THE BEDROOM RETREAT by Tere Bresin,ASID

Today’s bedrooms are not just for sleeping anymore! No matter what size your home or apartment is the bedroom of today can have several other functions. These new spaces may include a lounge area completed with a luxurious chaise, a space for breakfast or dining, or even a home office.

But no matter how many functions are packed into this one space, most yearn for a warm, romantic retreat that serves as a refuge from the increasing stresses of daily life. Achieving this takes some thoughtful planning of how all the required pieces will fit into the space. The size of the bed is of first consideration and this is compatible with your comfort needs and the size restraints of the room. Four poster beds look wonderful with large proportion rooms. Why not pamper yourself with one of my favorite types of beds-the sleigh bed? It can have an upholstered head board and base. The mattress can either sit on top of the frame or a box spring can sit into the frame. Think too about how you present your bed. Be adventurous and combine patterns and textures to create an exciting effect!

Wall to wall carpeting and can create a soft and larger feel to a room. Color can add warmth to a room. Accessories can create different moods in a room. Art adds interest and depth to the space.

A comfortable sitting area where you can read or just relax and put up your feet is a nice addition to a space. I often suggest a pair of chairs with an ottoman between them or a love seat with a tea table in front of it. I like the bedside tables to be large enough to accommodate a light, books or other necessities. Chests of drawers on either side of the bed can double as bedside tables.

Good lighting is essential for both ambiance and function. The most efficient lighting starts with a plan. This plan is one of the first things that I do after the room is laid out. Table lights should be properly positioned for reading. Strategically placed overhead lighting and wall sconces can add an interesting pattern of light to a room. When properly lit, a favorite piece of art can become a focal point of a room.

Guest bedrooms should be interesting and comfortable. A day bed can double as a sitting room when guests are not around. Add a desk and some functional lighting and you have another multi-functional bedroom!

BIO: Experience high-end expertise for your residential or business interior design needs when you acquire the professional services of Tere Bresin,ASID and Beret Design Group, Inc. Interior design Consultations available.