The rainy days of September were the first reminder that summer has come to an end.  The kids are back in school and vacations become few and far between.  Wouldn’t it be wonderful to come home to a bedroom retreat that was as serene and relaxing as the hotel suites you so longingly wish to revisit?  By incorporating simple design principles to your own bedroom, you can achieve the feeling of a year-round vacation.

A great place to start is with color.  Painting a room is one of the quickest and least expensive ways to make a statement in a room.  Neutral and monochromatic color palettes are calming and are a great choice for that hotel-chic feel.  Also, by painting the ceiling a 20 percent toned-down version of the wall shade makes a room feel cozy.  The ceiling should not be ignored, as it is the first thing you will see as you awake from the blissful sleep provided by your luxurious hotel-style bed.

Down-filled duvets and fine bed linens are the key to feeling pampered each and every night.  Quality cotton bedding should be a minimum of 200-thread count.  Egyptian cotton is especially exquisite and known for its long fibers, durability and softness.  Silk and linen are also popular natural fiber choices for bedding.  Avoid the temptation to use excessive throw pillows; simple sleeping pillows along with large European shams keep the style classic and uncomplicated.  An over-sized padded headboard is also a great way to create a dramatic focal point for the room, as well as a soft backrest while reading or watching television.  Hotel rooms typically include a seating area, providing a place to dress or lounge while keeping the bed reserved for rest.  Another hotel-chic detail you can incorporate is a quaint writing desk and chair; be careful that this does not become your home office.  The goal is to allow your bedroom to become a sanctuary of escape.

Once you’ve achieved these basics, the finishing touches will complete your design. Lighting is essential in creating a serene atmosphere. Overhead lighting is unflattering and harsh. Instead, combine layers of lighting with wall sconces, bedside reading lights, and floor and table lamps. This will create richness and depth while allowing you to adjust the mood of the room.  Accessories should remain uncomplicated and artwork should be meaningful.  These will lend to an uncluttered space that is personal.  This is also a great time to add splashes of color to your neutral palette.  These all-inclusive design techniques will reserve you five-star luxury all year-round. 

For help in creating your own year-round retreat, call Kayti at Interior Home, Inc. at 661-294-9940.

Santa Clarita Magazine