The Brief: Design a restful and cozy bedroom for relaxation and enjoyment. My clients expressed that their bedroom felt cold and lacked both balance and character. They envisioned a warm, inviting sanctuary where they could enjoy peaceful nights of sleep and a calming atmosphere. The rectangular room was overwhelmed by four doors (entrance, ensuite, and double built-in wardrobe), creating an imbalance within the space. The proposed solution was to use a colour-drenching technique, applying the same hue to the walls, woodwork, and ceiling, which would soften the impact of the doors and create a cocoon-like environment. The clients had already acquired their main furniture pieces, including a bed with a low wooden headboard, which meant adding a decorative upholstered headboard to focus the room was not an option. Instead, we decided to create a half-panelled wall in a slightly deeper shade than the rest of the room, topped with a subtly textured wall covering for added visual interest.

How I Created a Fresh New Design for My Clients:

• Initially, my clients envisioned a green wall colour, but I proposed an alternative approach. I introduced a warm mocha and stone palette, which could be utilized more effectively as a tonal scheme, adding depth to the focal wall with a richer tone while using a softer hue for the ceiling and woodwork.

• To create purpose and balance in the room, I established a focal point around the bed by designing a feature wall that combined both paneling and wall coverings. This added depth and introduced textural warmth. I created elevation sketches with measurements of the panelled wall and provided them to the decorator for guidance.

• My clients were hesitant about using a very dark wall covering on the feature wall. However, after explaining how darker elements can enhance a softer palette and contribute to the overall balance of the room scheme, they agreed and felt confident in their decision.

• In terms of balancing the room, my clients had previously collaborated with me on other spaces in their home, which fostered their trust in my guidance. I suggested drenching the room to conceal numerous doors while softening its overall feel. They are now considering painting the ceilings in other rooms!

• For styling, I sourced all elements, including oversized lamps, window treatments, artwork, and bedding, tailored to fit within my clients' budget. This not only saved them time and stress but also prevented any mistakes that could disrupt the delicate balance of the design.