The bedroom is perhaps the most important room in any home. It is a sanctuary, an intimate space to read, relax, sleep, and dream. Our lives are overwhelmingly affected by the quality and length of our sleep, so it is vitally important to make the bedroom a cozy and relaxing place, conducive to the kind of deep rest and rejuvenation our bodies and minds need now. It is proven that sound, restful sleep contributes to a healthier immune system, greater mental well-being, and higher metabolism. All this in mind, when it comes to decorating, it’s essential to have a good plan, a strict budget, and a light touch. There are numerous big and small changes you can make to transform your bedroom into a cozy paradise, and we are going to look at a few of them.

The best bed

The centerpiece of any cozy bedroom is a stylish and comfortable bed. The right bed frame can offer style, elegance, and practicality, mainly if it factors in storage (avoiding clutter in the bedroom is key to coziness). A well-chosen frame provides the groundwork for a great bed. One area it is well worth investing in is a mattress. A good one may cost a bit more, but to avoid aches and pains, it is indispensable. Flip it occasionally (if recommended by the manufacturer), and think about replacing it every five years.

Sheets, pillows, and duvets

Linen sheets are more expensive than cotton, but they are worth it! They feel better against the skin, and they last longer. A comforter is also an area where a bit of research (and investment) goes a long way. Pillows come in all shapes and sizes, so what you choose depends on how you sleep. For the right softness (or hardness, depending on how you look at it), there are adjustable pillows available, with layers to add or remove. Memory foam is always a popular option. If you sleep on your stomach, there are pillows specifically designed for you as well! And finally, the duvet. Goose down is a firm favorite, or there are models available for people with allergies. Depending on the climate you live in, you may be able to find an ‘all year round’ duvet.

Lighting

Getting the right lights in your bedroom is essential for setting the right mood and can make or break the space. Lights on the market include those that provide a sensuous relaxing feel and work as natural, functional lights. Another option is to rely more heavily on lamps dotted around the room, subtly illuminating certain surfaces and creating soft shadows. And if you are a bookworm, don’t forget to have a spotlight for reading, either by the bed or in a reading nook.

Color and decor

Of course, color is a very subjective thing. But to make something cozy, a relaxing color such as lavender sets the mood nicely. Many interior designers create a vibrant color palette by layering textiles, rugs, and throws and having the walls painted (offset that lavender with a gray or a soft green). Having a multi-layered, multi-textured space is warming, and looks chic and elegant, and rugs on the floor give you a soft landing when you get out of bed in the morning (or the afternoon).

Reading

We mentioned reading nooks earlier. If you’re lucky enough to have a big bay window with a deep sill, a couple of cushions will create the perfect space to devour novels or leaf through art and design books. Otherwise, a comfy chair (again, space permitting) with a throw will do nicely.

Darkness

Light pollution is an insomniac’s nightmare. For improved sleep, a blackout blind or suitably heavy curtains should help. Another way to suck all the coziness out of your bedroom and hinder your sleep is screen time. Smartphone, tablet, laptop – keep it somewhere else (unless you’re using the phone as an alarm clock, of course). Sleeping, relaxing, or reading requires a bedroom that caters to everything. And by taking a few steps, or making a few purchases, you’ll be on your way to making a cozy sanctuary.