A bedroom retreat can be a place that calms, centers and energizes. It can be about who you are, as well as who you want to be. Size doesn’t matter. Closet space is irrelevant. You decide who visits, who leaves and who stays. The décor can be classic, exotic, modern, eclectic, romantic or wild. In other words, it can be anything. Make it yours.

To begin this journey, imagine what you want to create. Consider carving out an area to do something you love, like painting, reading or scrapbooking. Treat yourself to improved lighting or plush carpet that’s as soft as sun-kissed sand. Prepare your concept with simple sketches.

Take a deep breath and jump in; creating your bedroom retreat is going to be fun and exciting.

A whole new style

Enjoy the sophisticated blend of style and warmth that comes from casual contemporary furnishings.

Give yourself freedom to explore new styles, unlimited by your room’s existing furniture or color schemes. Most styles fall into one of four categories, which are:

Casual contemporary: Relaxed and casual, this style can include light, glowing woods like maple or dark dramatic stains like espresso. The clean lines turn your bedroom retreat into a haven that rejuvenates with its crisp style. Popular forms include the Mission bed with slat headboard.

Traditional: Furniture classics that evoke the past with influences from the 18th and 19th century, including Queen Anne, Chippendale and European favorites. For a romantic bedroom retreat, choose a canopy or sleigh bed that’s carved and richly designed in dark woods like cherry and mahogany.

Country: A wide category that can include rough-hewn rustic looks or the soft distressed finishes found in cottage styles. Comfort is key, and fabrics lean toward chintz, linen or denim. This is the category that invented the cozy bedroom. Honor it with homey accessories like quilts, needlework and outdoor-themes.

Modern: For those with an eye for linear design, modern can take the approach of Retro, Art Deco or an eclectic mix of trends and styles. Fabrics tend to be simple and leather always feels right. For your modern bedroom retreat, consider a platform bed, lacquer finish and streamlined casegoods.

A small change

If a less-dramatic change is what you have in mind, consider the impact of super-soft blankets, ambient lighting and storage-friendly furnishings when creating your bedroom retreat. Some areas to consider:

A way to Zzzzzz’s: Upgrade your mattress to a larger size or pillowtop style and stretch out in comfort. Add fresh new bedding to complete your relaxing dreamland.

Shun distractions: Hide your TV or computer in an armoire that’s easy on the eyes and has lots of roomy storage.

Feel groovy: Feel the energy of Feng Shui and ensure good health with 3 small green plants placed on the eastern side of the room.

Be luminous: Put your central light on a dimmer switch for controlled ambiance. An additional switch by the bed is luxurious and convenient.

Breakfast in bed: If your bedroom retreat is so wonderful you never want to leave, consider jumping on a hot trend and adding a morning bar with small refrigerator and coffee maker.

When it comes to creating your bedroom retreat, choose a whole new style, a less-dramatic change or something in between. Go with your gut and celebrate all the things you find special. When your peaceful haven is complete, don’t be surprised by the thought, “why didn’t I do this sooner?” Enjoy.

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