The bedroom is one of the most important rooms in any home. It is an intimate, personal space, and is very much a reflection of you as an individual (or couple). It is also the most valuable space — you spend more time there than anywhere else! Your room should definitely be a sanctuary, where you feel entirely comfortable and completely at ease. You should feel proud of it too, keeping it at its best to welcome any guests you may choose to invite along the way… Give your room the upscale feel it needs – and that you deserve. After all, you’re giving it the honor of spending the night with you.

1. Don’t neglect lighting

Lighting has a huge practical value, of course. But it has so much more: it can consolidate your style decor, and help to set whatever mood you would like your room to embody. The color of the bulb can make a room warmer or colder; hanging and freestanding lamps add a personality that spotlights don’t. You could even make centerpieces of your lamps, and frame furniture around any ornate or antique fixtures you have found. Take the time to select every lamp and fixture as if it were the most important part of any room. It may well end up being so.

2. Style your nightstands

Although its main purpose is utility, your nightstand is not just a surface to toss your everyday objects on to! Whilst there is no doubt that bedside furniture should be as spacious as possible, it can add so much style and substance to a room. As can what you put on it, by the way. Think of an arrangement where less is more, combining stylish and practical use, and accessorizing strictly with objects that are dear to you: a vintage clock, a beautiful photo frame, or your jewelry box.

3. Be daring with non-traditional furniture

It is all too easy for a bedroom to fall into the trap of being traditional, with the usual bed, cupboards, and nightstands. But there is so much more potential. If you want to add some spice and individuality, it’s time to shake things up! Trade your chest of drawers for a streamlined console, your desk for a mirrored vanity. Use a wallpaper accent instead of a headboard, or a stool for a nightstand. In other words, get creative!

4. Add a chair to it

If chosen well, seating has the potential to provide an extra-cozy vibe to a room. It will add warmth, and will most likely entice you to spend more time relaxing in your space. Whether it’s a bench at the foot of the bed, an armchair to create a snug reading nook, or an ottoman to rest your tired limbs, you’ll be grateful for anywhere you can snuggle into. Tip: for an extra special space, head to an antique market to find your seating. There is such a variety of items you can repurpose, from rocking chairs which need reupholstering, to benches that can be draped in foreign silks.

5. Infuse with art

The best art is often saved for our entertaining spaces. Whether above a fireplace in the living room or behind the dining table, our creative finds are objects to show off. But we deserve to appreciate them, too: it is just as important to be inspired by images you love in your private space. If you are feeling artsy, try displaying a sculpture on your dresser or create a gallery wall at the top of your bed. Bring in fun finds from your travels to accentuate the room, turning ‘clutter’ into decor that is infused with character and personal history.

Tip: for an extra special space, head to an antique market to find your seating. There is such a variety of items you can repurpose, from rocking chairs which need reupholstering, to benches that can be draped in foreign silks.