Designing Your Way to a Better Night’s Sleep. Did you know that a cosy and thoughtfully designed bedroom can greatly affect the quality of your rest and, in turn, your overall well-being?
The Sleep Foundation recommends that adults aim for 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night to function at their best. Despite this, more than 30% of adults describe their sleep quality as “poor” or “only fair,” as reported by the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention).
Since the bedroom environment accounts for a large portion of the factors contributing to these results, how can you redesign it to improve sleep quality?
Add a Personal Touch
A crucial element in designing a sleep-friendly bedroom is crafting a space that genuinely mirrors your personality and passions. Selecting a theme that aligns with your preferences allows you to feel more at ease and relaxed in your bedroom, turning it into a sanctuary where you can decompress after a busy day.
For instance, when planning your child’s room, it’s an excellent idea to include a theme that showcases their interests and tastes.
Girls might be fascinated by a fairy-tale or princess theme. In this case, selecting a princess bed could be an ideal choice; for princess beds, check here.
On the other hand, boys might be drawn to a sports or adventure-inspired theme that features bold and dynamic colours or patterns.
Tailoring the bedroom design to the individual’s taste and interests creates a personal, inviting space conducive to a better night’s sleep.
Prioritise Comfort with the Right Bedding
Your choice of bedding can determine how comfortable and inviting your bedroom feels. When selecting sheets, blankets, and other bed linens, prioritise softness, breathability, and durability.
Opt for materials like cotton, bamboo, or linen, known for their ability to wick away moisture and regulate temperature. These will keep you comfortable throughout the night.
Also, choose the right mattress and pillows to cater to your preferred sleeping position with adequate support.
Don’t overlook the aesthetic aspect of your bedding, either. Choose colours and patterns that coordinate with your bedroom theme and contribute to the calming atmosphere you aim to create.
Create a Peaceful Atmosphere with Lighting
Choosing the right lighting can create a peaceful, soothing atmosphere that encourages relaxation and better sleep. Here are some tips to consider when selecting lighting fixtures and arrangements for your bedroom:
- Opt for warm, soft lighting:
Bright lighting can make it difficult for your body to wind down and prepare for sleep. Instead, choose bulbs with a warm colour temperature that cast a gentle, cosy glow in your bedroom.
- Use dimmable lights:
Installing lamps with adjustable brightness levels allows you to customize the intensity of your bedroom lighting depending on your needs. Dimming the lights in the evening can signal to your body that it’s time to wind down and prepare for sleep.
- Consider bedside lamps or sconces:
A dedicated reading light near your bed lets you enjoy a good book or magazine without disturbing your sleep environment with overly bright lighting. Look for lamps with shades that diffuse the light, creating a soft and calming glow.
- Limit exposure to blue light:
Electronic devices like smartphones, tablets, and computers emit blue light, which can interfere with your sleep by suppressing the production of melatonin, a sleep-inducing hormone. Avoid using these devices in the bedroom or, if necessary, use blue-light-blocking screen protectors or apps to minimize exposure.
Add Relaxing Elements like Plants and Nature-Inspired Decor
Plants and nature-inspired decor not only contribute to the room’s aesthetic appeal but also create a serene environment that promotes relaxation and tranquillity.
Adding greenery to your bedroom can improve the air quality and provide a sense of calm and well-being. Consider low-maintenance plants like snake plants, Pothos, or ZZ plants. These plants are known for their air-purifying properties and ability to thrive in low-light conditions.
Alongside plants, incorporate natural materials like wood, stone, or woven textiles to create a warm, earthy atmosphere in your bedroom. Choose artwork that features serene landscapes or botanical motifs to further connect your space to the calming essence of nature.
Optimise the Layout for Better Sleep
An optimized layout encourages relaxation and a sense of calm, ultimately helping you achieve better sleep. Consider the following tips when arranging your bedroom:
- Position your bed strategically:
Place your bed where you feel secure and comfortable. Ideally, it should be against a solid wall with a clear view of the door but not directly in line with it.
- Separate work and relaxation areas:
If possible, designate different zones within your bedroom for work or entertainment, and relaxation. Keeping these areas separate can help reinforce the idea that your bedroom is a place to unwind and sleep rather than a space for stress and stimulation.
- Keep pathways clear:
Ensure there is enough space to move around your room comfortably without bumping into furniture or obstacles. Clear pathways contribute to a sense of openness and order, which can help create a more calming environment.
- Consider the flow of energy:
In the principles of Feng Shui, the flow of energy (or “chi”) throughout a space can impact your well-being and sleep quality. While you may not adhere to these principles, maintaining an uncluttered and harmonious layout can create a more peaceful atmosphere in your bedroom.
Hope you’ve found our article, Designing Your Way to a Better Night’s Sleep useful.
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