Photography by Annette O’Brien and styling by Alana Langan via TDC
For this issue’s room series, I’m going to show some simple ways of updating the bedroom in preparation for the cooler months. Winter weather cries out for a few obvious changes which may include a switch to a heavier duvet inner, the addition of an electric blanket or wool underlay, and some extra layering with a throw or blanket. Nothing beats curling up all cosy in bed with a good book when the temperature plummets and the nights get darker, but what about a general re-fresh? If you’re thinking about giving your room an update, now is a great time to do it. Change can do wonders for the soul, so why not fight off the winter blues with a mini makeover? Here are a few simple ideas that can go a long way when injecting some life into a tired bedroom, and will no doubt lift your sprits at the same time.
1. Invest in some new bedding
New bedding is an easy and effective way of changing the look of your bedroom and there are so many beautiful styles on offer right now. This is a firm favourite of mine, I love the look and feel of natural linen. Keen to inject a bit of colour into our bedroom for winter, I’m currently deciding on a new shade from the beautiful bed linen brand Cultiver, shown below. Bold graphics are also very popular right now. I recommend taking a look at Aura and Citta Design, both of whom have a great selection. For a touch of luxury, I can’t go past local brand Penney + Bennett, who produce the most incredible range of printed linen and silk bedding.
Styling and photography by Michelle Halford for TDC
2. Add texture
There are lots of ways to add texture to the bedroom, especially when it comes to textiles and soft furnishings. Don’t be afraid to mix bedding materials such as linen sheets, a cotton duvet cover and wool throw, as demonstrated in the first image below. You can also add texture by way of bedside accessories, such as a marble candleholder or natural stone vase. The second bedroom below has a lovely mix of textures including a quilted bedhead, cowhide rug, velvet throw, cane chair, and woven basket.
3. All in the details
Candles go hand in hand with cooler nights, helping to creating warmth and a cosy ambience, while fresh flowers will add colour and brighten up the room. Keeping up a constant supply of flowers can be costly, so I often place a small, inexpensive houseplant by my bedside to add a natural pop of green. Add interest and a personal touch to the room with artworks, posters, or photographs. An affordable yet really effective idea is to simply tear out some striking imagery from a magazine, and use washi tape to stick them to the wall, as I have done for one of my bedroom styling projects below. At home I often stick to simple black and white photographs of my family, our wedding, and travels.
Styling and photography by Michelle Halford for TDC
Photography Felix Forest / Living Inside and Styling Tahnee Carroll
4. Feature Wall
For a bold change that is less daunting than changing the entire room, consider repainting or papering one wall in your bedroom. Dark grey or charcoal shades create a striking contrast, while pastel colours like the soft teal shade below gives the room a lovely lift. Graphic wallpaper adds vibrancy and creates a focal point for the room.
Styling and photography by Deborah Gorgon for Ollie & Seb’s Haus
Styling and photography by Nina Holst for Stylizimo
5. Statement lighting
Installing some new lighting can make a huge difference to the overall look of the room. Utilise existing fittings and replace the bedside wall lamps or change out the pendant light with something really striking.
Malvern House by Robson Rak Architects. Photo by Lisa Cohen
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This article is intended as a general discussion only. BNZ recommends the recipient get independent advice. The views expressed are the writer’s own and do not necessarily represent those of BNZ or its related entities.