Dreamy bedroom trends | Ottawa Citizen

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The kitchen may be described as the heart of the home, but the bedroom is considered by many as the most important room because it’s where you start and end each day – a place to unwind and relax and hopefully wake up rejuvenated.

“A well-designed bedroom offers numerous benefits, starting with improved sleep quality by creating a serene environment that encourages rest,” says Jessica Cinnamon, principal designer and founder of Toronto-based Jessica Cinnamon Design Inc.

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“An aesthetically pleasing space not only reduces stress but also fosters a sense of calm, helping you unwind at the end of the day. The organization and functionality of a well-thought-out room can streamline your morning routine, saving valuable time and making it easier to get ready. Plus, a tastefully-designed and well-maintained bedroom can increase the overall appeal and value of your home,” she says.

COZY TRENDS

Planning a bedroom makeover this year? Diana Bastone, principal designer and founder of Toronto-based Diana Bastone Designs, lists the following as trends you should know about:

Statement headboards. Many homeowners are opting for bold, oversized headboards that take up most of the wall. Another choice: uniquely-shaped headboards. “Whether it’s a tufted velvet headboard, a wood-panelled one or even a minimalist, low-profile design, headboards are becoming the main focal point of the bedroom,” she says.

Textural contrast. Mixing and matching different textures is key with this trend. “Think of a plush velvet bedspread with a leather accent chair or combining airy linens with raw wood accents,” Bastone says. “This contrast adds depth and richness to the space.”

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Curved furniture. Curved and rounded furniture is gaining popularity, from circular mirrors to arched bed frames and soft-edged chairs, she reports. “This soft, organic shape adds an element of comfort and flow to a space, moving away from the sharp, angular lines of the past.”

Mood lighting. Layering the lighting is key, but mood lighting takes it a step further. “Think smart bulbs, colour-changing LED lights and dimmer switches that let you set the perfect ambiance for different times of the day,” Bastone says. Wall sconces and pendant lights create a cozy, inviting feel.

Personalized spaces. “People are gravitating toward spaces that feel uniquely their own, with personalized art, photos and unique collections. Mixing vintage finds with modern décor also adds to the individual vibe of the room.”

Minimalist, multipurpose furniture. Sleek, simple furniture that offers the added functionality of being multipurpose is on trend. Think storage beds, foldable desks or wall-mounted shelves that help maximize small spaces and keep the room clean and organized, Bastone says.

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Also trending:

Sustainable materials. “There’s an increased focus on eco-friendly design with materials like bamboo, reclaimed wood and organic cotton gaining popularity,” says Cinnamon.

Warm tones, earthy palettes. Deep, warm tones like terracotta, mustard, olive green and browns are dominating and create a “calm, inviting atmosphere,” she says. For additional warmth, some homeowners are including a fireplace as space permits. They’re also creating personal spaces for reading or working.

Tech integration. Smart lighting and thermostats and voice-controlled devices are becoming more common in the bedroom, enhancing comfort, Cinnamon notes.

DOS AND DON’TS

While it may be tempting to cut costs, investing in quality materials for key pieces such as your mattress, bedding and furniture will make a big difference in both comfort and longevity, Bastone advises.

“While it’s easy to get caught up in aesthetics, don’t forget that your bedroom needs to work for you,” she says. “If you love to read in bed, make sure there’s adequate lighting. If you have limited space, consider multifunctional furniture. The function should always support the design. By avoiding these mistakes, you’ll create a bedroom that’s not only beautiful but also functional, comfortable and reflective of your style.”

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Do focus on comfort. “This is the place where you sleep so prioritize comfort in your furniture and fabric choices,” says Cinnamon. “Investing in a quality mattress, cozy linens and pillows is a must.”

Do prioritize the bed. “Look to have layers on the bed seasonally and purchase the best sheets you can afford,” she says. “A bed frame is the canvas upon which your bedroom design begins.” A customized bed frame allows you to tailor the frame to your

style and needs, while personalizing its height and depth. It also offers the ability to add storage.

Do layer lighting. Use bedside lamps, overhead lights and ambient lighting to adjust the atmosphere depending on time of day or activity.

Don’t overdo it with décor. “Less is more in the bedroom,” says Cinnamon. “Pay attention to scale. Make sure furniture and décor are proportional to your room’s size.”

Don’t overlook window treatments. “Privacy and light control are essential here,” she says, “so invest in good

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