Beautiful Boudoirs AKA Bedrooms

Many years ago when we were first married Jim and I had the opportunity to go to Los Angeles and to stay in the home of the parents of one of our friends. This home was located in the beautiful Echo Park and I don't think I'll ever forget it. The place where we stayed was a separate bungalow on the property and the hostess had really thought ahead and made it such a lovely guest room. She had added the lovely touches, a water decanter and two beautiful crystal glasses, luxurious linens, fresh flowers, and fruit, etc. I think that occasion was the beginning of my love affair with comfy, cozy bedrooms and it has continued ever since. I decided that if I ever had a guest room it would be like that if I could possibly do it. I had once heard that you should never have a guest bed that is too comfortable as your guests may want to stay on longer than you like. Well, the bed we have is not the best, unfortunately, as I would love our guests to stay on...but I have tried to make it fun and inviting.

I hate that the lamp cord is in this photo.
It is best to unplug them for photos or get
a better cord management tactic! Whoops!
Hate me, as the Nester would say!

The bedding is from Walmart, inexpensive, but serves it's purpose very well. It is also reversible so that makes it great. It is time for me to turn it over to the patchwork quilted side for the cooler months. I love red and really enjoy it in this room.

In our room I have tried several different kinds of spreads and quilts over the years and I think this is my favorite...at least for now. I love the soothing qualities of white. It just seems so restful and clean and crisp.

You can always double click my photos for a closer look.
I love the pattern on the coverlet.

For a few months I had just a down comforter on the bed but it got so wrinkled each night that it was driving me crazy. I didn't want to give up the white so I found a reasonable coverlet at TJMaxx and now I don't spend time with my Downy Wrinkle Releaser while making the bed every morning! We love our little cottage, it isn't fancy but it is comfy and a fun place to live.

Check out this beautiful bedroom of one of my favorite couples. Again not a pricey redesign, just beautifully thought out and put together. The pretty bedding is also from Walmart. It doesn't take a fortune to have a nice place to rest from your labors at the end of a busy day.

Check out this beautiful room~love the bedding!

What have you done to create a beautiful, inviting bedroom that doesn't break the bank?
(They are doing fine on their own! But that is a discussion for another day!)

Is Your Master Bedroom Your Refuge?

September 25th, 2008 by Bonnie

Here's the LINK

Often times I am asked, “Where do I begin to decorate in my home?” This answer may surprise you, but I usually suggest beginning in the most neglected room in the house, the Master Bedroom! Some people find that strange since it is the least viewed by visitors. This may be true, but keep in mind that you decorate primarily for your own family. When making your home a comfortable and inspiring environment-the master bedroom is very important.

Many times when I enter a home to do a redesign consultation, I find that the master bedroom is a catch all for everything. It is not uncommon to find unsightly gun racks, sporting equipment, bags of stuff being donated to charity, craft items, dirty clothes, old newspapers, etc.

Whether you are single or married your master bedroom should be your retreat from this hectic, crazy world. If you are a young mother it is particularly important. You need a special place for just you and your husband. It should be relaxing, romantic and inviting. It is best when oozing comfort and warmth created by using lots of texture and beautiful fabrics. It can feel like a nice 5-star, luxury hotel room but better as you add your personal touches. This need not be overly expensive as you can purchase many things at reasonable prices. Your room should never be cluttered with anything that does not belong in a bedroom. Try making it mentally and physically relaxing and adorn it with things you love.

Recently I helped a client redesign her bedroom. Look at the stunning results.

This room is the epitome of sophistication, elegance and romance!

Remember that lighting is so important in a bedroom. Often overhead lighting is way too harsh. However, in this room a chandelier has been installed replacing a ceiling fan and look how beautiful it is! Add a dimmer switch to create the setting you desire.

New taller bedside lamps were purchased also and we have found that buffet lamps look perfect in a bedroom and actually cast reading light where you need it, when the bed has been elevated.

Dated pink and blue wallpaper was removed and a nice warm paint tone was selected that compliments the new bedding. Always pick your bedding first and then choose your paint. Most people want to do it the other way around and that is much harder.

The bed will be the focal point of the room so make it beautiful with textiles, various textures and decorative pillows. Make it a lovely relaxing retreat for yourself and your spouse. Have fun creating your own personal retreat. You would be surprised how many men enjoy having a beautiful bedroom. I have had several call me and say, “Thank you!” They didn’t even realize it was important to them until they experienced the difference it made in their lives.