The Bedroom Edit: How to Create a Space That Promotes Rest
We spend a third of our lives in our bedrooms — yet they're often the least designed room in the house. A bedroom that supports genuine rest requires more thought than simply buying a bed and a bedside table. Here's how to approach it.
Start With the Bed
The bed is the anchor of the room and should be sized to the space. In a standard Australian bedroom:
- Allow at least 60cm on either side of the bed for comfortable access
- A queen bed (153x203cm) suits most rooms; a king bed (183x203cm) needs a larger space — at least 4.5 x 4m
- Upholstered bedheads add warmth and acoustic softness; timber bedheads feel cleaner and work well in more minimal spaces
- Storage bases are worth considering if wardrobe space is limited
The Role of Textiles
Textiles do more for a bedroom than any other element. Layering is the key — a fitted sheet, top sheet, duvet, and throw creates both visual depth and practical temperature control. Natural fibres (linen, cotton) breathe better and feel better against skin than synthetics. A chunky knit or linen throw draped across the foot of the bed adds immediate warmth and texture.
Lighting for Rest
Bedrooms need multiple light sources — and avoiding harsh overhead light in the evening is one of the simplest ways to improve sleep quality. Aim for:
- Bedside table lamps for warm, low light in the evening
- A dimmer on any overhead light
- Blackout curtains or blinds if morning light is an issue
Keep Surfaces Clear
Clutter in a bedroom actively interferes with relaxation. Invest in sufficient storage — wardrobes, bedside tables with drawers, an ottoman at the foot of the bed — so surfaces can be kept mostly clear. What remains on view should be minimal and intentional: a book, a lamp, a single plant or vase.
Colour and Calm
Bedrooms benefit from a more restrained palette than living spaces. Warm neutrals — sand, linen, warm white, sage green — create a calm backdrop. Reserve stronger colours or patterns for cushions and throws where they add interest without overwhelming the space.