How to Design a Dream Bedroom

Your Guide to Creating a Relaxing Retreat

Your bedroom should be more than just a place to crash at the end of a long day—it should be a peaceful sanctuary where you can relax, recharge, and truly feel at ease. Whether you're redecorating or starting from scratch, here’s your ultimate guide to creating a dream bedroom that promotes restful sleep and total tranquility.

1. Choose a Soothing Color Scheme

Color sets the tone for your space, and when it comes to bedrooms, calm and muted tones are best. Stick with a palette that includes:

• Soft neutrals: like beige, taupe, or ivory

• Cool blues and greens: which evoke a sense of calm and serenity

• Pastel shades: like lavender, blush, or pale gray for a gentle vibe

Avoid bright reds or neons, which can be too stimulating for a restful environment.

👉 Need inspiration? Check out Behr’s Bedroom Color Ideas for mood-boosting palettes.

2. Invest in Quality Bedding

The bed is the heart of the bedroom. Invest in high-quality sheets, pillows, and a mattress to support restful sleep. Look for:

• Breathable fabrics like cotton, bamboo, or linen

• A mattress that suits your sleep style—firm for back sleepers, plush for side sleepers

• Layered bedding for both comfort and style: start with sheets, then add a duvet or comforter, throws, and decorative pillows

Tip: For help choosing the right mattress, try the Sleep Foundation’s Mattress Buying Guide.

3. Select the Right Furniture

Choose bedroom furniture that supports your lifestyle but doesn’t clutter the space. A few essentials include:

• A sturdy, stylish bed frame

• Nightstands with drawers for bedside storage

• A dresser or wardrobe to keep clutter out of sight

• A cozy chair or bench for reading or unwinding

Stick with clean lines and cohesive materials—like wood or upholstered pieces—for a streamlined, peaceful look.

4. Create Ambient Lighting

Lighting plays a big role in setting the mood. Instead of harsh overhead lights, aim for layered lighting, including:

• Soft bedside lamps or wall sconces

• Warm LED bulbs (2700K–3000K color temperature for a cozy glow)

• Dimmable lighting so you can adjust the brightness depending on the time of day

Consider smart bulbs or Philips Hue lighting to customize lighting with ease.

5. Incorporate Natural Elements

Bringing nature indoors can boost relaxation. Try incorporating:

• Houseplants, like snake plants, peace lilies, or lavender

• Natural materials, such as wood, cotton, wool, or rattan

• Plenty of natural light—keep window treatments light and airy

Bonus: Plants also purify the air, which can improve your sleep quality. Learn more from NASA’s Clean Air Study.

6. Declutter for Peace of Mind

Visual clutter can contribute to mental clutter. Keep your bedroom clean and organized with:

• Under-bed storage for seasonal clothes or linens

• Trays or baskets to organize nightstand essentials

• Closet organizers to streamline your wardrobe

Pro tip: Try the KonMari Method to tidy up and keep only what sparks joy.

7. Add Personal Touches

Finally, make your bedroom truly yours with elements that reflect your personality:

• Artwork or photographs that bring you joy

• Books or journals for peaceful downtime

• Essential oil diffusers or candles with calming scents like lavender or eucalyptus

Consider a white noise machine or soft music playlist to enhance your bedtime routine. Try the Calm App or Headspace for guided relaxation.

Final Thoughts

Designing your dream bedroom doesn’t require a complete overhaul. With thoughtful choices in color, furniture, lighting, and textures, you can create a space that invites rest and relaxation. Whether you're winding down after a long day or enjoying a lazy weekend morning, your bedroom can become the sanctuary you deserve.