting for downtime. This bedroom’s wow feature is its outdoor aspect — the room’s folding doors open up completely to the view. The classic four poster reinterpreted safari style with mosquito netting is an example of a practical feature made chic. Kiwinet supplies similar netting.

Photograph: Simon Watson

Almost monastically simple, this bedroom offers respite from mental and visual overstimulation. Although seemingly counterintuitive, cool dark colours can be just as soothing as light — it’s all in the execution. As long as they’re balanced by sufficient light and space, here by way of a lofty ceiling, they won’t be oppressive. Keeping adornment to a minimum is also key.

Photograph: Paul Costello

The ultimate escape, this exotically themed room — with elements of sea and forest life — demonstrates the power of nature to transport its occupant to a rejuvenating headspace. Harness floral, avian and animal imagery and use natural textures.

Bedroom as Boudoir

The watchwords are luxe and layering, with the ultimate aim to achieve a space that feels special.

Photograph: Ditte Isager

Purple, traditionally used to denote royalty, is a fitting shade to introduce an element of lavishness. But if your preferred aesthetic leans towards streamlined and tailored, take note of the cushioned wall panelling in place of a headboard — more modern, but no less dramatic. The choice of fabric is also integral to this effect — velvet, satin, silk — so choose anything tactile.

Photograph:Jason Schmidt

The quickest route to a lush boudoir look is jewel tones and sensual fabrics. This ornate four poster features touch-me silk drapes and a restrained but rich palette, the result of which is a totally inviting scene. Traditional detailing gives it a sense of grandeur and a toned-down Marie Antoinette sense of occasion. Block & Chisel stocks French-inspired four posters. For the cornicing, contact NMC.

Photograph: Alexandre Bailache

The romantic notion of escape has been distilled into this charming alcove bedroom. Pale colours, fanciful panelling and an arched ceiling give it a very feminine feel. Although merely part of the room here, this execution could be used in a small studio space to create a ‘bedroom’ area.

Bedroom as Multitasker

The key to creating a multitasking bedroom is considering the elements that would make it a practical, comfortable and beautiful space — do you need a space in which to dress or read or do you require extra storage? 

Photograph: Micky Hoyle

The Olive Boutique Hotel in Namibia has cleverly arranged its bedrooms into zones that each serve a purpose — sitting, sleeping and viewing, etc. Consider this if you have a big space that needs defining.

Photograph: Michael Mundy

Where space is limited — here, a sloped roof cuts down on usable wall space — think past the obvious where essential features such as storage and surfaces are concerned. Elements that usually only play a decorative role, like the bedhead and base, have been designed to provide storage and offer a spot for bedside lamps. The storage, rather than being hidden, has been made a feature of, with drawers and cubbies in contrasting colours. Take inspiration from this clever room’s use of fittings and colour to create a practical but pretty environment.

Photograph: Elsa Young

Open-plan spaces offer opportunity to experiment with placement and include aspects like bathing in the scheme, a more sociable interpretation of the traditional en-suite format. A similar bed can be found at Weylandts.

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