The main function in a bedroom is to sleep. This is why you want the bed to look as cozy as possible. Make sure you have plenty of different sized cushy pillows and a soft comforter. By adding another comforter folded up at the foot of the bed adds extra warmth as well. Make sure there is ample lighting beside the bed to allow reading.

Try to keep cool or soft colours in the bedroom to promote relaxation. Although reds and oranges are very bright and fun, they are too energetic to allow a restful sleep.

Images: iStock Photo (Feb 23, 2010)

An eclectic room is a combination of two or more styles to create one unique design. There is no set formula for an eclectic design, but all elements in the room must harmonize with each other.

Furniture is linked based on shape, fabric or finish. Finely crafted formal chairs can be teamed up with a comfortable modern couch when there are common elements such as colour, pattern, scale, texture, finish or shape. This doesn’t mean every piece needs to be predictable; beads, trim and fringe can be added to unique blends of patterns and textures that share similar tones.

Accessories are varied, but have a common element like colour, theme or texture. An antique Victorian mirror could be paired with some modern metal vases and candle holders, carved wood African heads could be matched with antique wood suitcases with the common element – wood. Since accessories are varied, neutral colours including white, cream, gray, black, brown and taupe are preferred on the walls to join the space together.

References: Love to Know – Interior Design (Mar 2, 2010), Decorator Secrets (Mar 2, 2010)
Images: iStock Photo (Mar 2, 2010)

Classic, symmetry and balance describe the traditional style best. This timeless approach to home decorating is comfortable, calm, and predictable. Nothing is chaotic or clashes in a traditional room.

As a rule, furniture arrangement in a traditional room is often on a straight axis. Each finely crafted furniture piece harmonizes with each other and is tailored with unique details, crisp pleats and straight to gently curved lines. In a living room with a fireplace, the couch will commonly face it directly or sit at a right angle, beds are centred on the longest wall in the bedroom. Spaces in a traditional style will often feature crown molding, a chair rail, wall surfaces done in a flat painted finish or wallpaper. Lighting usually includes a classy chandelier.

Accessories are usually arranged in balanced symmetry and exhibit mirrors with detailed wood frames, lush floral arrangements, plants, lamps, framed prints, candlesticks, leather bound books, vases, china, glassware, and silver. In a dining room beautiful tablecloths or attractive fabric place mats are added to the table setting. Classic solid colours, floral, plaids and stripes are found on luxurious silk and velvet fabrics. Tailored window treatments include roman shades, pleated panels, loosely draped swags trimmed with tassels and fringe. Traditional neutrals, deep luxurious shades, or soft pastels are common colour palettes, with the ceiling often a soothing white. Wall designs may include floral or strong geometric patterns.

References: About.com: Interior Decorating (Mar 1, 2010), HGTV. (2004). Sensible Chic Smart Style on Any Budget (First Edition). Des Moins, Iowa: Meredith Publishing Group
Images: iStock Photo (Mar 1, 2010)

The contemporary style is often incorporated into offices, boutiques, lofts, former commercial buildings and stylish homes. This modern concept is perfect for those current with the latest trends and styles.

This sleek, sophisticated style emphasizes shape, form and lines found in architectural details such as metal ductwork, brick, high ceilings, bare windows, exposed plumbing pipes and geometric wall art. Characteristic furniture adopts clean straight lines with gentle curves, if any; less is more. As a rule, furnishings do not feature skirts, trim, fringes, or tassels. Area rugs, pillows and a rug or throw featuring bold colours, textured fabrics or geometric patterns are included to complete the motif. Each piece should feel balanced within the space well as serve as a feature on it’s own.

As with the furniture, accessories are uncluttered, bold, artistic and sparingly placed. Common accessories in contemporary rooms are sculptures, dramatic floral arrangements and brushed metal accents. Window coverings include streamlined shades and blinds. Familiar neutrals such as beiges, browns, whites and black are used with bright and bold colour accents. The contemporary style is an artistic statement that showcases modern trends and styles.


References: About.com: Interior Decorating (Mar 1, 2010), HGTV (Mar 1, 2010),
HGTV. (2004). Sensible Chic Smart Style on Any Budget (First Edition). Des Moins, Iowa: Meredith Publishing Group
Images: iStock Photo (Mar 1, 2010)