5 Tips for Designing a Great Bedroom

Successful design is a relative term. What is good for one person, may not be good for another.  However, when it comes to interior design, there are certain factors that should be in place for any space.  Let’s take a look at the minimum requirements for designing a comfortable and functional bedroom.

Room Proportions

Proportions are extremely important in any design.  Every three-dimensional object has properties such as length, width and height. When these three objects are in proportion with various parts of human body, we call it a “proportionate” design.

For example, a wardrobe handle must have the right dimensions so that it fits your hand and functions properly. A chair should have the right size cushion for a comfortable fit.  Of course, the type of seating will change the dimensions of the chair. For example, the design for a chair in the lobby of a bank will different than the sofa in your home.

The proportions in your bedroom are important for many reasons.  For example, the dimensions of the bed, it’s height from floor, the size of the closet, dimensions of the dresser and other items in your bedroom should all be correctly proportioned to make it a functional space.   

Natural Lighting

There are no alternatives for natural light, other than the sun. The sun is the strongest source of light, which is  necessary for interior spaces. Studies show that natural light can penetrate in an interior space up to 20 feet. Using an appropriate position for a window opening can easily achieve this.

Natural Ventilation

A free and unobstructed flow of air can be a great way to keep your bedroom cool and clean.  This is possible where bedrooms are in the corner of the home and both sides of the bedroom have external faces.

When it isn’t possible to have a window on the adjacent or opposite face of the bedroom, a ventilator above the window can be used. The concept behind the ventilator is simple. The outside temperature is cooler than the interior of the house, so placing a ventilator above the window facing inward pulls the cooler air into the room. 

Ventilators above the window openings play a major role in circulating air flow in the room in an upward direction.   When the lower portion of the room starts heating up, the cool air from the fan above the window continuously circulates cool air in the room leaving a comfortable temperature in the room.     

Clear Pathways

Every bedroom has certain exit points…   

a) Exit to balcony / terrace

b) Exit to bathroom / walk in closet

c) Exit to the backyard (if on the ground floor)

If we draw an imaginary line from the entry point to all these exit points, ideally, they should not intersect. Since all other areas in the bedroom are occupied with furniture, keeping a clear pathway to  the exit areas is important.    

Bedroom Accessories

Bedroom accessories are an important feature in the home.  The following tips can help create a cozy, functional space for your bedroom:

• Artificial Lighting:  The placement of artificial lighting in the bedroom is important. There should be a balance between basic and decorative lighting to ensure sufficient lighting in the room.     
• Upholstery and Linen: Special consideration should be given to upholstery and linen.  Small details such as curtain rods, bed canopies and bedding can add a decorative touch and cozy environment. 
• Cleaning – Consider using materials that are easy to clean and maintain.  For example, if you are using PVC flooring sheets on top of standard tiled flooring, check to see if it can be washed.  Think about what would happen if your child decided to use your floor as a painting canvas…can it easily be cleaned? 

Careful consideration should be taken when designing your bedroom. This is where you sleep, relax and take time out from stressful days. By using some of the simple tips above, you will be on your way to designing a bedroom that is perfect for you!  So, go ahead and make your bedroom a cozy, beautiful place where you can relax, unwind and sleep in peace.