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 Learn to create a designer bed – and stay warm.
Have you ever toured a model home and wanted to simply sink down into the sumptuous beds? Lush, plush and so inviting, the beds compel you to wonder: Just how are those professional designers able to achieve such a look of sophistication and comfort?
According to internationally acclaimed interior designer Mary Gilliatt, the author of more than 40 books, including the bestselling, “English Style” and “The Decorating Book,” anyone can achieve the look and feel of luxury with their beds. Gilliatt lends her expertise and talents as an advisor for a growing corps of designers at Décor & You (decorandyou.com). Established in 1998, this interior decorating franchise boasts more than 100 decorators in 30 states, including locally in Rancho Santa Margarita and Rancho Cucamonga.
In her new book, titled “Bedrooms: Creating and Decorating the Room of Your Dreams,” Gilliatt gives a step-by-step plan for achieving a designer bed of your own, regardless of your budget or limitations.
The right mattress
Gilliatt shares that when creating a designer bed, “Start from the inside out. Think about comfort first, looks second.” High style is great, but remember, you still have to actually sleep on this bed, no matter what it looks like.
A mattress should start with a sturdy frame that is proportionate to your surroundings. You don't want the scale of the bed to overpower the room. An expensive mattress and box spring will deliver on quality, but when you can't afford the best, there are many budget-friendly options for achieving just the right fit, style and form.
It is possible to make up for a lesser-quality mattress. Gilliatt suggests using a mattress cover as a way of “building up” your decorator bed. Some of the best quality feather- or goose-down-fitted mattress covers can really plump up a firm or unforgiving foundation. And even less costly synthetic versions can soften and add depth and comfort to your mattress.
Beauty and the sheets
When it comes to slipping into a welcoming bed, high-quality sheets will make a big difference. But higher thread counts can be pricey too. Again, suit to your taste and comfort, but when budget is a concern, Gilliatt suggests you consider lowering the thread count and sink your savings into a plush down comforter that can be dressed up with a rich or vibrantly colored silk duvet.
Gilliatt also believes pillows are important because they not only provide comfort and a good night's sleep; using decorative pillows is a great way to add that layered, lavish style you seek. Sleeping pillows can be joined with as many decorative pillows as you like or can afford in various shapes, shades and textures. To save money, search for discounted fabrics and make your own, trimming them with ribbon, lace and beads. Or shop at discount stores that have a large selection such as Home Goods and Target.
A word about color
When asked about the best color choices for a master bedroom, Gilliatt says to avoid reds and oranges and primary colors, which stand in stark contrast to the relaxing tone you want to achieve.
“Chocolate browns and creams are particularly restful. Also, soft blues and whites make beautiful bedrooms and allow for lots of options for rich textures like lace and chintz.”
Don't stop there …
Gilliatt notes that popular culture now has bedrooms functioning as a sort of 24-hour catchall room. Home offices, televisions and adjoining bathrooms have a way of making the master bedroom a very busy place. Now more than ever, she says, it is essential to create a bedroom that is a sanctuary - a soft and easy place to fall - that can be a true haven from the outside world and all its distractions.
Gilliatt suggests creating a cozy sitting niche, camouflaging the television (perhaps inside a nice armoire) and keeping other distractions out of your sleeping area.
Fold down the comforter to reveal your beautifully appointed sheets and pillowcases, and drape a soft throw blanket across the corner of the bed for a truly exquisite invitation to contentment. “Let natural light come in throughout the day, but keep light out at night by drawing the curtains if possible,” Gilliatt adds. Surround yourself with treasured books and tall bedside lamps for good reading, and expect sweet dreams to come calling. H&O
Freelance writer Kerri S. Mabee is a regular contributor to Southern California Home & Outdoor Magazine.
Dress up your bed - and stay warm
Southern California residents know that our sunny winter days can give way to some very chilly nights. Interior designer Mary Gilliatt recommends the following blankets and bedding options as perfect bundling for just the right amount of warmth:
• Eiderdown comforters and cashmere throws are a luxurious, welcome addition to any bedroom. Visit
snuggledown.com.
• Feathered blankets are soft and comforting but can be trouble for allergy sufferers.
Try comfortsource.net/down_bedding.htm.
• Honeycomb blankets offer warmth and a unique waffle texture. Visit jen-jones.com and link to “Enter the Shop.”
• Looking for some serious heat? Electric blankets can be layered unobtrusively into your bed, but always keep safety in mind. Replace your blanket if it is frayed or has scorch marks, exposed wiring, loose connections or creases and folds. Don't fold electric blankets, because this can damage the wiring. Roll them up or store them flat under the bed.
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